Heartwarming / Shadows Over Hell

The official page of Heartwarming Moments from the fanfic.

• Loona and Octavia's friendship is the main big highlight. Their chemistry is beautiful, and it's a delight to see them grow closer with each and hanging out. Octavia comforting Loona, after she gets harassed at a racist cafe in Chapter 4, is a nice highlight of that. Seeing them enjoy their common interests, give each other snarky nicknames and improve the other's lives in small ways, is incredibly wholesome.
• As the chapters go on, we see slow and sweet signs how the friendship between Octavia & Loona are improving the other. Loona in particular starts to change out her wardrobe some more, spend less time on the internet, read more and become a little more sociable. She even starts treating her coworkers better, giving Moxxie an easy job in Chapter 13, after the recent traumatic ones they've had to go through.

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Chapter 1 - A Cold Day in Hell

• Millie giving Blitzo advice on how to help Loona and even inviting him to dinner, is a cute highlight of her being the Heart of the team.

Chapter 2 - The Mall Rats in the Walls

• While it doesn't turn out too well, Stolas' own day with Blitzo, where he asks him out for a proper dinner, telling him he wants to spend more time with the imp, outside of their monthly-night stands, is rather cute. And a nice way to show the prince attempting to get closer to Blitzo, after their relationship has been mostly awkward up until that point.

Chapter 3 - Culture Vultures

• For all her negative points, Stella leaving Octavia a slice of Peach Pie as an Apology Gift is a touching Pet the Dog moment, to show how much she cares for her daughter.

Chapter 5 - The Warden

• The ending deserves a mention, as Loona apologizes to Blitzo for snapping at him, when she first sees the tabloid about them. The two of them watch Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron together and she even calls him dad twice.

Chapter 8 - Contracts and Conversations

• After their big fight and shakeup in Chapter 8, it is very to read as Stolas profusely apologizes for his behavior towards Blitzo and promises to do better. The segment ends on an uplifting note, as the two of them watch their favorite movies together, having reaffirmed their relationship.
  • Judging from Chapter 10, where it's revealed that Blitzo & Stolas have since gone on more dates in secret, it's a good sign that they're beginning to improve.
• This Chapter reveals that Octavia met Blitzo in Loo Loo Land, years before he started his affair with her father. When she was alone and scared during a show by Robo Fizz she hid behind his Balloon vendor. Blitzo gave her a balloon animal horse, to try and get her to stop. In the present, 10 years later, Octavia reveals she still had the balloon horse, after her father enchanted it for her, not wanting for it to get thrown away. Blitzo is amazed it's still intact, and is happy his days working at Loo Loo Land weren't a total waste. It's a nice first step, in them becoming closer.

Chapter 9 - Like A Dog Chasing Cars

• This Chapter, reveals that Rufus has a softer side to his friends, and in particular his Captain Yoshimo, with whom he has a romantic relationship with. Their chemistry and friendship is very cute, as we get to see a side of Rufus, that hasn't been seen until that point.

Chapter 10 - Going on Tour

• When Blitzo has to convince Moxxie to let him & Loona go on Verosika's tour, and leave him, Millie and Octavia to handle the business, he gives them a small speech of how proud he is of how far they've come, that he's willing to do the job for it, despite how much he hates his ex and how much he trusts them while he's gone.
• Chapter 10, has many good Blitzo & Loona moments, as he invites his daughter along, knowing she's a fan of Verosika and to make the job more tolerable. He helps her with her makeup, is always thinking of how proud he is of Loona and how he wants to try and be a better father to her. The chapter ends on a bittersweet note, as the two share a drink and Blitzo reveals some of his past to Loona. He tells her so much, after a small fight they have in the Lust Ring, which she thanks, calling him dad in the process.

Chapter 11 - Temp Work

• Octavia's slow and sweet growing bond with Moxxie & Millie, is very nice to read. In particular near the end; after she has a panic attack from her first fight in Chapter 11, Moxxie & Millie are quick to comfort her and calm her down, telling her she did great for her first time and that it is natural for someone to feel a little shaken after having to fire a gun. She in turn offers them a ride home after the day is over, as a small thanks for calming her down.

Chapter 12 - The Arena

• Despite still despising his ex, Blitzo finds Verosika freaking out over her final concert in Anger, and instead of mocking her as one might expect, the imp instead encourages and calms down the succubus, giving her the confidence to go the big show. It's a surprising act of kindness from Blitzo, given how poorly his ex has treated him up to that point, showing there's still some love for her, despite their animosity.
• True to her word, Verosika starts treating Loona less like a dog and with more respect and kindness from Chapter 12 onwards. By the end of it, the succubus has gained a lot of respect for Blitzo's adopted hellhound. So much so that she offers to give Loona a job under her and is very disappointed by the hellhound turning her down.
• This Chapter, acts as a good step forward to Blitzo & Verosika's current relationship. The two are far from friends and still dislike each other, but they are no longer constantly at each other's throats like before and are able to have civil, mostly polite conversations with each other. They depart on seemingly decent notes, which is a far cry from where they started.

Chapter 13 - Moonlight in the Gardens

• Despite all the fighting at Stolas' household, the Chapter does have a bittersweet end as Loona comforts Octavia and listens to her vents and frustrations about her crap life. This being the first time the princess has ever open up to someone about her life. Despite Loona being unfamiliar with these situations, this being her first time having to be a shoulder for someone to cry on, having never known her birth parents, and never cried during her abusive upbringing at her old homes, the hellhound makes for a sweet comfort friend, showing her calm affection, listening to the princess' venting and offering the best advice she can given the circumstances. Thankfully, that's just what Octavia needs, and the two of them spend much of the night alone together in her garden, admiring the view and peacefulness, until they the princess has to return. Both girls admitting to the other, they are the only and closest friends they have, is a bit sad but really comforting, as their friendship continues to grow further.

Chapter 14 - Daylight in the Gardens

• This is a sweet, wholesome cool down chapter, that is very much needed after the previous, heavily emotional chapter. Much of it is dedicated to Loona & Stolas getting to know each other, and despite the two never really interacting much, the pair strike a small but nice friendship as the two of them continue to talk together, after hellhound manages to lead them to the garden and helps them plant their demonic roses. In particular, Stolas thanking Loona for coming over and telling her, how much he thinks their friendship is good for the both of them, was very sweet.
• When Blitzo learns about Octavia is coming over to their place, the imp immediately cleans up the apartment, making it look tidy up once the princess arrives; doing this all because he knows how close Loona is to Octavia and wanted to make sure she got a good first impression of their home. It's a wonderfully sweet moment, with Loona thanking her father with a warm hug, and a nice farewell for the night.
• The chapter ends on a cuddly note for Stolas & Blitzo, as the two spend the evening eating snacks & watching The Room (2003) together, having a good laugh and even trading two kisses in between.

Chapter 15 - Going to the Dogs

• The Chapter is chockfull of these as Octavia is introduced to Loona's group of hellhound buddies and quickly makes friends with them, effectively becoming part of the group. After being friendless for so long, it is a joy to watch the princess break free of her royal constraints, and becoming friends with a group. She eats with them, plays frisbee and wins with them and joys them in a round of campfire songs with the group. By the end of the chapter, she's practically become part of the pack.
• She and Loona also get some heartwarming moment together here. In particular, Octavia thanking her friend for inviting her along, breaking into happy tears over her wonderful day and the two sharing a bed together at Stolas' mansion.

Chapter 16 - Growing Pains

• Blitzo comforting Loona, after the hellhound learns she can't attend Octavia's party was wonderfully done. When Loona attempts to send him a biting remark, the imp shrugs it off surprisingly cooly and helps to calm Loona down. While he knows just as much as everyone else that the situation isn't fair, he reminds his daughter that Octavia is also feeling bad about this, and getting angry at her and potentially burning down the bridge between them isn't worth it in the long run. It's bittersweet, but still a nice father/daughter moment between them, showing how much they've grown.
• Similarly, Octavia has a few nice moment with her family. While it sours quickly once Loona's brought up, it's still nice seeing her picking out dresses with Stella and Stolas. And them hugging and comforting their daughter, after they see just how tired and stressed she has been lately, is another wholesome bit.
• The Chapter ends with a small but cute bit between Yoshimo and Rufus, where the captain comes to take the workaholic warden on a date, after he's spent the last few days focusing on repairing I.M.P,'s guns, finally giving the dog some time to relax.

Chapter 17 - Birthday

• While her birthday turns out to be mostly boring for the princess, as she's forced to spend time with royals she doesn't really care about, Octavia is able to catch up with her cousin Princess Charlie Morningstar. Needless to say, it is delightful. Not only to have these two close friends catching up, with Charlie giving her cousin some much needed tips on how to handle the current situation with Loona, but for Octavia to finally have another royal, other than Stolas who is in full support of her friendship with her new bestie.
• Captain Yoshimo and Warden Rufus both attend the party, and each give Octavia some much needed familiar faces to deal with and some great gift. Yoshimo gives her a butterfly knife while Warden Rufus gifts her a space-themed pocket watch, with the hands symbolizing Octavia and Loona's friendship and made for their own feathers & fur.
• Octavia and Loona have a chance to catch up after the party, with both of them making amends for their behavior last time and successfully managing to get through their first fight. It feels so sweet having them rebuild their bond after such a hit, with Loona even telling Octavia not to blame herself for the events. There's also the surprising turn of the hellhound, despite hating Stella and knowing she's against their friendship, encouraging her friend not to be so harsh towards her mother, knowing that she still cares for her daughter, given how her own mother left her as a child. It ends on a uplifting sugary sweet note, with Loona gifting Octavia a signed copy of Trogdor; The Short Story Collection and promising to take her out on the town, for a better party soon. It's all you could ever want from the two of them.

Chapter 18 - Night Life

• After Loona is left out of Octavia's 18th Birthday party, the two get a chance to celebrate it just by themselves, as they hit a new club in Pentagram City. While it does have a bit of a gory end, seeing the girls drinking, dancing, standing up to Slaanesh and having a wonderful time is nothing short of sweet. Octavia using her status, to get Loona into a "No Dogs" club, was a sweet display of what the she will do for her friend.

Chapter 19 - Negotiations

• When Rufus gets blackmailed by Stolas, the prince demands the warden tell him what he wants with Octavia, believing he has something nefarious in mind for her. Rufus however reveals that he simply likes her and is impressed by how smart, brave and stubborn she is, willing to do what she wants not caring about Hell's status quo. He believes she's just what Hell needs to becomes better in the future. He genuinely likes her and wants to protect the princess from harm.

Chapter 20 - A Charming Family Dinner

• Despite a devastating start, Chapter 20 does have a wonderful scene of Stolas & Stella finally talking with each other, after so much time of them just screaming and being angry all the time. They, mostly Stella but also Stolas, begin to realize how their actions have negatively affect the marriage and Octavia, and negotiate how to make things up and improve going forward. It's satisfying to see, after all the time they've been at each other's throats, that they're finally willing to better themselves, ending on them realizing that while they can never be happily married, they can still be friends and do what they can for the sake of Octavia.
• The ending with Stolas & Octavia is nice too, with the prince showing signs of taking Via's public image more seriously, without trying to upset his daughter too much. By the end gets her to promise to talk things out with Stella in person, in return for letting Loona inside their house for once. It's wholesome end to an otherwise tense and bitter chapter, Eldritch Horror not withstanding and a nice start for a possible bright spot for their family.

Chapter 21 - Mending Fencing

• After their massive fight in the previous Chapter, this one does an excellent job of having Stella & Octavia make up. It starts out slow and a bit painful, with the two women talking out their feelings, both struggling to make their feelings bare, the two opening up to each other after they take a walk together and Octavia tells her mom about why she's so passionate about taxidermy and Loona. For the first time ever, both are willing to hear each other out and as a result slowly begin to make amends. The next day, the two bond further with Stella giving Octavia fencing lessons, sharing stories about her bloody past, them watching and drinking together and finally with her reluctantly allowing Loona to come visit the manor. After all the bitterness both have been put through, seeing them apologize and take their first steps to improving their relationship, feels very satisfying and sweet.
• Stella reveals that while the current state of her marriage with Stolas isn't great or ideal for her, she wouldn't change a thing, as marrying him, lead to her having Octavia.
• The middle section of Octavia, hanging out with Loona and her crew, as they drink and watch Slaughterton Abbey is also a very cute reprieve from the mother & daughter drama.

Chapter 22 - A Noble Bit of Horseplay

• After having only been able to see Octavia outside of her home, Loona is finally allowed inside her's palace, allowing the girls to finally be together without worrying about being seen of Stella's wrath.
• Loona learning how to ride a horse, with the help of Stella & Octavia was very enduring. She struggles with it at first, but with their encouragement and help, she slowly gets used to it and begins to enjoy it on some level. It helps to give the hellhound something to bond over with Stella, even if it isn't really her thing.
• The goth teens have some more sweet bonding moments, like a talk about their parents, a wild horse ride and a jam session, but their mud fight after their ride, with them slowly laughing and enjoying each other despite the mess, gives such wonderful sibling vibes from the pair. It really feels like a good-natured fight between sisters.
• Speaking of Stella, it's touching to read her actually doing her best to make up for her behavior in the previous chapters. While she's skeptical of Loona, she slowly begins to get used to her and by the end has realized how important and beneficial she is to Octavia, allowing the two of them to continue seeing each other. It's incredibly wonderful to see, considering how much flack she has given previously.
• This change in attitude has also significantly improved Stella & Stolas' relationship, as the two being to grow closer again, and even rekindle some of their love as they leave the girls for themselves, while they have some fun, if awkward sex in each other, for the first time in years.
• The ending gives Stolas & Loona a chance to grow further, as the former learns about her skills in the piano and asks her to play for him. While Loona at first believes he only wants to set her up to fail, as she plays and slowly rediscovers her talent, Stolas is nothing but encouraging and supportive, joining her in for a song while she plays. It goes a long way for the hellhound, to start liking him after thinking so little of him previously. When she leaves, Loona gains a new appreciation for Stolas & Stella.

Chapter 23 - An Exercise in Desecration

• Which mostly set up as a way to lure the audience into a false sense of security, the Opening of Blitzo & Loona getting ready for work, picking up Moxxie & Millie as they celebrate their recent string of hits and growing accounts, is rather wholesome to read, given their usual bad luck.
• The ending has a great bittersweet feel to it, as I.M.P. returns from their mission, bruised, battered and near-death, their relationship with Blitzo severally strained, but still comforting and healing each other and their boss. Showing that even after everything they've been through, they're still a team and for now at least, will always be there to try and help each other out when they need it.

Chapter 24 - Personal Loyalties

• Despite literally being the one who came closet to death in the last Chapter, Millie, while resentful and angry at Blitzo, is still loyal enough to her friend as to not wanting to quit her job and even encourages Moxxie to the same. Their whole talk together is a great display of their love, as despite the two having different feelings towards each other, it shows they can always seek the other out for comfort. Further proving they are the perfect match for each other.
• Stolas comforting Blitzo, sensing that he's considering suicide, encouraging him to talk to Moxxie and stop beating himself over it, even singing him to sleep was wonderful. Comparing them now to how they were at the beginning, it feels like they've really come a long way.
• After their disastrous job and the high tension between Blitzo & Moxxie, the ending is an uplifting comforting note to end on. The two male imps, while still fully over everything, are doing their best to move forward with Blitzo willing to earn his way back Moxxie's trust, after a long emotional talk. They and the rest of I.M.P. join together for a lovely barbecue, where Blitzo reveals he had Stolas bring all of them, a bottle of ambrosia with helps to heal their injuries and cement their friendship & loyalty to each other despite everything.

Chapter 25 - The Uproar

• For the most part, the opening is a very sweet show of how much things have improved for Bltizo & Loona financially since taking the terrifying hit in Chapter 23. They can afford good food, they're planing on moving to a better house and Blitzo's improving his cooking skills with some help from Moxxie. It might not fully be enough to make up for the horrors they've faced, but it's a nice sign of things improving. That we get another tender moment between the two, as Blitzo brushes Loona's hair.
• Even with all the chaos going on around them, there are few sweet moments in between, with Stolas & Octavia talking to each other on the phone, confirming that the other is safe, and Loona refuseing to let Rufus take them to Stolas' manor, without Blitzo and M&M.

Chapter 26 - Pandemonium

• Despite the many, growing horrors that gang experience during their trek through Pride, there are a few moments of kindness in-between, like them comforting Octavia after she experiences several breakdowns during their journey, them meeting up with Ford, Drake & the hellhounds confirming them to be okay and offering a group of survivors shelter from the growing chaos, that help alleviate some of the tension.
• Stella & Octavia reuniting after the latter has been separated from her family for so long, and had to endure so many horrors, is absolutely heartwarming to read.

Chapter 27 - The Imps in the High Castle

• Despite themselves being shaken and tired, Blitzo & Loona comfort the emotional Octavia the best they can.
• Blitzo & Stella finally meet each other again, after not seeing each other since the cake incident, and manage to resolve some of their issues. That alone is quite satisfying, but also a nice show of how both have grown and how the circumstances have brought out the best in them. During their first encounter, the mood is awkward but quiet and respectful, as Stella thanks Blitzo for keeping Octavia safe. During their second encounter, while they act more antagonistic, by the end, Blitzo apologizes in his own way, and the two seem to be able to move past all of this and possibly becoming allies going forward. Blitzo isn't even all that phased when Stella reveals she and Stolas are amending their relationship, and is more than happy to offer her tips. It truly seems the affair has finally been put to rest, with Stella accepting of Blitzo's relationship with Stolas and thankful for all he's done to protect Octavia.
• Moxxie & Blitzo have a nice moment while guarding the wall, with the two sharing drinks, some banter and comfort, both still not fully over everything they've been through.
• Millie gets plenty of time to shine in this chapter, as she gives Loona advice on how to best deal with Octavia after she's been so thoroughly shaken, attempting to talk Rufus out of returning to the battlefield after all he's been through and the end where she talk to the warden, encouraging him to be honest about his feelings to Captain Yoshimo. We also learn via flashback that he's the one who recommend she & Moxxie join I.M.P. when they were looking for work. While we've had hints of their friendship earlier, it is very nice to finally read about it here.

Chapter 28 - Damage Assessment

• Rufus and Yoshimo's short reunion after being separated by all the ongoing chaos is very sweet. The two reaffirm their love for each other, pressing the boundaries of their secrecy and promise to go on another date soon, once things finally settle down.
• We see that time, the new circumstances and especially both of their caring towards Octavia, have finally fostered a friendship between Rufus and Stolas. Considering that they started the story on very shaky terms, the fact that they now have a new found respect for each other, sharing jokes and being comfortable to call on the other for help, is a nice sign of things improving.
• After a stressful meeting with Lucifer and the other wardens, Rufus begins his patrol of Imp City by catching up with Vortex & Andy. While the latter is a bit bitter at the Warden for choosing to protect Via & Yoshimo over them, both are none the less happy to see him in one piece and highlights their friendship, with Rufus cares about them, offering them money to rebuild their broken homes and hiring some of their friends as help to keep things under control.

Chapter 29 - Life Among the Ruins

• After all the intense action and horrors during the last few chapters, we get some relief and a breather in the first half, as I.M.P. help Millie's family repair their farm, horde up the strangling animals and make sure they're all doing okay. It's really wholesome stuff, and it feels satisfying to read Moxxie finally win Joe and the family's approval, by killing a wild hog that tried to attack them.
• Octavia finally gets some much needed help to cope with the trauma she went through. Firstly, with Stella helping her with political matters, checking on on how she's doing in the mean time. And later on, Loona finally confronts her about her seemingly trying to ignore or downplay her trauma and helping her through it. First with some though love, but then just by talking to her and hearing her out, even opening up about her own trauma, to show that Via isn't alone. It goes to show, how much they both truly understand each other. By the end Octavia's not fully recovered, but is willing to try and move forward from this.
• It's quite satisfying to watch Octavia becoming more invested in the political game of Hell, and becoming a woman of the lower-class, making sure they're given fair treatment and aren't forgotten during these rough times. Her declaration, to make the upcoming party a celebration of them and their contributes to Hell's society, is already a massive leap forward, from what other royals have done for them.
• We find out that in between their duties, Moxxie & Millie spend a lot of time playing and cheering up the refuge children, that are hiding out in Stolas' keep. And they seem to be quite good at it too.
• Despite a painfully bitter start to his segment, Rufus' part in the chapter ends on a bittersweet note, with Yoshimo comforting him, assuring the Warden that he did all that he could, that he's still needed, that she loves him and for all his brutality and guilt is still a good person deep down. This is manages to cheer him up just enough to continue his planned date with her, in which they have a wonderful time with dinner, wine, dancing and making love.

Chapter 30 - The Taking of Octavia Goetia

• Stella further shows how much she's changed at the big, fancy Ars Goetia dinner, speaking out on Loona's defense when the other royals mock her and even proposing she Octavia hire her as her personal bodyguard, which would not only allow the two girls to spend more time together but also potentially improve the hellhound & Blitzo's living conditions and even boost costumers for I.M.P. It truly feels like she's come a long way, sensing that times have changed and things can improve for the better. It was a long journey to get to this point, but ever so worth it.
• Despite the terrifying reveal of the stars and constellations moving out of place, Octavia & Stolas spending the night after the Dinner, was mostly really sweet after what the former's been through.

Chapter 31 - Precipice

• Warden Rufus deciding to finally be more open about his feelings towards Yoshimo, regardless of how the rest of Hell thinks of them, is a bold but sweet move from the usually careful captain. And while most of them are disgusted by their relationship, Warden Kovu, whom Rufus was close to, is seemingly approving of their relationship. It's a nice show of them finally being able to be a bit more open after so much secretly.

Chapter 32 - A Bouquet of Broken Hearts

• Even at a event as tragic as Octavia's funeral there are small moment of light, such as [[spoilers:Blitzo comforting Stolas, Loona's final goodbye to her friend, Rufus being respectful to Blitzo allowing him to keep his loaned car for as long as he needs, and, as disastrous as it turned out, Loona offering her sympathies to Stella.]]
• The ending goes to show, how much I.M.P. has grown as a joint and a family. M&M being nothing but sympathetic and understanding towards Loona, even with how harshly she has treated them show that they've truly come to care about her. Further shown by Moxxie talking with Loona on the roof, helping to dissuade any lingering suicidal thoughts she might have. And Loona, being vulnerable around Blitzo, whom she started being annoyed with, allowing herself to truly open up to them and seek comfort for her father, also goes to show how much they've improved their relationship. It's this newfound familiarity, that helps Loona being to make peace with the death and start to move on; showing that family can truly help other even in the darkest of times.

Chapter 33 - Resilience

• While collection Blitzo, Rufus takes the opportunity to check up on Loona, while the hellhound is still in a rot after her friend's death and encourages not to let his consume her and to move on, in honor of Octavia's memory. While she still remains slothful by the end, the warden's words hit home with her and seem to have given her some more encouragement to try and get by this.
• It's a tough task, but Blitzo & Rufus talking with Stolas, managing to get through to him even in his bleakest state and help him finally move on from Octavia's death (at least enough to get back to his senses and resume his duties), is handled incredibly well. In particular, Rufus revealing his own past, how he lost his own family and can never see them again, yet he still finds reasons to carry on despite it. Blitzo and Rufus are both fathers who have lost, and know every bit the pain Stolas is going through, and are able to help the prince through that pain and finally get him back to sound mind. It's very bittersweet.
• Having now learned of Rufus' past, it recontextualizes his fondness with Loona and Octavia and why he takes his duties to Hell and the hellhounds so serious. It's his way of making amends for the countless mistakes of his previous life.

Chapter 35 - Sentinel Duty

• Blitzo & Loona taking care of the children, reading them fairy tales to calm them down and reminiscing on what might've been, has a nice bittersweet feel to it.
• We further see how much Blitzo & Rufus' growing respect and liking for each other here, at several points. During the start, Rufus give the imp the charge to come up with a plan of defense and encourages him to calm down the large gathering of refugees that are growing restless as Extermination looms near. Later on, the two have a civil conversation together over a smoke and drink, with Blitzo revealing he came to Rufus for funding for I.M.P., because he would honor their deal fully no matter what, and thanking him for keeping Loona safe. It's certainly better than how they started.
• The warden also gets another nice chat with M&M. Millie congratulating the warden for being more open with his feelings towards Yoshimo, encouraging him not to let his fears of commitment hold him back, from taking their relationship further and truly being honest with himself.

Chapter 36 - Extermination

• Despite being dead tired and tense from staying alive and worrying about the Exorcists about to invade their stronghold, Loona still has it in her to be kind to the kids, even taking one of them to the toilet and going inside with him to calm his nerves during the tense time.

Chapter 37 - The Ravages of Heaven

• Even after something as horrific and terrible as Extermination Night, everyone's still making strides rebuilding and moving on from their losses. And a great example of that, is when Rufus & I.M.P, find the former's shop absolutely decimated. And the first thing the imps & hellhound do, is set out to rebuild it free of charge, declaring Rufus one of their own. Considering how much the Dog & Blitzo started hating each other, it's a wonderful show of how much they've grown from the Uproar.
• And it continues in the following segment with the hellhounds. Not only did Vortex, Andromeda and most of their crew survive, the female mechanic agrees to rebuild Rufus' car, better than before, wanting to try and forgive him for what he did to Polaris. While she will never forgive him for what he's done, it's a bittersweet scene of her acknowledging him as one of the few demons that care about them and loved her as much as she did. She even brings him to Polaris' grave so he can say his final goodbyes. It's a somber but a wonderful closure to their arc.

Chapter 38 - Solidarity

• All of the moments with I.M.P. in here, though in particular, the gang comforting Blitzo after they lose their office, with Moxxie telling that even after everything he wants to continue work with him and encourages the imp, to move forward despite their loss. Considering everything he's put them through, including the Canada Job, it really hits home how much of a family, the group has become since they've started.
• Blitzo & Verosika manage to put the past behind them, with the imp apologizing for being a horrible, cruel boyfriend to her, the two acknowledging that they did love each other, even if that flame has long since burnt out. It feels like the perfect end note, to their relationship, with both departing on better terms.
• Rufus finally manages to catch up with Yoshimo, after being departed for so long, the pair promising to go on a date the next day and the Warden declaring his love to her, much to the Captain's shock.
• The ending shows up just how much Blitzo and his comrades have grown on Rufus. While the warden is annoyed at having the shitfaced group of hellborn interrupting his quiet time, the red wolf quickly joins in on the celebration with drinks & games. Though, what truly shows how much he's come to care about them, is his private scene with Blitzo, where he tells him that while he finds the imp annoying, he also considers him and his family some of his true friends. The first real friends he's had in years. And to show how much he's come to care about them, he breaks the contract that grants him partial ownership of I.M.P., freeing Blitzo of his deal and allowing him to run the company on his own. When we first met Rufus, he would've never done anything of the sort to anyone, much less Blitzo. But thanks to the uproar and his fondness for Loona & Octavia, he Warden has truly grown from where he started. And it's touching to read.

Chapter 39 - Remembrance

• Blitzo and Loona have a nice talk in their home during the start. Blitzo, still encouraged in his quest for a new office despite the overwhelming odds, is there to listen to Loona as she recounts her horrific and disturbing nightmares, providing her a much moment, to let her feelings bare and providing her with the encouragement to finally seek out Stolas, after staying at home for so long. She even calls him dad, after almost calling him Blitz.
• Pringles the imp butler, gets some much needed love her. Not only providing Loona & Stolas with snacks, but thanking Loona for giving Octavia so much love during their friendship.
• This chapter is mostly Loona & Stolas centric and is done wonderfully. It goes to show how much their relationship has grown, with Stolas going from being a stranger to the hellhound to almost a second father figure to her. It's nice seeing them try to comfort each other, despite neither fully willing to open up. All thanks to Octavia. Loona's encouraging talk to Stolas, after confessing to not fully protecting Octavia's room was exceptionally great. She can't be angry with him, because she loved Octavia just as much as he did, and so can't fault him for his moment of weakness. She understands his pain, and helps him to see he shouldn't blame himself and instead try to do right by Octavia.
• Though it takes a great deal of emotional work and the process to doing it is painful, it feels very cathartic when Stolas & Loona finally open the door to Octavia's room and step through. The experience gives them some much needed closure, as they remember fond memories of the princess and look over her photo album. By the end of it, the both promise each other to take better care of themselves, even when they mess up, and keep moving forward despite how heavily Octavia's weight bears down on them. It's a satisfying and bittersweet end on their grieving process that, aside from the later Eye incident, wraps up their reunion nicely.

Chapter 40 - A Soiree in Sloth

• Despite being surrounded by leagues of apathetic, scheming or self-centered Goetias bothering her, even amongst her own family, Stella does have one who treats her with kindness and compassion. Her grandmother and role model Diana. After meeting her mother Svetlana Goetia and later Andrealphus, getting to see Stella being so close and loving to one member of her family, who helped her grow as a youth, is very sweet. The two share a nice talk, with the grandmother comforting the still grieving Stella, praising her for raising a bright, strong and smart daughter not afraid to break the mold like Octavia. It's just what she needs after so much hardship.
• Stella standing up for Stolas, after Andrealphus openly mocks him in front of her is both this and awesome, showing that despite the affair and all the fighting and grief they've been through, Stella has grown to genuinely care about her husband, enough to speak out on his behalf. It's a sweet sign of growth from how their relationship started.
• Reginald gets a great moment to shine, comforting and seeing to Stella after her big blowout with her brother Andrealphus. The ever faithful butler helps to calm down the shaken princess, and even tells her his own stories with Octavia. Namely the time he helped her with make a trio of cups out of pottery, one of which she gave to him as a sign of their friendship. While not shown as much, it's a good way to show his own close ties with Octavia. Afterwards, he encourages Stella to leave this place, knowing that it's negatively affecting her health and tells her that she raised Octavia well, even if she died young. It's a wonderful display of his loyalty and devotion to his lady, whom he calls the best of the masters he's had throughout the centuries.
• The ending serves as a nice wrap of Stella's grieving, done by way of a phone call with Stolas. After 7 chapters apart, it felt so great to have them talking again, catching up and finally ending with Stella promising to go home, after one more week of gathering information on the royals, to see what's going on. A strong sign of her finally being ready to move on.

Chapter 41 - Haunted

• After Blitzo finds Loona up after struggling to sleep, the two have a sweet little chat together. Blitzo encourages his daughter get some much needed sleep, while the rest of the team look for a new office. Is even willing to admit to her that while he's unsure if the team will last, he wants to try his damndest as he doesn't want to see them break up, after all they've been through, having finally become like a family to each other. Compared to how they've started. It's heartwarming to see how much they've grown.
• I.M.P. is still determined to push on and continue operations despite Hell's constance pushbacks and an uncertain future. Seeing them shopping for a new place of business, with Blitzo already thinking of new ways to drive up new costumers by capitalising on her their latest strings to successes during the Uproar, including their part in killing an Exorcist, is really sweet. Their banter along the way is fun to read, as we see more of their now familial relationship shining through.
  • Even Blitzo & Stolas' relationship gets a chance to shine, as the two agree to go on a date with each other.
• Even though the circumstances are horrifying and not great, having concrete confirmation that Octavia is a alive, and seeing her reunite with Loona after so long, is so satisfying and sweet.

Chapter 42 - Abominations

• The opening date between Blitzo & Stolas serves as a nice ease into the more unsettling developments of the chapter and on it's own is incredibly sweet. The pair have charming chemistry, Stolas wants Blitzo to move in with him and despite Blitzo's hesitance to say the four-letter-word, it's clear that he's come to love Stolas as much as the prince loves him. It's a beautiful show of how far they've come in terms of their relationship. From an awkward one night stand, both refusing to admit their love for each other, built on unbalanced standings and role to a true, loving, blanched relationship, with both partners wanting to be a part of their lives. And after all they've lost, it's beautiful that they're still together.
  • There's also the part where Stolas expresses desire in giving Loona her own space, to learn and grow inside his palace that further goes to show how much the prince has come to care not only for Blitzo but also Loona.

Chapter 43 - The Archive

• Blitzo immediately comforting Loona after her story's done, not caring that she secretly stole money from the company, reassuring her that she is the best daughter he could've asked for, and that he will always be there for her no matter what.

Chapter 44 - Madman's Knowledge

• Loona admits to Pendergast that she kissed Octavia during the Uproar, after seeing how shaken the princess was from all she experienced and wanting to help her through it. The two shared drinks, stories and songs, the atmosphere compelling the hellhound to briefly lock lips with her best friend before both took a tumble off their bench and silently agreed never to speak of it again. It's a much needed uplifting moment from the two besties, after all the horror we've learned this chapter, and acts as a nice way to solidify their relationship as sisters; while still giving their shippers a small bit of fan service.

Chapter 45 - Old Wounds and New Recruits

• The scene with Loona and Blitzo is a beautiful show of how far the two have come as father and daughter. During the start of the story, their relationship was messy, unstable, distant and hanging by a thread. But after so many months of rough times, the two slowly beginning to open up to each other, reveal their vulnerabilities, their past, learning to trust again and processing their grief and trauma together, the pair have managed to create a healthy, loving, familial relationship with each other, despite everything they've been through. Despite Hell and the Uproar doing everything in their power to split them apart, the two managed to stick together and have grown closer than ever before. So when Loona openly declares her platonic love for Blitzo and decides to permanently start calling him dad, it feels like a well earned and beautiful end to their arc together, with them finally having the relationship both wanted from each other.
• The first of the gang's potential recruits for the mission to save Octavia, is of course M&M. But while the situation is dire and their skills are highly sought after, Blitzo tells them that they don't have to do this if they don't want to; and that he and the others would completely understand if they walked away. Compared to how Blitzo handled a similar situation during the Canada job, and his previously reckless behavior, it's a wonderful sign of growth for the boss, treating his coworkers truly like family rather than minions. Which makes it even sweeter, when after a lengthy talk about it, the couple ultimately agree to join them, in helping to rescue Octavia.

Chapter 46 - Tuning In

• We get a sweet little moment between Stolas and Charlie, as the two meet up at the hotel, with the Octavia's cousin offering her sympathies to the still-grieving father and apologizing for not doing more to try and help him through his grief. Even though we now know Via's not dead, it is lovely seeing her wanting to help him through the pain.
• Rufus & Husk strike up a pleasant conversation over drinks.

Chapter 47 - Infernal Affairs

• Blitzo slipping into Papa Wolf mode, when Lucifer starts interrogating Loona for information.
• Despite not sharing his daughter's dreams, Lucifer's relationship with Charlie is this. The emperor makes it no secret that he loves her and his wife very much, even so far in the way he addresses her. Whereas he prides himself on appearing as powerful and terrifying as possible among everyone else, he quickly loses that pose around her, becoming more vulnerable and less commanding. It's thanks to this love for his family, that Charlie's able to convince him to let Stolas and his team venture into Mother's realm, with him & Lillith opening the portal, knowing that if the roles were reversed he'd do the same for Charlie.
• Charlie shows how much she cares about her cousin, by not only volunteering for the quest into Mother's realm, despite her father's protests, but by bringing Vaggie along with her, as both of them want Octavia back.

Chapter 48 - Happy Hour

• Before leaving to Yoshimo, Rufus gives Loona a much needed goodbye hug.
• The closing scene with Rufus & Yoshimo is very sweet, showing the captain not only agreeing to join their quest, but more of the two bringing out the best in each other. The two share drinks, acknowledge their worries and the possibility that they might not come back alive, reaffirm their love for each other and end up sleeping together even through a very rough shared nightmare.

Chapter 49 - Night Thoughts

• Charlie & Vaggie's relationship is given plenty of attention here, showing both their ups and downs. In particular, we get to see how loyal and loving Vaggie is to her girlfriend, as even after having to put up with so many of her rash decisions, even here where she's being dragged into a rescue mission in an Eldritch Realm, she'll always have Charlie's back no matter what. It's such a touching display for their love for each other.
• Moxxie and Millie are given a sweet bit, with the two reflecting on their choice and possible suicide mission into Mother's Realm. Moxxie is understandably worried that either he or Millie might die, but his wife helps him through his fears, ending with them having a wonderful night of passion together. As always it's wonderful to see their love for each other.
• Both Blitzo & Stolas giving Loona a hug in Octavia's bedroom, as the hellhound has a breakdown at having lost another home, helping her fall asleep knowing that despite all that's been taken from her, she'll always have a family and that together they can get through this. Both Blitzo & Stolas have become like father's to her, that she has long for. And after much loss and heartache, it is wonderful to see.
• In a rare moment of honesty, Alastor drops his act for a spell, getting personal with Charlie. He tells her he doesn't know where to go with life, besides his usual bluster, and while he doesn't fully know why he's still backing the hotel, he does value Charlie's company and the friends he's made with the people there, even if he hides it most of the time.
• We end with a moment between the Morningstars as Lucifer reveals how scared he is of losing Charlie, how much things have unraveled for Hell, and the whole mission they're about to undertake. Lilith the even faithful wife helps him through his doubts and reassures him that while they may not win, they can still do their best to help their daughter and save Octavia. A surprising but sweet moment from the rulers of Hell.

Chapter 50 - Prefatory Preening

• Blitzo finds Stolas breaking down in the shower, having finally had time to fully process what's happened to Octavia, and immediately goes to comfort him. He does this not only with some steamy shower sex, to help the prince blow off steam, but by talking him through it all. He admits he's just as scared as Stolas, but that they'll be ready when the day for the mission comes and reassures him, that they will get Octavia back from Mother's realm. It's a sweet intimate moment between the lovers.
• Stolas and Stella's closing scene, serves as a great show of their current relationship, as the prince comforts his wife who's still frustrated and bitter over being left out of the mission. They both agree to do their part to save Octavia, and help her through all the trauma and horrific experiences she's suffered through from all of this. They acknowledge that while they can never see each other as lovers again, the pair are content to settle for being the best parents for Octavia they can be, and being each other's best friend. They chapter ends with them sleeping together for possibly the last time, with this new understanding fulfilled. Seeing them like this, after how sour and bitter their relationship was at the start, really goes to show how much both sides have grown.

Chapter 51 - Forged in Fire

• Rufus bringing in Loona's hellhound friends to help with the upcoming attack, was a really cool moment, after the gang has been absent for so long. Their help kickstarting the forge, will no doubt prove invaluable for what comes next.
• During her training, Yoshimo manages to strike up a strong kinship with both Vaggie and Millie. Not only does she help to improve their already strong fighting abilities, and even reveals her painful past to them. By the end, the trio feel like they've stroked up a strong bond. One they will hopefully need for when things finally great rough.
• We get treated to a pair of really fun and sweet boning between the group, when Millie worries they might be drifting apart before the invasion. She gathers up some high-class wine, with the help of Lillith and organizes a get together between everyone. She and the girls have a fun time talking stage plays, Tolkien and Octavia herself.
• The boys meanwhile, struggle at first to get along, but eventually manage a sort of friendship. They play a modified version of FMK, Rufus & Alastor trade passive-aggressive insults at each other, Sexual innuendos are thrown all around and Moxxie struggles to keep everyone in control. Wonderful stuff.
• The story ends on a wonderfully sweet note, with Blitzo giving Stolas a passionate kiss on the lips, the boys having a loving night in bed and ending with each finally saying the three beauty words to one another. A wonderful end to their journey in becoming actual lovers.

Chapter 52 - Familial Bonds

• Before getting back to the gang, we're treated to a wonderfully bittersweet scene with Vortex and Andromeda. After so much focus on the core gang, it's nice to get a moment in the life of these two, as they talk about what's going on, remember Polaris and just act so naturally loving and supportive towards each other.
• Once the guns are done forging, and the hellhounds have a sweet celebration together, Andromeda tries to ask the warden what this is all for. While she doesn't get many answers, with Rufus not wanting to get them dragged into this madness, he does leave the care of the city and the hounds in her hands. It's goes far into showing how much faith Rufus has in his hounds and how important Andy and the others are to him, despite all that's happened. This, and the reveal that Vortex proposed to Andromeda offscreen, is a nice moment to leave the hellhounds before the descent into Mother's realm.
• In addition to making them new armor, Stolas also commissioned Arthur for a special task. Patching up Octavia's old blanket that she had since a child and even upgradinging it with new enchantments and spells. It's a simple yet wonderfully cute moment from the father.
• The final gathering before the rescue date, is chalked full of these. Alastor gives everyone a surprisingly sincere pep talk, Stolas makes a big grand toast that everyone chimes in on and possibly the biggest of them all, Rufus' proposes to Yoshimo, with the Captain having Lucifer himself marry them on the spot. With how tense and terrifying the final chapter will inevitably be, seeing everyone together in a non-threatening wholesome scene is wonderfully sweet.
• Stella gets a chance to show how far she's come, when Stolas is debating wether to sleep with her or Blitzo. The princess makes the choice for him, telling Stolas that she's okay with him spending the night with Blitzo instead, encouraging him to be happy and with the one he truly loves. A wonderful sign of growth from the usually jealous and image focused princess she started as.
• The closing scene with Rufus and Yoshimo sharing the bed together, is very sweet, the two lovers celebrating their marriage with song, dance, sex and talk, reflecting on their time together one more time before their big mission.

Chapter 53 - Parting Words

• Charlie goes to check on Al, before they descend into Mother's realm, able to get him to admit his fears and giving him a small pep talk in response. The scene serves well as a deeper look into their partnership and friendship, with Charlie immediate sensing something's up with Al, and getting him to confess not by force but with patience and kindness, also showing her skill as a therapist. Despite their constant antagonism, it's quite sweet to watch Charlie being Al's guiding light.
• Stella and Lilith are given a rare moment to talk about their struggles with motherhood, while raising their children. Both express regrets at their previous behavior, but ultimately they're proud of their respective children and how much they've grown. One wonders if things between Stella had Via had been different, if she had talked to Lilith earlier.
• It is also in the aforementioned moment, that we learn that Octavia and Charlie were pen pals, with Octavia often turning to her cousin, whenever she needed an ear on subjects. In particular, she was the one whom Via would vent to about her frustrations with Stella, her struggling family and the expectations set upon her. While the contents itself are a bit sad, it is still comforting to know Octavia had someone to turn to, before she met Loona.
• Charlie and Lucifer's emotional and harsh fight, comes to a very sweet conclusion as the two make up and embracing each other. Lucifer explains that while he had misgivings about Charlie's dream, he was never embarrassed of her, just worried for her safety. But he still knows and trust her, even if he might not always agree with her optimistic view points. It feels like a scene that might appear in Hazbin Hotel proper, and a fitting make up scene between the Princess of Hell and her distant father.
• After giving her so much turmoil, Stella has a talk with Loona, wherein she finally apologizes for all she has put her through. It is immensely satisfying to hear Loona finally get the respect from Stella has has long deserved. And while she makes it clear she hasn't fully forgiven Stella yet, it is equally nice that she's willing to give the swan a chance at a new start; even admitting to being jealous of Via because she had a mother like Stella, who loved her dearly.
• The final moments before the descent into Mother's realm are all wonderful:
  • Moxxie & Millie share one more romantic dance, sent to many of their iconic songs.
  • Stolas and Stella have a quite goodbye as they prepare for war, having faith in the other and reaffirming their friendship with each other, despite everything; Stella making Stolad promise to return with Octavia and himself alive.
  • Charlie and her parents have another bittersweet goodbye, with the princess promising to return home.

Chapter 55 - Whisperers in Darkness

• Just when all seems lost, Vaggie is able to break free of the Choir's hold and help Moxxie & Millie, by remembering her love for Charlie. And in particular their night before the mission, where the princess made her promise to be safe no matter for her.

Chapter 56 - Dreams Beyond the Veil

• Alastor being knocked out from his nightmare, right as he's about to be consumed, by the aid of Charlie's presence is an incredibly sweet way to show the princess' impact on him. It is almost as if Charlie's on positivity and optimism, wanting to see the good in everyone including him, has finally brought him out of his stupor and for a brief moment into the light. It works well as shining a rarely seen light on their relationship with each other.
• Blitzo gets a heartwarming win on his past and regrets, as he breaks through the Choir's hold, it disguised as his former victims how mock him and try to bring him down, being able to break free by thinking of his newfound family: Loona, Moxxie, Millie and Stolas, all positive and loving relationships he was to from, even through several mistakes and been able to hold on to despite everything. After all he's suffered and the huge amount of self-loathing he has, it's beautiful to watch him get this brief victory on his past and move on, with his new life and family being there to guide him down a better path.
• Loona has one more brief, but loving reunion with Octavia, as the princess is able to break out of Mother's hold and free her from the Choir. After two chapters of sanity-breaking horror and never-ending terror, this brief respite, as the two friends are briefly reunited and find new strength through each other feels not only needed but well-delivered, further rising more hope the team saving the lost princess.

Chapter 57 - The King in Gold

• The fight with the King gives us so many cute and awesome moments for all the various pairings and duo, both romantic and friendly, to show off together. M&M, Blitzo & Loona, Vaggie & Charlie, Rufus & Yoshimo, pretty much everyone get's their own little bit to shine, before the finale.
• The long-awaited reunion of Octavia and her family is every bit as earned and beautiful as one could've hoped. Despite the dire and serious circumstances, it is endlessly beautiful to see her wake up in her father's arms and going into happy tears at seeing him again. And then meeting her bestie, Loona, once more the two exchanging their usual Insult of Endearment with all the love they can muster. Even Charlie gets a moment with her cousin. After all this time, it feels great seeing Via again.
• When they find Octavia, she is freezing after being trapped in Mother's cold dimension and hold for months. Thankfully, Loona has her, as using her fire breath, she turns her body into a makeshift heat-box to warm up her bestie, which she much appreciates. Even Blitzo joins in for a bit, happy to enjoy his daughter's comfortable warmth for a bit.
• As the chapter closes out, and the team prepares for one last face-off against Mother's forces, as her armies rush to try and reclaim Octavia, we get this sweet exchange between father and daughter.
  Loona: If we gotta go, I'm glad it's with you, Dad.
  Blitzo: I love you too, pumpkin.

Chapter 58 - The Last Stand

• As Stolas' uses all of his remaining magic to hold off Mother, something which will more than likely kill him, he gives those closest to him some final parting words. Doubles as a Tearjerker with how bittersweet the whole sequence is.
  Stolas to Blitzo: Blitz, you're always so eager to tell me what to do. My confident, brash little imp. My heart. Not this time. Tonight. I take the reins. *Gives him a kiss* I love you.
  Stolas to Loona: Take care of Via, Loona. Be her sister.
  Octavia: Dad...? Dad...Dad no. Stop. You can't...!
  Stolas: Shhh. Octavia. My beautiful Starfire. You were so eager to see the world that you came out of your egg early. We thought we'd lose you. And for years, you were so small, I used to think the Court would blow you away, or gobble you up. Now, look at you. My girl's all grown up. You're stronger than I ever dreamed, and you have so many friends. I'm so proud of you, my daughter.
  Octavia: Dad...No.... Please.
  Stolas: Shhh. Don't worry, my owlet. You'll be okay.
  Octavia: No. Stay with us!
  Stolas: Shhh... No matter what happens, I'll always be with you, Octavia. And I will always love you.

Chapter 59 - Aftermath

• The brief but touching moment of M&M recovering together, still traumatized, having trouble finding sleep and hope, but being able to rely on each other's love and company to help them through the pain. Helped by a mysterious nurse who reassures them they'll be fine.
• Charlie & Yoshimo share a very nice, bittersweet moment together, as the Morningstar helps the Captain visit the still comatose and recovering Rufus, even as the peahen is clearly struggling to stand with an improvised sling that's tearing up her stitchings. The two of them bond over their respective lovers, Yoshi even telling Charlie how she met the Red Warden, and offered him the position of warden after beating him in a fight.
• Stolas' awakening from his coma, badly hurt by still alive, is soon followed by him being greeted and welcomed back by all of his closest friends and family. First he finds Blitzo and Loona have been placed next to him, the trio exchanging warm welcomes and fun banter. Even after the imp chews him out for his near-suicidal move, the two are quick to make up and reaffirm their love for each other, revealed to just be alive and having accomplished their mission. They're shortly joined by Stella, who is beyond relieved to find her husband alive, sharing a very emotional welcome with Stolas; who tells her he's proud of Stella for her part in getting them home. And after that, Rufus joins them, still confined to his bed and grumpy but in good enough spirits for some of his usual snark. It's just such a relief to see the gang still being able to banter and love, even after everything, showing that there is hope for recovery yet.
• After two weeks, Octavia finally wakes up. And fittingly enough is greeted by Loona, who has been staying by her side since her recovery. And their first words to each other? One of their usual exchanged InsultsOfEndearment. She's shortly welcomed back by her whole family, who are all equally relieved to see her, but it is simply too sweet watching the two besties finally together after so long.
• Rufus is forced to recover a bit faster than others in order to return back to duty, but is given a very sweet farewell by his newfound friends. Before leaving he offers the imps of I.M.P. some temporary work with him, helping them have at least some stable jobs for the time being, a nice show of how he's come to trust and care for them. And upon returning to his shop, he's greeted by a overjoyed Stormy, who greets him with a bone crushing bearhug, which the still healing Rufus is rather irate about. Nothing but the best for our Warden.
• When the patrons of the Hazbin Hotel notice something's up with Charlie, who has become increasingly subdued, even smiling and sining much less, it's Angel Dust who makes the first move to reach out and try to help the princess. Considering that he initially only joined for his own benefit, it's a sweet show of affection and care from the foulmouthed, drug snorting, gangster, as well as the hotel itself, as they struggle encourage Charlie to open up and be honest with them. It goes to show that despite their many differences this hotel of weirdos and sinners truly are a close knit family at the end of the day.

Chapter 60 - Krampusnacht Gifts

• Aside from a few bittersweet moments, this whole chapter is just one big, wonderful, fluffy heartwarming moment after the other. A very welcome way to end it, after a dozen or so chapters of scares, angst and pain.
  • After years of trying and saving up for a child, Millie finally gets pregnant and both parents are overjoyed. While they're briefly concerned that their time in Mother's Realm might've affected them or their child, both resolve to be the best parents they can be for their firstborn, refusing to let the Old Ones ruin this for them too. A very fitting and sweet gift for the M&Ms after everything.
  • Blitzo, being unable to sleep, heads down to the kitchen for a late-night snack and runs into old Krampus, the Yule Lord, himself. The Kindly spirit greets the imp warmly and returns to him his signature skull charm, that he lost while on his mission. The imp is taken aback by having such a precious momentum returned to him, and when asked what he wants for the holidays, he requests something selfless for once, wanting to simply help his daughter. The spirit is touched by the imp's generosity and gifts him with a night free from nightmares and doubts, promising him a good holiday.
  • For her gift, Loona request the holidays be free of bullshit and misery, and they certainly get that. Krampusnacht at the Stolas & Stella household is every bit as cheerful and sweet as one would hope, and it's a delight to see the family bonding over various actives. Octavia and Stella bake cookies together, bond over their shared love of reading, Diana pays them a visit with her great grand daughter elated to see her again, just to name some of the moments.
  • Octavia manages to catch Krampus mid-gift giving and the two have a very touching moment together. While he is unable to fully cure any of her's or Loona's scars from their time in Mother's realm, he is able to briefly rid them for the day much to their relief. But more importantly, he helps to comfort the still shaken princess, something she's in desperate need of and compliment her on how far she's come as a royal and a person. His gift to her is one night where she can forget about her pain and be happy again. Something Via is most thankful for.
  • Loona and Octavia go on their first day out on the town in months, and despite everything manage to have a wonderful time buying gifts for themselves and others, drinking coffee, getting revenge on Melvin, going to the zoo to see the penguins and just having a good time together as best friends. The first moment they've had together since Via's abduction. A touching sight indeed, after so long.
  • Krampus arrives in Rufus' office to deliver him two very emotional gifts, that bring the gruff warden to tears. The first is a mug of hot cocoa, that causes Rufus to relieve his happy memories of christmases past with his father and his family. And the second? He gets to see his daughter for a day. And their reunion is every bit as tearjerking as it is beautiful.
  • The Hazbin Hotel is in festive spirits as everyone has a fun time together, despite all the chaos and everything that's happened. The real sincere moment comes near the end, when Charlie sings for the first time since her return, possibly thanks to a bit of generosity from Alastor. Something Vaggie is elated to hear again.

Chapter 61 - A Warm House in a Cold Hell

• The chapter opens with I.M.P. getting ready for the day, now in much happier spirits than they have in a long time. Blitzo encounter Via on his way out, and the two have a very somber but sweet chat as they burn their crutches. The imp gives the princess some much needed comfort, knowing what she's been through and that she's very likely blaming herself for what happened. Being someone, well verse with self-loathing, he reassures her that she did good, and things will get better if she keeps trying. And while Via is still struggling, the pair's promise to keep trying is a very lovely moment between the pair.
• Blitzo gets a wonderful Krampusnacht gift from Loona. His van, rebuilt and good as new, courtesy of Andromeda and her crew. Not only is it a delight to see Blitzo's reaction to his old van again, along with his tearful thanks to his daughter, but seeing him and the rest of I.M.P. driving off in their van, blasting off to "Mustang Dong", is just such comforting sight, showing that the team are back and as strong as ever.
• The entire Christmas Party at Stolas' is pretty much one long, beautiful moment, barring Lucifer's brief interruption. We get to hear the cast, later going by the Hazbin Hotel residents and the hellhound gang, all together celebrating the holidays together. There's sweets, gifts, movies, good memories and plenty of delightful teasing. Millie reveals her pregnancy to everyone, resulting in Blitzo going full uncle mode and Reginald even gets an autograph from Lilith, much to the butler's joy.
• Yoshimo honors her deal with Al, telling him what became of his mother and how she always loved him, even after what he became. It's a somber, but nice moment, as the Radio Demon gets some much needed closer and is clearly content with the news of what happened to her, the two sharing a warm farewell before departing.
• While the future of Stella & Stolas' marriage is left up in the air by the end, with the possibility of divorce likely but not fully confirmed, both parents make it as clear as possible to Octavia that no matter what, they'll always love her and be there for her til the end. And despite the bittersweet possibility, Octavia is relieved to know that. After what the poor dear's been through, seeing her shaky relationship with her parents, to the much closer, happier and healthier one is very touching; and the family's final moment here is great.
• The chapter and the story as a whole ends, fittingly enough, with a scene of Loona & Octavia together. The best friends/step-sisters, share a peaceful gaze at the night sky and stars as New Years approach, the two reflecting on things and their friendship, promising to always be together despite what's happened, before heading off for dinner. A heartwarming farewell, for the two big stars of the story.