Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Alastor trudged up to his room the new hotel, white hot pain blooming across his chest. It was getting more difficult to breath; breaths coming in labored, forced gasps. 

How could I have let this happen?

I lost. How could I have lost?!

Maybe...Maybe Father had been right...NO. That bastard didn't know anything.

He clutched his chest, claws accidentally ripping into his flesh. Alastor leaned on the wall, using all his strength - or what little he had of it left - to shuffle to his room. He managed to grip the doorknob with a shaking hand and open the door.

His room looked exactly how he left it. Before the battle. Before Adam. Before...this. This wound. This pain. With a groan of pain, Alastor hauled himself through the door frame and promptly collapsed on the floor. 

He managed catch himself, arms threatening to give out. Bandages. That's what he needed. And a medical grade needle. Perhaps some magically infused string would do him some good given the situation.

He attempted to get back on his feet, only to fall back down, barely catching himself this time. He won't be getting himself anywhere at this rate. He summoned his shadow, however, it's strangely small and half the size it should be. It flickered in and out of view. Fuck. Even his shadow was weaker. Alastor concentrated, long and hard. Finally, his shadow had become solid.

Alastor flopped down onto his stomach, his strength and energy completely drained. He could see out of the corner of his eye the shadow zipping about the room; frantic to find the medical cupboard.

It fumbled around with the door, recognizing that it was losing power quickly. But it finally got it open and threw a small box to it's other half. The contents fell out, gathering at the section of floor around Alastor.

Alastor scrambled to collect the medicine. He swallowed a single pill and put the rest back in the container. So what if they were technically drugs? They helped, didn't they? And they did. Almost immediately, Alastor could feel energy return to his muscles. He stood up and summoned a tentacle. Strong as ever. Good. He couldn't let the others know of his....weakness.

Ugh. That word. Alastor always hated it, now more than ever. It left him feeling sick and pained, like he was that small helpless child again, beaten by a man he would never call anything else but a monster. He had been weak when the children bullied him at school, hit by that monster, and pushed around by those stuck up, pathetic excuses for people. All because of what color his skin was.

But no longer. Now he is the Radio Demon. NOW he is one of the strongest overlords in the pride ring! NOW so many souls depend on him! He is no longer that young boy who relied on his mother. He is STRONGER. He is BETTER. HE is in control.

But that control was threatening to slip. This damn gash on his chest, radiating holy energy, was cracking the persona he's meticulously crafted. He was getting weaker and weaker as the days rolled by.

The princess and owner of the Hazbin Hotel - Charlie Morningstar - had decided to give him a few days off, much to his relief. Alastor would get this situation under control, and he'd return back to his normal self in no time. He was sure of it.

Coat and shirt discarded on the floor, Alastor sat down in a chair and proceeded to inspect the source of all his troubles. The wound was large; stretching from his left shoulder to just shy of his right hip. Blood oozed from the chasm, flowing down his torso and seeping into the matted fur that covered his body. Through the gash, one could see his organs, bones, and other vicera that should never see the light of day. It was a bloody mess; each heart beat causing fresh supply of crimson liquid to escape into the slowly growing puddle on the floor.

His shadow offered him his thread and sewing needle, disinfectant and some bandages. Perfect. He spritzed the needle (you can never be too careful) and started the process of sewing up the wound.

This should be gone by now. It's been a week! But the holy energy kept the wound from closing properly. He'd considered asking Charlie for help before, but that's ridiculous! He's an overlord, he doesn't need their help! He shouldn't even be hurt in the first place! But here he was, getting weaker by the day...

The needle pierced Alastor's flesh, but he barely registered the pain. He pulled on the needle, the thread now securely in place. He stabbed the opposite side of the wound, pulled the thread through, being cautious not to get any fur caught in the suture. It went on like this. A methodical pattern. Stab, pull, stab, pull, until the deer demon has finished the stitching job.

By the end of the process, the drugs had started to wear off, much to Alastor's displeasure. He set the bloodied needle down on the nearby coffee table, and set out to at least cleanse himself of the blood that now covered him. The copper smell would usually have been welcome, except for the fact that it came from his own blood.

Alastor flopped in a nearby chair, unlike his usual neatness. The pain returned, and he was exhausted. For now, he could rest. But he must get up in the morning as to not worry Charlie. Tomorrow was his last day off after all. Staring at the ceiling, Alastor wondered if he would ever be free. From his past. From his chains. From this world.... 

ýøü ĉãň rûñ

ßût ỳøû

ĉāňt

HÎÐÉ

Chapter Text

Lucifer was having QUITE the morning.

Firstly, today marks a WEEK the deer's been gone. N-not that it mattered to him! No! But Char Char looked so sad....He hates his little duckling being so down.

Secondly, he could've SWORN his ducks looked at him funny. It's like they knew he made eggs for breakfast! Mental note: The ducks might come for revenge...sleep with one eye open tonight.

And finally, the coffee machine exploded in him. AGAIN! Somehow, that always happened. He would've just magicked a cup of coffee into existance, but always ended up tasting burnt and manufactured, so he resorted to the good, old fashioned way.

If Alastor were here this wouldn't have happened...

Lucifer resisted the urge to slap the thought away. The absurdity of thinking like that! No, he was perfectly capable by himself. He's the King of Hell for fucks sake! He could do better than that red daughter-stealing jerk!

Lucifer paused his work. He was making a new duck. One of....Thaggie. No....Jaggie? She seemed pretty jagged. Oh well. He'd get there eventually.

Lucifer looks over to the collection of ducks on the window sill. He has several collections, but this one is his newest. The Demon Ducks! One of Lily...and Charlie...Maggie's the next one.

Maybe he should do that Angle Bust guy after this. That'd be nice, right? Show he cares? Lucifer sighs. He just hopes Charlie hasn't given up on him. He's already done that to himself...

NO! He's here for Charlie now and their relationship has gotten way better. She wouldn't just...give up on him that easily. But it would make sense...

He focused his attention back on his newest duck, putting the final touches on its face. Maggie's face seemed to have a perpetual scowl, and it proved to be difficult to replicate that.

The paintbrush curved a liiiitle too far downwards. DAMN IT! Lucifer threw his tools on the counter and got up. He needed to clear his head...

Lucifer opens his door and peaks around, hoping someone doesn't spot him. He loves Charlie, but her trust exercises? Not so much...

It was a admirable dream his daughter has, but the believability was questionable. Sinners? Actually trying to become better people? Demons like Bambi would never be able to change. Their violent, psychotic, and sexual ways were pretty much set in stone at this point.

Lucifer started down the hall, briefly glancing at the other end where Alastor's room and radio tower were. He hadn't heard nor seen any sign of him - not if you counted the omnipresent jazz tunes from the radio, though, those were less and less frequent...

He noticed the hotel room door was cracked open

That's weird...he always makes sure it's fully closed so there's "No distractions". The selfish prick.

He found himself inching closer to the door regardless. No, Lucifer. Stay on track.

If he were in the hotel, he would be annoying the living shit out of me. Plus, what would I even do if he WAS there? Nope, just a nice walk around the place for now.

Try as he might, Lucifer couldn't step away from the hallway. There was something off about all this. The Radio Demon would never just...leave his door open. So, whatever the hell was going on with the deer, Lucifer was going to find out. 

He slowly approached the door and stepped inside. Before he could even get a good look at the room, the smell of rotting flesh hit him like a truck. It burned his nose (place where his nose would be? He wasn't quite sure...) and he had to turn away for a second.

When he regained his composer (and finally got used to the smell) he finally was able to look inside. What he saw almost made him puke.

There, sitting in a furnished chair, bleeding out like his life - or more like death - depended on it, was Alastor. The Radio Demon. His coat had been removed, but even the undershirt couldn't conceal the giant fucking gash across his body. He hadn't even bothered to button it up - most likely because of the pain it caused.

Pus was opening out of every corner; A few deep purple bruises also decorated what was visible. Oh, that was DEFINITELY infected. The middle had become a sickly red, but it was probably only a glimpse of the carnage. A mix of dried and fresh blood covered Alastor's chest and fur, collecting in what was basically a pond now below the chair. Wait, Alastor had fur?!

Lucifer stepped closer, stumbled, regained his footing, and decided to stay put. What should he do? He could tell Charlie...but then she would be so frightened. He didn't want to put her through any of this. Uh...maybe a royal doctor..? That's when he saw it. The faint, golden glow pulsing off the wound.

This was done by a holy weapon. A strong one. What the fuck did he get into..?

This time Lucifer didn't stumble. He when right over to Alastor, no hesitation. He seemed to be...asleep? Yeah, let's hope that's it. 

Lucifer knew he couldn't do this on his own. He couldn't even take care of Charlie when she was healthy!

Maybe.....Vaggie can help? Vaggie! THAT'S HER NAME! But no time to celebrate! Got to get this mess dealt with.

Lucifer rushed out if the room. If Alastor hid this from them for a week, he would be fine for a few minutes, right? Lucifer ran past the cat, spider and little....lady? Who knew. He sure didn't, but he should probably make an attempt to figure it out.

He found Vaggie and Charlie talking by the front door. Ugh. He hated keeping his duckling in the dark. But this was for the best.

"Hey, uh, Vaggie?" Vaggie looked up. The surprise was clear on her face. "Uh, sorry to interrupt, but I need to talk to you. Kinda....now. Please?" Vaggie looked between Charlie and the king, before sighing and kissing Charlie on the cheek.

Aww!! He was so proud of his little girl. All grown up!

"I'll be right back. We can finish talking then." Vaggie strode over to Lucifer, addressing him in an oddly respecting voice.. "What did you need, sir?" 

"Um...maybe we can talk somewhere more...private?" Lucifer gestures to the hotel residents gathered in the lobby. Vaggie nods once. Yes! Magic time! Lucifer snaps his fingers and they find themselves in his room. Vaggie gasps in surprise and takes a staggering step back.

"Wha-? For the record, Your Majesty, a little warning would be nice next time," She looked annoyed, but somehow kept her tone steady.

"Oh. Yeah, sorry. Anyways, I found something," Lucifer said, a hint of worry in his voice. Wait, why would he be worried about Alastor?

She put a hand on her hip. "What? A weirdly shaped animal cracker?" Hey! They looked funny! And tasted delicious...

The king took a deep breath, mentally preparing himself for whatever reaction he was going to get. "No. Something....big."

"So a lampshade larger than the lamp?" There was a tad bit of annoyance in her voice. Please don't let her be mad at me already...

"What? No! Alastor! I found Alastor!" He made a few wild hand gestures, making sure the severity of the situation was clear.

Vaggie rolled her eyes And responded with, "And? He's on vacation."

"Then why is he still at the hotel?" Lucifer questioned, now sounding genuinely concerned.

Vaggie froze. "He...what?"

Chapter Text

Alastor woke up to pounding footsteps and the opening of a door.

Shit.

Someone obviously found him. He would never dare to leave the door open for everyone to see him like this. So weak and pathetic. But who would've had the hall to come into his room..?

The footsteps were getting louder and clearer. He had to hurry. Alastor dove into his bayou and under a rather large thicket brush. Just in time too. Both resident fallen angels appeared in the doorway, Lucifer looking like a nervous wreck and Vaggie just seemingly annoyed about the whole ordeal, but there was a tell-tale hint of worry in her eye.

"He was here. I swear. Look, his stuff is everywhere." Damn it. So much for being on vacation. Lucifer and Vaggie started searching around his room for any sign he might've been here. His room. They were rummaging through his belongings. Doesn't anyone know what privacy is anymore?

Lucifer was perhaps ten feet from his hiding spot; only a few more steps more and he'd be caught. Alastor attempted to use his magic as a way to escape, but it was too weak for him to teleport. The angelic energy his wound pulsed through his veins, dampening any demonic power he had. Well, this was just great. He could hear Lucifer's breathing when Vaggie saved him.

"What's this?" Lucifer walked over to her spot in his bathroom. Hopefully they didn't-

"Why does he have shampoo for tails? Unless..." Lucifer practically squealed. "HE HAS A TAIL!! Oh, I have got to tell Charlie!"

Alastor could hear the two of them leaving. Thank gods. Humiliation was a punishment he would take any other day of the week to avoid being seen in this degrading state.

Alastor stood up and returned to his chair, dusting himself off. That was a close call. He almost made it to his mug of coffee when the door squeaked open again.

Both men froze.

"A-Alastor? But....I....Vaggie and me....WHAT?!?!" Lucifer couldn't believe it. When he came to this room again, he was expecting to find his cane (he forgot it. Again.) But instead he found the RADIO DEMON.

"Sire..." Alastor's ears folded backwards. They were SO CU-Nope! They are annoying, unnecessary and absolutely adorable. Wait, what?

He pushed that thought away and studied the now awake demon before him. Alastor's shirt was still unbuttoned, exposing the gruesome wound. It looked the same as before, but the holy energy had gotten slightly stronger. And the scent of decay and rotting had returned with more fervor than before.

Alastor seemed to notice Lucifer's prolonged state and snapped him out of it by saying, "I'm not sure as to why you've entered my private quarters, but I'd appreciate it if you left. Now."

"I just...its...you have a fucking angelic wound that looks like it almost tore you in half!!" Lucifer sputtered, gesturing to the wound in question.

Alastor shot him a glare accompanied by an almost imperceptible twitch of his ear. "I assure you, Your Majesty-" He spat out the title with one of the most mocking tones Lucifer has ever heard. "- I'm quite alright. No need to worry over me. Go back to whatever frivolous task you were doing to interrupt my peace and quiet."

Lucifer scoffed. "Fine! But don't blame me when you perma die from bleeding out or blood poisoning. You did that to yourself." He grabbed his cane, turned on his heel, and marched towards the door. He almost didn't hear Alastor's next words.

"Wait." His voice was so small a quiet. Not something anyone would've expected from the all-powerful (well, maybe not right now) Radio Demon. It almost sounded pleading.

Lucifer slowly turned to face the deer with a smug grin. "Yeeeeeeeees?"

Alastor sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose (No fair! How come he gets one?!). "I.......I require your assistance." The statement had a pained edge to it, like it was a momentous effort so say something so simple.

"What was that? I didn't quite hear you." Lucifer grined so wide it hurts. But it was worth it. Alastor's normally sharp and mocking smile, only got smaller and slightly strained.

"I require your assistance, Lucifer." The cervine demon said again with just as much, or maybe even more, reluctance as the previous time.

"Then why didn't you just say so? Now, sit." Lucifer commanded, pointing to the chair opposite the blood-stained one.

Alastor's eye twitched as he slumped down into the chair, staring daggers at Lucifer.

There was a tense silence between the two. One looked like he was about to murder the other, while the one on the receiving end of the glare was trying to hide his genuine worry.

 "Well?" Alastor asked dryly. "Get on with it, whatever you're going to do."

Lucifer sighed, his patience slowly running out.

"Look, I'm going to need to touch you-" The rest of his sentence was cut off by a loud, staticy shriek. Jeez. He can't even stand the MENTION of it. Weirdo.

"I need to heal it with my magic! Ya know, from my hands?" No shrieking. Just an annoyed deer.

"Your majesty, is this really nescessar-"

"Yes. It is. Unless you plan to keep that? You know it's only going to grow and consume your magic until your nothing but a shriveled corpse, right?" Lucifer took the silence as a "go ahead" and gently put a hand on the glowing wound. Alastor flinched but stayed still. Lucifer almost said "good boy", but managed to keep his mouth shut.

A small, faint glow came from Lucifer's palm as he closed his eyes and focused on the angelic energy. It was strong - tightly latched onto Alastor's life force. This would be difficult... He metaphorically took hold of the energy and pulled, causing the demon next to him to tense up and make a small whimper. 

Lucifer tugged harder, and after a few agonizing minutes, he pulled the energy free and destroyed it. All that was left was the afflicted area which would start healing soon. 

"There ya go, Bambi! All fixed up!" Lucifer said, making sure to put emphasis on the nick-name Alastor despised.

Alastor didn't say anything, but instead was looking over what was left of the wound.

"Hmm. Not too bad of a job." What?!? That was amazing!! Ungrateful bitch. Alastor met Lucifer's eyes. "But if you dare mention this to anyone, I will destroy this hotel in a snap." Before Lucifer could object, he disappeared into the shadows.

....

What the fuck just happened?

Alastor just let that happen.

He let the King of Hell see him.

Like that.

Weak.

Injured.

Utterly pathetic.

He essentially pleaded for his help. Why? Why had he done that?

Lucifer would find a way to use this against him.

In. Every. Way. Possible.

His control was slipping. Over his powers, how people view him, himself...

Weak.

Pathetic.

Üşèlëşš...

Chapter Text

Lucifer huffed.

Stupid deer. Can't even except help without saying thank you. How has Charlie allowed him to stay?! I mean, the ears help, I guess. And his smile is nice when its genuine...SNAP OUT OF IT, LUCIFER!

Lucifer shook his head. Nope. None of those thoughts. The deer was an arrogant asshole. That's it. Nothing more.

But then...why did he take that big of a hit for the hotel? I mean, we haven't fought any angels with that amount of power since the battle, and he DID have a one-on-one with Adam, soooo.....

But he deserves it. He stole my daughter from me. 

No, I did that myself.

But he still took your place.

Because I let him.

But-

"Sir?" Lucifer jumped out of his seat. It was Vaggie. Lucifer forced a laugh, but it was still tinged with fright.

"Jeez, Vaggie. They ought to put a bell on you."

"I've uh, been here for a few minutes, Your Majesty. Dinners ready, and you didn't answer your phone." Vaggie explained, slightly concerned

Lucifer pulled out his phone. 86 missed texts and 15 missed calls?!?! Oh no...

"I'll be right there! Thanks for the update!" Vaggie left his room, and Lucifer let out a breath he didn't realize he was holding.He

He hadn't realized he was so lost in thought and Vaggie's sudden appearance really startled him. It's not like this kind of thing didn't happen regularly, but it was still unpleasant. Well, couldn't keep his little girl waiting for him! 

He checked himself over, making sure he was at least semi-presentable, and headed down into the lobby. There was chatter coming from the kitchen and dining area where everyone was eating.

Lucifer stepped inside, glancing over the residents and staff, half hoping to see a certain red deer, but nope.

Wait, why the hell would I want that annoying prick here?!!

He shook off the thought and took his regular seat next to Charlie and stared at the other end of the table. Where Alastor would be...

"Um, dad?" Wait, conversation?! Okay, you got this Lucifer! You're the King of Hell, damnit! 

"Yeah, bitch?" NO!! Not again! People-ing was so hard...

Charlie fiddled with her fork, casting worried glances toward him. "Um, you doing okay? You seem kinda off..."

What? No! He's fine! Not worried about someone he saw only yesterday, no siree!

"I'm fine, Char. See? Look how fine I am!" Lucifer digs his fork into his meal and freezes.

Venison steak and mashed potatoes. A meal perfectly catered towards...Alastor...

Don't stop now! Charlie's watching!

He puts the soft starch in him mouth and forces himself to chew. 

Alastor should be here-

Alastor's on break! Deal with it! He's just fine!

"Mhm! So good! You should try it, Charlie!" Lucifer exclaimed, though half heartedly, trying to break the tense atmosphere with some light-hearted small talk.

She looked at him with an expression she couldn't quite read. "Dad, I finished dinner a while ago." It's true. Her plate is completely clean. Wow, he really needs to pay attention to his surroundings more.

"Oh, uh, yeah, I mean...it's so good, you should have seconds. Here, have my plate! I'm not even that hungry. Okay, goodnight!" Lucifer ran upstairs, two steps at a time. What the hell?! What's happening to him?! 

Alastor's missing. He usually eats dinner with us, but he didn't.

He's just eating out or he's at a friend's. Stop worrying about him!

But he could be in trouble-

But you don't care!

Yes I do!

Lucifer froze. No. No. He...he can't. This shouldn't be happening. He loves Lilith, right?

Not anymore.

Yeah, he loves Lilith. That's the end of that. Lilith and Charlie are the only ones in his heart, though he could make some space for Vaggie now that his little ducking had found a partner.

And Alastor.

Charlie, Lilith, and Vaggie. And ducks. That's it. No one else. Nope.

But that didn't stop his brain from giving him a picture of how he last saw Alastor. Wound open, but no longer radiating holy energy; dark circles under his eyes; ears back...when did he memorize Alastor's exact looks in that moment? Ugh! His brain was betraying him again.

When he walked away, those ruby red eyes were filled with...fear? Not their usual malice or annoyance...But fear? Why had he even noticed that?!

Stop thinking about that annoying bastard! You hate him! He's annoying and stupid and...caring and cute....NO! STOP THAT!

You love him, don't you?

Alastor was absolutely confused.

Scratch that. The events that had transpired just that morning left him so baffled that it felt like his brain was turning to mush within his skull.

Why had Lucifer healed him? Don't we utterly depise one another? Unless he doesn't? But that wouldn't make sense...not a single thing had changed until this morning...

Ugh. This whole situation was getting on his nerves. Why did people and emotions have to be so complicated?

Alastor paced slowly around his radio tower. He kept it locked for this very reason; when people are just too baffling to engage with. He was most likely missing dinner right now, but he would eat tomorrow. He wasn't sure he could stomach anything at the current. His first day off of "vacation". Luckily, without the holy energy his wound originally gave off, it would be easier to go about his duties like nothing happened.

And it's all thanks to Lucifer.

Perhaps the king wanted him to to survive to torment him later.

Maybe he was going to spill his secret to everyone. Then everyone would think he can be bent to their will and he'll lose everything.

All that he's built. Gone.

Alastor pushed away the thought. He was not going to let that happen. No way, no how. But for now, he had to look like he had returned from the best days of his life. Fun.

Alastor cleaned himself and magicked a small tan on himself. Nothing much. Just enough to convince the hotel staff and residents that he hadnt been at war with death mere hours ago. He turned to his cane - still snapped in half and very much unuseable. Great.

Maybe....Lucifer could fix-

Absolutely not! He wasn't even going to entertain - let alone finish - that ridiculous thought!

But maybe they were friends no-

No! He had his thoughts under control. He was in control. Everything was under control. Everything was-

Mãðë æ ňëw frìèňð Î šèē. 

Alastor froze. That....voice. Please, god no. Not right now. Please. He just wanted everything to get back to normal, as normal as it can be in Hell. Get back to his duties as hotelier at the hotel, return to overlords business, start his broadcast back up, and everything would be ok. But this...? This was the last thing he needed right now.

Ãrëñ't ýøû gōìňg tø ãňšwër më, mÿ pēt?

"He....he's not my friend. I don't make friends. They make you...weak and vulnerable," Alastor replied, trying and failing in letting his voice shake.

Gøõð. Ĉäň't hãvë ýøü gēttïňg töø ãttãćhéð, ñów çâñ wé?

 Alastor hesitated for a moment before saying, "N-no. I follow your orders only. No friends. No connections. Just earning trust to be broken."

This was true in a sense. Everyone he'd gotten attached to somehow found a way to leave him. Death, betrayal, using him for their personal gain...it was only a matter of time before this happened again at the hotel. Maybe, it was just better to obey orders after all...

Pêrfëçt.

Chapter Text

There's nothing worse than a nervous Charlie Morningstar pacing around in your room. 

Truly.

It was worrisome at best, knowing whatever the problem was was deemed important enough to have the princess's undivided attention on it. At worst? The problem wouldn't just be a problem anymore. It would consume Charlie's thoughts and make her over think and descend into the darker part of her mind. Thankfully that was quite the rare occurance.

Vaggie sighed, not so much as annoyed, but just as a way to release some of the shared stress between the couple.

"Babe, don't you think you're overreacting? Just a little bit? I'm sure he's fine," Vaggie said, hoping to stop this unnecessary worrying.

Charlie stopped her pacing, then turned to her girlfriend, tears threatening to fall. "What? How can you say that?! Dad left in the middle of dinner and hasn't come out of his room since!"

With a soft smile, Vaggie placed a reassuring hand on the princess's shoulder and responded with, "I'm sure the king is just fine, hun. He probably has some kingly duties to attend to, so stop worrying, alright? You know I never want to see you so worked up over something like this." 

 "B-but...what if-" Charlie stuttered, only to be cut off.

 "No buts! If you're really that worried, I can go talk to him, okay? Whatever may be happening, we'll figure it out."

Charlie fiddled with her hands, looking for an excuse before smiling softly. "You're right. He's fine. He's my dad after all! He handled Mom's disappearance, he can handle...what ever it is he's handling."

Vaggie nodded proudly. "There ya go. See Charlie? Everything is okay."

Everything was absolutely NOT okay.

Lucifer lay sprawled out on his bed, staring at his newest creation. Of course it's a duck, but why? Why would be make one of him?

The duck wasn't the typical yellow; it was red. With that hideous bob cut, smiling face, and sporting a pair of deer ears and antlers.

Lucifer was trying to let go of all these thoughts - pour them into his next duck and toss it into the reject box, taking the memories with it. It had worked before. But why not now? Why had the duck been subconsciously modeled after him?!

Lucifer sighed. He stood up and took aim for the Discard duck pile. He pulled back, and....

His arm dropped to him side. He couldn't do that. Something wouldn't let him. He tried again.

Aim, back, nope. Aim, back, nuh uh.

Lucifer groaned in frustration and flopped back on his bed. WHY?!? It was just a stupid duck!! And of Alastor no less! What's there to like about him?! His smug attitude?! His horrible sense of fashion?! His cooking skills? His never-back-down mentality? His ears...

His sincere smile.

Lucifer froze. Had...had he even seen Alastor truly smile? Maybe when he was cooking...NO! Nononono! He's not supposed to like a DAUGHTER SNATCHER!! Not on his life! After life? Everlife. There we go.

He was a sadistic, psychotic, killer. Who would like that? He's probably committed various war crimes too! There was nothing likeable about the guy. End. Of. Story.

Since ducks didn't seem to be working, Lucifer decided that a walk around the hotel would do him some good. He hopped out of his bed and dusted himself off, hoping that if he ran into anyone, he would look at least slightly presentable. The king grabbed his hat and cane, then walked out of his room.

Lucifer walked down the hallway, quietly humming. Ya know, this is kinda like when...

Images of Alastor's beat up body fill his mind. The bloodied torso, the crude attempts at healing it, the fear-

No! I took care of that problem. No need to worry about it now.

He passed his door. Lucifer was half tempted to peek around the corner, just in case, but resolved himself. He continued his walk.

It was late into the night, having spent hours wallowing in his own thoughts, and it was unlikely that Alastor was even up at this hour. Wait, did he even sleep? He hadn't known Alastor for that long, save the first visit to the hotel and a couple after just to come see Charlie.

Lucifer knew very little of the Radio Demon, and most of what he'd overheard was rumors and legends from the other residents of the hotel. The most personal things he knew was that Alastor liked to cook, and that he was recently harboring an angelic wound. He really needed to fix that...

Lucifer made it down to the kitchen before being swept off his feet by a panicked and worried Charlie. She looked at him like she thought he had finally met his unholy end and she was now hugging a ghost. (Wait, were ghosts even real...? Could a ghost exist in hell if they did?)

"Dad! Oh, I'm so glad you came out of your room! I mean, you took off after dinner and didn't return and then I thought this was a repeat of when mom left but then Vaggie said you were fine and now...now you are." Charlie set him down and smiled. Oh, how he lived for that smile. And his baby girl was so strong too! But he knew she always was.

 "Duckling, slow down! I just...had a lot on my mind. But I would never leave you!" Lucifer said, the 'never again' not said, but heavily implied. He had been given a second chance and this time he wouldn't fuck it up.

If it were even possible, Charlie's smile beamed brighter. "I'm just glad that you're ok! I was just...so worried and you hadn't said anything or why you left or....I rambling, aren't I?"

 Lucifer chuckled, wrapping his wonderful daughter in a hug. "I'm just find, sweetie. You don't have to worry about me!" Most of the time...

 "I love you, Dad," Charlie said into his ear, reciprocating the warm embrace. Lucifer sucked in a breath. How long had it been since he last heard those words? Too long. Far too long. Lucifer hugged his daughter even tighter.

"I love you too, Charlie. Always have, always will, even when I don't quite show it." The hug relaxed and Lucifer let go. His face hurt from smiling so much, but it was worth it. 

His thoughts about the deer demon has melted away, only leaving room for this moment with his beautiful baby girl. This would be a moment he'd remember for a long time. Charlie actually caring about him? Not pushing him away because of his awkwardness or spirals? He never thought this would happen. Being loved an accepted again.

He realized he'd gotten lost in his thoughts again when Charlie said "So, have you seen Alastor? He was supposed to come back today..." Right. Him.

"Actually, I haven't. Bet the asshole took another day off just to avoid work." Yes. You hate him. Very good. Charlie raises an eyebrow.

"Dad, you know he's helped with hotel just as much as anyone. If he needs an extra day, he can have one. I just wish I knew where he was so we could talk to him..." Lucifer thought of his time in Alastor's room, healing the wound. But he promised not to tell...it could hurt Charlie. He knew that if Alastor tried anything, Lucifer could easily smite him. But then Charlie would get upset. Ugh, what to do...

"I agree with Charlie. It's been kinda peaceful without him around." Oh yeah. Lucifer kinda forgot Vaggie was there.

"Vaggie!!" Charlie turns to her girlfriend.

"What? Im just saying." Vaggie rolls her eyes, but her smile says she's joking. Her and Charlie start walking off to do some hotel things, and Lucifer resumes his walk, but now with even more to think about.

Is Alastor okay? He's never late...

But why should you care? You're supposed to hate him.

But do I need to? Especially after I healed him...

Yes! You do! That was ONE TIME. It was for Charlie. Nothing else.

But-

NOPE! You can't! He's a daughter stealer!

Maybe he had good reason?

WHO STEALS DAUGHTERS?!?!

Calm down Lucifer! Get your shit together!

He's fine. Alastor is just fine a dandy!

He's just neglecting his duties because....because....

FUCK!!

To distracted by his own thoughts, Lucifer finds himself standing outside of The Radio Demon's door. How'd he even get here...? 

Alastor's door isn't terribly special, but it does have a few distinct flares that definitely scream him. It looks like it's made of dark oak with a golden doorknob and keyhole. The door frame has faint green voodoo symbols, most likely some wards of some kind.

With his conflicting thoughts, the King stands outside the door for a solid five minutes debating whether he should check up on Alastor or not.

And then Alastor stepped out.

The deer was looking better than last time, thankfully, with his smile still stuck onto his face. Stupid smile. There was almost no sign of abnormality, except for a little flick of those damnably fluffy ears.

"Ah. Your majesty. What brings you to my door?" His voice sounded normal, laced with a usual amount of static.

Lucifer stuttered. "I...uh...Charlie was worried about you, so I came to get you. Can't have my daughter fretting over your sorry ass."

Alastor just laughed. "Oh? So she's the one worrying? From your conversation with yourself, I could have sworn it was you." DANG IT!! How did he hear that?!?! Damn those cute little fluffy ears!!

 "Oh, shut up. What reason would I have to worry about you?" 

 "I wouldn't know the inter-workings of your mind. Your thoughts are probably to simple for me to even comprehend," Alastor said, his signature smile twisting up a bit in amusement.

 Oh, fuck this guy! "I'm not stupid, you little prick! I'm not king for nothing. But seeing as you're just fine now, I'm leaving." Lucifer stomps of, but he can't help the small part of him wanting to stay; to ask questions; to check on the wound. 

He's fine. He always is.

Not always.

Lucifer hesitated only for a second before continuing down to the lobby. This guy is SUCH an asshole.

Then why is he your only thought?

Alastor watched as the King sauntered down the hallway, his mind racing.

Why would Lucifer worry about me?

Was it only because of the debt I owed?

Charlie wouldn't be worried.

No one was actually worried about me.

I would just fade into the shadows.

again.

Again. Again. again. again again again again- 

No.

I won't let that happen.

Never again.

I'm The Radio Demon.

I don't have everything under control.

Chapter Text

After freeing himself of those...thoughts, Alastor have himself the distraction of annoyance. Goodness, that man was such a thorn in his side. Thankfully, he's gone now. He could suffer do his work in peace.

Alastor receded back into his room, feeling a bit of tension fade away. He had been intending to confront Charlie about his extended stay, but now he had much to think about. He had indeed heard Lucifer's conversation outside his door. It was....unnerving to say the least.

Lucifer? The king of all of hell? Worrying over a sinner who didn't have much of any effect on his life? He has really dug himself into quite the deep hole this time...

He has work to get done. Might as well be productive if he's just going to stand there with his thoughts. The sinner turned back to the door, actually having half a mind to lock it this time, then say down at his desk in the corner of the room.

This room, along with the radio tower, had become his personal sanctuary while Alastor was taking up residence at the hotel. It was a place to relieve stress, actually think for once, and hide retreat when the staff and guests became quite the headache.

Alastor stripped himself down to his bare chest and observed the wound; lighter scar tissue already forming on his torso, becoming a part of the slowly growing and frankly unsightly, collection of the things. Why would Lucifer help him freely? It didn't make sense. No one had had done something like that since-

Her hands on his face felt so comforting and gentle. So warm, despite the calluses. Those hands, that made his dinners, that tucked him in at night. That-

Alastor shook the memory away. Why...how...? Those were supposed to be long forgotten. He had buried them in his mind for a reason. But....then how did that one...?

Nevermind. If it just resurfaced, he'd bury it once more. Thinking about things like that, especially...her...made him weak and vulnerable. Not something anyone could afford in Hell, especially someone as high status as him. What would other overlords think of the great and powerful Radio Demon reduced to a sentimental mess by just a few measly memories?

An image to hold up. That's what his goal was as of late. Even with all of Charlie's attempts at including him in her little redemption exercises, three was no possible way for Alastor to change. He'd been like this for as long as he could remember, and he had no intentions on betterment any time soon.

And even if she was up there, how was he supposed to explain his misdoings? She can't know. No one can. Well, except for the people he killed, but that problem can be fixed when the time comes. No sense in worrying about it now.

His biggest issue was Lucifer. He can't acknowledge this happened. He must simply pretend it never existed in the first place. Another secret to his collection. Another thing to hide...

Indebted to the King of Hell? This wasn't exactly...ideal to put it lightly. Lucifer is The Devil. A being to be feared (perhaps even worshiped within certain circles) and to be wary of. He didn't look all to threatening, but he wasn't the king for nothing. A deal with The Devil could mean anything. Alastor had certainly pissed off the man quite a few times; they'd even had a music battle to show their hatred for one another.

What did Lucifer want? To control him? To make him avoid the hotel all together? To...to kill him?

Alastor shuddered at the thought. If he was gone, then...No he wouldn't think about-

Her face, but missing its usual smile. Accusing. Accusing him. For his failure. For his mistakes. For his weaknesses. He must leave. He can't be here. Not with her...THEM watching. But they're everywhere. How to escape? To flee? Yes, flee. Must flee. Run. RUN. RÜŇ!!

No! No no no! He wasn't going to run away from this. He was wasn't just a little fawn who would bolt at the first sight of danger! He was the great Radio Demon! A force not to trifled with!

Taken back to his surroundings by a sharp pain, Alastor was still at his desk, both claws woven through his hair sharply tugging at the red and black strands. He could feel a small trickle of blood slowly making its way down the side of his head, but he paid no mind to it. Maybe it would do him some good to take a few deep breaths of humid bayou air before getting back to work.

Alastor walked a little farther into his room, keeping a fast pace. Past the small table he had set for snacks. Past the small collection of moss, leaves and branches his used as a resting space. Deep into the forest. He wouldn't mind if he got lost in here, but he made this place from his mind. He knows it better than the back of his own hand. The leaves spun shadows onto the forest floor. The scenery blurred together in a mix of blue, green, and brown. Leaves, trees, forest. Leaves, trees, forest. Leaves, trees-

Alastor fell to the ground face first. He turned onto his back and saw that he tripped over a stray tree root. Like that day in the woods...

He got to his feet, shaking. These shoes won't help here. He kicks them off, leaving only his bare hooves.

That's better.

Although he was never necessarily ecstatic about his deer features, Alastor found their uses. Hooves were useful for agility when in combat, his hearing was incredibly good, and antlers made quite the effective weapon for spearing enemies. He could go without fur; it made wearing clothes quite uncomfortable at times. And he most certainly can do without his tail. It betrayed everything he was feeling, good or bad. Once, Alastor had considered cutting it off with angelic steel, but it was a part of his spine, so that thougt was banished from his mind almost immediately.

Trekking through his bayou, Alastor had started to feel a bit better. 

But then he heard it.

Dogs. Barking. Growling. Close.

Alastor ran for his life. Ran for everything his instincts ever told him. Ran for the hope of tomorrow. Of seeing his mother back at home. Of seeing Missy in the bar again, dancing her little flapper heart out. For his radio show, the only thing that gave him a purpose. For the thought of exterminating more of those pigs that roamed the streets of Louisiana. But above all...

The barking stopped. The only sound was the soft hum of insects and the faint trickle of water, like the dogs weren't even there.

Alastor was sitting underneath a fairly large tree, curled up into a tight ball with his back against the rough wood. Claws dug into his now bleeding ears - a desperate attempt to drown out a noise that was no longer there. He was vaguely aware of the tears streaming down his cheek and the fact that his tail was up in alarm, signaling danger.

He wiped his face with the back of his hand and dropped his arms to his sides. How pathetic. Hearing things. That day has long since ended, nothing but a memory that always managed to claw its way out of the depths of his mind. There is no one here. No one to bother him.

No one to save him.

Leaning on trunk of the tree, Alastor took in a breath, held it, then released it. A surprisingly effective way to calm down (Charlie had taught him that, though he'd never admit that to anyone).

He could hear soft chirps crickets, quiet bird calls, even the splashing of the alligators that took up residence in the swamp. The swaying of tree leaves reached his ears, despite the lack of a breeze. It was nice. Peaceful, even. A break from the chaos of-

Whý hãvêñ't ÿøù kìllëð hër ÿët?

The peace was abruptly shattered. A shiver went down Alastor's spine, fear and dread coursing through him like the cold water of a river, but all of it consisted of rapids. His breathing quickened slightly, but he managed to keep it under control with deeper breaths.

Ãǹšwër mê. Ør ðø Ì ǹëêð tø ßrìñg ßãçk thê ðøgš?

Alastor hesitated for moment before saying quietly, "N-No...that...that won't be necessary..." His voice was hoarse from his previous episode and he desperately wished he could sound stronger; especially in front of his contractor. "I-I'll get it done soon...'

Gøöð. Ï çãǹ't wáìt óñ ýøü førëvèr. Ýøü kñøw whât hāppëňš whëň ýøü ðøǹ't følløw ørðërš.

"Yes...There are a few complications though..." Alastor said so quietly, he almost thought he'd only said it in his mind. This would have punishment, but this was something he couldn't keep to himself.

Ëxçüśëš! Ðø ãš Ì ćømmãǹð ør pãý thë prìćë...Mãýßë áñøthër šëvêǹ ýëårš wìll ðø...

The threat held his mind in a death grip, something squeezing the air out of his lungs as Alastor gasped for breath. His body was shaking terribly and he felt like putting his hands back to his scalp, tugging at his hair. And he might've if his thoughts weren't racing.

No...

no no no no no...

I can't go back there...

Not...not again....

not again never again not again...

I don't wanna go back I don't wanna go please let me stay-

I don't wanna hurt no more pain no more pain no more pain-

It hurts everything hurts pain suffering pain hurt dying -

I'm dying everything hurts pain darkness alone alone all alone-

Alastor's claw gripped his leg so hard that it had started bleeding, the tips of his fingers coming back a dark crimson. He couldn't breath. He could, there was plenty of air, but he couldn't breath. He needed air, but he couldn't get any.

".....no...." That was the only thing Alastor could say, and it was strained, drained of all strength. If he ever had any.

Gøöð. Ðøǹ't fãìl më ågäìñ. Šhê müšt ßë ðëãð ßÿ ñìghtfãll. Ðø ýøü úňðërştäñð?

I don't want to

This is wrong

Wrong wrong wrong...

She doesn't deserve this...

I don't want to she doesn't need to die I don't want to kill her

no

no no no no no...

I don't want to kill her

she'll kill me

I'm going to die she's going to kill me I'm going to die-

"Yes.... " Alastor whispered, pressing himself to the tree so hard that the bark dug into his skin.

Gõøð. Äǹð whãtëvêr "çømplìćãtìøñš" ÿøü håvë, Ì håvë gìvéǹ ÿøü mörë thån ëñøügh pøwër tø gét rìð øf thëm. Rëméßër, ñìghtfäll.

A weight in the room lifted. The air became breathable again. It was quiet and peaceful to any onlookers, but to Alastor, he was in panic.

He was supposed to kill her. By tomorrow night. He couldn't do this. Someone would kill him before he got the chance...

Alastor. The Radio Demon. Was scared.

Chapter Text

Lucifer was in trouble.
Charlie had another one of her trust exercises today, and it was a doozy.

Did she really think that he could cook? And in a competition no less. He pitied whichever unfortunate guest he got paired with.

The only think he could actually make without burning the kitchen down was pancakes, so he really truly hoped that his partner would be cool with that.

All the staff and guests were standing in the kitchen, aprons on and listening to Charlie explain the exercise. Of course Lucifer's had a duck on it saying 'Don't Duck With Me', and he thought it was pretty clever.

It was weird that a certain deer was missing though...

"Is that your cooking attire?" Oh. Wait, nope. There he is. Lucifer turned to find Alastor directly behind him, sporting a super cute ponytail and an apron that read 'We're going to have you for dinner' with fake blood splatter around the letters.

"Yes, yes it is. Not like yours is any better." Ha! Take that!

Alastor's smile widened a fraction, but there was something unusual about his demeanor that Lucifer couldn't quite place...maybe that strange look in his eyes? The fact that his ears twitched way more than they usually did? The up-tick in static? Wait- why would he thinking about these things?!

 "At least mine is appropriate to be wearing in the kitchen, as it entails food of some kind, dinner flesh or not. Yours is an eyesore with a ridiculous mock of profanity," The sinner said, not an ounce of mockery was spared in his tone, and it pissed Lucifer off.

How dare this smiling prick insult his duck apron!

"Yeah? Well at least mine is funny! What does yours even mean?!?" 

"It means that for this frivolous competition, I shall be serving you. Just as it clearly states. Or can you not read?" Alastor said with condescension.

Lucifer stamped a foot down and crowded into the deer's personal space. "Listen here, I can fucking read you idiot! Can I go one fucking day without you getting on my damn nerves?!"

Despite the king's words and actions, Alastor still kept a perfect expression of indifference.

"Well, sire, to be annoyed is your choice. If you do not wish to be bugged, simply stop caring." Alastor's grin widened before he turned his attention to Charlie.

"So you can make anything you want! So long as it's appropriate." She gave Alastor a scolding look. Look at his baby, being demanding! 

"Now, anyone here with a food allergy?"

There was silence in the room except for one of the new guests, who arrived after the battle with heaven, said that they had a peanut allergy. So just no peanuts! 

 "Alright, you got that everyone? No peanuts! Now, we're going to pair you up!" Charlie started listing off people and she finally got to him " Dad, you're gonna be with...Alastor!"

Did Lucifer look shocked? Cause he absolutely was.

"WHAT?!? Charlie, Char, heh...you can't be serious, right? I mean, him?" Lucifer gestured to the sinner next to him who also had a masked shock.

"Charlie, dear, is there absolutely no-one else who I can be paired with?" Alastor's grin was even farther up on his face than normal.

Stupid smug-ass deer.

"How dare you! I am the king of hell! You should feel honored to be paired with me!" Lucifer spat out, trying to let out all his annoyance on Alastor.

The sinner raised a questioning eyebrow at him. "Were you not just trying to change partners?"

"Yes! Because I don't wanna get stuck with your old-timey ass! Do you even know how to cook?!" The king demanded fiercely.

"I could ask of you the same. I assume you had many chefs back at your palace to do the cooking for you, no?" Alastor quipped, gesturing vaguely in the air.

"Well, yeah! But...UGH! Charlie, can't I be with you?" Lucifer looked to his daughter pleadingly, sincerely holding she would change her decision.

Charlie shook her head. "Sorry dad. I'm with Vaggie. Angel, you're with Husk." 

Wow. This is just great! 

Cooking with the fucking cannibal!

Shit...

This is gonna be a disaster...

"Alright everyone! Now that you're paired up, go to a station that we've gotten set up, and start cooking!" Charlie explained cheerfully, arms open wide in a hopeful gesture. She had the brightest smile on her face, and Lucifer could feel that that smile would disappear quite soon...

He turned to Al. "We. Are making. Pancakes. No question," Lucifer deadpanned. 

"I am not making something as trivial as a pancake. They are cavities waiting to happen," The Radio Demon said, disdain dripping in his voice.

"Hey! I have never had a cavity in my life, and I eat these daily!"

Alastor stared at him, eyebrows slightly furrowing.

What? Was it something he said?

 "I can never fathom why people indulge in such confections.." Alastor mumbled, most likely talking to himself, while punching the bridge of his nose. But then he turned back to Lucifer, with a look in his eyes Luci couldn't quite read. "If you're so insistent on something as sickeningly sweet as pancakes, why not try your incapable hands at some much more refined cuisine?"

Incabable?! Oh this bitch...

"What would be better than pancakes? I bet they're better than whatever you're gonna suggest," Lucifer huffed, crossing his arms in annoyance.

Alastor had already turned his back to the king, walking towards an unoccupied cooking station. He seemed to be a bit tense, but the was most likely because of the still healing gash on his chest. It probably still caused a lot of pain for the sinner...

Hey! Don't give him sympathy! He just insulted PANCAKES!!!

Lucifer huffed and walked over to the cooking station Alastor had claimed.

"Pancakes," Lucifer demanded, trying to convey his authority , but he knew it wouldn't work on the sinner.

"No."

"Why not??"

"I'm afraid I just don't have a sweet tooth, sire." What?!? How can he not like sweets?!?

"Excuse me? You don't like sweet food. At all?"

"No. So we're not making pancakes. I know of a few dishes from my hometown that would satisfy your craving." Alastor conjured up a cookbook from thin air, but he did seem a bit unsteady afterwards, gripping the counter pretty hard.

"Ok, what's better than pancakes?" The king questioned, trying to keep unwanted worry out of his voice.

Alastor reached into a cabinet and brought out a few bowls. "I was thinking of making some bread pudding," he said while getting a few stirring spoons and spatulas.

"But pudding's sweet..?" Thoroughly confused, Lucifer tried to reach out for the cookbook, but the deer snatched it out of his reach - almost like he was protecting it.

Alastor have a long sigh, setting the book on his side of the counter. "You really have no culinary experience, do you?" 

"I do! I made Charlie cake all the time when she was a little girl!" Lucifer exclaimed.

"Oh yes. Because cake is the end all be all of the world of cuisine." Alastor replied, dreadfully monotone. His ear flicked in what was most likely annoyance. That's so CUTE!

Alastor carefully flipped to a page in the book. Wait, are those handwritten instructions...?

"I thought you would have a least a bit of knowledge regarding food due to the fact you've been ruling over Hell for the last millennia, but I suppose I was mistaken." Voice tinged with frustration, Alsator's glare bore through Lucifer.

A small smile spread across Lucifer's face. "Ok, if you're so smart, then care to explain what's so special about this 'not sweet ' pudding?" 

Like this bitch could actually cook! There was no way in Hell that this demon, this cannibalistic, stupid demon, could actually make a better dish than Lucifer!

"The difference, your majesty, is that bread pudding is meant to be more plain, and hardly contains sugar, compared to other pudding recipes that are chalk-full of the horrendous stuff." 

"Yeah, well, I like it sweet."

"And I do not. That is where we are at an impasse."

"Well...maybe you could make the pudding and I....uh...make pancakes?"

Alastor laughed, but it's not his usual laugh. This one...seems to mean something. "I suppose that would suffice. Just try not to burn down your part of the kitchen, would you?"

Lucifer roll ed his eyes. "Only if you promise not to poison Charlie." Lucifer waits for Alastor's laugh again, but it doesn't come. He's frozen, as if considering something. Then in the blink of an eye he's twirling his cane and prancing off to get ingredients.

"I will try my best, sire."  

That was...weird, to say the least. Wait...was he actually considering that?! 

Lucifer moved to the other side of the counter and set out to gather his pancake ingredients, buried deep in his thoughts.

Why did he pause? Is he going to poison Charlie?!?!

Lucifer turns to his work, but glares over his shoulder at Alastor. He didn't seem to be up to something. But then again, he never does.

 Within all the chaos of the room, their section was the only one that was completely silent. It was...unnerving. Usually the two men were at each other's throats, but for some reason this time was different. They were just standing there, cooking and what could be mistaken for companionable silence.

And Lucifer decided it was too quiet and his thoughts were too loud. "So, uh, that's an interesting cookbook. Where'd you get it? " He asked after a few minutes of debating. Alastor's ear twitched in acknowledgement. 

"It was my mother's." Alastor responded after hesitating for a moment; almost like he didn't want to say it. That would explain the handwritten-ness of it.

Wait, he had a mom?!

I thought he grew up an orphan with how little he talked about his parents. Or his past life in general...

Or anything personal really...

I really need to figure this guy out.

"Oh. She a good cook?" Lucifer asked.

"Only the best. You haven't truly lived until you've had a taste of her cooking. Although, you never lived in the first place, did you?" The Overlord responded - with a bit more joy than a few minutes ago - lazily pointing a spoon at him.

That was actually a good question...

"Uh, not really sure. But wait...how did you get an item from the human world here? That shouldn't be possible." The thought mulled over in his mind, but despite all his knowledge, Lucifer couldn't think of a single thing that would make that possible without something or someone helping him.

The sinner let out an exasperated sigh, answering the question without sparing as much as even glance toward Lucifer. "Yes, well, it became mine once she passed, so I suppose it was just brought with me."

Another ear twitch. That explanation seems off...

"Whatever you say, pal." He couldn't have that without outside help. But that would cost him something. Something big. But Alastor wouldn't...no. He values his control too much for that.

Lucifer looked down at the table, staring at the faux wood of the counter. He didn't remember building the kitchen like this. He had made it as efficient as possible; more sinners would make it harder the make meals for everyone. But the kitchen looked more homey now. All the tabletops were a medium wood along with all the cabinets. The floor was tiled in a checker pattern with white and blue, a stark contrast to everything else in the hotel. All the ovens weren't as industrial - more like a household model. It looked lived in and not at all what a hotel kitchen should be. 

What the hell..?

That seemed to snap him out of his thoughts. "What the fuck happened to the kitchen? It wasn't like this before..."

"Well, Your Majesty-" Alastor makes sure the words sound more like an insult rather than just his title. "-if you're so keen on it, I took the liberty of improving the state of the kitchen. You had made it into a horrendous excuse for a place where meals should be prepared, so I spruced it up a bit. Much better, if I do say so myself."

"Hey! I worked hard on choosing those counters!! The black marble cost me three favors alone!"

"Oh? So you freely give your services in exchange for limestone? Interesting..."

 "Oh, c'mon! You know I don't mean it like that! I'm not the one over here who collects souls and use them for my evil plans!"

"The only thing remotely evil here are your atrocious cooking skills," Alastor says, gesturing to the stove.

Suddenly, Lucifer is aware of the smell of smoke coming from the general area. He looks down and sees the pancake he had just been cooking was now in fire.

"OHSHITOHSHITOHSHITOHSHIT!!!FUCK!! UH...MAGIC! YES!" Lucifer snapped his fingers and the pancakes, or what was supposed to be pancakes, were gone. Charlie ran over to see what all the commotion was about.

"Is everything okay?!? I thought I smelled smoke!" Charlie exclaimed, clearly worried.

"Oh, I got it Char. Nothing to-" Lucifer started to explain, but he was cut off by a certain Radio Demon.

"Why yes! You're father had decided he wanted something with a little spice, so he made the hottest thing possible!" Alastor grinned. The stupid smug bastard...

"Uh, no. The hottest thing possible is me." A sultry voice butted in. Wait, when did Bangel get here?! Husk scoffed from their cooking station. Well then. All we were missing is-

"Angel, why?" Yep. There's Vaggie.

"Look, I admit I screamed up. I got distracted, that's all."

Angel smirked.

"By that red-hot assistant chef of yours? Huh. Didn't think you'd be admitting it this early,” Angel remarked.

"WHATEWNOWHATGROSSWHYNOPENOPEDISGUSTING???!!!" Vaggie stifled a laugh. Even Husk looked somewhat amused. Charlie just sighed.

"Look, the problem was fixed. Everyone just...go back to work. Please." Lucifer tried to gain control of the situation again, though in the back of his mind he knew he probably wasn’t going to live this one down.

"Alright, toots. Whatever ya say." The group dispersed. Liking Alastor. Really?!? 

Ugh. You really just can't admit it can you?

She watched from the shadows. HIS shadow. Her little fawn. How was he going to kill the target? He did love to keep people on their toes. It was one the thing she admired about him. The skill, the performance, the STORY he told. It was possibly the best show she's watched in centuries.

Added with the fact that this will help her to rule all of Hell? Why, he was the perfect little specimen. If only he knew what her plan would cost him. Sure, his mind is on the edge of insanity, but the things she must do to concure? It will teach him a new meaning of the word "Crazy"...

Alastor watched everything unfold. How dare Angel suggest such a thing? The thought...Him. Dating? And with Lucifer? Alastor suppressed a chuckle. That man can hardly talk to his daughter, let alone confess his feelings to someone. It's a surprise all of Hell hasn't risen up against him. He’s just so powerful that no one would dare cross him

Ah, Lucifer. He was quite the obstacle. But that's just how it goes. There was always one. But this one might be his hardest to overcome. And probably die in process.

The way Lucifer studied him, looking him up and down as if he could read a person just from looks. Alastor has worked to make sure this is not so, but that offered no comfort. He was probably figuring out the best way to kill him…

Alastor returned to cutting his bread. What could have distracted Lucifer as to let his precious pancakes go to waste? Certainly not him...but there was chance.

But then again, he had caught Lucifer staring just before the meal was set ablaze. Could Angel's statement really be true..?

No matter. If the king took a fancy to him, it would be gone by tonight. That's the plan, after all. Wait until this ridiculous competition was over, and then...kill the girl who never deserved to die and greet the end to his immortal life.

Alastor set down the knife. Did it really have to be her? Of all people? She...wasn't his closest friend, but she still...no. She can't mean anything to him. She can't be a friend. Not with this assignment. 

Just play the role, and this will all be over.

One can only hope, can't he?

"Time's up! Now for judging! Niffty, Keekee Dazzle. Would you do the honors?" Charlie could be the sun in the sky for how bright she was glowing.

The maid nodded enthusiastically and scrambled over to the nearest counter and started sampling the foods. Dazzle followed her lead, not as crazily, thankfully. Keekee eventually followed, but with her own cat-like grace in her steps.

Niffty took the first bite of Alastor's pudding. (Alastor had insisted that Lucifer's pancakes were "not to be served". For once, he agreed.)

"Mm! It's sweet! And I like the texture! You get a pass!" Lucifer mentally fist-pumped. One judge down, two to go!

Keekee nibbles at the dish and meows her approval. Dazzle takes a bite and nods. THREE FOR THREE!! But Angel and Husk's spaghetti also got a full score. So this is how it ends...two teams, glaringly even in competition, waiting for the winner to be announced, one to win, one to lose-

"...Alastor and Lucifer!" Huh? What happened? 

Alastor looks down at Lucifer.

"I thought you would've been more enthusiastic."

"Why's that?"

"I just won the competition for us."

"Really?! YES!! I CAN'T BELIEVE-wait, you?! What do you mean you won this?"

"With my bread pudding."

"Yeah, but we're a team."

"I didn't see you helping chop the bread."

"Yes, but we were paired together, so we both won this."

"No, for I did all the work. You just get a small portion of credit." 

"That's not how this works!"

"Yes, it is."

"NO. IT. IS. NOT!" Lucifer marches right in Alastor's face and plants his finger in the deer's chest. He was not about to be told he did nothing. Not again.

"Sire, need you invade my space like a small child?" Alastor said, flinching back slightly.

"Oh, that's it." Lucifer shoves Alastor to the floor. His ears are now pinned back, antlers large, something other than smugness in his eyes. Lucifer's own horns are out, his demonic form making a show.

"YOU ARE NOT GOING TO DISCREDIT ME! I AM A PART OF THIS TEAM, AND THEREFORE I HELP. MAYBE I DIDN'T NECESSARILY HELP YOU, BUT I STILL DID SOMETHING. DO I MAKE MYSELF CLEAR?" Alastor nods. Lucifer's form returns to normal and he walks over to Charlie.

"Sorry, sweetie. I just had to-"

"DAD! WHAT WAS THAT?! He didn't do anything! He was just talking to you! Why would you be so mean? I...I am very disappointed in you, and as punishment, you shall be attending the next three trust exercises, like it or not. Now, I need some air. I think you do too." Charlie walks off, leaving Lucifer alone. He...he failed her.

Again.

Chapter Text

The time had come.

Alastor waited until the last possible second, But this couldn't be put off any longer. His master's demands and threats swirled within his mind, and he knew the price for disobeying orders.

Those years...the pain...the FEAR...

He pushed the memories away, focusing on the task at hand.

Killing....Charlie Morningstar.

He had the resources, he had the plan. All he needed was the courage to take action.

The walls groaned, as if they could feel his nervousness the events about to happen.

The angelic dagger sheathed in the belt around his waist felt like a thousand pound weight, carrying the emotional baggage that hung in his mind. Of course, it was only for the scenario where he didn't end up killing her with his powers, but something told him he'd have to use it anyways.

Every little sound filled his ears, the break of the floorboards, his muffled steps, even the faint activities in various guest's rooms. And the darn things wouldn't stop twitching! 

Note to self: Rid head of ears. Will probably need something different other than angelic steel, like bronze.

Alastor exited his room trying to put on a mask of his usual charm. He knew Charlie's evening schedule like the back of his hand, and after one of her profound trust exercises, he could bet that she would still be in the kitchen, cleaning up the mess late into the night.

The smell of burnt bread still lingered in the air from Lucifer's ridiculous attempt at cooking. He tried not to let his disgust outwardly show.

As expected, there was Charlie, humming while wiping counters and cleaning dishes. Alone.

Perfect.

He soundlessly stepped into the room, creeping right up behind the princess.

"Charlie! My dear, whatever are you doing up at this hour? You should be in bed. You know Niffty will take care of this in the morning," Alastor said, hopefully stating the truth. She might just run off when he dies...

Charlie jumped at the sound of his voice. After all these months, she still never noticed when the overlord entered the room if he didn't explicitly show himself.

"Oh! Hey Al. Didn't see you there. You really are quiet, aren't you?" She says this like she's only now realizing it, and that brings a softer smile to Alastor's face. He chuckles at the thought. She's so polite.

The sinner stepped a few paces away from Charlie, now standing beside her. "While I appreciate the compliment, my darling, that did not answer my question. Why are you up so late?"

Charlie brushes a length of hair behind her ear nervously. "Oh, I...uh....I couldn't sleep. I was just think about Sir Pentious and what he-" Her voice cracks slightly at the mention of her their late friend, tears welling in her eyes. Would she feel the same way if he died?

Charlie takes a deep breath and braces herself against the counter. After a few moments of hesitation, she says, "He just...went and sacrificed himself! He deserved so much better that to just get... obliterated by Adam!! He had become part of our little family and-and, he didn't need to die!" A small pause. " I-I miss him Al... " There were more tears gathering in her eyes and she was now holding her arms close to her chest.

The sight made Alastor a bit even more hesitant to do his job."Come now, Charlie. He did his best. I personally think it's better to sleep on the matter. After all, a good night's rest is crucial for proper thinking." He hoped his tone was reassuring because he really didn't want those tears of hers to start flowing prematurely.

She smiled softly. "Yeah, you're right. Thanks, Al. I'll head up to bed in a bit. Just gotta..." She turned to face a pan with a particularly difficult food bit, clinging to its last moments. Her back is completely towards him, as if she trusts him...

Ñøw. Ðö ït ŇØW.

He summoned two shadows to his feet, feeling the dark energy swirling around in his veins; like a river beneath his skin. A faint crackle hovers in the air, much like his own static, but harsher. A bright green glow fills the room. He positions the shadows to strike. Like a hunter stalking his prey.

And he never misses his mark.

The scream woke him awake.

As it registered in his brain, Lucifer flopped out of bed and ran. 

Okay, so, maybe duckies slippers weren't the best thing to run in, but come on! They're cute!

Hallways, doors, rooms go racing by as Lucifer when to assist his daughter.

Whyhowwhowoulddothishowdaretheyaretheystillhereisshealiveisalastorhurt?

He almost froze at the last thought.

Alastor. Why of all things, him?

No time! Charlie!

He quickened his pace, desperately trying to reach Charlie.

The haunting sound seemed to come from the kitchen area. 

Why would anyone be in the kitchen at this hour?!

He skidded to a stop right outside the door and felt a similar power growing inside. It had this sticky feel and it clung to his skin like humidity. A dull buzz filled his ears, muffling his thoughts. Alastor.

Oh shit, are they both hurt?!

FUCK!!!

Lucifer pushed the door open with such force that he almost took it completely off its hinges. The scene laid out in front of him was something from his darkest nightmares that he wouldn't wish upon anyone, sinner or not.

Charlie had turned around, only to be met with Alastor in a partial demonic form. He wrapped a couple of his tentacles around her ankles so she wouldn't be able to get away. The overlord almost considered apologizing for this, but that would shatter the moment illusion he had made.

"A-al...what are you doing...?" she squeaked out, voice so quiet you could hardly hear it. Tears were forming in her eyes again, and it brought a small very large twinge of pain to his long dead heart.

"I'm terribly sorry it has to Come to this, dear, but it must be done." It's not like he has any other choice...

Already he could feel her tugging at his mind. But what could she want..?

And then he was gone.

Charlie was on the floor, screaming in pain as a shadowy tentacle pierced through her abdomen, her face contorted in pain. Blood was slowly pooling on the floor around her as well as oozing out of the wound. But that wasn't even the worst part.

Alastor, the commander of said tentacle, was on strings. So. Many. Strings. They glowed the same color as his powers, but with more intensity. The whole room was blanketed in an eerie green glow, making Lucifer feel even more uneasy. But what he noticed next was almost worse.

His smile was stitched on his face, limbs sewn together, a crazed look in his eye. The strings all connected above his head to two wooden crosses. And they were moving. Moving him.

Lucifer had essentially no time to think; feelings or not, he had to act. Fast. He summoned a holy ray and fired at Alastor. The deer stumbled backwards, but managed to regain his footing fairly quickly. He removed the tentacle from Charlie and fired it towards Lucifer, and he raised a wing to block it.

Sinners can't hurt angels without angelic steel, fallen or no-

The tentacle shot through feathers, flesh, and bone. A sharp, white hot pain coursed through his body.

WHAT?!? That...that shouldn't be possible...He can't have that kind of power. Not unless...

Lucifer drew in a shallow breath to keep himself from overthinking.

Alastor is possessed.

The look on Lucifer's face almost made her laughmakeitstop.

After all these years, planning, waiting, watching as her sweet little deer climbed the ranks of Hell,Someonehelpmeshe FINALLY could rid herself of the Morningstar family.CharlieI'msosorry.

So what if she had taken advantage of Alastor and is now controlling his body? He was having second thoughts, considering DEFYING her. She couldn't let that happen. And he'll have Hell to pay for even daring to ignore his master.Nopleaseletmego.

But for now, she'll have to start with Charlie. It was easy to plant her little fawn in her hotel. So trusting. So naïve. So pitiful. And now here was that same girl, bleeding on the floor, needing her daddy to rescue herLuciferhelpmeplease. Her depressed, stupid father, who abandoned her. Who gave Eve the apple. Who made ALL of this happen. Finally, some payback.

Finding Lilith will be harder though. Lilith was always an expert in getting what she wanted, and if she was hiding, she probably won't be found. But with this deer, this poor soul, I'mbeggingyoupleasestopshe could bring Lilith to justice for all she has done. All the pain and suffering she has caused.

Roo smiled through Alastor's body in delight.

The tentacle was still embedded within his wing, and Lucifer was still in pain. Lots and lots of pain.

He and Alastor were locked in a staring contest, and if Lucifer had anything to say about it, he felt extremely unsettled. The sinner in front of him was covered in those strings.

 "Wëll, well, well. Loôk who it îs. Lucifēr Morniňgstar. Cøme to sæve your précious daughter from an üntimely demìse?" Alastor said, but his voice sounded...strange. It sounded layered. His regular voice with a bit more static feedback, and an odd, dark undertone. It sounded like a women's voice but laced with the growl of some untold horror.

Choosing to ignore...whatever Alastor is right now, Lucifer turned to his daughter, trying not to let the panic show in his voice. "Charlie, are you alright?"

She groaned in pain, but gave a small smile directed towards him. That's his girl.

"Yeah, I'll be fine. Kinda hurts though..."

Lucifer leaned down, attempting to inspect the wound further and completely ignoring the sinner behind him

The wound was bad, but not as bad as it could've been. It was a clean and precise job, and almost perfect circular hole in her abdomen. It had been placed a little off to the side in her right, just below her ribs. Without the tentacle in it, blood now flowed freely in sickening streams. It was a few inches deep and about the size of Lucifer's fist. The hole had missed the majority of her vital organs (Thank Satan) but there was a small puncture in her large intestine. Bits of her coat had dropped into it, now completely mixed in with the blood.

Fuck. Fuck fuck FUCK!!!

OH SHIT THIS IS BAD!!

"Uh..! Don't worry, I can, uh...I think I can fix this. Just let me deal with Al first, got it?" Of course, he's lying through his teeth, but it'll have to do for now. Charlie nods, but the tears in her eyes say something else. That there's a wound he cannot heal. An Alastor-shaped one right in her heart.

There's one in his too.

Lucifer rounds on Alastor. Oh. Fuck.

The wooden sticks have picked him up off the ground, leaving him dangling in mid-air like a doll. He's laughing his head off; or, at least, someone else is.

"Höw pitiful. You trùly think yoü can hêal her? My mågic goes fær beyond your çomprehension. Yoü'd be lucky to heal a minor šçrape if I gave it to her. Besides, you couldn't fix your relatïonship with Lilith. You couldn't fix your sin âgainst God. You couldn't fix më." That voice...it's...familiar.

Alastor's body jerks in his direction and suddenly is directly in Lucifer's face.

"And nœw? I come to inflict my rëvêňgë." More tentecles intrude into his wing and pull. Pain. SO. MUCH. PAIN. Bones snap, muscles rip, and he can feel all of it. He's convinced his wing will be ripped right off. Golden blood was trickling down the feathers and steadily dripping onto the floor. 

It takes a moment to react, but Lucifer brings up his Hellfire encased fist and punches Alastor directly in the jaw. The sheer force of the blow knocks the overlord back and it looks like one of the strings on his arm snaps.

 "DON'T YOU DARE TOUCH ME OR MY DAUGHTER AGAIN," Lucifer demands, his voice also gaining a dark undertone to it.

Alastor opens his mouth to respond, but he freezes, and looks down at him hand. Where the string once was, there's now just a small red "X". The hand is repeatedly closing in a fist and opening. Then it waves at Lucifer and makes a circular motion. "Do it again". Alastor's other hand closes around it.

"No. I am in control here. You will have your body back later." Wha...? Does...Did Alastor willingly give his body up? But then why would he want him to..? Wait...the strings.

Lucifer looks up at the wooden crosses. There. That's my target. He summons a fireball in his hand and...

The wood splinters and crashes to the ground, fire enveloping it. Along with the wood, Alastor comes falling onto the ground on his hands and knees, gasping for breath. A very concerned looking shadow appears on the wall behind him. 

It stares at Lucifer, terror written all over it's face as it cowers back.

The sinner himself is still trying to regulate his breathing, but it just becomes more ragged as the minutes pass by. His ears are plastered to his skull, and it doesnt look like they'll be righting themselves any time soon.

Lucifer debates helping Alastor, but decides against it, just in case whoever that was is still in him.

A roar echos through the kitchen. Alastor's shadow's...face? flickers with recognition. It flies down the wall, trying to escape something. 

That's when her shadow swoops it and engulfs it.

Alastor didn't care that Lucifer was watching him pant like a dog. Didn't care that it would be easy for Lucifer to beat him to shreds right here, right now.

He cared when she started screaming from his shadow.

ÝØÜ HÃVÊ FÃÍLËÐ MË FŒR THÊ LÅŞT TÌMË! ŸØÜ ÁRÈ GÕÌŇG ẞÃÇK ÃŇРŇÊVÉR ÇØMÌŇG ØÛT!!

No. Nonononononono

I can't go back I don't want to go back please don't let me go back

I'll do better I promise I'll do better

Don't take me back there please please PLEASE!!!

PLEASEIDON'TWANTTOGOI'LLBEBETTERI'LLDOWHATYOUWANTANYTHINGBUTTHATPLEASE!!!

Alastor couldn't stop those twisted memories this time. 

Vox, his father, all those he had killed getting their revenge in his childhood home...

Watching helplessly as his mother was torn to shreds by the same dogs that helped to kill him...

Random demons, sinner or hellborn, taking their more guilty pleasures out on him...

Drowning in his own tears...

Having his skin peeled back and ripped at until it turned white (it never did)...

Alastor couldn't tell if there was blood on his face or if he was crying. If he was the Radio Demon or that weak little boy from Louisiana. 

If he was ever going to be free, or die in shackles and pain.

Forcing himself to glance at the wall, he was met with fury. Her shadow slithered and writhed, much like his tentacles in a shadow form. I'm the blink of an eye, the shadow materialized in a more corporeal form.

Using her index finger, she lifted up his chin and forced Alastor to look at her. "I'll be waiting, my little fawn. I have some big plans for you, and you won't be granted the mercies of last time..." She whispered in his ear.

Alastor shivered. He didn't think he could imagine the horrors waiting for him. But then again, what choice did he have..?

"Y-yes, master." She smiled.

"Good boy. Now, we're going to forget all about this incident, aren't we?" He nods, but he knows that she wants that moment branded in his mind. Her having complete control over him...it sickened him down to his very last bone. It went against everything he was fighting for, and yet...

He had been powerless to stop it.

Well, wasn't this a sight? Lucifer and Charlie frozen, watching Alastor essentially having a panic attack because of a shadow on the wall. It must've been speaking to him in some kind of way because he responded to it with a shaky voice.

The king was extremely conflicted. Alastor looked so...helpless. So weak and defeated. Hell, he was fucking crying. 

Lucifer didn't know if he should comfort Alastor or smite him. But he did know that Charlie needed his help.

He placed one hand over Charlie's wound. The magic radiating off of it was so strong. But he knew who did this. He could recognize her face anywhere, even as a shadow.

Roo. A living encyclopedia of his mistakes.

And apparently had ties to a certain sinner named Alastor.

But that wasn't what he needed to focus on. Charlie was bleeding out in front of him, and he needed to do something.

Grabbing at the energy within the wound, he pulled at it, willing it to come free. It proved extremely difficult because Roo's energy held onto Charlie very tight. 

He summoned all his strength and tugged. He could feel it coming undone, little at a time. Charlie and him both groaned from the effort.

The energy was a horrific black, absolutely dripping with evil intent. Whenever Lucifer even got near it, it left an acrid and almost acidic taste in his mouth, but he did his best to ignore it. 

After an agonizing few minutes, Lucifer pulled out the last nite of that vile energy.

Charlie gasped with relief. "Thanks, dad. Now, what do we do about...that?" She points at Alastor, who is currently holding his head, ears pressed flat, while the shadow...glares at him? Can shadows even glare?

Eh, doesn't matter right now. With his daughter on mend (Hopefully really fast), he could focus on the sinner. Between gasps for air, he could hear him muttering to himself. About what? He couldn't tell, but Alastor was clearly distressed.

He reached out to the overlord, attempting to calm him down with a hand on his shoulder, but the opposite effect happened. 

Alastor violently flinched back, scrambling a few feet away from the king. His eyes were wide and raw with emotion. Fear...

You scare everyone away.

Is...is that it? Is Alastor truly...afraid of him? No...there's...something off about it. Like...he was expecting someone else to have their hand on him. Or maybe it was him?

Alastor gets to his feet, though he wobbles a few times. He looks straight at Lucifer with a mixture of anger and...worry?

"I would recommend you forget all you saw here today. That you ever met me. Same for you, Charlie. I have matters I need to attend to and will no longer be staying here. But don't fret, I doubt you will ever see me again. For that, you can rejoice." Rejoice? Why would he be happy that Alastor's leaving..?

And with that being said, the sinner melted into the shadows; no trace he was ever there to begin with.

Lucifer couldn't even try to begin to understand what just happened. This too much for one evening, even in his books. He needed to figure this out in the morning. Maybe have some pancakes...?

He turned back to look at Charlie, whose wound had almost already healed, but she was still in an awful condition. She had a haunted look in her eyes, glued to the spot where her (former?) business partner stood.

"Char Char?"

She just looked at him for a few moments, then started crying. She held out her arms for a hug, and he took it, wrapping his arms around his daughter.

"I know, I know. It'll be ok, sweetie. I'm here."

Roo still watched them from the shadow and gave them both a menacing smile, then disappeared.

Chapter Text

High up, at the top of the Vee tower, Vox say at his wall of moniters in complete and utter shock. He's just been doing a little spy-work at the Hazbin Hotel with one of his drones, when he'd come across something he'd thought he'd never see.

Alastor attempting to murder the Princess of Hell.

What. The actual. Fuck.

Yes, Vox has seen Alastor kill several different people (in many different ways) but this...This was something else. This was...different. It didn't feel like Alastor. It was...less showy than he preferred. Quick to the point, whereas Alastor likes to dance around his prey. But...it was him, right? Same face, same coat, same powers. But...something was off.

His image was less distorted than it usually was which was...off-putting to say the least. But what really fried his brain was the whole...marionette thing. His limbs were on these weird strings on a weird wooden cross, and it looked like he wasn't it control of his own actions. Alastor's fighting style was elegant and graceful, confidence in every step. But this....this was clumsy, reckless and downright wrong if anyone asked Vox.

He was watching the newest recording on replay, growing even more confused by the second.

Alastor was fucking crying. Even with all the time Vox had known Alastor, there was never a time he could remember the Radio Demon showing that kind of emotion. This was...there was no word for what this was.

This went beyond everything the Radio Demon stood for. Power, control, fear. But this...this was having the roles reversed, and by the looks of it this wasn't the first time. The doll thing was new, but Alastor had always acted like a performer on a stage, and now, Vox knew there was an audience.

The person, the shadow, the thing he was performing for, it lived on the walls, in the gaps, in the mind, and Vox realized this as he watched. Over and over and over.

But what to do about it? If this thing managed to get Alastor on a leash, a notorious dealmaker, who knows what else it could do? But...with Alastor in a weakened state like this...there were endless possibilities.

Vox smiled to himself. Oh, this will be fun...

Ok...

What the actual fuck just happened?!

Lucifer and Charlie were sitting out in the lobby, both of them a confused and angry mess.

Charlie had tightly wrapped a blanket around herself, and desperately looked like she wanted to cry again. This was just...too much for her. Having someone you trust randomly try to backstab you (literally) one day? Not something anyone would like to think of, but if course, it would happen to Charlie.

Lucifer, on the other hand, was really trying to focus on his daughter, but his mind kept wandering back to the scenes he'd witnessed just an hour ago.

The strings...the shadows...HER. It was all connected, and it went deeper than he knew. How long had Alastor been working for Roo? Did he walk into this hotel with the goal of killing Charlie? If so, why did he wait until now to do it? WHAT DID IT ALL MEAN?!?!

A small voice snapped him out of his thoughts. "D-dad?"

 "Oh, yes sweetie?" Lucifer asked , wondering if he had zoned out again.

 "You..you just..just zoned out for a minute there..." She said, her voice shaky.

Welp, suspicions confirmed. Lucifer sighed.

"Sorry, Char. Just...thinking." Charlie gave him a half-hearted smile.

"Yeah...me too. I just can't believe that..." Her words were cut off by a sob. Lucifer pulled her in tight, protecting her from the world, even if just for a moment.

She didn't deserve any of this. No one did, but especially not her. Why did Alastor want to kill her? He almost seemed...reluctant to do so in a way. The Radio Demon wasn't known for being so...sloppy with his killings, at least from what Lucifer knew. (So what if he did some research on the guy? His daughter worked with him. Might as well learn a thing or two.)

And then there was the whole scene after. Lucifer didn't think he could remember Alastor looking so distressed. Not once. Not in a single one of their spats. Not in any battles he's seen him in. Not even when Lucifer discovered the sinner bleeding out in his room.

And what the hell could Alastor be doing with Roo?! Were they friends because Alastor is just that messed up? Does he have some kind of contract with Roo?  It was most likely the latter...But it was concerning nonetheless.

Roo hadn't been seen in Hell for centuries, at least to Lucifer's knowledge. And whenever she did show her face in any of the planes, it spelled disaster for everyone. She is the Root of All Evil, a direct reflection of his mistake. 

Giving Eve the apple.

From that, evil spread throughout humanity, infecting their minds and causing them to do terrible things. Murder, fraud, and other distasteful things nobody would like to dwell on. 

Even if the story of Adam and Eve were from religions such as Christianity or Catholicism, Evil spreads everywhere. Once humans were able to form concepts of deities, afterlives, and moral codes, Evil followed.

Lucifer knew there were other planes of existence other than Heaven, Earth, and Hell, even though he didn't know much about them. Roo always found a way to worm her way into these places, spreading her influence to gain power and control. This was usually done through a vessel of some sort; an intelligent being she could manipulate to check things off her power hungry to-do list.

And her newest vessel was Alastor. In Hell. Probably to torment him or destroy the seven rings.

Destroy him. Ala-Roo had seemed pretty hell-bent on the sole task of killing him and Charlie. She didn't even break the dish Charlie had been washing at the time. Just...Alastor. Almost. And what did she mean, "Your going back there and never coming out again"? Going back where? And why had Alastor squeaked in fear (ha. He squeaks) after that statement?

The sinner seemed to be having an internal battle, probably verging on one of the worst panic attacks Lucifer had ever witnessed, and that was saying a lot.

Once again, he was broken out of his thoughts by the sudden realization that the sound of crying had ceased.

Lucifer looked down and saw Charlie was still tucked in his arms, but now fast asleep. Her face was still stained with tear tracks, but at least she looked a bit more at peace than a few minutes ago.

But before he could do anything else, Lucifer had to figure this out.

Why? Why had Alastor reacted like that? Did it have something to do about his past? Or maybe the seven...years...

Fuck.

He couldn't feel his body. Alastor couldn't move. He was...somewhere. Everywhere. Anywhere. Nowhere.

Was he...free? No, he dared not hope for such a wondrous thing. He was being punished, most likely, for something that must've angered Roo. But why..?

Last night rushed back into his mind: the attempted murder, the complete lack of any actions of his own doing, Lucifer trying to get revenge for his daughter. Or was it even last night? Maybe that had been two weeks ago. Or maybe it had been two hours. Two minutes...two days...

Two years.

Alastor pushed the thought away, not wanting to even entertain a thought like that. Please no. Not again...He instead focused on his surroundings, or lack thereof. 

And open and empty void, where everything almost seemed transparent. Not typically like what one would think avoid looks like, no dark forever night, no endless landacape, just nothing.

You know...this is kind of nice...Maybe he's just staying here for the rest of eternity. Of course, he'll miss Charlie, but it's better this way. She wouldn't want to be around a møǹštër like him anyways...Besides! There's no master here! No need for control...no worries...

But he knew better. This wasn't peace. This was the calm before the storm.

Charlie awoke feeling happy and rejuvenated, swaddled up in a blanket on the couch.

Wait...The couch?

She lifted her head up to look around her and saw she was in the lobby on the far corner couch. A warm and fluffy blanket had been draped over her, feeling like a solid cloud. And what she had originally thought was a pillow, was actually her dad, still sound asleep. She smiled softly, then frowned. Alastor...he...betrayed them.

How...how could he do that...? I thought...I thought he was our friend...

Charlie felt another onslaught of tears gathering in her eyes, but managed to hold them back. She didn't have the energy to be sad. She just felt empty and numb.

She had trusted him. And then he had tried to kill her. But why?

He had seemed so happy here. He was always smiling...

Just because you see a smile, don't think think you know what's going on underneath.

A smile is a valuable tool, my dear.

He had been lying, hadn't he? He was never happy. He wanted to kill her. Every. Single. Day. He did all of this for his own gain. Every. Damn. Thing.

But she couldn't bring herself to be angry. As naive as she was (being told so by many people), she had a gut feeling that there was something more to all this. Something deeper.

Thinking back to the previous night, she had noticed quite a few odd things about Alastor's behavior. He always made a fight or killing so...theatrical, not at all what he did last night. That was simple, efficient, with none of his usual flair. He almost seemed...hesitant to kill her. 

The wound she had gotten didn't hit any of her vitals from what she could tell, but it seemed like it was meant to be.

And then there was that whole string/marionette thing. Those weren't part of Alastor's powers, right? He relied on shadow magic. So then who's magic was that?

Question after question filled Charlie's thoughts.

Was his whole plan for the hotel killing me?

Why not just kill me in the street instead of joining the hotel?

Dad almost wasn't able to heal me...I could see it in his face. But then how could Alastor, a sinner, inflict something like that?

Am I ever going to mean something more than just a pawn in a game?

Pulling her out of her mental spiral was the arrival of Vaggie. She still looked like she's just rolled out of bed, which was probably true. The angel had gone to sleep before Charlie had and was most likely trying to find her when she noticed she wasn't in bed.

 "Morning babe...is everything alright? I didn't see you in bed this morning," Vaggie said, concern clearly written all over her face.

 It took a moment for Charlie to respond, but if anyone could make her feel better, it was Vaggie. "I uh...no, not really...Al he..." A small pause. " He tried to...tried to kill me... " Maggie's face turned red in anger.

"WHAT?!? Where is that bitch? I swear to god I'm gonna-"

"Vaggie," Vaggie turned to her girlfriend, breathing heavily. "Alastor's...gone." Vaggie raised an eyebrow.

"Gone? What do you mean gone?"

 "He just...left. Told us to forget everything. Last night, his involvement with the hotel, hell, that he even exists! I just..why would he do this...?" Charlie felt tears stinging her eyes, finally having it in her go be sad.

Vaggie say down next to her, placing a hand in her shoulder. "I always knew that pendejo was bad news..."

Charlie blinked at her, confused. "D-Did you? I...thought you only disliked him at the beginning because...well Alastor's been here so long, I can't even remember when he arrived here!" Charlie chuckled to herself, but Vaggie frowned.

"It was only a few weeks ago, hun." The fallen exorcist said.

Charlie looked up at her girlfriend. "No, it was more like...three years?"

Vaggie shook her head. "No, it was definitely a few months ago." 

"But, you just said a few weeks."

Vaggie blinked."Okay, I know my memory is amazing. How can neither of us remember how long he worked with us?!"

"How long who worked with us?"

Vaggie froze. "I....I'm not sure..."

Chapter Text

Scurrying about the hotel, was Niffy with her knife in hand, searching for roaches to stab. The hotel was always in desperate need of cleaning, and who better to clean up the messes than her? The roaches were especially a problem. They always got in somewhere! But Niffty could never figure out exactly where.

One day they would be swarming by the kitchen; next, a certain room, but each time she tried to seal the hole, she'd find them somewhere else. Such pesky little bugs...but they were kinda cute!