Big-G Saves EVERYTHING

by CrappyWriterFailing

Chapter 5: Hazbin Hotel - Episode 3 Part 1

His daughter was perfect. He had known since the moment he first laid his eyes upon her that she would always be the best thing in his life—his number one priority. Regardless of all else, she would be placed first. Sinners, deals, politics—everything came second to her. Lives came second to her. Every Sinner who had died during exterminations died in Charlie Morningstar's name, whether she knew it or not. 

 

The King was glad she probably didn't know or understand that.

 

He was out of touch and depressed, and though he could admit this, it wasn't easy to correct it. Who could correct course when the person you had formed your life around from the moment you first saw them decided that they were going to leave you. Go off on their own. Create some sort of Hotel that was the antithesis to everything he had sacrificed for her, all the lives that had been taken in her name. Even if she wanted anything to do with him  (She didn't, she never reached out, it was always him, always having to make up some excuse to get her on the phone)  -- 

 

Even if she had wanted anything to do with him, it was hard to look at her. To see that light in her eyes, knowing how readily he had thrown out any of his own in the name of her protection. 

 

If Charlie knew... 

 

She would hate him. 

 

If she understood just how little he cared for all those sinners, how any last smidgen of care for them left the second he held her in his arms, she wouldn't be able to look at him the same way. Not that it mattered; she didn't know, and she still wanted nothing to do with him. 

 

There had been some faint stirring of hope that watching this little TV show from his father would bring them together. Those hopes were dashed by the subject matter. Everything that he had done to protect her was going to fall apart. 

 

The world was dull with shades of grey. Charlie could sometimes bring colour; he would always be there if she needed him. Other than that, he was angry. Anger was so easy to reach for. Every other emotion felt covered in the strongest of glasses. He could see them and knew what they would feel like, but he couldn't touch them. 

 

His daughter wanted to speak with him. 

 

"So, Char Char, what can your old pops help you with?" He tried for cheer. He missed. He could feel the awkward tinge in his voice. 

 

They had walked over to a farther corner of the room. Of course, they still had little privacy, but they were out of immediate earshot. His favourite girl took a long, calming breath before taking a paper from her suit pocket, "Okay, Dad, I wrote everything down beforehand so I wouldn't mess it up. Okay. I have noticed that you seem generally upset, annndd not yourself; if you are comfortable sharing, would you be willing to tell me what is wrong?" 

 

If anyone else had asked, he probably wouldn't have been able to put his finger on it, but she always brought colour to him and helped him feel his emotions, even after she had left. Even after she had gone her own way, there were phone calls of him stealing her time as often as he felt he could without alienating her. Those brief moments where he felt something.

 

Was it possible for him to be honest about this?

 

Would it not have been better to at least get some of it out before it inevitably showed up on screen in a manner he couldn't control? 

 

"Haha! Yeah, I guess I have been a little bit off," He replied, buying time as he thought everything over, rubbing the back of his neck. A sigh, one that couldn't help but sound defeated as it felt his lungs fell from his lips, he folded down into himself, "Charlie..."

 

"You can talk to me, Dad." Her voice was so encouraging that he wanted to spill everything. 

 

The very idea of a sinner hearing it had his stomach rolling. It wasn't like he hadn't noticed a particular sinner's shadow reaching over. It sat with him uncomfortably to allow someone to hear any sort of emotional turmoil. That expectant look from Charlie, that spark of hope in her eyes - The things he was willing to do for her. The coals he was willing to walk over. The potential humiliations he was willing to incur, "... It's nothing really! Just, you know, feeling a little waste of space...y... Yeah." 

 

"Waste of spacy?" Charlie repeated with a slight, sad tug downward of her lip. "Is there anything in particular that makes you feel that way?" 

 

Was this his daughter or his therapist? He ran a weary hand down his face, "I miss you, Charlie."

 

She blinked and smiled, "I missed you too, Dad. I guess what I really want to know is, is there anything I can do to help you feel better?" 

 

So many things. Let him into her new life, for one. Call him every once in a while; that would be amazing. But he was Lucifer, and he wouldn't beg for attention, not from anyone, not even his daughter; his pride would not allow it.  (He would beg her, he would, but what if he annoyed her more?)  He had bent enough today. So, he moved in close to his daughter and poked her nose, something he had done with her when she was younger. She used to love it, wrinkling her little nose up, poking him back even though he didn't have one to poke, "Consider contacting your old man every once in a while, Char Char. I'm always willing to help you." 

 

With almost anything. He had already given her his world. 

 

She got that rare, clever glint. Oh, his girl was brilliant, but she so rarely displayed it openly, "One of the ways that you could help me is by feeling better."

 

He felt a chuckle build; it felt so odd that he almost didn't recognize it at first. It rubbed his throat weirdly, "I'll see what I can do."

 

Fake it till you make it. 

 

Apparently, that was good enough for Charlie because he blinked and was wrapped in her arms. He immediately returned the embrace, squeezing her, his eyes falling shut as he enjoyed the warmth of being around his daughter. She was too good for this world. Whether it was Heaven, Hell, Earth, or Purgatory, she was too good for all of it. Too good for him. Too good for the Sinners she was trying to help. 

 

He felt like he had gone five rounds with Michael when he sat back down. 

 

There was a smile painted on his face; it was half fake. 

 

"How curious, Sire," The annoyance stated from across the room. 

 

Lucifer felt his expression tighten. This particular (powerful, kinda interesting) Sinner was good at getting him annoyed. One would assume that the Radio Demon would have thought twice about messing with him after his powerful display earlier, but if anything, it cemented the demon's obstinant attitude. Lucifer rolled his eyes, placing one arm around the back of the sofa as he twisted his body to look directly at the deer demon. 

 

Even with his attention on him, Alastor (if Lucifer remembered correctly) seemed too relaxed for his station. It was tempting to show the man his place, just like all in Hell, was on his knees before Lucifer. The thought came from somewhere deep within, him from a bygone time. Lucifer hadn't acted in such a way for thousands of years.

 

Something about this demon brought it out of him. 

 

"What's curious, Sinner?" Lucifer half-spat out the last word, letting the demon feel his frustration. It was satisfaction galore when he saw those half-ladled eyes jerk open, even if just slightly, at the power of his spat word. If anything, the demon's grin turned all the more satisfying, curled wickedly at the edges, reaching up toward his eyes.

 

Alastor ran a finger along the edge of his microphone as if in thought. It was for show, and Lucifer was sure of this: "Curious how fake that smile looks on you."

 

"Wha-- Huh?" Lucifer was stunned, actually stunned at the fact the Sinner said that, "Look in the mirror, bitch!" 

 

"How uncloth," Alastor commented, his head cocking to the side. 

 

"Coming from --" Lucifer cut himself off, took a deep breath, and released the anger. It was the easiest emotion for him to grab; it didn't immediately leave his hands like sand seeping through his fingers, but that wasn't what Charlie had in mind when she asked him to work on feeling better. The grin he had been using, the one that the Sinner called fake, was painted back on his face: "Sorry, I forgot. What was your name again?" 

 

There, that tightening at his eyes, that look of being slightly off balance, "Alastor, sire." 

 

"Alastor~! I'll try to remember it this time. Sorry if I was being a little too abrasive earlier; I'm feeling a little bit off because I am worried about my baby girl; I hope you understand."

 

Lucifer turned back to the screen, and it felt like a win. There were curious eyes on the two of them, but Lucifer felt quite comfortable ignoring them. He always had eyes on him, and if he was going to protect his daughter as she tried to achieve her impossible dream, he would have to be used to eyes on him again. 

 

Charlie had been excited about celebrating Pentious's first whole week with them. Vaggie, of course, found herself unable to say no to the whims of her girlfriend and her excited demeanour, to the point of getting out a ladder and placing up a banner they had created.

 

"That looks perfect~!" Charlie sang out, throwing her arms into the air, "Aagh! I am so excited that Sir Pentious is staying at the Hotel ~!" 

 

"I feel so welcome," Pentious interjected, his hood flared in his happiness.

 

She couldn't help but try, as she always did, to at least keep Charlie a little grounded, "Um... Pentious was just trying to take over the city with his weird steampunk bullshit a few days ago." 

 

Charlie got off the ladder. She really is so beautiful. "Well, I haven't seen him try to pull any of that here."

 

Sounds were making their way down the hall; as both Vaggie and Charlie looked over, there were quite a few egg bois on top of a cannon designed quite a bit like 'steampunk bullshit' that the love of her life had just said hadn't occurred in the Hotel. 

 

"What the hell is that?!" Vaggie questioned. 

 

"Oh~! Hello, purple female," Pentious announced, giving a low bow with his hat off to the side. His egg bois scurried away. "It's my new investment, the Skin Flyer 11,000! I'm really looking forward to shooting the other residents." Pentious proceeded to wring his hands together as the picture-perfect evil villain.

 

"What? Why?" Charlie questioned, sounding panicked. 

 

"Everyone is being too nice. Obviously, it must be a lie! I can sense they are planning to kill me, but when? How? I must be prepared!" Before Vaggie could complain, two Carmine girls came in with a slew of boxes containing who knows what kind of parts, "Ohh, the new parts of my machine are here."

 

"I'm a little surprised that Carmilla would send anything toward the Hotel," Alastor mused, his voice amused as he tapped the tip of his microphone to his chin. She was the sort of Overlord who dipped into other Overlords territories a lot - It made sense considering her business, but she had never done so into Alastor's territory. Perhaps his long absence had made her forgetful. 

 

He respected her, and he used to receive that respect in kind, at least in this regard, but that seemed to have faded. 

 

Well, they hadn't exactly left things on a pleasant note. 

 

"Sign, please," Pentious did and slithered away, looking rather delighted, "Thank you for your business. Enjoy your Carmine purchase."

 

"Carmine?! As in Carmella Carmine?" Vaggie could feel her eyebrows furrowing, her hands falling back on her hips as she glared at their newest arrival, "You are buying parts from an Overlord?!"

 

Pentious clearly didn't see the problem, "Err, of course. She's the top weapons dealer in Hell."

 

"I do have impeccable taste~!" Pentious preened, pleased as a peach with himself and his choices. 

 

Vaggie rolled her eyes, "You got something, alright." 

 

"Vaggie! Be nice to our future guests!" Charlie begged, flashing those puppy eyes toward the girl. As per usual, the ex-exorcist imediately folded and granted the blonde a kiss on the cheek. 

 

He sounded proud of himself. That was the last straw. Vaggie stomped over, "Okay, well, that stops right now." She grabbed the cart and turned it away from their guest, turning back as he protested to shoot back, "You absolutely cannot build weapons in this Hotel. No one is trying to kill you. People are being nice because they want you to feel welcome."

 

Vaggie couldn't help but look peeved as she finished the words. She wasn't Charlie; she didn't have that gentle touch, but was it really that hard to understand the receiving of basic manners? This was never a problem back in Heaven. Not that she felt particularly bad at losing Heaven; she gained so much in return, but still. 

 

She hadn't been watching, so Vaggie missed Pentious looking over toward the bar, along with the view of Husk and Angel flipping him off, Angel with a dirty smirk. Though she did hear Niffty's laughter. 

 

"Okkkaaaay! On second thought, I don't blame you. What the Hell was that?" Vaggie gestured toward the TV, her eye twitching in aggravation. 

 

Angel shrugged, "Just helpin' the new guy get accustomed to things, I'd say."

 

Vaggie looked over to Husker, her eyebrow challengingly raised. He threw up his hands defensively, "What? That's just my personality I can't help it. Plus, I ain't there for no redemption bullshit." 

 

Angel licked at his teeth as he looked at the cat demon, speaking in a flirty purr, "It's fine to have a shitty personality. I've always subscribed to the 'I can fix him' mentality. Just say the word Whiskers." 

 

"Hehehe, does that mean the Angel also likes bad boys?" Niffty cackled from on top of Angel's head, her eyes widened in glee. 

 

"Especially if they are cat-shaped," Angel commented, leaning closer to Husker, prompting the cat demon to roll his eyes and raise his hand to push the other demon's head away. Niffty scurried over Husker's arm and tugged on his ears before settling in again. 

 

Angel looked at the little demon with a fond expression he couldn't quite mask. She was definitely insane. Something was very wrong with Niffty, but she had some sort of odd charm. She was also weirdly perceptive. She sensed that Angel needed some company back when Val was on screen and provided that without a word. 

 

Plus, she was just so small that it was adorable. 

 

"Hmmm... I have my doubts."

 

"Well, it's true, you have to trust us," Vaggie claimed, her arms crossed. 

 

"But I don't," He simply said in return. 

 

"Well... Why don't we focus on that for today's activities? "  Charlie claimed.

 

Vaggie had to admit Charlie's thoughts on things like this always had some validity. Focusing on trust was necessary; without trust, they couldn't concentrate on the next steps to Charlie's redemption dream.

 

"Not without laying down more ground rules. No more building weapons. No more plotting against other guests, and you need to get rid of these things. "  She pointed to the annoying Egg Bois, who proceeded to blow a hole into the ceiling, "Ugh! What did I just say? What did I just say?! Look what they did!"

 

The Pentious with them started to panic, his eyes tearing up slightly. Frankly, Alastor thought the look was rather fitting for the pathetic creature. 

 

Pentious looked panicky, and Vaggie felt a moment of empathy that was quickly eclipsed once again by the visible hole in the ceiling. Pentious hugged them close, "What? Not my little Egg Bois! They do my evil bidding for me."

 

"Do you want to stay here and redeem yourself? "  Vaggie 

 

Almost hesitantly, "Yeeesss...."

 

"Then, no more eggs. "  

 

Pentious looked ready to sob as he looked down at the eggs, his eyes watery as he released his embrace on them, "All right, Eggies. You've got to go. I... "  Pentious choked out a sob, raising a hand to his head and one to his chest, leaning back dramatically, "C-Can't keep you anymore! "  

 

"Oh, what a horrible day! My egg bois!" Pentious cried out, his expression almost a perfect match for the one on screen, "I shall miss you!"

 

The more he cried, the more Vaggie felt terrible about her future self's actions in forcing the egg boys away. Charlie shot her a soft look. Her girlfriend knew, always knew, what she was feeling when it came to things like that. Vaggie grabbed her hand and gave it a soft squeeze. 

 

"Okay, boss! "  They immediately saluted without a second thought. 

 

Pentious seemed to think the little Eggs would fight against it, waving his hands around, "No, don't resist. This is how it has to be."

 

Vaggie started moving the weapons crate, and the egg bois followed, leaving Charlie with a sobbing Pentious.

 

---

 

Thus far, it had been a delightful morning. There was a lack of interruptions from the Hotel's inhabitants. This had become increasingly rare as they adapted to his presence and felt more comfortable asking him for things. Though he wasn't particularly displeased with helping and protecting them, mainly if it kept Charlotte safe, it was nice to have a moment to oneself. This, paired with an excellent section of premium venison, would have anyone in a good mood. Jazz music played from his speaker as he sat in his room, mouth-watering with each bite he took. 

 

"What the fuck is that?" Lucifer asked, gesturing toward the screen with a look of disgust. 

 

Alastor was typically not one to get annoyed, but that reaction was rather frustrating to hear. It was so clear that he was having a picture-perfect morning. Did the fallen angel have no sense of manners? "It seems, Sire, that I was enjoying a delicious breakfast. What exactly is the problem?" 

 

"Urgh, it's not the contents of the food, I've tasted venison in all sorts of ways, but like this? Directly out of the corpse? You could have at least put it on a plate, you heathen." 

 

"Lucifer himself calling someone a heathen, I never thought I'd see the day!" Alastor returned cheerfully. 

 

"I'm just saying, some manners might be nice," Lucifer returned, his teeth grit together in the facsimile of a smile, "If you're lacking for plates, I can--"

 

"Oh, that shalln't be necessary," Alastor waved away, "This is how it is best eaten; aged within the carcass itself is simply the--"

 

"I'm not saying don't age it that way. I'm saying when you cut it open, don't eat it like a--"

 

"--Best way to experience it as it remains far more of its natural flavour that way--"

 

"Get. A. Plate."

 

"-- In fact, I am willing to share if it would please his majesty!" Alastor finished, ignoring the interruptions to his speech with practised care. Quite used to (from life, not the afterlife, they wouldn't dare in Hell) people interrupting him, "Besides, it's also part of my religion, as the one who gave us the free will to practice such things, I'm sure you understand." 

 

Lucifer's smile was harsh, and he spoke between grit teeth, "I'd love to try some  on a plate  if you would." 

 

"Hmmm," Alastor hummed out, looking thoughtful for a moment before tilting his head to the side, "No." 

 

Everyone was watching the back and forth curiously. Charlie looked enthused - which, despite his current annoyance, Lucifer was rather pleased about. The cat demon, Lucifer didn't remember his name, seemed slightly shocked. That made sense; he probably thought this red bastard was insane for talking back to the King of Hell. Which he was! If it wasn't for the fact that he was helping Charlie -- Well, he hadn't put any of those little Overlords in their place for a long time, and since this one was undoubtedly the most powerful that Lucifer had ever encountered, it would have been a joy to show them all where they belonged. 

 

He could feel something right now, actually. 

 

If Charlie was good at getting out his more positive emotions, for some inexplicable reason, this demon was rather good at getting to the more negative ones. To the point where he was actually considering reminding Hell of just how strong he was. That meant being  active  in Hell when he hadn't been in a millennia. And this combo of his daughter, her adoring eyes, and this Radio Demon's yellow-ass grin was getting him there. 

 

"Alastor! "  

 

The music he had been playing stopped immediately. Mid-bite, he froze and looked toward the door to his room. Did no one know basic manners anymore? In his day, it had been quite common to knock before one entered someone else's room. Ahh, how the times had changed.

 

It would be the mannerless little  exorcist,  Alastor thought to himself humourlessly. Were it not for the fact that Charlotte was quite attached to the winged annoyance, Alastor likely would have moved to remove her. As it currently stood, there was no particular action he could take to break their trust. Putting up with the girl continued to be quite annoying, "Do you mind? I'm in the middle of breakfast."

 

Once again, the last word of the thought was muted, causing most of them to look around with confusion. Vaggie was tensed, and Charlie rubbed her girlfriend's arm with a worried look. She was taking glances over at Alastor, and if he wasn't mistaken, there was some rather delicious-looking panic in that gaze. Though Alastor didn't know what she was worried about, if he wasn't saying it in the series, he had no purpose to say it now. 

 

Lucifer gave the grey-haired girl a considering look. 

 

It was clear that she had not come clean with his daughter. At the same time, it was clear that they both truly cared for one another. The looks were similar to those he had shared with his wife so long ago, before everything had become so unrecognizably twisted between them. Of course, that love didn't mean they had to be healthy for one another; he and Lilith certainly were not, and Lucifer wanted better for his daughter, but the care was still so clearly there. He did consider going against his Father, just telling his daughter what the little exorcist was hiding, but it would be better for their relationship if the girl admitted it herself. It, perhaps, wasn't his place to interrupt either; his daughter was just barely warming back up to him. He couldn't risk it. 

 

He was minorly - minorly - impressed that Alastor was able to pick up on it when so many other Sinners clearly had no idea. 

 

"Can you hear it?" Lucifer heard the porn star whisper to the cat demon. All he got in return was a shake of the cat demon's head. 

 

"Pentious's eggs are all over the place, and I need you to get rid of them. "  

 

Perhaps he would have to change his opinion on her if she continued to bring him more entertaining tasks such as this, "Oh, well, in that case, I'd be delighted to! "  He threw his utensils to the side and summoned his cane as he stood, walking closer to her and placing his hands behind his back. 

 

"Humanely! "  She stipulated. 

 

His toothy grin faded as teeth hid behind his lips. He should have known, really. And what was with that hostile expression on her face as she asked for a favour? The little murderer could get rid of the eggs herself; the glaring was certainly uncalled for, "Hm. Well, that's a lot less fun, but I suppose I can take care of that on my outing today. "  

 

Angel looked at the panicked Pentious out of the corner of his eye, trying to hide his grin by putting his head in his hand so that it wouldn't be visible from Pentious directly. Though, in effect, Alastor would be able to see the full brunt of his grin, "I hate to ask, but what you were considering doing wit the lil guys?"

 

Alastor did appreciate the apparent attempt to mess with the snake demon. What did the spider demon call it? Trolling? 

 

"Oh, I haven't seen my darling Rosie for quite some time. She does so love it when I bring her gifts!" Alastor cheerfully alluded. A laugh puffed up the porn star's cheeks; he had spent enough time around Val to be aware of the bigger-name overlords that were currently active. Pentious, on the other hand, looked surprisingly hopeful. 

 

"Oh, I am so glad to hear that my egg bois will go somewhere nice!" 

 

Alastor's grin widened. The Spider laughed uproaringly even as the Radio Demon continued, "Yes, Cannibal Town is quite the pleasant place. The last time I saw that friend of mine, she was quite interested in trying out some egg recipes. I'm sure she would be more than pleased with the acquisition of some new ingredients."

 

"C-Cannibal Town?! Ingredients?! Not my Egg Bois!" Pentious cried. 

 

"I assure you, she treats her ingredients quite humanly. We have standards, after all," Alastor said, curling his talons toward himself and looking at them. 

 

He strutted past her, intending to escape her remarkably offputting presence. The egg creatures followed after him, not a thought in their little shells. He could hear the little exorcist as he walked down the hall: "Great... That looks disgusting."

 

No accounting for taste. 

 

Lucifer rolled his eyes, "Well, that's one way to look at it." 

 

"We've already established that your opinion didn't matter, I thought," Alastor mused, just loud enough for the blonde to hear it. 

 

"I thought we came to the conclusion you're an ill-mannered neanderthal, but I suppose it could be misinterpreted, but someone with a lack of brain cells," Lucifer shot back. He was  grinning  when he spotted the demon's eye twitch, a visible sign that he was annoying the man; so fucking worth it. 

 

The radio sounds crackled harshly, "Haha! Though, perhaps a Neanderthal would be a more suitable description for you; after all, you match their... Stature, far more." Alastor used his right hand to pinch his index and thumb together on top of Lucifer's figure as he spoke. 

 

"Oh look, there's--"

 

"Okaaayyy!" Charlie interrupted cheerfully, "It's nice to see you more lively, Dad, but maybe let's tone it down just a little. After all, we have to all get along to try and fix whatever goes wrong, right?" 

 

Alasotr and Lucifer stared at the girl; they didn't say anything before turning their heads back toward the TV. Alastor tried to release his tension, noting his talons nicking into his cane. It was entertaining to mess with their King. He had never been particularly fond of absent fathers, which made it all the more compelling. Poking and prodding to find the man who had somehow put up with his bitch of a wife. Seeing more of those hidden depths, would Alastor also find that edge of cruelty? It was fascinating, but he really had not intended to be similarly affected by their little interaction. That grin on their King's face when he realized something had hit home. 

 

It was... Unideal.

 

---

 

After about an hour of preparation and planning, she and Charlie had come up with the basics of their trust-building plan and threw up another little banner for their meeting. Charlie was feeling excellent about the whole thing, which Vaggie found to be adorable, even as the meeting started, and she crossed her arms, cocking one of her hips to the side. 

 

"Hi, guys. Thanks for coming. It's been brought to our attention that there may be a littttlleeee-- "  Charlie dragged out, watching as Pentious took Niffty into his tail, squeezing her tightly, bringing a gun out -- "Tension within the group."

 

Vaggie walked over and stole the little gun from Pentious. The snake was shocked enough to immediately drop little Niffty. "Tention that can be counterproductive to what we're trying to do here."

 

"We think that this group could really benefit froooommmmm~! "  Charlie built up, pointing her finger upward. Vaggie couldn't help but wince at what they were about to do, the things she was willing to do for Charlie. They both jumped into the air and spread their arms before they exclaimed, "Trust exercises! "  

 

Lucifer let out a slow exhale and sat just a little straighter. Was it awkward? Fuck, but he had to start saying things, or she might think he wasn't trying; why was this so hard? Okay, "I think that's a cute idea, Honey! It should help, especially since they seem to struggle with that aspect." 

 

It was like the sun started shining in the room; Charlie smiled brightly, "You really think so?!" 

 

"If anyone can do it, you can." Lucifer did believe that. If he couldn't do it, the only one who could  possibly  do it would be  his  daughter. Thankfully, she seemed to take the compliment well. Even now, she was still smiling wide, which he managed to return with all the awkwardness that lay in his chest, making it a weird mix of a smile and a cringe. 

 

It was even worth that amused, raised eyebrow he got from the Radio Demon, which he completely ignored. 

 

Alastor enjoyed the family drama, which constantly increased the room's entertainment factor. Those two were prime entertainment if nothing else. 

 

Vaggie tried to sound excited, she did try, but she ended up falling on her ass which wasn't something she was particularly enthused about. Charlie grabbed her hand and pulled her close, "Vaggie, we rehearsed this. "  The blonde let out a little sigh and a smile, so Vaggie knew all was forgiven even as the hands remained on her shoulders. 

 

She looked back over to their guests. Husk looked sceptical, as usual, and Angel followed suit on that. Pentious was watching with a raised eyebrow and his arms crossed; he clearly wasn't a believer either. Niffty looked at them adoringly, but Vaggie knew better than to think that was about their trust exercises. More than likely, the little thing was smiling because Vaggie had fallen on her ass. 

 

Sometimes, she missed having  wings.  

 

Then she remembered she had Charlie and was glad not to have them anymore. 

 

"Vaggie?" Charlie asked, sounding confused. She took her tensed girlfriend's hand into her own. Vaggie didn't look at her; she looked down at the floor. Abruptly, Vaggie put her head in her hand, one hand covering her eyes, the other twitching in Charlie's hold. She could hear her worry, but Vaggie couldn't respond to it. 

 

This show was going to ruin - It - She - Vaggie didn't know what to do. She would have to tell Charlie if the show would go into her thoughts; it was just a matter of time before everyone had it figured out. But just like always, excuses fluttered into her mind: 'I'll tell her later' and 'Another hour won't make a difference'. Her mouth wouldn't form the words, wouldn't form any words.

 

Lucifer bit his lip as Charlie sent a helpless expression to him. 

 

What could he do? 

 

How does one comfort their daughter and her... partner? Is that something he should do?! He started bouncing his leg in place. His daughter was amazing, though. She didn't need him; she never really had. She gathered herself and turned to her girlfriend. Lucifer could make out the words, "No matter what, I will love you, okay? There is  nothing  that could change that."

 

The exorcist in her arms started sobbing. 

 

Lucifer couldn't help the small smile that came to him. 

 

"Still got no idea?" Lucifer heard and turned his head toward the pink demon, who stage whispered to the cat demon and the little demon. There was a reluctant amusement on that cat demon's face that he tried to hide as he shook his head, playing annoyed. 

 

There were a few awkward minutes until the sobbing stopped. 

 

Lucifer saw Alastor looking at the two with a wrinkle in his nose. When the red-themed demon saw him looking, his expression immediately smoothed. Though he hated to give the demon the benefit of the doubt, somehow, the look was less suspicious and more... just disgusted at the display of emotion—a smidgen of distaste. Perhaps the demon simply didn't like public displays of affection or emotion in general. 

 

Then, Lucifer wrinkled his lip in distaste when he realized he had been thinking about the radio demon for a touch too long. 

 

"So, what's the whole... uhh... this? "  Husk asked, gesturing toward the little stage they had set up, complete with a paper/drawing from Angel on the side, which was stuck on when they weren't looking, "I'm not about to put on some show for these fucking chumps. "  

 

Husk crossed his arm. Angel did as he always did and started to tease their bartender, stretching his long legs onto Husk's lap. Angel ignored the look of annoyance and gave the cat demon a grin. "Oh, I will, but it's cash up front, "  Angel demanded before pointing toward Pentious with a growing grin. "And I know that one can't afford me. "  

 

"Hey! Come to think of it, how the fuck do you afford all your high-tech yet somehow still old-timey bullshit?" Angel suddenly asked, turning toward Pentious. 

 

The snake sat up, almost proudly, "I have made several profitable investments! I am quite good with money; I shall have you know!" His chest was puffed out, and his fingers were laid gently upon himself in a proud manner. 

 

"Ugh, Capitalism," Alastor commented, looking distinctively unimpressed. 

 

Lucifer glared sharply at the demon. He might have sounded a tinge too defensive, "What's wrong with Capitalism?"

 

Angel snorted, unable to help himself, before snickers started pouring out, "Oh my Hells, tell me it ain't fuckin' true. The devil a ctually  created Capitalism? I fucking can't! Half those American fucks out there are always talkin' about how you created Socialism when in reality - Ha! That's fucking rich." 

 

"It's a perfectly great system! If you work hard, you get rewarded; it's fair and profitable! If someone deserves it, they will get what they were working for," Lucifer defended. 

 

Unimpressed, radio sounds erupted, and Alastor's eyes narrowed dangerously. "Oh, how nice, a system that the people in power could  never  take advantage of."

 

"Ignore him. You get him drunk enough, and he won't shut up about the impacts of economics," The cat demon grumbled, rolling his eyes. Alastor gave him a sharp glance, but the Radio Demon didn't actually move to retaliate in any way. 

 

"Gross! I'd never think of it, Spider! "  Pentious glared over, but Angel's smirk never faltered. 

 

Deciding to stop that in its tracks before a fight broke out, Vaggie interrupted, "Right. Well, let's get started. Charlie? "  

 

Oh god, she looks too pleased with herself.  Vaggie noticed but couldn't help smiling, even as it turned upside down. The blonde said, "Actually, I thought maybe you could take the lead on this one. "  Vaggie looked at her with wide eyes as she continued, "I trust everyone, so maybe you know better about how to build it properly. "  

 

Angel suddenly let out a barking laugh, "Ain't that hilarious! Isn't she one of the people keepin' this little secret that the big dick himself keeps bleeping out? Somehow, that doesn't scream trustin' --"

 

Angel cut himself off as Vaggie curled in on herself, and for the first time ever, Charlie actually sent him a glare. It was startling, and the pink-haired demon actually sat up in his seat at the suddenness of it. When Charlie stopped glaring and went back to comforting her girlfriend, Angel whispered over to Husk, "Damn, she's one scary bitch, ain't she?" 

 

"Well, she is the Princess of Hell." 

 

Everyone walked forward, and they were looking at her. Vaggie wasn't precisely -- That is to say -- She didn't, she wasn't, trust? Trust wasn't exactly something she was terrific at. It was hard; it was something she was still working toward; she wasn't, "Que? Uhh, I don't know if I'm qualified, uh-- "  

 

Vaggie wasn't; she wasn't qualified for that at all. Charlie was smiling, though, with so much faith in those wide eyes: "Oh, come on. It'll be easy. I'm sure you can handle this."

 

Her eyes drifted to the side, and the urge to shrink in on herself was only stopped by Charlie's faith in her. She didn't want to let her girlfriend down. Charlie had done so much for her, for everyone in Hell, that she deserved to be able to watch someone else fight for her dream. Vaggie wanted to fight for Charlie's dream, past her own insecurities and hypocrisy. "Yeah, um... Sure, I can handle this. No problem. "  

 

She sniffed, straightened her back, and fell back into what she knew. What she grew up in. Her voice was stiff, stern, "All right! So, we are starting with trust falls. Each of you are going to share something vulnerable with the group about yourself and then fall backwards, while the rest of the group catches you. Got it? Who wants to go first? "  

 

Charlie immediately raised her hand, jumping in place, "Ooooohh, oohhh, me me me! Me! Me! Me! "  The demon grabbed her shoulders in her excitement, and just as she always did, Vaggie gave into her energy and fell into place. 

 

"All right, get on up here. "  

 

Vaggie watched as Charlie pranced up confidently, "I love you guys. Like really, really love you. "  Charlie had tears in her eyes. Her ease in revealing something like that was always so impressive to Vaggie. That's what trust was, being able to... 

 

Be vulnerable... 

 

Tell the truth... 

 

"It's okay, Vaggie," Charlie immediately said, rather than waiting for the grey-haired girl to spiral again. She gently touched Vaggie's chin and directed her to make eye contact, "Whenever you are ready to tell us, that's when you should. Not a moment sooner. No one should be forced to talk about anything they truly don't want to talk about. I trust you. No matter what you aren't saying, it will be okay."

 

"Charlie...." Vaggie whispered, her eyes wet again as she was hugged by the other girl. 

 

Angel was faking a gagging from his seat as he watched the whole thing. Pentious, on the other hand, started loudly sobbing at the drama, hissing escaping as each sob heaved out of him.

 

Charlie fell backwards, and Vaggie went forward to grab her. She neatly fell into her arms. Vaggie curled her fingers around Charlie's waist and looked at the content look on Charlie's face: "Woah! That. Felt. Good! "  Charlie hung her head back even as she remained in Vaggie's grasp: "Angel! Why don't you go next? "  

 

Angel was as enthusiastic as ever. He grumbled out a quick "Finnneee "  and walked toward the stage. 

 

"This time, everyone needs to catch him, "  Vaggie reminded, but knew that wouldn't be enough, so she brought out her -- her... spear... and pointed it at them, "Unless you want me to hurt you."

 

Once Angel was on the stage, Vaggie could tell the man would skirt the rules as much as possible. The Spider Demon never put effort into these exercises, "Somethin' about myself, huh? How about this? "  The grin that spread across the demon's face spoke volumes, "I love to suck --"

 

Husk actually interrupted, "I swear to fuck if you say dicks!"

 

Husker ran a hand down his face, getting the main idea of where this was going. The spider demon was practically a one-trick horny pony. His tone of voice here, though, that immediate response, and Husk knew himself. No one knew you better than yourself, after all. He knew that he was playing at being annoyed, a touch too loud, a little too immediate in his response. No one else would know -- 

 

Alastor was giving him an amused look. 

 

He could feel his hair stand on end in embarrassment. Okay, so almost no one else would know. How the fuck did that emotionally constipated and inept deal master of his know him that well? The man could hardly tell an emotion if it slapped him in the face!

 

"Popsicles, ya sicko! Getcha mind outta the gutter, "  With a spin, Angel threw himself off the stage and directly toward Husk's arms. Vaggie was surprised at the fact that the cat demon actually caught the porn star, surprised but impressed, "But you know, dick's too! "  

 

"Looking strong there, Kitty. I'd love to have those arms wrapped around me, gettin' to fall into those arms is like a dream," Angel reached over and poked his left ear -  poked it!

 

Husk growled at the spider demon, who playfully raised his hands in surrender and backed away again. The only one who could do that was Niff, who was the exception to many rules regarding everyone's personal space preferences. Even Alastor allowed her to be pretty close to him.

 

Annnnd Vaggie didn't blame him at all when Husk dropped the grinning Angel onto the ground with a little growl. 

 

"All right, new guy, you're up~! "  Angel simpered.

 

Vaggie could feel her eye twitching as the snake approached the stage. Immediately, his eyes were leaking. The dramatics were nowhere near as attractive on Pentious as they were on Charlie: "I... don't want to live without my minions. Nobody catch me."

 

"Maybe we should let him keep the eggs, hun," Charlie whispered into her ear. Pentious heard her as they sat quite close and perked up in excitement. He didn't say anything, but there was a brightness in his eyes. The snake demon was practically always on the edge of sobbing, so this wasn't surprising.  

 

Vaggie wasn't recovered, but she did manage to squeeze her girlfriend close to herself. She said nothing, wasn't ready to talk quite yet, but didn't disagree. Pentious was clearly very attached to the eggs. They could mitigate the damage the eggies could do but couldn't fix the emotional hurt from losing them. That took a long time to heal, and considering they only had a few months to redeem someone, it was not exactly something they should be chancing. Another thing to feel bad about, Vaggie helplessly noted. She tried not to be so negative, but fuck. 

 

Vaggie caught him, and it was a very uncomfortable experience, "That's great. Wow, you are slimy. Okay. Good job. Err, Niffty. "  

 

Little pattering sounds hit the wooden floor the second her name was called as Niffty clambered over to the stage. Her small hands were out in front of her, her old school poodle skirt sweeping around her as she skurried, giving frantic little giggles, "Sometimes I kill mother bugs in front of their children as a warning to others."

 

"I think your tactics are quite effective, darling!" Alastor cheered, a sadistic smile on his face. Niffty immediately returned it and clambered off of Husker's head and back over to Alastor, her little nails digging into him as she climbed, but he never minded that, not when it came to this little darling. 

 

Once she sat on his shoulder, she laughed uproaringly, her little body shaking with the force of it. Alastor found himself sharing the laugh. 

 

They all took a step back. 

 

Niffty splattered onto the ground, but the giggling didn't stop. "Yay! Pain! "  the girl yelled before running back up and throwing herself off the edge again. Vaggie looked toward Charlie, wondering if they should stop this or be concerned. Or... 

 

Alastor glared at them, the laughter he was sharing with Niffty dying. His grin sharpened, literally, his teeth getting sharper as the glare continued. Little Niffty didn't mind; she never would, but the idea that they would do that to her after explaining that they would catch her is literally the antithesis of trust. 

 

They walked away a little to discuss away from the others. Charlie had to admit, "I don't know if this is really working the way we hoped. Maybe we should --"

 

But Charlie had already put her trust, and Vaggie? She couldn't break it. She wanted to prove herself useful to Charlie's goals and her vision. If she couldn't, then what help was she? She... Vaggie smiled at Charlie, "Honey, you have to trust me here. I got this, okay? I'll figure something out."

 

Despite walking away, Angel must have overheard because a set of his arms wrapped around their shoulders, as he spoke, "If you're in the market for some ideas, I got just the thing for some 'trust '  buildin'. "

 

Unfortunately, beggars can't be choosers, so Vaggie sighed and knew she would regret it as she asked, "What do you have in mind? "  

 

"I'm not sure if you want to take his advice on trust-building exercises. I can see where this is going," Husk gruffly stated, sending the pink-haired demon a pointed look. Angel placed his hands together as though praying to the lord, his face the picture of innocence. Which, on him, came right back around to being dirtier than a 2 dollar whore. 

 

---

 

If it were not for his ironclad reputation, Alastor would have found himself somewhat annoyed by the layman eggs he was being tasked with. Their voices were frustratingly moronic -- "Oh, boy. What's the plan, boss? I like your suit. What are the antlers for? Can I touch your staff thing? Are those your eyes, or is it your hair? I can't tell."

 

His eye was twitching. 

 

"Look at how well my eggies behave!" Pentious pointed out as they annoyed the Radio Demon on screen. 

 

"I dunno about that. Lookin' more like they're temptin' Mr Creepy Smiles into going back on his word for a humane endin' for them," Angel theorized; that might have been the most blatant eye-twitching emotion they had ever seen the man display. The eggs were clearly tempting their fate. 

 

Shadows took shape before him, and Alastor could feel his annoyance flee. In annoyance's place, as it always did with Zestial, came a reluctant respect. 

 

"Hark, Alastor, "  The husky voice spoke, "How fare thee this day? "  

 

The little egg had the audacity to speak -- Alastor felt his eyes go wide as he looked at the little jumping thing out of the corner of his eye.  Oh, what a day to be seen with such imbecilic beings. 

 

"Haha! That's hilarious. Oh my God," Lucifer erupted into laughter, pointing at the TV. Alastor crossed his legs and felt his fingers twitch with the sudden urge to strangle an absentee father, "It's so clear already that you respect him; look at how you straightened up; holy shit! It's like a dog greeting their owner when they come home!" 

 

The others were either too emotional (Vaggie and Charlie) or too invested in their future health to laugh with the King. However, Alastor did note that Husker looked a tinge, too amused. The demon was lucky that Alastor considered him a friend. He was clearly taking the Hotel extremely seriously if he was willing to risk getting spotted with this particular trope of egg creatures in his shadow. This wasn't simply protecting the Princess as he had been thinking; this was worse. 

 

"Who is that boss? Do you want me to rough him up for you? "  Alastor bent backwards to scold the thing, though he nearly killed the egg right then for making a fool of Alastor in front of such a renowned person.

 

"Follow in silence if you value your shell. "  Alastor tapped the egg on the head with his cane before pushing himself straight and granting his full attention to Zestial.  Hopefully, the man wasn't too offended by what had occurred; Alastor would hate to have annoyed him,  "Greetings, Zestial!"

 

"Oh my god, you're a fanboy, aren't you?! I fucking can't! My stomach hurts!" Lucifer continued laughing so hard that he slipped a little from the sofa and grasped at his stomach. Alastor knew,  knew,  that some of that was just for the dramatics of it. Still, the man didn't stop. 

 

He didn't know what a fanboy was but suspected it was hardly an accurate label. He simply respected Zestial. The man knew how to craft an appearance, a persona, and was someone who carried his time with him. It was admirable in their world, where everyone was trying to adapt constantly. Compared to a pathetic worm like Vox, it was nice to see an Overlord who didn't need to hide behind alliances. Someone who had their own strength. Someone feared by most of Hell. Zestial was a good role model and had been since Alastor first entered Hell. That was all. 

 

Angel looked like he was prepared to end their goodwill as he opened his mouth, "It's okay, Smiles. Everyone fanboy's for someone. I stanned Josephine Baker both in life and death!" 

 

Alastor could feel his patience being tested. At least the porn star had good taste. Josephine Baker was quite the pick. 

 

Demons in the background were running away, gossiping, and stumbling away, as they should. Zestial was quite the intimidating character; Alastor had always appreciated the being's ability to project his image. Even more so was the sly look that came into the man's green eyes because he understood exactly what his image imposed on others: "Ah, the weather doth become this fine day."

 

Alastor did so love this game, "Indeed. Looks like we might have some acid rain this afternoon."

 

"They don't do that when they see Val on the streets; I can tell yah that much," Angel said, watching with wide eyes as people scrambled away from the pair of Overlords. 

 

Lucifer let out one more wheezing chuckle before he sat himself back up properly on the sofa. It was nice to see that Zestial had been doing well. He was one of the few Overlords with whom he had any interactions. When he walked the streets, rare as it was, no one recognized him anymore. Lucifer kind of preferred it that way, lest people start throwing themselves out of windows and such to get out of his way. These two liked it more than they found it annoying. They would, Sinners and all. Lucifer really shouldn't be surprised. 

 

Alastor gestured toward a demon who elected to set themselves on fire rather than be in their presence. He and Zestial glanced over in amusement as he ran, shrieking, "If our luck doth hold! I do revel in the screams. How art thou? "  Alastor felt something a little more genuine in his smile as he continued to grin. They walked toward the meeting together now, and it was good to run into Zestial. So few sinners had any taste these days, "It has been an age since thou hath graced us with thy presence. Some hath spun wild tales of you falling to..."

 

Alastor looked to the side and met the demon's eyes as he spoke, curious about the theory—"Holy arms."

 

"That doesn't even make sense. How would someone in Hell fall into holy arms?" Charlie said, sounding particularly confused. Not suspicious, not in the least. Just confused, she tilted her head to the side as he thought it over.

 

Immediately, Alastor laughed, it echoing through his cane as he turned to look at his reflection. If anyone would have been able to put some pieces together, it would have been Zestial;  part of why the man was so worthy of the respect he had been afforded , "Hahaha! Oh, I just took a well-earned sabbatical. Nothing serious. "  He knocked his eyes from side to side, checking to ensure no one else was listening in on the conversation.  His words were lies, but only Zestial would have been able to pick up on that,  "Though it's fun to keep everyone on their toes. Haha! "  

 

"Okay, so we just gonna pretend that wasn't suspicious as shit?" Angel spoke, his voice a deadpan, gesturing toward the screen. 

 

Lucifer narrowed his eyes on the grinning demon. If what he suspected was true, he knew precisely how this demon wanted to use his little deal with him. Holy arms, he suspected, was quite literally the opposite of what Alastor was dealing with. This whole thing had  her  fingers all over it. If it weren't for that, he never would have accepted their little  deal  and might have even obliterated the demon -- He could feel his horns attempting to inch their way out of him as angered thoughts took him over. Lucifer took in a breath and calmed himself. His daughter wouldn't like him thinking like that. He was all over the place right now, between awkwardness, laughing, and anger at the drop of a hat. Everything was a lot right now. 

 

"Oh please, my dear fellow, let's not make a big deal of it," Alastor said, but his tongue felt pulled. Forced to say things he never wished to. It was, of course, one of his orders to not allow people to have suspicions. It burned his throat to say these words; he didn't want to. He wanted people to catch on - specifically Lucifer. 

 

"A-huh..." Angel hummed out, non-committed, not believing a fucking sound escaping the deer demon. 

 

Zestial chuckled himself. However, it was still time for the integration to be over. Alastor felt his finger twitch against his cane, "There too hath been rumour of thy involvement with the princess and her recent flight of fancy. "  Zestial had moved in close, checking for each microexpression Alastor might have given. That was fine because Alastor had nothing in particular to hide regarding that. He would protect her; she was his road to freedom. She was also... Particular. 

 

Zestial flared his cloak, "Tell me, how does thou fall in such folly? "  

 

"Well, that's rude!" Charlie pouted, her lip jutting out. 

 

Vaggie chuckled, finally breaking through after far too many emotions had been overwhelming her. It was nice to see Charlie being more lighthearted; the girl spread that joy easier than she thought. 

 

Hearing that chuckle, Charlie heaved in a deep breath, her whole self puffing with the force of it: " Vagggiiiieeee! You laughed! Oh my god, I love you so much!" 

 

"Love you too, hun," Vaggie said in a much softer tone, brushing those beautiful blonde strands away from her eyes and running a finger down her cheek as she gave a soft smile. She was lucky, so lucky, to have Charlie in her life. 

 

That, perhaps, made far more sense than questioning his involvement in the first place. There were plenty of reasons to attempt getting close to Charlotte Morningstar but far fewer reasons to fall into her pace and help her, as Zestial might have been claiming him to do. The man searched, tested, and prodded for chains he might suspect were there. The demon was quite astute. 

 

"That is for me to know, "  Alastor announced, giving himself away. Yes, I am falling into the folly.  It isn't wholly about the politics of it all,  and Zestial would understand that. "But please, do guess. I'd love to know the theories. "  

 

"So... you... care?!" Charlie gasped out, looking overwhelmed. Her girlfriend looked happier, her dad looked more lively, her Hotel had two people in it, and Alastor  actually  cared and wasn't just pretending! 

 

Well, this was a little embarrassing. He felt his ears twitch beyond his control, and his grip on his cane tightened. He did not at the moment care about Charlotte beyond the fact that he needed to protect her, but he could see why he might be able to come to care for her. She was clearly a very driven young woman. Number-wise, she was older than him, but heliborne demons matured differently than humans/sinners did, and he was always the type to want to care for women like her. Niffty was an example of that. To have it so blatantly stated for everyone to hear was jarring. It was not something he would ever choose for himself. 

 

Lucifer was casting a thoughtful glance at him. 

 

For all that he needed Lucifer's help with his particular problem - that had been the point of the deal, after all - the last thing he wanted was for his reputation to be rocked in front of this many people. Even Husker looked at him consideringly and, dare he say it, with some humour at the reaction that Alastor hadn't been able to hide. Pulling on the demon's chain was almost tempting, though it would have been exceptionally cruel of him... And it was a terrible look considering the current people he was around. 

 

Zestial started chuckling again as they continued walking: "T'would be grander folly by far to assume the workings of your mind, Alastor. "  He glanced over at the other demon again, and he had to admit he liked the attention the other was affording him: "Thou hath been naught but an enigma since thy manifested in this realm."

 

So, Alastor was honest in return, "Coming from someone as ancient as you, I take that as quite the compliment."

 

"Fucking fanboy!" Lucifer cried out again, covering his mouth to try and stop the spewing snickers. 

 

Someone with a reputation like Alastor sniffing at the heels of another Overlord was objectively hilarious. Angel nor Husker seemed to lose their own amused edge. Niffty, the little darling, was turning traitor as she let loose a cackle before saying, "It's okay, Alastor, I like bad boys too!" 

 

His smile was static, "Niffty dear, I don't believe --"

 

"I'll write about it for y--"

 

"My dear, I would appreciate it if you would not do that," Alastor felt his radio filter fading off in his terseness. He glared toward Lucifer; the man looked even more amused. Frankly, Alastor was starting to like it more when the man acted listless and pathetic, "And you, if you would stop putting ideas into her mind, I would greatly appreciate it." 

 

They made their way to the elevator; Alastor could feel a familiar gaze watching them as he went. Vox's sickening fingers could be felt. Finding one of the cameras, Alastor glanced directly into it, glitching it out as he did so. As he and Zestial entered the elevator, he bent down toward the little egg creatures that had been following him silently. He lowered his cane, stopping them in their tracks, with a sharp metallic sound, "No, no. I have a crucial task for you. Stay here and guard the front until I return."

 

The doors shut. 

 

Alastor felt his grip on his cane tighten in distaste as he realized that one of the eggs had somehow made it into the lift with them. 

 

It was a joy to see Rosie, even in passing.  Alastor thought to himself, glad to see his friend after a long seven years. They know better than to act too friendly during one of these meetings, but Alastor would simply have to go visit the dear soon. The most he would do is take the seat next to her.

 

"She's your friend?" Charlie squeaked curiously, looking at her future hotelier with curious eyes. 

 

Thankfully, Alastor much preferred talking about Rosie than talking about his respect for Zestial. A safer topic, one that would undoubtedly lack the opportunity for Lucifer to goad him, "Yes, my darling Rosie. She is a sight for sore eyes. I have missed her devious, cunning nature. We will have to get tea as soon as I am able." 

 

"... Well, I love that you give your friends compliments, but maybe you should consider giving some more, oh, I don't know, nicer? Compliments," Charlie trailed off. 

 

Nicer compliments? Nicer compliments than reminding her she was the most devious and cunning demon on her side of the pentagram? How could there possibly be anything more complimentary than that! He didn't say anything, not bothering to voice his confusion, instead just tilting his head to the side, letting her take the movement however she might. 

 

He had to withhold a laugh as Rosie sent a sharp grin toward the egg creature, scaring it quite a bit. 

 

Carmilla Carmine toed herself to the front of the table. Alastor painted a broader grin on his face. Their last interaction had not been the most pleasant. Hopefully, the dear weapons dealer had a short memory. "Welcome, Hell's sovereign overlords. I've invited you all here because you represent the controlling powers of our city. Together, we own millions of souls—souls at risk with the new extermination schedule. We need to discuss what can be done to minimize the impact on our interests."

 

Zestial found a seat next to Carmilla. They were both excellent acquaintances, so Alastor wasn't surprised to see this.

 

"Zestial, good to see you, my friend."

 

"Enchanged as always, Carmilla, "  Zestial returned, his rumbling voice warmed somewhat as he summoned a drink.

 

"Alastor?"

 

Ah, there was an unturning of the lip in disgust when she glanced his way. She seemed still displeased with him, "Yes, I know, I've been absent some time. I'm sure you've all been wondering. "  

 

"Not really, "  she shot back. He could feel his teeth clench, especially when Zestial glanced at him amusedly, "But welcome back in any case."

 

"Always liked her!" Lucifer cut in, that vicious smile that Alastor was getting used to seeing cutting its way across his face, "My favourite Overlord by far." 

 

Alastor wasn't in the best of mood after seeing the brush off that Carmilla saw fit to serve him. (He wasn't surprised, but still) and he hardly wanted to take that particular comment lying down, "I'm surprised you know any, considering how hands off you are in most things; ruling, your daughter's life, your--" 

 

"Oooooo-kaaay!" Charlie interrupted, clapping her hands together as she spoke. 

 

"Awwwh, toots! Why did you have to interrupt them? We've gotten accustomed to the Al and Luci show," Angel pouted. Both Alastor and Lucifer looked over at the porn star with blank looks, causing the man to raise his hands up in surrender once again. 

 

As much as he disliked that particular response, Alastor had to admire her steadfast demeanour, as he always had. It was unfortunate that he found himself holding measures of respect for those two. Life would have been easier if he had been willing to act against them. It was different from with Rosie. They were friends, as hard as that was to admit sometimes.  With those two, Alastor had always found himself somewhat... 

 

Frankly, he couldn't find the words for it. 

 

"I got a few for you - Faaaannn booooyyyyy~!" Lucifer drawled out. 

 

Lucifer wasn't sure if he was pretending to be more lively or if he actually was actually feeling it. Thankfully, Charlie wasn't giving him concerned looks anymore. Although she did now look ready to jump into any conversation he started with the deer demon, it was far better than her shooting him those concerned looks. It was freeing, allowing some of those aspects of his personality out - He hadn't been allowed to tease like this in a while. Lilith -- 

 

There went his mood. 

 

The smile felt fake. 

 

Alasotr watched as the grin their King had been using naturally twitched and folded in on itself. No one knew smiles like Alastor did, whether fake, coy, grins, or a hidden murderous intention; Alastor knew those expressions like the back of his hand. The question was, did he like the King enough to help? 

 

No, he didn't - not even close.

 

Alastor allowed some contentment to settle in his chest. It would be nice to not have to deal with the unremarkable name-calling until the man recovered some of his dignity. 

 

"This year's extermination was brutal, far more even than years past, "  She sounded infuriated as she continued, "We have assessed that about sixteen per cent of the population was lost. With the angelic legions now returning twice as quickly, I think it prudent we --"

 

Someone unmannered kicked the door open. 

 

Oh my! It was one of Vox's little groupies—how amusing. Alastor found himself dearly hoping Carmilla would put her into her place, the little upstart.  He curled his fingers together as he readied himself for a show. 

 

"Yes, I've got it handled, Vox. Are you doubting me? Really? Me? That's what I thought, "  The female ranted into her rectangular device, "Yes, I know. They're all a joke. Thank you, Vee. See you soon. Kisses, darling."

 

"Feelin's illegal gettin' to see stuff like this," Angel admitted, his grin somewhat intrigued. 

 

"Hmm?" Husk hummed a questioning note. 

 

Angel gestured toward the screen, "Yah know, getting to see into an Overlord meetin'. Kind of interestin' to see." 

 

Husk took a sip from one of the bottles that Alastor had summoned earlier and shrugged, "Ain't nothing interesting happening in those meetings. Just boring bullshit and people in power searching for more of it."

 

Carmilla's dull voice and narrowed eyes absolutely gave him life, as the newer souls would say, "Nice of you to join us, Velvette. "  Her lip upturned, similar to the way it had when she had first laid eyes upon Alastor again, though his time, the distaste lingered unhindered, "Will you... colleagues be joining? "  

 

"No! They have better shit to do than listen to an old windbag who thinks she's tough shit. I'm here to represent, "  The girl explained. 

 

What repulsive representation! I would expect nothing less from my old pal,  Alastor thought, his eyebrows perking up in genuine amusement at this thoughtfully gifted entertainment. 

 

"You still call him your old pal. Do you still think of him as a friend?" Charlie asked, her eyes curious as she turned toward Alastor. 

 

A laughter track played before Alastor could even formulate a response to that. More than anything, Vox was an annoyance. He was the exact type of Overlord that Alastor didn't like. Someone who teamed up with others to secure their own power. The part that Alastor found mildly distasteful was the fact that he had, at one point, considered him and Vox friends. Had thought that Vox was above such things. That Vox could grow into his own power, and they could be friends, true friends. Friends like him and Rosie. But Vox? He was a disappointment, "No, my dear. I do not consider him a friend. If anything, he is a disappointment that will amount to nothing, and he should be lucky that I haven't ripped his soul apart on air for his continued - frankly laughable - attempts at a rivalry with me." 

 

Their song had been fun, and Alastor liked completely destroying the TV, but that was all that was—nothing more. There had never been anything more.

 

Husk stared at his boss. Alastor felt those eyes and looked at the cat demon, saying nothing. His contract holder wouldn't like him theorizing, but if he had to guess, Alastor might have been a little hurt. Try as he might to hide it behind harsh words, but Alastor had liked the media demon at one time. Husker remembered them drinking together. Vox had been allowed to touch the demon—something Husker knew was reserved for very few, mostly Niffty, Mimzy, and Rosie. 

 

"Charming, "  Carmilla commented, turning away from the annoyance, "So, as I was saying, we need to discuss -"

 

Velvette waved her hand around in the air. 

 

"Yes? "  Carmilla asked, her tone not bothering to hide her distaste.

 

"On the subject of discussion, "  Velvette reached to her side and pulled out something rather familiar by the horn. Alastor watched it roll down the table as she threw it. He could feel saliva pooling in his mouth as everyone gave off surprised exclamations. Even Zestial looked put off by the bouncing head: "Ohhh, tasty~!"

 

"... You've got to be fucking kidding me. Fucking sinners," Lucifer grumbled under his breath. His eyes were dull, but his fist was clutched in rage. 

 

It wasn't wise to twist the knife. Alastor was well aware that Lucifer was far stronger than him and knew the man could do away with him in a blink, but not only did they have a binding deal that wouldn't allow Lucifer to kill him until fulfilled, but his daughter actually  liked  him. Alastor was relatively safe, as safe as one could be when speaking to the Lord of Hell, "Perhaps we wouldn't come up with such foolish flights of fancy if our dear King actually ruled his realm and his people properly." 

 

There was no rage response, just a dead stare. 

 

Alastor found that he liked Lucifer's anger far more than whatever that look was. He was already regretting his earlier thoughts about preferring the King more listless.

 

Charlie walked over to her father, placing a hand on his shoulder. Slowly, his head turned away from Alator and toward his daughter. He said nothing but kept eye contact with her. 

 

"Dad... Did you know that it was possible to harm an Angel?" Charlie asked, on the edge of her tone was just a smidgen of accusation; Lucifer couldn't unhear it. He flinched from it. Wanted to hide from it. There was no hiding from what would be revealed, though. 

 

He cleared his throat. "Right, well, of course, we can be harmed, Charlie. It's just better not to fight against them. Fighting against them is just not smart," Lucifer stuttered through something of an explanation. 

 

"If angels can be harmed, then why has no one ever fought back?" She pushed, her eyes fading into red, another trait she had gained from him. 

 

"Charlie -- It's -- Okay, has anyone here ever fought an exorcist before?" Lucifer questioned the room. 

 

"Who would do an idiotic thing like that?" Angel asked, looking at their King like he was crazy.

 

Alastor cleared his throat, "I have, several times. Though sadly not as successfully as some, apparently."

 

Lucifer winced in distaste but worked with the only option on the table. Of course, Vaggie could have been an example, too, but she was unlikely to step forward any time soon. "When you fought them, what did you notice?" 

 

"Oh, they are absolutely horrible! Can't fight to save their lives, weak little things. They act as if they are some kind of immortal ants. Plentiful, but incapable when alone. It isn't as though they are immune to damage, however." Alastor considered his past experiences closely for a moment. It was an excellent opportunity to potentially hear from a fallen angel about how to fight them. For that, Alastor was more than willing to talk of his own past experiences: "The damage just heals quickly. I have wanted to try a few things to test their effectiveness, but since fighting them essentially amounts to nothing as you can't end them properly, typically, those with the power to do so will just hunker down or shield if they can." 

 

"Rigggghhhttt - So, like he said, they heal really quickly. Think of it kind of like an advanced form of how you Sinners reform, or if you're familiar with how higher Hellbornes heal really quickly unless it's by an angelic weapon, that sort of thing -- What I'm getting at is nothing is stopping Sinners from fighting, not even me, they just can't." Lucifer blabbed out, sputtering, not at all minding his word vomit, just letting anything he said release itself as it pleased. Trying not to think of what happened last time they had attempted –

 

Charlie didn't look satisfied, and Lucifer didn't blame her. In his panic, he wasn't entirely sure what he had said; what had his point been? His only point was trying to calm her down, which didn't seem to work. "There has to be a way!"

 

"Of course there is! Holy energy - Right, so exorcists are like bottom-of-the-barrel angels; they can't make their own holy energy, but they can be harmed by it. Only beings that can create holy energy can actually harm angels, so--"

 

"So you could," Charlie interrupted, sounding a little more hopeful.

 

Sure, he could, but he was just one angel, and Heaven was  Heaven , and Heaven had his siblings, endless droves of them, and he wasn't even sure if he  wanted  to fight them, even if he could, "Charlie, it's not enough. I'm just one. If I was going to try and fight them, I could take out the whole exorcist army with no problem, but they would end up sending someone else down, and maybe I could take out those guys too, but eventually, they would send someone, or multiple sometimes, that can beat me."

 

Charlie softened, and though that fragile hope had left her eyes, there was still that strength, that steel inside of them which spoke of her determination, "So that's why, then. You have to agree to it, or all of Hell would be in danger because you aren't strong enough to face them all, and we have no way of fighting back. That just makes it even more important that I get this Hotel to work! If we can't fight back, we have to save them another way."

 

His teeth immediately gritted. He wanted to deny, deny,  deny —he was strong enough—but that was his sin. Instead, he slowly nodded because even if he could find a way, he wouldn't, not when it presented so much danger to Charlie. He would rather let all the sinners die than let her come close to harming her. Charlie sat back down, satisfied enough for now, right back into her little exorcist's arms. Lucifer knew this topic would come back up and hoped to his Father that his daughter wouldn't end up hating him when it did.

 

Alastor found himself somewhat hopeful that he would get this particular snack after this discussion. He wouldn't be loath to share it with Rosie should his dear friend desire a taste. 

 

"Where did you get this? "  Carmilla was infuriated, though she had hidden her anger well. Fortunately, Alastor was familiar with that hidden rage, so he could recognize it when he heard it. 

 

"We found it during extermination day. If these Holy Rollers can be killed, the game has changed, "  As the girl spoke, she stepped onto the table, "We can take the fight to them. The boys and I have come up with a full assault plan."

 

"As expected, no chance it was the Vees that actually managed to kill one," Alastor cringed at the very idea of it having actually been one of the Vees. Frankly, it was surprising that they didn't just take the head and broadcast it to all of Hell, considering how loosely they handed out their information. Alastor never would have brought that particular finding out during an Overlord meeting. Information was to be coveted. Something Vox was incapable of understanding. 

 

Slurping noises erupted to Alastor's left. Zestial sipped away at his drink, interrupting the little tirade. Alastor did have to admit that Velvette had that spark of greed that one wanted when it came to ruling in Hell, but it was dulled by an evident lack of wit. He found himself so hoping that Zestial would call her out on it. 

 

The sipping continued. 

 

Alastor blinked. He did so like the dramatics. 

 

Finally, Zestial returned his cup to the saucer, "If it be true thee and thy colleagues desire to war with such meagre proof, thou art far more foolish than I be thought."

 

Angel coughed. 

 

A cough that was pretty clearly an aborted laugh. 

 

"Something to add, good sir?" Alastor asked, raising an eyebrow in Angel's direction. 

 

Angel gave a smile, more clearly under control of himself. He was a consummate actor if nothing else. He shrugged rather than answered - Smiles wouldn't like the answer. The answer being just how clearly his fanboy behaviour seemed to be in touch with his trolling behavior. In other words, the OG Overlord affected Alastor more than Angel would have thought. They even fucked with people the same way. They had literally just seen Al do something similar with his drink when Pentious attacked. 

 

Alastor, the Radio Demon, Number One Fanboy. 

 

Angel coughed again. 

 

"Meager proof? It's a dead fucking exorcist, "  Velvette crossed her arms, her tone obstinate, "I'd say that's pretty fucking definitive. Are you going blind, old man?"

 

Alastor allowed his gaze to slide back over to Zestial. "We know not how this perished. Mayhaps it was not by a demon's hand at all. If we rush into war without knowing, mightn't they purge all of Hell for daring an uprising?"

 

"At least one of you has a good head on their shoulders," Lucifer said under his breath, his eyes still dull as they watched the screen. 

 

It was irritating, Alastor realized; he wasn't the biggest fan of that dullness. He should have attempted earlier, but to throw his own pride and play into the 'fanboy' statements was far too much. The King responded rather well to a well-placed jib; perhaps if he kept tossing them at the blonde, he would gain back that steel his eyes had when Lucifer stared him down, demanding a deal, demanding he never threatens his daughter.

 

He could feel the fur on his ears go jagged in the memory, a shiver overtaking him. 

 

Since everyone at the table seemed to be looking at Zestial or the little upstart, Alastor took the time to poke at the blood on the exorcist's horn. His smile did not fade as he stuck the blood-covered finger into his mouth with a shiver of delight. 

 

Alastor found himself somewhat jealous of the version of himself on screen. He wasn't particularly prone to jealousy, but being jealous of oneself was even more of a new experience. He just knew that the exorcist was a delicacy; he could feel his mouth watering at the thought of it. 

 

"It could happen; that is possible, I suppose, "  Alastor murmured, quite pleased with the chance to instigate further. 

 

"Oh, I get it, "  Velvette smirked, and Alastor practically couldn't believe his luck that she was actually going to attempt to make her point. What a joyous back and forth this would be, "So Grandpa is too pussy to fight, so I guess there's no point, right?

 

Zestial'e eyes narrowed on the girl. Oh, the audacity to act like that in a room filled with Overlords who are so much more powerful than her. Overlords that needn't join a collective to remain atop Hell's power structure.

 

"Ohhh~ "  She purred, approaching the man even further, "What's the matter, Fossil? Too senile to make a real power grab for--"

 

For just a moment, Alastor was sure he would see Zestial snap. Unfortunately, Camilla broke first, getting into the little brat's face. Either way, it was still far more entertaining than he had expected this little meeting to have been. "You better show some respect! Check your behaviour! No one speaks to Zestial that way. Did you expect us to sit back and take your insolent brazen display?"

 

"Now that bitch got some pipes on her!" Angel exclaimed, sitting up with an excited grin. Husk watched him out of the corner of his eyes. There was something wholesome about Angel's excitement. The way that the demon lit up genuinely, rather than the fake smile or grin that he tended to wear. 

 

Alastor almost couldn't believe his ears as the girl laughed, "Ha-ha! You've got it twisted. I'm not the one who needs a new attitude. Maybe you missed it, but I'm that hashtag bitch and I will do nothin' less than what I please. I'm the backbone of the Vees!"

 

Ahhh, what a sorry crew of individuals that must be.

 

"That just ain't true. No idea where she gets that idea," Angel was looking at the screen in almost shock, "I've seen the way Vox treats them, kinda like kids; with Vel, it's definitely not as bad, but in no world is she the backbone of their group. That's all Mr. TV Head." 

 

"At least he respectable in that, if nothing else," Alastor turned toward Angel. The demon clearly knew a decent amount of the inner workings of that little collective. It may come in handy at some point. Ah, and Husker was looking a little protective of the Spider Demon; his wings had fluffed out when he noticed Alastor's gaze on the porn star. Well, Alastor wasn't one to stop his actions because a friend didn't like them, but he  could  take steps to ensure the little endeavour was more rewarding... Perhaps Angel would be willing to do a little spying if it ended with Valentino's head on a pike in front of the Hotel? Or a little broadcast; Alastor found himself quite amenable to that idea. 

 

There was so much potential, and the chaos the two of them could bring to that little group was quite tempting. 

 

"Mad that I acted respectless? Well, it's cause no one could respect this, "  She said, gesturing toward him and his fellow Overlords, "Sorry group attending. Since when are Overlords too scared to fight?"

 

I had intended to test a few things out on the Angels, but certainly not if it means working with dullards like Vox and this Velvette, never mind the disgusting moth. 

 

"Smiles, your thoughts really are a joy," Angel gave the demon a wink, a gold tooth glowing in the nuetral light of the room. That wink faded to a thoughtful smile, "I'm kinda surprised that Vel is the only one who seems to wanna fight though, woulda thought you Overlords would be all over that." 

 

Husk scoffed, "Yeah, at one time, maybe, but someone came around and culled off all the stupid ones." 

 

"Just doing my part," Alastor mentioned, swapping the leg he was crossing with the other, "I do so love seeing Hell successful. The last thing we need is moronic people in power. Part of the reason why our King should rethink a few things!" 

 

Jib number one, Alastor internally counted, looking at the King for his reaction. The man's fingers twitched, but that was it.  'Hmmm, perhaps I will need to step up my game.'

 

"You're long past trending. Sorry baby but I ain't swipin' right! "  

 

Good,  Alastor thought in the privacy of his own head. It was better to play that he didn't understand these turns of phrase. It was fun to play at not knowing, but upon his return, he had walked the city and learned many of the newer, modern slags to avoid being caught unaware.

 

"Hahaha! You know shit like that?! You might be more up to the times that Charlie and her devil dandruff!" Angel laughed out, shooking the deer demon an impressed thumbs up. 

 

"I'm afraid that I currently do not know any of the slang that has been going around for the last six or seven years," Alastor admitted before anyone got any ideas to use that type of speech with him around. He didn't want to be surrounded by it even if he did know. Life was far more pleasant when people talked to you using proper English. 

 

"You've lost your relevance--"

 

"We can't act without more intelligence, "  Zestial claimed again in return. 

 

"Urgh, no wonder I'm so respectless. I could eat you lot for breakfast."

 

Now that's an idea,  Alastor thought. Maybe it had been that little taste of angel earlier, or it had been his breakfast that had been rudely interrupted, but the idea of throwing manners to the wayside and simply eating this Velvette was particularly tempting. 

 

"I know I'm going to regret asking," Vaggie started - almost thinking better of it and stopping there, but she had already begun, might as well complete her morbid question, "What exactly do Sinners taste like?" 

 

"Like power," Lucifer answered thoughtlessly. 

 

Alastor raised an eyebrow. Everyone else in the room was staring in open shock at their King. Charlie was gaping at the man. Lucifer blinked as he noticed the silence at his offhand answer. 

 

"What?" He asked, his dead eyes baring into them, setting on Alastor rather than drifting around the room, even though the deer demon had the most tame reaction by far. Frankly, Alastor had no follow-up question. Their King's answer was correct; each Sinner and demon he ate had a unique taste, the taste of their gained power. Their life experiences made liquid. 

 

Charlie gathered herself, "You've eaten Sinners, Dad?"

 

Lucifer tilts his head,  so that's what this is about,  "I've been alive for a long time, Sweetie. I've tried a lot of things Hell has to offer." 

 

"But... Eating people?" 

 

Lucifer rubbed the back of his head. Over time, you become more willing to try the different vices the Sinnners presented. He had thousands of years of boredom, nothing but time to try new things, read new books, and try new foods. It hadn't been a lie when he said he was willing to try the venison, provided a plate. It wouldn't have even been the first time he tried venison aged like that, "You'll understand more as you get older, Char Char."

 

She wrinkled her adorable little nose, one of the few traits she had gained from her mother, and spoke in mild disgust, "Not sure if I want to understand that."

 

"You'll be missing out, then!" Alastor added cheerfully, "I'm pleasantly surprised that your Father has good enough taste to try something like that! I might have to reformulate my opinion on him."

 

"Great, thanks," Lucifer intoned, somewhat sarcastic, far better than completely dull, turning back toward the TV.

 

Carmilla interjected herself again, "You and the Vees are inane and uninformed. Smug wannabes who don't heed when you've been warned."

 

"Oops! Did I strike a nerve? Cause when I brought out the angel's head, "  she threw the head again, causing more blood to splash out. Alastor noticed Rosie looked a little peckish for a taste as well. The continued reminder of the head being there and uneaten was undoubtedly an annoyance to the senses. "Couldn't help but observe that your wrinkled face was turnin' red."

 

Alastor watched as Carmilla's fingers dug into the table; how interesting. 

 

"And why are you avoiding war? That's what the guns you sell are for. "  Velvette kicked the head off the table once and for all, "Thanks to my bein' respectless, one thing I'm startin' to suspect is you know why this angel's headless. Do you have a disclosure?"

 

"This meetings over!"

 

Alastor couldn't help it; the opportunity was far too good. "That was a productive meeting!"

 

"You fuckin' troll!" Angel paused, "Do you think she did it?" 

 

"I'm sure she did, although I will probably make a move to confirm. It's just a question of how she did it." And Alastor would know; it was just a matter of time. He cast a look over to Lucifer, who was still looking at the screen. He couldn't help but wonder if Lucifer knew how Carmilla managed such a feat. 

 

If he could gain this information, it might be the most leverage he ever managed to gain for himself. 

 

"Hmmph, fine. "  Velvette simply said, turning on her heel to walk toward the exit, "Safe travels back to the nursing home, fuckers! Kiss my ass!"

 

Zeezi laughed, "What the Hell? We literally just got here!"

 

Perhaps that wasn't the best way to allay suspicion on Carmilla's part. It certainly added several layers of validity to the upstarts' claims. 

 

"Mother? "  

 

Carmilla shook her head and started to walk away, Zestial following after her; any of the earlier amusement and intrigue on the ancient soul's face had been wiped in favour of worry for his friend. The other Overlord's filed out as well, Rosie having given him a little wink on the way out. Thankfully, he had something that they would overlook. The most incompetent of all beings in Hell. 

 

Alastor turned to the unsuspecting spy, "You, little egg creature. I have a job for you. Follow them."

 

"My darling eggies, look at how useful they can be, Vagatha!" Pentious cried out, pointing to the screen, sounding oddly proud. 

 

She rolled her eyes, "Not my name... But yeah, we think you should be able to keep your Eggs, Pencious. Well, provided they don't annoy Alastor to the point where he decides to give them to the Cannibal Overlord." 

 

It immediately got up and followed after them. 

 

Of course, Alastor couldn't use his shadow for spying, not against Zestial. The man would pick it up from a mile away, having similar skills. There were other voodoo ways that he could attempt to listen in, but they required a bit more prep time than he had. The good thing about being so powerful is that the powerful never expected the weak to be as capable. Alastor himself sometimes fell into this trap. 

 

Yes, the egg creature would do nicely. 

 

Now, where is that head she left? I do believe I am overdue for some breakfast. 

 

"Ahhh, what a good day! I feel quite jealous of myself right now," Alastor admitted cheerfully, "How is everyone else feeling?" 

 

Overwhelmed: That would be the general consensus. 

Notes:

It's been too long! Wanna say thanks for waiting and sorry it took so long. Been stressed, life is shit, fuck this planet. I also accidently read ever RadioStatic fic that was half decent and I suddenly love that ship, second only to RadioApple.

Wanna thank KillugonsUchiha for looking at part of this chapter and helping me out a little bit on some of the characterization.

Honestly I was editing these final bits on like 0 sleep but I knew I couldn't sit on the chapter anymore so here we are!

Luci on his two steps forward one step back plan for depression, poor baby. Alastor similarly not sure whether he wants to help Lucifer or not, but the help involves insulting the man, so easy enough.

Notes:

Hasta pronto.

 

 

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Series this work belongs to:

• Part 1 of Hazbin/Helluva Reacts - New&Old Version