#Cardinal Copia x Ollie

[copiousloverofcopia]

FINALLY, the next Chapter of Death & Flowers is here, featuring Cardinal Copia and OC Ollie.

Thank you all for being so patient with me. Sometimes it's hard to keep up with things when you have a full-time job and 4 kids you are raising lol. I appreciate all your support so much 🥰

Death & Flowers

It hadn't been serious, it never was with him. While Papa was suave and Ollie enjoyed their time together it wasn't meant to be. She knew it wasn't something meant to last…something permanent but—here she was. It was only one missed pill and life forever changed.

Chapter 11: An Emeritus Son

Also available HERE on AO3. Haven't started yet? Start from the beginning HERE.

Commissions are now OPEN, please see pinned post for carrd info!

SFW below the cut, overall fic is NSFW

Copia left his office only moments after Sister Imperator. His face was pale white, with only his freckles giving him the faintest hint of color. He had so many mixed emotions. There was relief, finally having an answer to where he came from. But the most prevalent was the shock.

The knowledge that Sister was his mother, of all people, however made so much sense. All the time she spent doting on him, nurturing him—the signs were all there. Copia ran his hand through his hair, scratching his head as he continued struggling taking it all in. While it was easy to accept Sister as his mother, the truth he could hardly bring himself to accept was the revelation of his father. 

“Cardi…that's not all I wish to tell you…this might come as a bit of a shock.” Sister Imperator swallowed back. 

“What else could you possibly tell me that is more of a shock than this?”

“Your father, well your father is Papa Nihil. It was a long time ago and I was so young and…”

The memories of their conversation, flooding back to him. Sister’s words echoing like whispers in his mind. No wonder she was in such a rush to get him to take control of Ghost, hinting to him that he should become Papa—he was always meant to be Papa. With all the chaos swirling in his head from the news, Copia could hardly think of anything else. His thoughts however, were never far from Ollie. 

What would she say? Finding out he was her baby's uncle—Terzo's brother. Would it change anything for her? She'd already been through more than any one deserved to in a lifetime. Copia, wondering if this would finally be “the thing” they couldn’t come back from. 

He struggled hard with it, drifting down the hall towards the refectory as the “what ifs” played in his mind. He was nothing short of desperate for another cup of coffee and a need to be away from his office. He arrived, like dissociating on a drive home, without being exactly sure how he got there. The familiar halls, lined in old paintings and crypts of long gone clergy members whose bones laid to rest within the walls, were nothing but a faint blur. 

The Cardinal tried his best to maintain appearances, smiling and nodding to siblings as he passed. Knowing most of them found him to be awkward at best. How would they feel knowing it was the heir to the miter and not just in title? Would they accept him? Did those responsible for his brothers murders know? 

Inside he was an absolute mess. Exhausted, not only physically, with his lack of sleep, but the constant stress and questioning leaving him running on fumes for days, perhaps months. Finally a bright ray of light in the darkness, he thought as he caught sight of Cumulus sitting at one of the tables, pensive and troubled. She was obsessively twisting around a lock of her hair and unable to get comfortable in her seat. He approached her wondering what she had learned. What was making her normally bubbly and lighthearted demeanor, so distressed?

As he got closer, he began to second guess himself. Unsure if he really wanted to know anymore "answers" today after all. The image of Ollie spurred him on, knowing that at the root of it all was his love for her and the want—the absolute need to protect her and their child. He continued on, smiling when Cumulus got sight of him. The ghoulette, looking even more nervous than before.

"Buona giornata a te ghuleh, spero che ti abbia trovato bene." Copia began, grabbing the nearest pitcher of coffee from the cart and sitting down beside her. Cumulus turned towards him, her posture still tense and unsure.

"Papa." She began, her words faulting. Worried what speaking her truth would mean. Alpha was the keeper and he had indeed threatened Ollie and Copia. His motives however were woven by his fear. A fear earned for someone was out to frame the ghouls for Terzo and the other Papa's deaths and he knew it, and he believed Copia was involved. 

It wasn't true, it absolutely couldn't be. The thought of her sweet Cardinal being involved, sent shivers down the ghoulette's spine. Her tail, twitching with the sensation and catching Copia's attention as it flicked against his back. Copia placed his hand on her shoulder to ground her.

"Cumulus, what have you learned?" 

"I know who the keeper is." Cumulus admitted, shaking as the words left her in fear. The little hairs along her ashen skin, standing on end as she waited for Copia’s reaction. 

"Who? Who is it?" The Cardinal begged, his rage burning behind his mismatched eyes. He was indeed ready to fight, to end the misery that was being caused. Cumulus swallowed back the knot in her throat before speaking.

"Copia please, don't do anything rash…please hear me out before you go making any decisions." She began, leaving him feeling dumbfounded. He relaxed back down into his chair, having jolted up with the news. He smoothed out the fabric of his cassock and adjusted his biretta on his head to aid himself in gathering his composure.  

Why would she protect them? He thought, doing everything in his power to settle himself enough to hear her speak. "I'm ok…please tell me." He beseeched her, his tone, much more level and collected than before.

"I went to the den and spoke with Alpha." The ghoul's name sent Copia back to on edge, knowing just how close he was with both Omega and Terzo. "He admitted that he has suspected all along something wasn't right about Ollie's baby and that he believes wholeheartedly that someone is out to frame us ghouls for the Papas' deaths. He also admitted that he has been the one sending you the letters—he’s the Keeper." 

"I see." Copia said, running his fingers over his mustache.  

"Copia…Alpha thinks you may be in on it. He thinks it's all a conspiracy to allow you to ascend…" Cumulus explained, watching the color drain from his face.

"He's wrong my dear ghuleh, I can assure you of that but…” Copia swallowed, “...he is right to be suspicious. I–I have something to tell you." he told her, his gaze falling to his lap. Cumulus took in a deep breath, she knew whatever it was, it was not going to be good.

“What? What is it Cardinal?”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Copia confessed to Cumulus his truth. She was surprisingly understanding, despite how bad things sounded. Copia could swear that the ghoulette was his only remaining friend. Between Ollie, the baby, and all the mystery surrounding his recent appointment,  he had secluded himself. Finding it hard to keep up with any outside relationships, when all that mattered right now was Ollie and the baby. 

After the initial shock of the news, Cumulus could feel it. Deep in the brimstone and astral dust that made her, Copia was telling the truth. This whole time he too was a pawn in a much bigger game being played. One that he had no idea he was in, that none of them had, and while his ascension seemed to be the will of  those in behind the scenes, Copia had no part in it—at least not willingly. As Cumulus took off back to the den to settle Alpha’s suspicions, hopefully ceasing the letters and taunting, Copia decided to head up to the Papal suites. With his soul unburdened from truth and his dear friend on his side, he found a new determination to make things right with Ollie. 

As Copia walked back down the hall he passed Dr. Cunetto. The Doctor had just barely caught his attention, carrying his black bag and looking as if he were to accompany Copia up the main stairway. It was only then that the Cardinal remembered—Ollie had an appointment today. Copia furrowed his brow and brought his hand to his face. How could I forget something this important?

Surely the intensity of the day had led to his absentmindedness, but to him this was unforgivable. He tapped the doctor’s shoulder to catch his attention. “Oh Cardinal, on your way up?” Dr. Cunetto asked him. Copia sheepishly smiled and nodded as they both headed up the stairs. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ollie pulled herself up waiting for the doctor to arrive. Her nerves frayed and her head spinning at the change in position. She had spent so long in bed she thought she might go mad. Her mind, still heavy with the thoughts of Copia and his secrets. 

She was fast approaching her third trimester and soon a child would be born to the Emeritus bloodline. A child that she was working so hard to keep safe—his true parentage hidden. She noticed her heart had begun to soften. Accepting that her lover was only trying to protect her and this child with his actions. Keeping things from her to prevent harm from befalling them. A child that wasn’t even his. She still felt the sting of anger inside, angry for constantly being left in the dark.

Since her child’s conception, she felt like she was an unwitting participant in something sinister. Her baby’s  life, constantly hanging in the balance. She missed her independence, her ability to only worry for herself. Selfish, she thought as she ran her hand over the swell of her belly. The little boy, kicking strong inside her, reminding her that it was not about her anymore.

She sniffled back and wiped her eyes, when the sound of the front door brought her out of her thoughts. Within a few short moments, Dr. Cunetto and Copia walked in. Her sweet Copia, she couldn’t help but love him so much.  She felt happy to see him, finally deciding to pull herself out of the self-wallowing abyss she had insisted on dwelling in. 

For the first time in days she could see him for what he was. A man who loved her unconditionally—and her child. Ollie couldn’t say if it was the hormones or not, but she was ready to leap off the bed and into his arms. Showering him with kisses and professing her love in droves to make up for lost time. Spouting apologies for her insipid behavior towards him. 

She knew he only ever did it to protect her and it was time she was a big girl. Accepting things as they were and not as they could have been. Letting go of her anger and coming into her own. Finally standing up for herself. 

She remained quiet as Copia came to sit beside her on the bed. Choosing not to turn away from him. A welcome fact that did not go unnoticed. Her small gesture, giving him hope that things would be ok. 

“Sister Olive, are you ready for me?” Dr. Cunetto asked as he sat his bag down on the bedside table. The feet on the bottom of his bag clinking as it hit, sending Copia wincing from the discomfort of hearing it. 

“I think so.” Ollie told him as she glanced over to Copia, whose eyes were now fixed on her. He reached out to grab her hand when there was a knock at the door. 

“Come in.” Copia called out and within moments, one of the water ghoulettes entered the room. Bringing with her a portable ultrasound machine. The ghoulette smiled at them and quietly handed the equipment over to Dr. Cunetto.

“I apologize for being late doctor.” she told him, as she glanced around the room. Marveling at the lush bedding, the vaulted ceilings, and the ornate tapestries that hung from the walls. Even letting out a gasp when she saw the old wooden carvings, inlaid with actual gold embellishment, that lined the archway of the master bathroom. It was clear she had never been in a Papal suite before and was in awe of its grandeur. Losing herself in her observation as Dr. Cunetto spoke. 

“No worries Isle, thank you so much.” he said, reminding her to mind herself. The ghoulette smiled and looked over to the coupe upon the bed.  

“Yes thank you.” Copia and Olive said in unison—both amused at the time of their shared expression of gratitude. As the ghoulette took her leave, the doctor wasted no time in booting up the machine. Both Copia and Ollie, anxious to see the baby doing well and praying to Lucifer that things were as they should be. Copia watched her, his heart aching as he saw the worry begin to fall over her face. 

Thankfully it wasn’t long before he saw it—Ollie's smile pulling at her lips. It had been so long since he'd seen it, but seeing that the baby, safe and sound within her womb had brought it back. He was forever grateful for that moment. His whole world, beginning and ending with that smile. Her happiness, paramount to his own. 

“Copia.” Ollie said tearfully looking up at him. The Cardinal, beginning to tear up on his own as he squeezed her hand within his. 

“I know amore. He’s getting so big.” Copia stammered, holding back his tears and smiling down at her while Dr. Cunetto took some measurements. The doctor was quiet which made them both a bit uneasy but the relaxed look on his face didn’t give away anything. It was a few agonizing moments before he spoke again. 

“Good news Sister, Cardinal. Everything seems to be going ok, I am not continuing to see any evidence of bleeding or issues. I feel like, with light duty and some restrictions, we should be able to allow Sister Olive to come off bed rest.” Dr. Cunetto smiled. Copia and Ollie were so excited. Ollie was so ready to be out of the suite and both her and her Cardinal, thrilled the baby was doing ok. As the excitement calmed and the doctor wrapped things up with Ollie, the reality set back in for Copia.

He still had more secrets to tell her. His heart, torn having just made progress with her only moments ago. Even Copia had just learned the information himself. He knew deep down he would need to tell her and now. Holding back would only hurt her more and create the same problem over again. And this time he would have no excuse for keeping things from her. 

As the door fully shut behind Dr. Cunetto, Ollie was already up and getting dressed. Copia, smiling as he waved the doctor off down the hall. When he returned to the bedroom, the Cardinal couldn’t help chuckling to himself. Watching Oliie, tossing out habits left and right from her drawers until she found the one she liked. 

“Excited?” he laughed.

“Very! Though I can’t find anything since the ghouls organized it all.” she sighed, wading through the mess of clothing. 

“Well that can’t be helped I suppose. They did their best.” Copia reasoned, Ollie nodding in agreement. “Ollie, we need to talk.”

“Copia, you’re right. I am so sorry I was so harsh on you. I know you never meant to hurt me…” the words spilling out of Ollie so fast, Copia barely had time to comprehend them. 

“No…no Ollie. It’s ok I am not talking about that.” he smiled softly as he watched her face turn to confusion.

“Oh, what then?”

“I had a meeting today with Sister Imperator.” Copia began, pulling at his collar, loosening it around his tightening throat. 

“And?   

“She told me something that I need to remain, for now, between us.”

“Copia just spit it out already, what is it?”

“She told me that I am her son.” he said point blank. It took a moment for the words, and their gravity, to fully hit her. 

“Oh…I mean that's good right? You finally know where you come from, though I can think of better mother figures.” Ollie smiled, trying to lighten the mood. 

“That’s not all. She told me that my father…my father is Papa Nihil.” 

“Wait…Copia? You’re…no, you can’t—you just can’t." 

"Yes…” Copia began, his chest aching as he watched Ollie’s heart break. “I’m HIS brother Ollie. I am so sorry…but this changes—" 

"This can't be right. Maybe she's made a mistake." she panicked, head spinning and broken at the implications of his words. She could hear her heart pounding, sparking her baby to move inside her. Ollie, instinctively bringing her hand to her belly. "...this means you're—"

"I’m…I’m the baby's uncle. I'm an Emeritus. Ollie I'm so sorry I had no idea. Never in my life had anyone explained anything to me. No one had—"

"The eye." Ollie said plainly, both her and Copia staring at each other. The truth was hidden in plain sight. After all this time it had never occurred to either of them that he might be related to them. The only explanation the Cardinal had ever heard as a child was that his eye was “a blessing from Satanas to those who would be worthy of his ranks”. Now both of them were painfully aware that the trait was, indeed, inherited.

Ollie sat back down on the bed, her crumpled up habit gripped tightly in her hand as she stared off into space. Copia went to sit beside her again, watching the tears silently falling down her face. She had spent so much time in tears since they’d been together. Some of them were joyous, but more often than not, he found them in sorrow. He wished for her to never cry out of unhappiness again. 

“Amore?” Copia said as he pulled Ollie close to him. She allowed him to hold her, her head falling onto the broadness of his chest as she cried. It was warm and comforting there. Like a childhood bed that felt safe and sound. How she wished you could stay there forever. 

“It’s just always so much, you know? Just as I feel I can catch my breath, enjoy my life, be excited for the future…the rug is pulled out from under me. The air taken from my lungs. What does this even mean Cope?” she asked him.

“I will become Papa. Other than that, this changes nothing. That baby is still mine and I will love him as such for the rest of my life. Nothing anyone else can say will change that. What happened before doesn’t matter. The only thing that matters to me now is you—and him. Do you understand me?”

“He’s not your son Copia.” she said softly, her heart wanting to tear into pieces within her chest. A patchwork of a thing that it had become, now barely holding itself together. Copia squeezed her tightly, his fingers tangled in her hair as he brought her face up to kiss him. 

A deep, wholly felt kiss. They had desperately needed it. Longing deep down to be within each other’s arms. Copia pulled away a moment to face her. Looking into her sparkling eyes as he pushed back the unruly locks of her red hair that had fallen into her face. 

“HE will be.”

Notes:

Buona giornata a te ghuleh, spero che ti abbia trovato bene. -Good day to you ghuleh, I hope it has found you well.

[copiousloverofcopia]

Lol I actually address this in my Death & Flowers fic.... There's a broken A/C unit in the clergy break room that constantly runs. Primo insists on playing in there wrapped in his Burberry scarf (a gift from a sibling). Secondo throws on a coat to tolerate it and Terzo is completely unbothered lolol

Below the cut is the whole scene if you're curious.

Warning stays close to the canon of the chapters..

⚠️ Caution for death and some extreme Uno playing 😅⚠️

The lights were low with only the fluorescent overhead lamp hanging above illuminating them. The room was filled with an intense chill, the culprit being the broken A/C unit that insisted on pumping cold air through a room that felt like winter when it was the end of Spring. The two of the Emeritus brothers sat around the table, waiting for the last of them to arrive. Finally the door swung open, Secondo making his way to his seat and throwing on his fur lined jacket, huffing and puffing as he did.

“I do not understand why you insist on playing in here Primo when it’s so fucking cold.” he growned, settling into his chair and taking his hand of cards from Primo’s hand. Primo sat there comfortably wearing his favorite black jacket and burberry scarf, a gift from a sibling after a recent trip to London, to combat the cold.

“It’s not that bad.” Terzo commented, unfazed in his black button down shirt, sleeves partially rolled up on his forearms. Secondo rolled his eyes, sorting through his hand.

“You are a freak of nature.” he sneered.

“Can we please?” Primo asked, trying to hurry along the scuffle so they could get to playing cards. The three of them began, intensely placing card after card down waiting to call one another out for forgetting to say that one singular word. The night consisted of the three of them catching up. Secondo telling his tales of lust, Primo of the hopes for the season, and Terzo recalling his recent tour since it had still been fresh in his mind. Finally they began to gossip like school girls, another pass time of their cherished card night.

"I’m telling you–that Saltarian. He is going to give Imperator a run for her money." Terzo explained, setting down the blue four card on the pile at the center of the table.

"To be completely honest, it's about time someone put her in her place. The woman has Nihil so tightly wrapped around her finger, I'm surprised he doesn't have to ask when to shit—let alone be allowed to run his responsibilities with the ministry." Secondo spewed, dropping down a red four.

"She has certainly embedded herself into quite a few of the decisions being made around here." Primo said, shuffling through the cards with his mottled hands.

"I haven't liked her from day one and I'm a very good judge of character. I pick up on things quickly." Terzo said, Secondo and him, waiting for Primo to finally pick a card. “Primo this is Uno not fucking Chess—just pick a card.”

"I don't know about that fratellino…seems you've let some things slip your attention." Secondo started, Terzo's face filling with confusion as Primo finally took his turn.

"Oh I can not wait to see him where this goes." Primo said sarcastically, waiting for the inevitable fight between his two younger siblings, which always managed to find a way into their game night.

"And just wasn't heaven is that supposed to mean?" Terzo inquired, his eyebrow raised high with the accusation.

"Seems you've helped a sister find herself in a bit of trouble, or so I hear." Secondo said, placing down his draw four.

"You don't mean?" Primo started, knowing exactly what Secondo was alluding to. Terzo slumped back in the chair, completely perplexed by what Secondo was getting at.

"Oh I do. Found out this afternoon. Let's just say a little birdie told me." Secondo huffed, "you've really done it this time. Hope you plan on taking some responsibility fratellino."

"Secondo, you stronzo what is going on?" Terzo finally asked, irritated at Secondo for drawing it out.

"I think what he is trying to say Terzo is that you have managed to get one of your lovers pregnant." Primo said plainly, laying down his card. Terzo sat there for a moment, quiet. He knew his lifestyle would catch up to him sooner or later and apparently later—was now. He felt his internal rolodex spin with possibilities. He had used protection with all but maybe two���well more like three sisters as of late so who could it be?

"Who?" Terzo said, not even trying to deny the possibility of it being true.

"Sister Olive." Secondo explained, playing his next card.

"Ollie? My sweet Ollie? Cazzo, are you sure?" Terzo asked, running his hand back through his hair.

"She's supposed to come visit you tonight to talk, I suppose you can ask her then." Secondo chided, Terzo didn't seem as flabbergasted as he'd expected. Secondo was confused…maybe deep down he'd expected this all along.

"Should I go to her?" Terzo asked, readying himself to leave the table. Secondo putting up his hand.

"Don't rush off stronzo. I have it on good authority that she'll be here soon." Secondo explained. The three men sat quietly, each playing their cards one after the other, no longer uttering a word.

"Uno." PPrimo called out, Secondo audibly huffing as Terzo's mouth widened into a huge smile.

"Why are you looking like that idiota?" Secondo asked.

"I'm going to be a father. My sweet Ollie is going to give me a child. Why wouldn't I smile?" Terzo laughed. He had been thinking about Ollie for weeks, though before this he'd never admit it. He had thoughts of making things exclusive with her for a long time, but never could get himself to commit to it. Anytime he was intimate with another sibling, he would find himself picturing her there, unable to shake it off.

He had often found himself thinking of how sexy she looked even with her usual messy bun of wavy auburn hair piled on her head. He came to look forward to the days he led Black Mass, knowing that she would be up front and center in the pews, that soulful smile decorating her face. Her eyes—Terzo could get lost in those crystal blues forever. She was perfect and now she was, maybe, pregnant with his child.

"I'm honestly surprised at how well you are taking this fratellino. I fully expect you to do right by her." Primo affirmed, laying down the last of his cards.

"Stronzissimo! We play again. How do you always do that?" Secondo groaned, when suddenly the door flew open once more. Terzo fully expected it to be Ollie as he now waited for her, filling every millisecond of time passing since Secondo told him the news. To the brothers’ surprise, Sister Imperator stood in the doorway. Her silhouette shrouded mostly in darkness, the faint hint of Papa Nihil standing just behind her in the hall.

“Boys!” the Sister called out, the three of them standing up from their chairs. “You're being reinstated, you're going back on the road…you're going back in full regalia. Going to be back in the spotlight, forever! See you later boys.” Sister Imperator finished, leaving almost as quickly as she appeared, closing the door behind her.

Terzo shrugged his shoulders as the three of them sat back down. Surely this was another of Sister Imperator’s schemes to heighten the popularity of Ghost. While he was sure that neither of his brothers were excited, having been retired from the road—Terzo felt awful for he would be leaving Ollie behind. Suddenly he felt a sharp prick to his neck, watching—unable to speak as shadowy figures attacked his brothers.

Terzo struggled against them, feeling helpless to stop what was happening. He couldn’t make out who the attackers were, but he could tell they weren’t ghouls—only in ghoul masks. Terzo felt cold and still, no longer able to fight. His vision, becoming blurry watching the image of his brother’s dead before him. Everything went to black, and Terzo’s lifeless body slumped down in the chair.

i have many feelings about their outfits for uno night. mostly concluding theres no central heating

[copiousloverofcopia]

UNHOLY FUCK Ghesties!

THIS IS IT! The final chapter of Death and Flowers is coming at you!!!

I hope you all enjoy it!!!! Our poor Copia and Ollie have been through so much. Will they have a happily ever after?

Commissions are OPEN, please see pinned post for Carrd info!

*Special thank you to @gothdaddyissues for the banners*-hit me up ghestie I owe you a fic or something for using these.

Death & Flowers

It hadn’t been serious, it never was with him. While Papa was suave and Ollie enjoyed their time together it wasn’t meant to be. She knew it wasn’t something meant to last…something permanent but—here she was. It was only one missed pill and life forever changed.

Chapter 14: Long May He Reign

Also available HERE on AO3! Haven’t started yet? Start from the beginning HERE!

Definitely NSFW below the cut!

They didn't bother to wait for the rest of the ghouls. Copia, along with Alpha, Omega, and Aether began working their way to Saltarian’s office. The Cardinal, having finally put all the pieces together. He was angry at himself for being so blind—the answers were right there in front of him the whole time. 

“Tell us Cardinal, who is responsible for this?” Aether asked, watching as the anger inside both Omega and Alpha grew. Threatening to billow out of them like Hell fire—consuming anything and everything in their path. 

“It is those men–the League. Maybe Saltarian, I think he has been assembling them to overthrow the Ministry. The Emeritus family and the ghouls are just casualties in their pursuit of it. 

“Then… then why weren't they after you?” Aether asked, knowing the truth of Copia’s parentage. It would have puzzled Copia too, had he not overheard the conversation between Sister and Saltarian from before. Now he knew exactly why he was overlooked, despite his heritage.  

“The man has a soft spot for Sister… I am her son and from what I have learned, I was never supposed to know Nihil was my father. Blissful ignorance meant to keep me safe in favor of her. But now that has all changed.”

“This is fucking insane; how did they think they were going to keep everything in line without the support of the ghouls. Like it or not, we are essential for the connection and power from the Dark One himself.” Alpha snarled, as they walked, trying his best not to go running off on his own to fight them. The ghouls, confused and betrayed by all they thought they knew.  

“I am sure the plan was to have some of you become fodder for those hungry to condemn someone for the Emeritus family deaths, but I can only assume they never meant to imply that all of you were involved. I am certain now that this is why you were framed. Blamed for Primo, Secondo, and Terzo’s deaths.”

“How do you know?” Omega asked.

“The scent. I don’t have senses the way you do, but I have recently come into contact with the same smell Aether described. It was overwhelming on Bishop Martin… it has to be them. 

A few hours before…

Saltarian sat at his desk, head in his hands as he waited for the California Ministry to contact him. Hoping to have Copia set up to stay there for the majority of his time of touring. He wondered if he would be able to continue on as planned. His love for Elizabeth had already cost him so much and now with her carelessness, she threatened to undo everything he had worked so hard to orchestrate. 

He could hear it from down the hall as they approached. The sounds of footfalls on the tile, made with a sense of haste. Then as expected and without a knock, Bishops Mauro, Henry, and Martin came charging into his office. The looks on their faces telling him this was no casual visit. 

“What is it?” he asked them.

“We have a problem.” Bishop Mauro began, looking at the other two to see who might be next to speak.

“What problem?” he asked, rubbing his eyes. Allowing his pen to fall to his desk, and the room to grow quiet before he looked up at them. 

“We have learned some very disturbing news, your excellency.” Martin continued. 

“Seems our dear sweet Cardinal is not the father of Sister Olive’s child.” Henry smirked, a glint of evil in his eye. One that had far surpassed anything Saltarian had ever seen. The news was powerful, yet not a complete surprise to him. The most interesting part was the thought that Copia knew and still claimed the child as his own. Saltarian, now wondering if the Cardinal and Sister Imperator had conspired against him this whole time.

“He’s also Nihil’s son… a fact you seemed to be aware of, yet we are just now hearing of it. Is this true Mr. Saltarian?” Bishop Mauro asked, watching for a crack in Saltarian’s resolve. He was angered to the core—maddened. He had tried to do right by Sister Imperator. Hiding her bastard son from the eyes of those he answered to—those who also wanted the end of the Emeritus family. Only to have the bloodline kept alive and well in his child. Sure, that it was Sister Imperator who outed him as knowing the secret. 

“I see... that conniving bitch. That is preposterous.” he hissed under his breath. “You know what you need to do.” he nodded to the bishops. The men, acknowledging him as they set course to eliminate them all—Nihil, Copia, Olive and the child.

Present time

Copia rounded the corner and ran straight into Bishop Martin, he was covered in blood. Unabashed by walking around in broad daylight. His smug smile, sending a chill down Copia’s spine. 

“What have you done!” Copia yelled, the crest of his knuckles bashing into the bishop’s jawline as he threw the first punch. Sending a cascade of blood from Martin’s mouth to the floor. The ghouls standing behind them, growling and tails snapping in the air like whips. 

“You really are a fool.” Martin laughed, his face already beginning to swell from Copia’s right hook. 

“Whose blood is this? If you don't tell me what is going on, I will let them devour you whole, you figlio di puttana!” 

“All this energy over your dead brother's whore?” Martin chuckled. Leaving bloody fingerprints behind on Copia’s cassock as he tried to hold him back from another hit. 

“I’ll fucking kill you.” Omega roared, Aether and Alpha holding him down so that Copia may get answers before Omega went and tore him to shreds. 

“Oh Satanas Ollie.” Copia choked, his stomach sinking as the words left him. Scared that the blood may be hers.

“Relax Cardinal, you precious whore is fine. Though not for long. This blood… belongs to your old man.” he grinned, as Copia dropped his body to the ground. Running behind him into Nihil’s office. Only to find the old man dead in his chair–throat slit and blood decorating the walls. 

“Oh fuck.” Aether said, as he and Alpha followed him into the room. Omega, still in the hall. Sinking his teeth into the bishop's carotid before his body went completely limp in the ghoul's arms. 

“He’s gone.” was all Copia could say, quickly setting course back into the hall where he found Omega hovering over the bishop. Barely clutching onto his mortal coil.  

“She’s next.” he said, choking on his own blood. The ghouls and Copia, realizing instantly what he meant.

“We need to get to Ollie and Luss now!” Alpha growled, taking off full force alongside Copia and Aether as Omega finished off Martin. 

As they made it back to Copia’s Papal suites, there was an eerie quiet. The door cracked open and no sign of Ollie or Cumulus to be seen. Copia and the ghouls carefully crept inside. Searching for them, until finally they could hear the sound of glass breaking from within the bedroom. 

As they ran inside, they saw them. Two men, in shining silver ghouls' masks, holding Ollie and Cumulus captive. Knives to their throats and the two of them struggling against their captor’s grips. Cumulus, doing her best to try and bite them, while Ollie cried. Her hands, never leaving her belly.  

“Ollie! Cumulus!” Copia cried, attempting to run for them before watching the men adjust their blades. Stopping the Cardinal in his tracks as the ghouls continued forward. 

“Take those off! You can’t fool us you motherfuckers.” Alpha hissed, watching as the men removed the masks. Revealing themselves to be Bishop Mauro and Henry. Copia’s suspicions had been confirmed. It was the League who was responsible for the deaths of his brothers—and his father. 

“Step any closer and we will slit their throats.” Bishop Henry told them. Pressing the blade against Ollie’s neck. A string of blood, beading up along the cut as she cried out. 

“Copia!” 

“It’s alright amore.” Copia called out, the bishops laughing at his weak promises. Amused with his idea he had any control, knowing they held Ollie and Cumulus within millimeters of death.  

“We will tear you apart before you do anything to them!” Omega roared, looking into Cumulus’s eyes. Doing her best to remain calm as her life lay in the balance. Never showing her fear to them as they continued on. 

“Please you all are nothing but rabid animals. No sense or reason. You’re disposable. There are millions more like you awaiting summoning. None of them will ever know better.” Mauro smiled. The three ghouls standing their ground, teeth bared and tails swishing. Ready to pounce if they only are given the chance.

“Let Ollie and Cumulus go, take me instead. They have done nothing to you. It’s me you want. I am Nihil’s son.” Copia begged, trying his best to inch closer to them without setting them off. 

“There’s just one thing…a tiny… little… thing.” Henry said. Slowly brushing back the hair from off Ollie’s shoulder. Trembling in his grasp. “This is a problem.” he said as his free hand traveled down from her shoulder and over her chest, finally settling over the swell of her belly. 

“Don’t you fucking touch her.” Copia said, his teeth gritted and his rage boiling over. Bloodthirsty and ready to end them.  

“It’s nothing personal, Cardinal. The Ministry is just done with Emeritus. Sorry you got caught in the mix. Then again, you all are nothing but fools.” Mauro hissed. The tension was unbearable. Every second lingering as they stared each other down. Copia and the ghouls helpless but to watch until somehow, they could find a way in. 

Suddenly from the shadows, a figure appeared. Pushing past the men and bringing himself front and center. Positioning himself between them. Announcing himself as the man of the hour, the one who held all control—Mr. Saltarian.

“Not yet Henry…” he said, stopping things from moving forward until he had his final say. Wanting to draw out Copia’s torment for as long as humanly possible. Relish, in his agony as he watched his lover and child slowly be murdered in front of his eyes.  

“Ti sei rincoglionito?!” Copia growled, his white eye—blazing with fury. Chest heaving and ready to kill Saltarian where he stood.

“You know, I had a mind once to consider you a son. After all I have known you since your whore of a mother carried you.” Saltarian began, smirking at him as he crossed his arms. Lifting up a condescending brow and snickering to himself. 

“You are nothing—” Copia began before Saltarian cut him off. 

“I am everything… I have done everything. You know the whole reason this order, the League, was founded was to get rid of them. I may never have been able to become Papa myself, but I could have still had control. If your mother hadn’t been stupid enough to tell you about Nihil.”

“Don’t you dare…” Copia began. 

“I did EVERYTHING FOR HER!” Saltarian yelled back, turning around to rip away the knife from Bishop Henry. Pressing it into the side of Ollie’s belly, just hard enough to draw blood. The blood, staining her dress as she cried out. 

“Ah!”

“Please don’t hurt her!” Copia pleaded, ready to give his life for her. The ghouls snapping and snarling behind him. Waiting for an opportune moment to strike. Dying to taste the blood of the men on their tongues and pick their flesh from their teeth. 

“This is your fault Copia. Had you never been born she might have been mine. Not attached to that old bastard for so long. Even then I would have given you the Papacy to please her. Getting rid of Nihil so you could start anew with me pulling the strings—but now since she managed to ruin it all helping you and helped to protect this pathetic Emeritus whelp…” Saltarian said as he raised up the knife, “...I guess I’ll have to kill you all and take the miter myself!”

Saltarian threw Ollie to the ground and lunged towards Copia. The blade, barely missing his chest and digging into his shoulder. Copia groaned as he pulled it out, him and Saltarian struggling to take hold of it. Copia’s blood painting the floor, slick and red. 

The ghouls took their opportunity in the confusion. The bishop’s had grown comfortable, letting down their guard when Cumulus thrusted her elbow backwards into Mauro. Knocking him back onto the floor. The ghouls and ghoulette, flooding over him and ripping him apart with their bare teeth and sharp claws. Bishop Henry panting as he tried to take off. Aether, jumping over his gorging brethren to snatch him. 

The ghoul’s claws sunk deep into the flesh of the bishop’s back as he screamed. Blood curdling and powerful as he fell to the ground. Ollie, still laying on the floor, cradling her belly in her arms as she watched in horror at the scene. The ghouls devouring the Bishops and Saltarian and Copia fighting to the death. 

The ruckus in the Papal suite had alerted others, crowds of siblings and other clergy members spilling in from the halls. All too shocked and afraid to make a move. Worried that their involvement would seal the wrong person’s fate. Watching as Copia and Saltarian continued to scuffle. The knife dancing between them, always a split hair away from stabbing one or the other. 

Ollie pulled herself up, grateful to a pair of sisters who came to collect her. Surrounded by pieces of what once was the bishops. Covered in theirs and her lover’s blood. Catching Copia’s eyes for a brief moment, her tears once again began to shed. Wondering to herself if this was the last time, he would ever look at her.  

Seeing Ollie was all he needed. The thought of never seeing her again, never holding her again, gave him strength beyond measure. Toppling Saltarian to the ground and hovering over him. Knife raised high as he was ready to strike. 

“You know it's far from over. I am not the only one who wanted the power of the Ministry to be their own.” Saltarian said, spitting up at Copia.  

“Your vitriol nature has done nothing for you. How does it feel to know his son bested you after all.” Copia told him, gloating at the idea. Saltarian made one last stitch effort to get the blade. Punching Copia in the gut as he tried to take it from him. The two men, rolling on the ground over one another–until suddenly they stopped. 

The two of them, looking down to see the blade piercing into Saltarian’s heart. Immediately he began choking. Feeling his death approaching. Every beat of his heart, bringing him closer as he began to bleed out from the inside. 

“This baby will be born, and the Emeritus bloodline will continue…and one day Saltarian, he will become Papa…” Copia began, watching the light starting to fade in Saltarian’s eyes. 

“No…” Saltarian shuddered as Copia pushed the knife in deeper. Twisting it as he spoke, “And long may he reign!”

Epilogue 

A Few Years Later…

As the lights died down on the stage at the last of the Los Angeles shows, Copia remained bowed. His heart pounding in his chest and the thrill of the crowd cheering “Papa” echoing throughout the arena. Never did he imagine his life would be like this. Admired by all and revered by the Ministry. 

It had been so long since his humbler beginnings. The night of his true rise to power was long behind him. Followed swiftly by the sweet embrace of Fatherhood not long after. Becoming Papa, despite it all, in the in between.

Now that he had been in charge for some time, Copia decided that after the Imperatour he would step down. If there was one thing Saltarian got right—was that new blood was needed in the Ministry. Terzo's son—his son, would one day rise to power and until then Copia wanted the Ministry to be helmed by someone else. Copia, knowing he had done all he could there after working to reform things. 

He had worked hard to bring down all those who co-conspired in the deaths of his father and brothers. His mother was forced to step down from her position within the church. Toured for years with Ghost, and helped to foster a new wave of worthy siblings of sin and respectful members of the Clergy. Knowing that now was the time for someone else to lead.

He and Ollie had never been better, raising their little boy to the best of their ability while on the road. Never leaving each other’s side, even now. No longer haunted by the ghosts of the past as they worked to create their own family. A life, a love, something special just for them. 

As he exited the stage, he caught sight of them. The two things he cared about more than anything else, his sweet Ollie and little Giovanni were standing there waiting for him backstage. Juice boxes, held in his pair of small hands as Giovanni went running up to his daddy. Copia, hoisting him up in the air and squeezing him tight in his arms. Ollie, following right behind him, a smile spread wide across her face.

“That was incredible.” Ollie cheered, coming to plant a kiss on Copia’s smeared painted cheek. 

“I should say so, what do you think piccolo? Did daddy do a good job?” he asked Giovanni.

“I loved it!” his son cheered, throwing his arms around Copia. Juice spraying in the air and all over the back of his father’s vestments. Ollie, quickly coming to help try and help clean it up.

“Gio, you need to be more careful.” she told him. Giving him a cheeky look before dapping away at the spill.

“It’s alright cara, I won't be needing them much longer anyways. You know very soon Gio, daddy and mommy are going to take you to the country. Spend some time in the quiet… I feel it's well earned. For all of us.” Copia chuckled, sending Ollie the sincerest of smiles. Ollie was overcome with emotion. So happy to have time to enjoy just each other. The nightmares of the past behind them. She was unable to help but kiss him. Relishing the feel of his lips against hers and the sounds of their son’s giggles as she hummed in contentment. 

“That it is Papa—that it is.”

Notes: 

figlio di puttana- son of a bitch

Piccolo- Little one

[copiousloverofcopia]

UNHOLY FUCK Ghesties!

Hello, how are you all?

I know I have kind of absent on here a bit, but I have a lot going on in my personal life as well as just being an adult with responsibilities, so the struggle is real.

Thank you all so much for hangin' around (pun intended) and sticking in there with me...

As a thank you, here is the next chapter of Death and Flowers, featuring Copia and my OC Sister Ollie.

Commissions are OPEN, please see pinned post for Carrd info!

Death & Flowers

It hadn't been serious, it never was with him. While Papa was suave and Ollie enjoyed their time together it wasn't meant to be. She knew it wasn't something meant to last…something permanent but—here she was. It was only one missed pill and life forever changed.

Chapter 13: The Little Things Give You Away

Also available HERE on AO3! Haven't started yet? Start from the beginning HERE!

Read below the cut!

"You have got to be fucking kidding me Dew!" Cirrus growled, tripping over the ghoul's guitar case. Her white eyes, burning as she glared at him across the room. The rest of the ghouls, all huddled together for practice and tuning their instruments while shooting the breeze. 

"Maybe you should watch where you step girly." Dew snickered. The room filled with "oos", echoing off the walls as the Ghoulette stomped over to him. Dew, chuckling to himself on the floor before she gave him a good slap on the back of the head.

"Hey! Why I oughta…" he growled, teeth bared and tail swishing angrily behind him. 

"I'm here, I'm here." Copia called out as he erupted into the room. Flustered looking, but ready to get the practice going. Hoping that he might distract himself from all he had just experienced. Dedicated to playing the part of ignorance until he had more to go on.

"Finally." Dew scoffed, the little gremlin rubbing the aching spot on his skull. Copia paid him no mind. Too lost in his own thoughts to be shook by any of Dew’s petty commentary. It was clear to the ghouls from the moment he entered, that Copia had things on his mind. 

Only Aether and Cumulus knew the truth. That whatever distracted him, it was more than just impending fatherhood and a world tour. Aether, wondering what was learned that the Cardinal was desperately attempting to keep buried down in front of the others. For now, everyone was waiting and Copia knew he had business to attend to. He grabbed the mic, shooting a look over to Aether. An acknowledgement that there was much to discuss between them, and with that practice began.

It was a couple hours into their session, and the ghouls were having an absolute blast. Practicing their chords and notes. Not a care in the world other than being the best they could for each other and, most importantly, Ghost. The music was melodic and hauntingly powerful. A testament to the talents contained within them. 

Copia was more reserved, still heavy with his thoughts. Though you could no longer tell by looking at him. Within just a couple of songs, he was debaucherously swaying his hips and singing away. Melting into his performance like butter against a hot knife. The ghouls were in absolute awe of him. If there were ever any reservations about the Cardinal taking up the mantle that Terzo had held so magnificently before him, all of that had now been washed away. 

Copia was truly in his element. A shame that had it not been for the tragedy befalling the Emeritus sons, he might not have been considered for Ghost. Afterall, only those who were of the bloodline had had the honor. Copia knew differently—there was Emeritus blood running in his veins, even if only a few others knew it. 

It was in the middle of one of the last few songs that he noticed Ollie. Stammering through the lyrics as he saw her face. She had snuck in and managed to tuck herself into the back of the room. Eyes wide and a smile pulling at the corners of her mouth while watching him. 

Copia was mesmerizing and even enigmatic. Her presence made him more feral. Wildly prancing around the ghouls like the cat who caught the canary. Showing himself off to her. Ollie, delightfully clapping at his every antic. Watching with wonder and joy in her eyes. When practice was finally over, he rushed back to her—panting as he took her into his arms and held her close.

"Such a nice surprise to see your face here. Though I'd prefer you rest." He told her, his hand gently gliding over her belly. 

"Cope…I just got the ok to be up and about—you can bet I'm not gonna waste the opportunity to come see you all perform.” she replied as the ghouls all began packing everything up. 

“This one has a lot of talent, that's for sure. Hopefully the kiddo takes after him, eh?” Mountain said, giving a jab to Copia before passing by. Drumsticks in hand and towering over everyone else in the room. Copia and Ollie gave one another a slight smile with his words in response to his words as Aether and Cumulus approached them. 

The two ghouls, trying to hide the worry from their faces. Waiting patiently as Dew and Cirrus passed by them. Leaving only the four of them standing there in the emptiness of the Hall. A few moments of silence passed before any of them spoke. Ollie, finally breaking the quiet between them with a question. 

“Wha–what’s going on?” Ollie asked, looking back and forth between Copia and the ghouls. It was clear the three of them knew something that she didn’t. The feeling was beginning to gnaw at her stomach as she waited for them to respond. 

“Ah–” Copia stumbled around to answer before Aether chimed in.

“Cardinal, what did you hear?”

“What’s going on Copia?” Cumulus asked, completely confused as well, but sensing the ominous tone between them.  Copia took a quick look around the room, making sure no prying eyes or ears were around to witness them before speaking. 

“I can’t say for sure Aeth…but it seems there is a conspiracy to overthrow the Emeritus bloodline. For the Papacy to be used in a way it was not intended…and it seems I am being used as a pawn in that—the ghouls I hear are too. A scapegoat perhaps for the death of the brothers.” Copia explained, though still unsure of it all. Aether, Cumulus, and Ollie felt the sense of doom creeping in.  

“But Cope…your…” Ollie whispered. 

“I know—according to Saltarian, I should never have known about Nihil. He was furious with Sister for telling me.”

“Nihil?” Aether asked, the three others preparing for what could possibly be said next.

“Nihil is my father.” Copia confessed. Aether rubbing his head, swirling with the implications. “I wasn’t supposed to know…and I think it has something to do with Saltarian. I just—just can’t say for sure yet.”

“What are we going to do?” Cumulus asked, her tail tucked between her legs and her eyes heavy with tears.

“We fight back.” Aether chimed in, taking Cumulus’s hand in his. “Cardinal, what do you need us to do?”

 “The two of us will get the ghouls ready. I need them all sniffing around to find some answers…particularly with Saltarian and his three men—but be careful we don’t know what they are capable of. Cumulus you take Ollie back to the suites. I want her kept away from anything that might go down.” 

“Right. We got this.” Cumulus asserted, determined to help in any way she could. 

“Copia?” Ollie said, her hand gripping onto him tight as she cradled her belly. The anxiety, building up steadily inside her. 

“It’s gonna be ok Ollie I promise…but for now we are still in danger. Especially you and the baby.”

“Yeah, and you know who else—” Aether said as he gritted his teeth. “Nihil.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

From the moment they left, Copia could tell they were close. Both him and Aether, walking steadily down the hall. Their steps filled with intention though they remained composed. Hoping they wouldn't give away their intentions to anyone who might be keeping watch. Just as they reached the double doors leading to the ghoul’s den, the chaotic dwelling of Hell spawn, someone grabbed Copia by the cassock. Yanking him off into one of the rooms used by siblings for prayer and solitude—among other things. It was Sister Imperator, placing her hand over her son’s mouth as Aether tried to follow them inside. 

“Ghoul, this doesn’t concern you.” she snipped. Copia removed her hand from his mouth, motioning for Aether to leave to the two of them and continue on without him.

“It’s ok Aeth. I will be with you shortly…please go.” he begged him. Aether nodded, reluctantly following his orders and taking off into the den. 

“What is it you want, Sister?” he asked her.

“C—I need to tell you something. I should have long before now.”

“What else could you possibly have to say?”

“I fear I have put your life in more danger. You see there is someone…someone who wants the Emeritus bloodline to end and—”

“And I am the last of them?” Copia asked, trying to appear as if this was the first time anything had occurred to him. Careful to not let Sister know he knew anything other than what was heard from her own lips. 

“It’s not just that, you see they’ve always known about you. The problem is not that now you know and because of that I have put you at risk and, unexpectedly, the baby.”

“The baby?” Copia asked, hoping he could get her to confess more. That she would reveal to him those who threatened Ollie and the baby so he could dispose of them. 

“There was always a risk, you see…since…since the child is his.” Sister confessed, her words hitting Copia like a knife to the chest. She knew. She somehow knew that Copia wasn’t the father of Ollie’s child.

“Then… then you…”

“Know that Terzo is the father? Yes, I do, unfortunately and I am not the only one C.”

“Why haven’t you said anything before now? Pretending to be this innocent woman and now more and more of your secrets and lies just keep spewing out of you—-what more aren’t you telling me?!” Copia demanded answers. 

“I need you to understand C, it's not as simple as that. You see I had my suspicions that Sister Olive was carrying his child from the beginning. I knew she was pregnant before the brothers were killed. I will admit when I discovered it, I was angry. I hoped that she would end things before they got too far, but then when Terzo…well I just knew in my heart she wouldn’t be able to NOT have the baby.”

“This whole time!” Copia began yelling, ready to strangle her. His white eye, glowing with rage as he tried to contain his fury. Taking everything in him to not kill her where she stood. 

“Shh…someone will hear us.” she quieted him. Continuing on with what she needed to say, “I knew then her life would be in danger if anyone in the Ministry was to find out. I allowed myself to make some poor choices…because of my own selfish wishes to have you ascend.” Copia shook his head in disgust. He had never asked for any of this. Not the papacy, the power, any of it. All he ever wanted was Ollie and now his own mother was one of those responsible for the danger she was in.

“I panicked and tried tipping off the ghouls. Hoping they would convince her to leave, but instead all it did was drive Omega mad and Alpha deeper into his need to prove the ghouls’ innocence.”

“So there is a conspiracy against them?”

“Yes, C…I am so sorry. I can’t say why. All I know is that if anyone was to find out about it it would be catastrophic, but then you, in your chivalry and  devotion, decided to proclaim the child as your own…and I knew then if we could only keep that secret safe—well then your reign would still be secured. No one the wiser of Terzo’s little indiscretion.” 

“Indiscretion? Is that what a child is to you Sister…Mother?”

“Of course not C… listen to me. Now that it's out you are an Emeritus heir it no longer matters who is the child’s biological father between the two of you. Just knowing that the both of you carry the bloodline has placed you both in danger and there is nothing I can do to stop it now.”

“Who?! Who is behind this? Sweet Lucifer woman, if you have soul worth anything in you, you’ll tell me who threatens my family!” Copia begged, shaking her a bit in his haze of desperation. 

“I—I can’t say or they’ll kill me…you for sure.”

“Then you are of no use to me anymore.” Copia hissed, letting his grip go of her sleeves and storming out into the hall. Hastily making his way through doors to the ghoul’s den.

“I hope you know what you're doing.” Sister Imperator sniffled, knowing that the time of truth was finally on the horizon.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Copia ascended the stairs, bounding up them like a man on fire. Determined to find Aether and the others and get to the bottom of things once and for all. After only a few moments he caught sight of them in the darkest area in the den. Their eyes glowing from the shadows as they stared at him from the end of the hall. 

“An Emeritus after all.” Alpha commented, his sharp tongue whipping out the words like lashes from a switch. 

“Indeed and because of that I fear we have all suffered. We need to move. It’s now or never.” Copia proclaimed.

“Wait what's going on?” Omega asked, the big ghoul ready for whatever may come, despite his calm demeanor. 

“Seems that you all have been made to take the fall for my brothers’ murders and that someone here is orchestrating the overthrow of the Emeritus line. Nihil and I are pawns. Most likely only serving their will until we will be put to slaughter like the rest. 

“Who?” Omega growled. 

“I am not sure, but as I have told Aeth, I have my suspicions about Saltarian. It’s just he couldn’t have killed them alone. There has to be others involved. Do you all remember anything from that night? Anyone acting strange.”

“Cardinal—don’t you think we would have done something about it by now if we knew who was setting us up?” Alpha argued while Omega tried to calm him down. 

“Wait…” Aether said quietly, everyone turning to face him. 

“What is it Aeth?” Copia asked, the ghoul scratching his neck as he tried to think. Copia and the others, watching the gears turning in the ghoul’s mind. Recalling only now what he thought previously was an insignificant detail.

“That night…well the whole thing. Everything about it was…you know it was overwhelming.”

“Yeah so go the fuck on with it! What do you know?” Alpha groaned, waiting for Aether to spit it out. Omega, placing his crawls into his kin’s shoulder to help ground him. 

“I caught the scent of something faint that stood out. It was hours before they allowed us around the breakroom. Especially since the whole ghoul mask thing and well I didn’t think much of it then, but despite all the other scents in the air I kept catching one that I wasn’t familiar with before that night.”

“What was it?” Omega asked. Aether furrowed his brows, trying to think of how to describe what he smelled. 

“Something woodsy. Like…like—”

“Like Juniper and Cypress?” Copia asked, the revelation hitting him full force.

“Yeah, that's it. How did you know?” Aether asked, his eyes widening. Copia clenched his fists recalling the smell he had the displeasure of encountering with his own nose. 

“Aether, Omega, Alpha—grab the others. I know who is behind all of this. 

[copiousloverofcopia]

The next chapter of Death & Flowers is LIVE!

Thank you all so much for your love and support! I am truly grateful to you all!

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Death & Flowers

It hadn't been serious; it never was with him. While Papa was suave, and Ollie enjoyed their time together it wasn't meant to be. She knew it wasn't something meant to last…something permanent but—here she was. It was only one missed pill and life forever changed.

Chapter 12: The Time Has Come

Also available HERE on AO3! Haven't started yet? Start from the beginning HERE!

Definitely NSFW below the cut!

The night had been met with unbridled passion. A course traveled like the words of a poet—fully felt and beautifully lyrical. Lovers held tightly to one another on their way to ascension. All rushing to the end where their bodies begged for release as they embraced in the darkness. The whole night Copia and Ollie reaffirming their love. 

It was no wonder that when Copia’s eyes began to open in the later afternoon that he still felt completely exhausted, but so in love.  He rolled over to see Ollie sleeping beside him. A smile on her face and a calm about her that he hadn’t seen in such a long time. It was at that moment he knew everything between them was going to be ok. More than ok—they were in it for the long haul. 

He went to sit up along the side of the bed. Careful not to disturb her rest as he went to stand up, stretching out a bit before noticing the late hour of the day. Shit, Copia thought to himself. He was due at practice with the ghouls in just over an hour. The whole day had been lost to them in their much-needed slumber. 

“Cope?” Ollie yawned, noticing he had left the bed.  Quickly feeling the chill with the warmth of his body leaving its place beside her. 

“Oh amore…I am sorry did I wake you?” he asked her with a smile. 

“No…no… I was already getting up.”

“Liar.” Copia chuckled, sure she had been completely passed out before he moved. 

“Hmm.” Ollie hummed, acknowledging her playful little white lie with the shrug of her shoulders. Copia, lamenting with a smile. 

“Well then…” he continued on, “...as much as I could stay lost in those very convincing eyes Ollie. I am sorry but I have to get going. Seems we have been out most of the day, it’s already 2.” 

“Oh my. You aren’t going to get in trouble are you.” she panicked, trying to pull herself up in the bed, a spark of nervous energy running through her.  

“Shhh…no no. I’ll be fine, just need to make sure I don’t miss practice is all. The ghouls get a bit rowdy if left to their own devices for too long amore. Especially Dew.” Copia laughed. Ollie nodded at him and Copia turned to make his way across the room for the shower. Before he could take a step, Ollie pulled back on his wrist. Copia stopped and turned back to face her. 

The way she looked at him, so loving and sweet. Eyes sparkling up at him from her position in the bed. Copia couldn't help but notice the curve of her body silhouetted in the sheets. The desire began growing inside him. All of it had sent Copia’s blood pumping. “Really, now?” he asked her. 

“Now.” Ollie demanded pulling him back on the bed. Their lips, meeting instantly as they clamored together to remove the treacherous sheets that lay between them. Copia hovered over Ollie, keeping his weight off her belly as they continued to kiss.

Her lips, so soft and needy—showering him in kisses. Copia's hand tangled in Ollie's crimson hair, holding himself up as best he could on his elbows. Copia knew he would disobey Lucifer himself if his reward was to spend one more moment inside her. One more moment where they were as one. 

Copia pulled away a moment from her lips, both of them breathless and yearning. His hands, slowly making their way down her neck and over her soft breast. Copia began gently kneading it before sitting up on his knees over her. Taking his already hard cock in his hand and beginning to stroke himself as he gazed over her. Ollie wrapped her legs around him, trying to pull him closer to her. 

She let out a desperate moan as she felt him begin to rub himself through her slick. The head of his cock, nudging against her entrance. Both of them, on edge, waiting for the moment he would slip inside her. Her body melted beneath him as he pushed himself carefully inside her. 

Copia’s mouth fell open as he slid into her. His hips rocking and his pelvis, gently thrusting into her with fervor and intention. He wanted her to feel every vein, curve, and surge of blood through his body. Reveling in her core pulsing around him.

"Oh Cope…you feel amazing. Don't stop. Ah!" Ollie mewled, breathy and languid. Copia thought she had never looked more beautiful. Her hair sprayed around her pillow, eyes closed, and lips parted in ecstasy as he took her.

"Amore. I won't stop…not until I've made you cum. Not until I've made you mine once more." He grunted, trying to hold back his own release–teetering ever so close to the edge. Ollie gripped his ass, helping force him deeper inside. Biting her lower lip as he filled her, over and over again with his girth. The slight curve of his cock guiding the tip in the spot that made her see stars. 

Her grip tightened up into him and Copia grew concerned it was too much. Slowing his pace a moment and asking, "Are you sure this isn't too much? I am not hurting you?" 

"No…it's not. It's good…oh Cope it's so good. You feel so good inside me. Mmm...please don't stop. Make me cum like you promised." She begged, allowing one of her hands to slide up through the thick layer of hair on his chest. My fingernails scraping the flesh and sending a chill through him.

It was then Copia could feel it. Her core began to squeeze down harder—rhythmic and tight all around him. Her breathing hitching and finally a rush of warmth flowing out between them. Copia, holding on to Ollie as he came. His lips pressing against her forehead as spilled himself deep inside her. 

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

It was worth being late, Copia had thought while he made his way down the corridor. Freshly showered and ready for practice—and only 15 minutes late. When he arrived at the Great Hall where practice was held, Aether was waiting for him outside the doors. A concerned look on his face and the distinct lack of sound coming from behind him. An eerie quiet, when there should be instruments being tuned.

It made Copia weary, wondering if something had gone wrong. Things had been going too well lately he thought to himself. Between Ollie’s improved health and how well the remainder of her pregnancy seemed to be going to the reassurance of their love, and finally with the lurking danger that constantly loomed over them falling quiet. Something felt as if it were too good to be true and Copia felt like he was waiting for the other shoe to fall.

“Cardinal.” Aether began, watching the concern washing over Copia’s face.

“Si Aether what is it? Why is no one practicing yet?” he asked the ghoul. Aether glanced around at the siblings that passed them. Drawing closer to Copia as he spoke.

“I told them you canceled.” Aether replied as Copia’s eyebrows raised high on his head. Aether could almost see his blood flowing faster, increasing with his anxiety and frustration. 

“You what?!” he exclaimed. Aether quickly grabbed him, pulling him just inside the doors of the Great Hall. The two of them, standing alone in the empty room. Aether began whispering so that the room need not echo his words. 

“Cardinal. I overheard Sister Imperator and Mr. Saltarian…not too long ago as I was bringing something to the main office. There was an exchange…something about the ghouls being to blame for something…I tried to listen in but their words were too soft to make out the rest and then they headed up to her office so hastily you’d have thought the Abbey had caught fire. 

“What are you saying Aeth?” Copia asked, trying to wrap his head around everything. 

“I don’t know what's going on Cardinal, but whatever it is I know they have to be up there discussing it right now in her office…and if anyone would be able to figure it out—it's you.”

“Me?”

“I heard from Cumulus that you and Sister have a special relationship.” Aether said plainly. Copia’s face grew pale as he swallowed back. “If they are planning on pinning this all on us Cardinal—like Alpha has been saying…we deserve to know. Please.” 

“I see.” Copia replied. He could see the pain and fear in Aether’s eyes. It was true that Alpha had been suspecting that there were those within the Ministry that conspired to blame the ghouls for the deaths of the Emeritus sons. Was it really Sister—his own mother? Was Mr. Saltarian also in on it? 

“Please Cardinal. I beg you as my friend.” the ghoul’s eyes pleading. Copia put his hand on Aether’s shoulder and smiled up at him. 

“Aeth…I’m on my way now.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Copia made his way to Sister’s office. The door had been left open–only slightly. The light from inside cascading a sharp slice of light onto the tile floor as Copia approached. At first, he could hear them, Sister and Saltarian arguing almost loud enough to be heard clearly at the top of the stairs, but as he reached the door the noise seemed to dissipate like smoke. Only a lower hum of conversation noted between them. 

“You have made a lot of questionable decisions in your life Elizabeth, but this one is the absolutely worst.” Saltarian snapped as Copia tried to get as close to the office door without arousing suspicion. 

“Heh…is that so? It was a mistake to tell my own son I am his mother.” Sister snapped back. 

“That’s just it. Because you couldn’t keep your mouth shut now and your legs closed 50 years ago now, we must all pay the price for your incompetence. 

“I beg your pardon. I will have you know you aren’t exactly the saint you claim to be either.” Sister Imperator said, furious with Saltarian’s frankness and disrespect. Though it was something she had come to expect in this situation. 

“I am not even angry that you told him about you. I could care less if he knows you carried him. What ENRAGES me Elizabeth… is that you told him about his connection to Nihil. We have come so close to being done with them. The reign of the Emeritus line is over, after everything that's happened, and you want to throw away that opportunity away. An opportunity that was bestowed by Satan, for some maternal bonding with your and Nihil’s bastard.” Saltarian fumed, slamming his fist down on the desk before rubbing his eyes in frustration and anger. 

“I will tell him to keep it to himself. We can trust Copia to do what is asked.” Sister assured him.

“Oh, I know we can. The reason I agreed to help you, help him ascend has EVERYTHING to do with his ability to do as he is told. He would have been a great face of the Papacy while we handled things behind the scenes…but again you have compromised everything! Who knows who he has told things to already before you decided to let me in on it!”  he barked again. Before Sister could get out another word, Copia accidentally rested too close to the door, causing a creak to interrupt the conversation and immediately draw attention to him. He knew whatever he was overhearing them speak on now—that conversation was over.

“Who’s there?” Sister Imperator called out. Copia quickly came peering into the room and tried his best to pretend, behave as if he hadn’t heard a single word of any of it. 

“Ah Sister, Saltarian. I am sorry to interrupt, but I just wanted to stop by and let you know I canceled practice today. Ollie was not feeling the best and I thought it best to remain by her side…” he began in his most convincing tone. Copia’s hand, still holding on to the door and ready to leave with the things he had learned tucked away. 

“Oh of course Copia. Family comes first.” she replied, glancing over at Saltarian. 

“Absolutely…please Cardinal, sit. Sit.” Mr. Saltarian insisted, gesturing for Copia to sit beside him in the pair of chairs that sat in front of Sister Imperator’s desk. Copia did as instructed. Another knowing glance sent back over from Saltarian to Sister—a reliable follower of orders he was indeed. 

“Thank you Mr. Saltarian..oh?” Copia began only to hear a knock at the door from behind them. Within moments, three men entered the office. They were only vaguely familiar to him but all men he had seen before in passing. 

“Ah yes. Right on time. Please gentlemen come closer.” Saltarian beckoned them towards the desk. “Cardinal I…ah…don’t believe you have all officially met.” As they approached Copia’s nose was overwhelmed with the scent of juniper and cypress. It lingered heavily in the air around them and seemed from the clothes of one of the men who stood directly behind him. The man’s large hands gripped to the top of Copia’s chair. The smugness and lack of decorum immediately made Copia uneasy, but he tried to pretend he didn’t notice it. 

“Oh si, I do not believe we have.” Copia responded as he rose from his chair to face them—eye to eye. He saw that the man behind him was tall with brown hair. He had a scar over his eyebrow and donned blackened paints around his eyes. The others were painted the same, but both were slightly shorter and had longer, darker hair that was tied back in pony tails. All of them dressed in traditional black vestments and zucchettos atop their heads. 

“These men are Bishops Mauro, Martin, and Henry.” Saltarian began, naming them left to right. Copia, realizing the scent was coming from the one he named Martin.  Copia nodded to each one of them as they bowed towards him in a show of respect. The Cardinal could feel the tension in the room—something wasn’t quite right about them, but he couldn’t place his suspicions. 

“Pleasure to meet you all. I am Cardinal Copia.” he introduced himself but somehow, he knew that the three men already knew who he was, nodding and looking back at Saltarian. 

“You asked to see us, your eminence.” Bishop Martin spoke. His voice was low and commanding. The men seemed almost militant, like some sort of security for Saltarian, but for  what reason Copia was unsure.

“Well pardon my rudeness Mr. Saltarian, Sister, Bishops—but I must be going. I have a practice to reschedule.” Copia stated, trying to find his way out of the room as swiftly as possible. 

“I thought you canceled to spend time with Sister Olive?” Saltarian asked. The rush of anxiety spread through Copia instantly and he hoped that his face did not betray him. Had he already forgotten his cover story?

“Ah si, well she is resting peacefully by now so I think I should try to take advantage of the time before you know we have—” Copia began before Sister cut him off.

“Of course, C. Please go and practice. We need you at your best for the tour and the days are numbered as you know.” she explained. Copia swallowed back his nerves, nodding to her and the men and leaving as calmly as possible. 

As he walked down the hall, Copia tried steadying the beat of his heart. He had clearly heard something he was not supposed to in the exchange between Sister and Saltarian. A plot to take over the Papacy? Using him to control things? Why would his own mother agree to this and what about Nihil and the ghouls? Where did they all fit into this? 

Even more concerning to Copia, was the men Saltarian was surrounding himself with. How were they involved? Copia knew he needed to tell someone what he heard. The mysteries kept piling on and Copia was beginning to wonder what was going to happen when all that hid in the shadows would finally come into the light.

[copiousloverofcopia]

Its been a long time coming but here is the NEXT chapter of Death & Flowers. Im trying something new with posting the chapters on Tumblr as well as AO3 with a small descriptions so anyone new can check things out!

Let me know if you guys like that in the comments!

Death & Flowers

Chapter 10: More Secrets

Also available HERE on AO3! Haven't started? Check out the beginning HERE!

Below the cut for space!

September 13, 1969

It was a warm September night and the city of Angels was thriving. Traffic, still steadily flowing outside the building sitting on the corner of Sunset and Clark. Just behind the closed doors was the sound of rock music heard billowing out from inside. The room was dark, lit with only the help of stage lights and tall black candelabras that boasted triplet candles on their tops. The crowd, waiting anxiously as they were surrounded in a cascade of smoke that no one seemed to come from nowhere. The head of an ominous ram staring out of over the crowd as the last evening’s band prepared to play. 

The patrons of the Whiskey a Go-Go were still cheering for the previous act as a man in skull paint walked out onto the stage. He looked magnificent in his clerical collar and fur-lined leather coat. The mysterious men behind him, shrouded in silver masks quickly began to play. The song was Kiss the Go-Goat and Papa Nihil, their suave leader, was the man. Belting out the lyrics as the crowd swooned with his dark charm. 

Ghost was playing their first night at the venue. There were go-go dancers a plenty and a palpable energy among the crowd that was now bathed in red light. Nihil was ready to rock and roll, knowing just how to work the crowd. Oozing sexual charisma and mystery, everyone entranced by him as he moved and sang—exactly what the Ministry asked for. 

Then there was her—breath held tight within her chest as she watched them from the balcony. Fingers tracing the rail as her lover performed for the masses. Spreading the word of the dark lord as he went. She was so excited for this first night. Wearing her favorite dress and her golden blonde hair pulled back behind a headband, and the dangling earrings that danced on her shoulders when she moved. 

She looked like danger, and she was—only soft for him. Her eyes locked on Nihil with an intense hunger and lust. He was her lover, despite some of the Ministry's best efforts to keep them apart. She couldn't help but fall for him, just as his audience did. "A lamb led willingly to slaughter" they told her. She didn't care, she was in love.  

She watched him work his magic. Hanging on every word, tightly gripped to the railing as he sang. Her heart pounding away in her chest as her hand traveled along her dress, the black sequin pattern feeling rough against her fingertips as she went. Her hand found its place to settle, resting gently atop her inconspicuous lower belly. She fanned out her fingers over it, as if she were protecting it from the outside world. 

She'd only known for a short time but was already well into the first trimester of her pregnancy. Delighted in the small life growing inside her. Elizabeth, still ever so anxious to tell Nihil that he was to be a father—again. As Papa and head of the Ministry, he had been made to produce heirs before. Ones he had spent maybe all of 5 minutes with at a time throughout their lives. 

He was never around for them. The still young, and hopeful, sister of sin convincing herself that it was because he needed to keep to his Papal duties. That things would be different when the child was theirs. She felt the warmth radiating from inside her, knowing that she already loved Nihil's baby more than anything and if the Ministry wouldn't let them be together, well then, they'd run away. Just the two of them and start over far from pious eyes.

Elizabeth came back to reality as another woman approached the rail. She didn’t give her much credence. As with most others, she was ambivalent unless it were someone needed to further her own aspiration. That was until the smell of smoke wafted over in her direction. Her rage, beginning to overwhelm her better judgment. Angry that her child was being subjected to this vile, disgusting habit—and she snapped. 

While her exterior remained cool and collected, she very calmly took the cigarette from its perch between the woman’s two fingers. The poor woman, having only barely noticed before Elizabeth had pressed the hot embers into her face. Teeth clenched tight and fury burning inside the sister’s veins as the woman struggled against her. Pulling and tearing at the feathers of her sleeves. 

She had managed to get a hit across Elizabeth’s bottom lip, only enraging her more as she fired back, lunging at her with full force. Her actions, causing them both to tumble on the floor. Elizabeth straightened herself up, finding that the woman had been knocked out cold. She was quick, shoving the evidence into a back storage closet before turning to watch her lover on the stage. Her demeanor, appearing as if nothing had happened. A way of carrying herself that would suit her well in her lifetime.

The song had come to its end, the sound beginning to die off, leaving nothing but a hum from the amplifiers as Elizabeth watched Nihil toss the mic stand to the side. Dropping to his knees as he reached out into the crowd and took hold of a woman, one he’d been eye fucking the whole song. He kissed her passionately as the set lights dimmed. Elizabeth was stunned—crushed. Her heart sank deep inside her chest, now just a battered piece of flesh that no longer wished to continue on. 

Nihil had only caught a glimpse of her as she stormed off. Knowing that he had done more damage than he could undo, he chose to finish his set before attempting to follow her out. One of many idiotic mistakes he'd made in his life. Elizabeth wasted no time in heading back to the California Ministry. Tears flowing freely as they painted her face in ribbons of black. The mascara, spelling out the pain she felt inside. 

There it was—they were right. She’d made a mistake thinking he could ever love her. She would never forgive herself and now there was a child. She walked inside, trying desperately to stifle her tears, quietly closing up the door behind her as she managed the noise of her heels on the title, but the sounds of her efforts alerted a shadowy figure that approached from the front office. 

“Well seems I ventured downstairs at just the right time Eliza. What’s got you all worked up at this hour?” Mr. Saltarian huffed, trying his best to appear unbothered. 

“Oh, shut up Abel.” she snapped at him, growling as if she were a wounded animal—cornered in her pain. Ready to lash out and anyone who dare approach her. The man softened, dropping his shoulders and his eyes now holding concern—this had been no regular fight. 

“What happened? Tell me?” he asked her, wrapping his arm around her as she wept. She was shaking, and clearly more hurt than he’d ever seen her. Elizabeth was a dangerous woman, especially when wronged—he had a mind to remind her of the position of her transgressor when she spoke. 

“You were right…he’s a fucking letch! I should have known. It's not like he didn’t have a reputation. Going through women like tissue, but—but I thought this was different.” she cried.   

“I warned you…we all did. He's reckless Elizabeth, and I tried to keep you away from him. Don’t you know that you could do so much better. Don’t you realize how much I lov—”

“I'm pregnant.” she blurted out. A secret that ripped a hole wide into Saltarian’s heart. He wasted no time in pulling her close, Elizabeth crying against his chest as he took in a deep breath.  

“Are you sure?” he asked her, fingers gliding over her hair as he held her close to him. 

“Yes, It was confirmed. I’m already almost in my second trimester.” she explained. Saltarian pulled back in haste, rubbing his head in his hands and pacing. 

“Sweet Lucifer Eliza—” 

“I would have told him tonight, but he… he…well let's just say his reputation was well upheld. I should have never…”

“Are you keeping it?” he asked her point blank. No sugar-coating or gentle tone. Just the harsh matter of fact words spilling from his mouth. Saltarian, tasting the poison of them on his lips as they left him. 

“It’s an heir to the Emeritus bloodline. What do you think the Ministry would do to me if I didn’t.” Elizabeth barked back. Angry for him even having asked. While she was right that the child had a rightful claim to the miter, she still wanted it regardless, but now she didn’t want anything to do with Nihil and having his child would make her bound to him for life.”

“We can make this go away Eliza. You’ve worked too hard for what you have here to throw it all away for some sorry excuse for a man whose only claim to power was because of blood and nothing else. Don’t do this to yourself…no one ever has to know—”

“I will know.” she said, her tone and the look in her eye explaining everything Saltarian needed to know. “I don’t want Nihil to have anything to do with him.” 

“Then we must send you back to Italy. He won’t know if you are out of sight. You can have the child and be back to do your duties before you know it. Nihil none the wiser.”

“What will come of him? I can’t raise him. Not at the risk of being stuck with that pathetic asshole. Please, I must know what we can do. You can NEVER tell Nihil.” Elizabeth begged. The first time Saltarian had ever seen her look so desperate. He held her face in his hands, watching as the fear in her eyes grew. 

“It’s going to be ok Eliza. I have an idea.” 

------------------------------------------------------------------

Present Day

Ollie had been quiet for days. A cold silence, filling the large Papal suite that her and her Cardinal now shared. She had seen the letter from the Keeper and Copia had confessed his sins. Her heart felt shattered for him having not only kept this from her, but from the realization that the nightmare of her circumstances was far from over. 

She was trapped in their bed. Forbidden to leave lest she take the chance of her child paying the price. All the comforts the Ministry could offer, only serving to feel like a prison. Unable to move like a sitting duck, waiting for the Keeper or whomever was responsible for Terzo’s death to get her and her child. The pied piper, coming to collect his dues. 

Copia had buried himself in his work. Choosing to give her space and not push her. He left early that morning, choosing not to wake Ollie. Though she wouldn’t acknowledge him even if he did. 

She was hurt and he knew that it was his fault. What comfort could he possibly offer her now? Watching idly by and unable to provide the protection she so desperately needed. If he could only find out who was behind it all—he’d kill them himself. 

He sat himself down at his desk, the chair letting out a creak as he got comfortable. Drinking from his cup of coffee, while attempting to finish up some work on the lyrics for the final song of the new album. He was proud of it, but he knew he had so much more to give. For now this will have to do, he thought knowing his heart ached too much to be giving it his all. 

As the morning dragged on, he felt his head begin to droop—repeatedly waking himself from the pull of sleep.  He surely wasn’t sleeping at night, worried that someone would come for Ollie and the baby in their slumber. The endless flow of caffeine, however, could no longer sustain him. Despite his efforts, he succumbed, dozing off at his desk. Awaking only to the familiar sound of a throat being cleared. 

“Seems someone has been burning the midnight oil.” Sister Imperator commented. Copia, quickly straightening himself out and wiping the spittle from his lip.  

“Sister! Oh, I am so sorry I—”

“It’s alright Cardinal at ease.” she smiled, placing her hand on his shoulder to encourage him back into his chair. Copia smiled back, nervous that her kind response was only a front, and that his infraction would be used against him at an undisclosed time. 

“Again, your Eminence I must apologize.” Copia began, Sister quickly cutting him off once more with the wave of her hand. She always had a way about her that both frightened and intrigued him, but something about her today was different. She had never been quite so—informal before. Even as a child, she spoke to him as if he were another adult, choosing only very rare moments to show a slight tenderness towards him he could never quite place. She sat down in front of him, making herself comfortable in the chair and crossing one leg over the other as she could see his discomfort growing. 

“How are you holding up Cardi? I mean with all this?” she asked him—from her lips a nickname he hadn’t heard in years. Copia tried to find his words. While the Sister was foreboding to be sure, he wished he had someone like her to confide in at a time like this. Someone who had real power within the Ministry, someone who might be able to help keep Ollie safe—but who could he trust? 

“I’m doing my best. Just worried about…well you know.”

“Of course, a man should always have his family on his mind. That is after all the most important thing—family.”

“Si, I will be happy when things are…uh…over.” Copia replied, forcing a smile. Sister placed her hand over his, the Cardinal looking up at her in confusion. 

“I want you to know, the Ministry and I are very proud of the work you have been doing on Prequelle. I truly believe that it will rival anything that has come before it.” she smiled, Copia’s face dropping down to his lap.  “I expect no less from you, you know? After all, you will soon become Papa.”

“Papa!” Copia exclaimed, the word leaving him faster than he could think it through. He could feel the cold sweat collecting in the small of his back, his heart pounding, the nerves firing off inside him. It had been one thing when Saltarian had hinted but this was Sister and what she said was as good as gospel. 

“Cardi…you deserve it. After everything I have seen so far…your album, the tour—I can’t see it not being a great success. Nihil of course would have to be on board, but I believe once he sees what you are capable of, then he won’t have any other choice.”

“Sister that is all well and good…but I am not his son. I am just a Cardinal in his clergy who happens to be able to sing. Had it not been for their death’s then I’d still be lucky to be Employee of the Month!” 

“No, Copia you are far more than that. Trust me on this. Don’t rest your worry on the fetid rotting course of your predecessors. They are gone, now nothing's standing in your way.” Sister Imperator explained. Copia suddenly felt an unease falling over him. Swallowing back hard as pieces of a puzzle he had been slowly working out, were beginning to fall in place. Creating a picture of which he couldn’t quite make out, but the possibilities were nothing if not horrifying. 

“Sister, what do you mean?” he asked her. His heart, continuing to pound as he waited for her answer. The glare he sent her, filled with curiosity and terror. His mismatched gaze, striking her with amusement as she began to speak.

“There is something I need to tell you.”

[copiousloverofcopia]

🐀 COPIA FIC MASTER LIST🐀

These are all the fanfiction AO3 links to Copia related content, both as Cardinal and Papa. Please see pinned post on Tumblr for other Papa content!

If you don't see something you are interested in please feel free to send an ask when open as well as commission me through the heart mug site. Link in pinned post!

Multi-Chapter Works:

⛧  The Cardinal’s Prime Mover (COMPLETE) >>> Copia & OC Sister Rosalia Sister Rosalia is a young Sister of Sin in the Church of Satan who is a dutiful and average girl until she falls for the Cardinal... hard. (NSFW-Romance/Pregnancy Loss/Sex w/the intention of pregnancy/Angst) Copia x Rosalia Sequel Snippets (Mini sequels to the Papas in Love stories): 🜏 Late Night Serenade It's been a long night for Prime Mover Lia, up all night with the baby. When Copia awakens to join her, they share a sweet moment together. (SFW-Fluff/Romance/Comfort/Daddy Copia) 🜏 Birthday Candles Prime Mover Lia's birthday is around the corner and Copia is struggling to come up with the perfect gift. Lia only has one thing she desperately wants in mind. (NSFW-Birthday/Romance/Fluff/Sex w/the intention of pregnancy) 🜏 The Major Leagues Sister Imperator has Copia doing another wild promotion event for Ghost, this time it's the opening pitch for the White Sox. Will his Prime Mover Lia help him gain the confidence he needs to go through with it. (NSFW-Ghaseball/Breeding Kink/Romance)

⛧ Death & Flowers (IN PROGRESS) >>> Copia & OC Sister of Sin Ollie It hadn't been serious, it never was with him. While Papa was suave and Ollie enjoyed their time together it wasn't meant to be. She knew it wasn't something meant to last…something permanent but—here she was. It was only one missed pill and life forever changed. (Romance/Comfort/Unexpected Romance/Pregnancy/Death) ⛧ The Red Dress (COMPLETE) >>> Corrupt Copia & OC Celeste Celeste is a stagehand at a local arena when her night goes south after a Ghost concert leaving her cornered by ghouls. Her life changes forever when she is told that she is to play a crucial role in the destiny of Papa Emeritus IV, and that the gimmick is real. (Dubious consent/Breeding Kink/Pregnancy/Violence/Dark Romance) ⛧ Something Blue (IN PROGRESS) >>> Copia & OC Astrid Sister of Sin Astrid is anything but excited for Cardinal Copia to return home from tour. As his assistant, she leads a life of monotony and boredom from which she longs for more. When the Cardinal returns, anointed as Papa Emeritus IV, she is faced with an unwanted and unavoidable situation predicated on her family's position within the church. Will Astrid rise to what has been asked of her or will she destroy everything and leave it all behind? (Romance/Comfort/Unexpected Romance/Angst)

One Off Works:

Whiskers The Cardinal's little ratto wakes you up... (NSFW-Romance/Vaginal Sex/Fluff) The Monstrance Clock is Ticking You've been invited to help Papa III and Cardinal Copia with a very pressing matter. (NSFW- Three-way w/Terzo, Breeding Kink, Sex w/the intention of pregnancy) Sweet Taste of You Copia has been begging you since the moment it began to let him, today you decide to let him get a taste... (NSFW-Lactation Kink) The Souvenir You had never felt more excited. Attending a ritual was something you had been dreaming about since you first heard Mary on a Cross, now some years ago, faintly playing over the speakers at the record store. Fast forward and here you were, against the odds, somehow managing to get a spot at the rail. (NSFW-Three-way with Cirrus, Breeding Kink) My Lioness Cirrus has grown close to the Cardinal now Papa. Now as they return home from the tour she is left to deal with her feelings and her Papa's request. (NSFW- Part 1/2/Copia x Cirrus/Breeding Kink/Sex w/the intention of pregnancy) His Pride and Joy Cirrus has grown close to the Cardinal now Papa. Now as they return home from the tour she is left to deal with her feelings and her Papa's request. (SFW-Part 2/2/Copia x Cirrus/Pregnancy/Fluff) Candy Wrappers It's Halloween night at the Abbey, Papa IV/Copia decides to spend it sharing his love of horror films with ghoulette Cumulus and a sister of sin. The 3 decide to watch John Carpenter's HALLOWEEN and pig out on candy while it storms outside. (SFW-Fluff/Halloween/feat. Cumulus Ghoulette) What Would I Do Without You You aren't feeling well so your beloved Papa Emeritus IV comes to care for you. (SFW-Fluff/Romance/Comfort) Well Read Copia returns to the Abbey as Papa IV. No longer the Cardinal that you befriended in the library. Now you like awake at night your mind set on him when you decide to do something. (NSFW-Romance/Fluff/Love Confession) The Burning Ones Cardinal Copia is in love with a Sister of Sin he has known the majority of his life and now on the precipice of being Papa he must chose between her and possibly losing the Papacy. (NSFW-Older Sister of Sin/Romance/Fluff) On a Pale White Horse You've entered your second trimester and the need to have your Papa in the most carnal of ways is growing--there's just one catch his nerves. (NSFW-Romance/Pregnancy/Lactation Kink) They Come At Night The Cardinal has been sneaking out at night, tonight you find out where he goes. (NSFW-Three-way with Terzo/Vampire Terzo/Dracopia/Blood/Resurrected Terzo/Dark Romance/Period Sex) The Show Papa Emeritus IV has returned from tour and now you and Dew are to put on a show. (NSFW-Copia likes to watch/Feat. Dewdrop-Sodo Fire Ghoul) The Quiet Ones Papa Emeritus IV has hit the height of his heat cycle and is despite for a hole to fill when there's a knock at his door. (NSFW heat cycle/Copia x Rain ghoul) Too Small Couch A night spent cuddling and binge watching your favorite shower with your lovers, Cardinal Copia and Papa Emeritus III. (SFW-Hanging w/Terzo/Fluff/Comfort/Humor/Non-Gendered reader)

Open Road You've been dating Cardinal Copia for a bit now and after learning about your love for motorcycles he decides to surprise you with a ride. (NSFW-Motorcycle ride/Romance/Fluff) Ghex on the Beach Papa Emeritus IV has finally returned home from tour and heading straight back into his Papal duties when he tells you to pack up you're going to the beach. (NSFW-Chapter 13 theme/Romance/Fluff) According to Plan Papa Emeritus IV plans to pop the question to you, but nothing is going right. (SFW-Proposal/Angst/Romance/Fluff/Humor) Mending Wounds Copia and his Prime Mover have reached the moment where consummation of their relationship must take place, but the couple must deal with the unhealed wounds of her past. (NSFW-Mentions of SA/Comfort/Fluff/Angst) Papa's Blanket Fort Copia surprises you with yet another thing he never kid as a kid, something you planned to fix---right here right now. (NSFW-Humor/Fluff/Comfort) The Promise Cardinal Copia and you have been dating some time now, both of you nervous to take things to the next level until a bit of serendipity finds you both alone together. (NSFW-Romance/Fluff/Loss of Virginity) The Keyhole After staying up to do paperwork for Sister Imperator, you head back to the sibling dorms in the dark of night. When a noise catches your attention, you can't help but let your curiosity get the best of you and go to investigate finding the noise and a light peering from the keyhole coming from inside Papa Emeritus IV's office. As you discover the source of the mysterious sound, things change forever. (NSFW-Voyeurism/Romance) Okie Dokie Your shy Cardinal invites you to meet in your favorite spot of the chapel, deciding tonight is the night he commits to you in an act of carnal pleasure. (NSFW-Romance/Fluff/Chapel Sex/Virgin Copia) The Cherry Stem Your recent break up and late-night depression sends you into a hole in the wall bar when you meet a man who is intrigued by the trick you can do with a cherry stem. (NSFW-Romance/indoctrination of a new Sister of Sin/Public sex) The Fires of Indignation You are excited but ever so anxious as the time when you become Copia's Prime Mover draws near. One night when you forget your notes for your part of the ceremonies you are confronted with a grudge held against the Emeritus family bloodline. (NSFW-Violence/Feat. Alpha Ghoul/Mentions of Pregnancy/Blood/Revenge) Jesus He Knows Me Father DeFroque is a pious leader of the church who spends some quality time worshiping his true lord of Easter Eve. (NSFW-MFM/Degradation/Oral/Priest kink/Facial/Blasphemy Kink) As A Man Would Cardinal Copia has fallen hard for a Sister of Sin but keeps his distance knowing that he hides something about himself that will keep them apart forever. (SFW-Angst/Romance/Hurt/Copia is Death) Inspiration When your Cardinal invites you to meet him in the main hall of the Abbey wearing nothing but your nightgown and a smile, you are in for a night of pleasure. (NSFW-Romance/Public sex) Now We Wait Copia has something he has been wanting to talk with you about and now is the perfect time. (NSFW-Romance/Breeding kink/Sex w/the intention of pregnancy/Copia POV)

All Just For Show Papa Emeritus IV has reached the final show of the Re Imperatour and you know what's coming next... (NSFW-Angst/Hurt/Comfort/Violence) For Us Copia has had something on his mind, and you are determined to find out what it is. (NSFW- Romance/Breeding Kink/Sex w/the intention of pregnancy/Transmasc reader/Angst) Unwind Being a sibling of sin is hard...especially when dealing with the wrath of Sister Imperator. Copia helps you find a way to relax. (NSFW-Romance/AFAB Reader/Vaginal Sex/Anal Sex/Anal fingering) Gentle Sin Copia has been keeping his feelings for you secret for so long. What happens when you confess you are feeling them too? (NSFW-Romance/Love Confessions/Copia POV/Angst) And Then It Hit Him You have news for your husband, Cardinal Copia on the brink of his ascension to the Papacy, but will he stop long enough to listen? (SFW- Romance/Fluff/Pregnancy) Rush You know exactly how you ended up here and exactly how much trouble you'll get into if caught...but that's not stopping you and Cardinal Copia from consummating your feelings. (NSFW-Rushed Sex/Vaginal Sex/Confession booth/Cardinal Copia)

Copia One Off Works Featuring Other's OCs):

Something Within Your Eyes (feat. OC of @sistersaccharine) Sister of Sin Saccharine is elated to learn that Papa Copia has invited her to meet with him tonight at the stroke of midnight which just happens to be her birthday. (SFW-Romance/Fluff/Love confession/Dancing) This Night Was Made For Us (feat. OC of @sistersaccharine) Sister of Sin Saccharine has big plans for her first Lupercalia celebrations with her lover Papa Emeritus IV... Little does she know he has a surprise of his own. (NSFW-Romance/Proposal/Valentine's Day/Lupercalia/Fluff) Stay With Me...Forever (feat. OC of @sistersaccharine) The day has finally come for Sister Saccharine to marry Copia. Won't you be our ghuest at the wedding? (NSFW-Romance/Wedding/Fluff)

Selfless (feat. OC of @vampghoulette) Caldera, an hardworking and selfless Ghoulette begins to feel anxious about the upcoming Re-Impera tour. Knowing Copia's time is coming to and end she struggles during preparations for the tour. As she tries to help Copia and Aether find out how she's feeling and help ease her concerns in more ways than one. (NSFW-Spit roasting/Angst/Three-way/Comfort/Body Issues/OC Ghoulette) A Whisper of a Thrill (feat. OC of @a-tired-sparrow) Deacon Via is the head of the Human, Ghoul, and Other Anomalies Resources Department at the Ministry. Their everyone's go to person and a frequent confidant and of Papa Emeritus IV. While they have never told Copia about their affections, an unexpected phone call and a meeting changes Via's life. (NSFW-Love confession/Nonbinary character/Romance/Fluff) Not Another Sleepless Night (feat. OC of @a-tired-sparrow) Deacon Via and Papa Emeritus the IV have been enjoying an intense romance until the beginning of the Imperatour threatens to destroy what they've built when Via can't let go of their work back home to leave with Copia on tour. (NSFW-Romance/Angst/Nonbinary character/Tour bus sex/Fluff)

⚠️COPIIA-Unrelated/Non-related AU⚠️

As the Night Settled In (Spin off from Let There Be Night) Copia pulls an all nighter after becoming Cardinal and gets some much-needed release when he gets back to his lover. (NSFW-Romance/MFM/Established relationship/UNRELATED/NON-RELATED AU)

Thank you for reading!

May he walk with you in Darkness, leading you from the Light

⛧ PM Ren

[copiousloverofcopia]

Death & Flowers Chapter 6 is up on AO3!!!

Start from the beginning here!

It hadn't been serious, it never was with him. While Papa was suave and Ollie enjoyed their time together it wasn't meant to be. She knew it wasn't something meant to last…something permanent but—here she was. It was only one missed pill and life forever changed.

Original Terzo art: kc5thelement (Pinterest)

Photo edit: me (cause I'm weird and bored)

[copiousloverofcopia]

Chapter 4 of Death & Flowers is LIVE!!!

Chapter is called Issue 309, read the tags 😅

To start from the beginning click here!

Enjoy! ❤️‍🔥

As always open for asks and requests!

I have a few I am working on now!!!

If you want something more specialized and detailed.. tailored to your particular taste please feel free to reach out to me in a PM and commission me using the heart mug site 😁