Fifteen More

Gribbles reluctantly passed the half eaten box of chocolates over to Herod, who tipped the lot face down into the dirt.

Why did he have to go and spoil everything? It was beyond the comprehension of even the worst of the Demons.

"You know that they say misery loves company?" he drily asked.

"Yes."

"Well, he doesn't - so get out of here and don't come back until you’re invited!"

"But I live here Great One."

"Not anymore" Herod was displeased that Gribbles showed weakness at every turn and he suspected criticism being thought whenever he did or said something - this he found to be a constant aggravant.

"I shan't come back" the young Demon threatened, taking up his backpack with a sneer.

"If you do come back we will eat you - and that's a promise." Herod slammed his fist firmly onto the steel table - the one that was used for both meats and dissection.

Mark Forsythe came in just as Gribbles was leaving. He had his usual business with Herod, and as ever, turned up unannounced.

"Your son seemed largely upset" he commented, as Herod got up to offer him the executive chair.

"Just disowned him fer good" he grunted.

"Only son?"

"No, there's fifteen more."

-Gabriel Brunsdon, Puck in Hell, Azlander Series