Chapter Text
Name:
Andreus Morningstar
Title/s:
Prince of Hell
Future King of Hell
Ruler of All Sinners and Demons
Hell's Perfect Son
The Golden Child
True Ruler of Hell
The Slayer
Nickname/s:
-Prince Andreus
-Your Highness
-Andy (Charlie, his parents, and his friends, possibly Emily)
-Bro (Charlie)
-My boy (Lucifer)
-My Sweet Little Prince (Lilith)
-Big Boy Princy (Angel Dust)
-Dear chap! (Alastor)
-His Royal Big Boss (Sinners and Hellborns)
-The True Prince of Hell (Nobles in Hell)
-Sexy Prince (Angel Dust, Lust Full Sinners, Succubus and Incubus)
-Royal Big Dick (Angel Dust)
-Prince (Husk)
-Super Royal Bad Boy (Nifty)
-Fucking Dick Prince (Vox)
-Lucifer's Son (Vox)
-Scheming Manipulative Asshole (Vox)
-A hunk-A hunk Demon Prince (Valentino)
-Smacking Sexy Prince (Velvet)
-Crown Prince (All Nobles of Hell)
-That Fucking Bastard Demon Spawn (Adam and Lute)
-Royal Pain in my ass! (Adam)
-The Slayer (Adam, Lute, and Exorcists)
-The True Face of Evil (Sera and All the Archangels)
Appearance:
(This art was made by my friend @IsabelCHernandezRobl)
Battle Mode:
(Found it on Pinterest)
Demonic Beast Form:
(Found it on Pinterest)
Personality:
-Coldhearted (to his enemies)
-Manipulative
-Calm
-Can get angry if annoyed
-Cool headed
-Strong minded
-Can be kind and caring to those he considers friends and family
-Can turned psycho if provoked
-Friendly (to some)
-Strongminded
-Very Intelligent
-Protective
Likes:
-Training
-His girlfriend
-His Family
-His little Sister
-Hanging out with Cain
-Coffee or Tea
-Wine
-Doing Business
-Pizza
-Taking care of Charlie
-His friends
-Crafting Weapons
-Destroying his enemies
-Pissing off Adam and Lute
-Slaying Exorcists
-Messing with the Vees business
-Reading
-Listening to music
-Hell's creatures
-Children
-Providing illegal items for Carmilla's business
-Chatting with Zestial
-Spending time with family
Dislikes:
-Stuck up Overlords
-Snob Hell Royals
-Liars
-Being touched without his permission
-Backstabbers
-People doing idiotic things
-His friends and family getting hurt
-Anyone insulting his friends and family, mostly his sister
-Charlie's naiveness and false hope
-Charlie getting into trouble
-Being flirted by Lustful Sinners
-Adam
-Lute
-Katie Killjoy (She was the one who insulted his sister)
-Exorcists and Mercenaries that tried to kill him (and failed)
-Charlie getting hurt
-Mammon asking for money or attempting to break in his house
-The Vees
Powers & Abilities:
-Immortality
-Demon Transformation/Power/Magic
-Invulnerability
-Telekinesis
-Levitation
-Telepathy
-Umbrakinesis
-Jinx Manipulation
-Atmokinesis
-Phobikinesis
-Omnilingualism
-Dimensional Traveling
-Portal Manipulation
-Darkness Solidification
-Destructive Vision
-Magmakinesis
- Hallucikinesis
-Cryokinesis
-Invisibility
-Pyrokinesis
-Memory Recall
-Geokinesis
-High intelligence
-Fire Resistance
-Healing Factor
-Pyrotechnic generation
-Sorcery
-Conjuration
-Flight
-Angelic power (He rarely uses it)
-Shapeshifting
-Duplication
-Musical talent
-Instrumental talent
-Craftsmanship
-Fire breath
-Super strength
-Portal creation
-Teleportation
-Object creation
-Hydrokinesis
-Hand-to-hand combat
Syndicate:
-Devil's Crown (Leader)
Occupation:
-Leader of the Devil's Crown
-Prince of Hell
-Overlord
-Future Sin of Pride
-Next Leader of the Seven Deadly Sins
-Co-Founder of Lu Lu World
Relationships
Family:
-Lucifer Morningstar (Father)
-Lilith (Mother)
-Charlie Morningstar (Younger Sister)
-Seven Deadly Sins (Possibly his aunts and uncles)
Friends:
-KeeKee (family pet)
-Razzle and Dazzle
-Cain (Best Friend/Brother and partner)
- Yumna (Spirit/Human hybrid) (My Oc) (His girlfriend)
Genevieve (My Oc Imp Head Maid)
-Cordelia Tempest (Business Partner) (My Oc)
-Lady Ophelia Tanzanite (My Oc)
-Carmilla Carmine and her daughters: Odette and Clara (Business Partner)
-Rosie (Business Partner)
-Melora (a Demonic Dragon Girl) (My Oc)
-Xiuying (a Demonic Assassin/Bodyguard) (My Oc)
-Zestial
-Octavia
-The Sins of Hell
-Four Horseman of the Apocalypse
Others:
-Vaggie (Former Assassin)
-Alastor
-Husk
-Niffty
-Angel Dust
- Cherri Bomb
- Sir Pentious
- Egg Boiz
-Baxter
-Unnamed Skull Overlord
-Missi Zilla/Zeezi
-Von Eldritch family
-Vassago
-Stolas
-Unnamed Theater Overlord
-IMP
Romantic interests:
-Yumna (A spirt/human hybrid with foresight) Her name Meaning "good fortune" in Swahili
Enemies:
-Exorcists
-Adam
-Lute
-Sera
-Overlords that wanted to take him down
- Andrealphus
-Striker (Maybe)
-Assassins that were sent by Adam and Lute in secret
-The Vees
-Mimzy (She crashed her car at his family's garden)
-Seviathan Von Eldritch
Age:
A little over 300 years since he was born when Hell was completed but he's about in his twenties
Year of Birth:
After Hell was establish
Species:
Hellborn
Nephilim
Gender:
Male
Eye Color:
Light violet irises, very pale yellow sclera, slit pupils
But changed into red and black sclera when activating his demonic powers
Skin Tone:
Pale white
Sexuality:
Straight
Weapon(s):
Different types of firearms, blades, and more
Resident(s):
Pride Ring
Voice Actor:
Darren Korb who voices Zagreus in the video game Hades.
BIO
Andreus was born when Hell was completed, but during his birth, everyone knew he had hidden talents that no one can rival, not even his father nor Heaven. Andreus was born untold powers that can destroy and reshape the world in an image.
As if his very birth forced Hell and Heaven power to shift to match the might of Andreus' presence
Andreus knew of his special abilities and used it wisely. First when he was able to walk or hold a sword, he trained tirelessly, studying forbidden arts and magics. Making himself stronger.
As Andreus grew, Sinners started coming to Hell after committing crimes in the Living World, and thus Heaven created 'The Extermination'. An annual purging event where Exorcists from Heaven, armed with Angelic Weapons and led by Adam (the first man), are sent down to Hell to prevent overpopulation by eliminating as many Sinners as possible.
Andreus grew disgusted by this. He knew the truth why Heaven is doing this because they fear that the Sinners might start uprising from Hell and would threaten Heaven. Andreus learned it after he created a way to spy at Heaven without the higherups knowing. Andreus understood very well how scared Heaven is to Hell, thinking that they will start a war. But it was their paranoia that caused them to fail to see the little details. The Sinners in Hell have no interest in starting war with Heaven as they were more interested in going against each other in the territory in Hell. They don't give any shit about Heaven and more into causing crime on Hell.
Andreus observed the Sinners of Hell, understanding they dislike the annual Extermination. And just wanted to do their own thing. Andreus understood this and found a way to prevent the extermination, a way for both factions to survive the onslaught.
He called it The Hell Games.
The Hell Games' purposes are to keep the population in the Pride Ring steady, and providing entertainment for the Capital and to remind the districts of his power and his lack of remorse or forgiveness for the sinners' crimes on the living world and those who oppose him and his family.
The sinners that were picked are those who are the worst of the worst or are not high-ranking sinners, and would be forced to be in the games. To fight to the death
If any sinners that survive the Hell Games will continue to live in the Pride Ring, but those who didn't survive well...their corpses are used to feed Andreus' hell beasts. Those who survived would be given prizes. The lucky Sinners that have the highest skills will live in luxury and live in the upper class of the Pride Ring while those who are lower will have to survive by either working or making deals with Overlords.
And because Andreus' plan was a success, the annual extermination was now gone and was replaced with the Hell Games that would come every two years. Making Andreus the true ringmaster and ruler of Hell.
Chapter 2: Business in Hell
Summary:
This is my AU of Hazbin Hotel and Helluva Boss where the events are different. Charlie was born two years before Octavia. Also, Lucifer and Lilith are still together. Lucifer isn’t depressed.
The Hell Games is like the Hunger Games but every two or three years if Hell becomes Overpopulated.
Chapter Text
"Your Highness, Ms. Carmine has arrived." Said a female maid Imp, bowing at Andreus.
(Voice Actress: Jessie J) ( This image was made by @IsabelCHernandezRobl)
Andreus was on his desk, looking through the documents in hand. He was checking the schedule for the upcoming Hell Games that will come within this year. He nodded his head as he set the documents down.
"Thank you, Genevieve, please bring Ms. Carmine in." Andreus instructed the Imp.
"Yes, your highness." Genevieve bowed respectfully.
She opens the door, allowing a demoness wearing white glowing sharp ballerina slippers, followed by two female demons behind. She walks on the tips of her toes in her ballet slippers, making clicking sounds.
Carmilla Carmine: Daphne Rubin-Vega
Odette Carmine
Clara Carmine
This demoness was none other than Carmilla Carmine, one of Hell's Overlords. She is the top weapons dealer in Hell as she used illegal materials such as angelic steel. She and her daughters Odette and Clara would scavenge abandoned angelic weapons during an Extermination then reverse-engineered into other types of weapons and sell them to demons who purchase them. However, there was no longer the yearly Extermination thanks to Andreus' Hell Games. People wonder that due to low supplies, they thought Carmilla would lose business, but they were wrong. Instead, Andreus made an offer for Carmilla. He would provide them with Angelic Steel in exchange for them to make weapons for the Hell Games.
The two Overlords made a deal that allows both factions to get what they need. Andreus provides the materials while Carmilla makes the weapons and gives them to Andreus during his annual Hell Games.
Andreus shows great deal of respect for Carmilla, for she has great weapons to create amazing weapons with angelic steel. And Carmilla too also showed great respect for the Prince of Hell, for he was a cunning and reliable ally.
"Greetings, Ms. Carmine." Andreus greeted her with respect, nodding his head with a small smirk. "I hope you and your daughters didn't have any trouble traveling here?"
"Thank you for your concern, Prince Andreus, but rest assured, we did not have any trouble coming here." Carmilla said casually, taking a seat on the luxury red armchair, along with her daughters.
"Good to hear." Andreus said with a nod, watching as Genevieve pushed a trolly with pastries and warm tea.
Genevieve offered tea for Carmilla and her daughters, which they thanked her, before continuing her work as a maid while Andreus and Carmilla discussed their business trades and supplies. Carmilla needed extra shipments of angelic steel since the annual Hell Game is coming up. He needs Carmilla to make a huge shipment of weapons for each trial in the Hell Games.
Each Trials are based on the Seven Deadly Sins. And those trials are so deadly that only few survive. But there were prizes, if Seven Sinners made it to the finish line, they would be given a life of luxury in Hell while the losers who did not make it, will either die or if they wish to live, they must find jobs by working in companies or business in Hell in order to survive here.
It may sound cruel, but it was business in Hell, nothing personal. It was the way to control the districts by reminding them of the power and the consequences of those who dare oppose him.
No one, not even the Overlords of Hell, can challenge Andreus.
The only ones who can take him are either his parents, Lucifer or Lilith, and his second in command and brother in arms, Cain.
Cain is known to be the first-born son of Adam and Eve. He was very loyal in honoring God. However, things changed after God always favored his younger brother, Abel, for he always accepted Abel's sacrifices and not Cain. Over the years, Cain tries so hard to win God's favor but is always overshadowed by his younger brother. This caused resentment and jealousy over the years, no matter how hard Cain tried to win God's favor, the Lord God always chooses Abel. Even his own father, Adam, favored Abel. Considering him the golden child.
Having enough of this neglect, Cain lured his brother Abel into the fields and killed him by bashing his skull with a rock. Killing Abel in the process.
Upon killing his brother, Cain snapped out from his trance and realized his mistake, and felt pang of guilt and remorse, as he committed the first sin: Murder.
Due to his action, Heaven punished Cain by banishing him from his home and forced to wander the earth for all eternity, as a cursed immortal. He will not die no matter how hard he tries, as he is forever cursed to live for many years while the world around him fades away.
As well as earning the title 'The First Murderer'.
Because of Heaven exiling Cain, the man grew resentful towards them. Feeling wrong and abandoned, Cain vowed one day, he will seek vengeance against them for always choosing favorites and never acknowledge him. They did not listen to his prayer.
However, someone else did hear his prayer, and it wasn't any of Heaven's Angels.
It was Andreus who heard his vengeance.
He could sense Cain's hatred towards Heaven, blaming them for his misery. Andreus found this as a perfect opportunity to introduce himself. Andreus found Cain in the battlefield of a war. Blood was scattered everywhere and men yelling with their swords clashed together. Andreus saw Cain taking down many soldiers, one by one, mowing them down like grass. Even though Cain was struck by swords and arrows, he continues fighting due the curse of being an immortal, he can heal but never dies. Cain was there to battle, spreading evil to the land as a retaliation against Heaven after they exiled him.
This was a good opportunity for Andreus to make a deal with Cain. Being his ally in Hell and business partner. As well to retaliate against Heaven's yearly Extermination Day.
At first, Cain wanted to refuse, thinking very clearly that this could be a trick. And yet, his offer was tempting. Cain longed to seek his revenge on Heaven. So, he agrees with Andreus, and the two form a pact, that they would make everyone around them fear the two beings.
Andreus used ancient dark magic to turn Cain into the first Vampyre.
Soon, Andreus and Cain worked together to rule over Hell. Even though Lucifer and Lilith are the true rulers, both Andreus and Cain made sure to keep the citizens in order, by showing their power and bringing fear to the Sinners.
Thus, they form their own syndicate called the Devil's Crown. They created many weapons and created dangerous Hell Beasts. They fought alongside each other when the Exterminators came to kill Andreus.
It's unfortunate for those Angel Exorcists as they were butchered by both Andreus and Cain, like if they were nothing. The exorcist thought they were invincible and thought they cannot be harmed but failed to realize their flaws in their fighting style.
Andreus has been studying the exorcists' fighting styles for years. Their attacks are quick, vicious, and without mercy. Yet they leave themselves open with every swing. They fight like someone unafraid of harm that is why they wield no shields, little armor and fight with reckless abandon. With each Extermination, he found out the Exorcist's weaknesses.
Their own Angelic weapons and Andreus' power.
Being a Nephilim (a half angel and half demon), Andreus is immune to angelic steel, and due to his intense training and skill of magic, he created a new type of metal, called Nephilim Steel. It's light yet twice as strong as angelic steel. Even though it was strong, there was a catch, due to its overwhelming and dangerous energy that it commits. No angel or demon can possess the metal.
Except for two individuals.
Andreus and Cain are the only ones that can use Nephilim Steel. For Andreus placed an enchantment on the steel, he created those rare steel to be used for him and Cain alone, so no one can manufacture them.
And they put those steel into good use by creating strong bladed weapons that butcher the Exorcists. Cain has the most fun of killing the Exorcists. It was like giving his father the finger for abandoning him for Abel. And he didn't care how many he killed, he wanted to show Adam what he had done.
As the old saying goes: Villains are not born, they are made.
With their newfound weapon, the Exorcists were forced to retreat, cutting short the annual extermination day. Their numbers dwindled after Andreus and Cain killed half of their forces and reported this to the higher ups. Which shocked them, especially Adam after learning his own son was in Hell helping Andreus, felt like he was punched to the face by him.
This forces Heaven to send assassins to Hell and hopes to eliminate Andreus. Fearing that he was a threat to Heaven. But unfortunately for them, it was proven useless as Andreus killed all assassins that Heaven sent and fed their bodies to his Hell Beasts or the Cannibal Sinners.
No matter how many assassins or exorcists Heaven sent, Andreus and Cain would always easily kill them. Making Heaven lose many soldiers.
"The next shipment of angelic steel will be delivered within the week." Andreus said to Carmilla in a calm manner, "I expect new weapons will be delivered in two weeks before the Hell Games?"
Carmilla nodded her head, taking a sip of her tea. "Do not worry, Lord Andreus, the weapons you required will be coming soon."
Andreus made a small smirk, his chin rested on his folded hands, showing a calm yet authority aura.
"Thank you for doing business with us, Ms. Carmine, I'm sure our products would be beneficial for the both of us."
"Indeed." Carmilla said in agreement.
Just then, a knock on the door. Not looking up, Andreus responded in a calming tone. "You may come in, Yumna."
The door opens to reveal a young woman whose appearance may look human hence the eyes. Her hair is silver-white, and her skin is hazelnut brown and star-like freckles underneath her eyes. She came in with clipboard in hand and bowed at Andreus.
(Yumna: Zendaya) ( This image was made by @IsabelCHernandezRobl) (FYI: Yumna is an young adult she's just short)
"Greetings, Prince Andreus, Lady Carmilla, and to you as well, Young ladies, Odette and Clara." Yumna greeted them kindly.
"Ms. Yumna." Carmilla greeted her with respect as she nodded while her daughters nodded kindly at her.
"I apologize for coming in, but I must inform Prince Andreus that Lord Asmodeus is here and wishes to speak for some new silk products from the Bebiliths." Yumna said.
The Bebiliths are arachnid demons that, for their own inscrutable reasons, preyed upon other demons. They looked like massive, misshapen spiders, with a body the size of a plow horse and legs stretching some 14 feet with tough, chitinous exoskeleton, two forelegs ended in razor sharp barbs, and their fangs dripped globs of odorous liquid.
They were bred specifically by Andreus to use in his Hell Games but often sell their shedded exoskeleton for profit and their silks. Their silks are very strong, soft, and durable, and can be used in making silk products and garments. Usually, these products are bought by fashionistas Overlords (mostly women), or Asmodeus. He uses the silks for his um...business...his sexual business.
"Understood." Andreus said with a nod as he looked at Carmilla. "I believe this is where we end our business."
"Of course, Prince Andreus." Carmilla said as she and her daughters got up.
"Genevieve, please escort Ms. Carmine and her daughters to exit."
Genevieve bowed and gestured the three demonesses to the door. "Right this way, madam."
As they leave and bid their farewell, Andreus and Yumna went off to another corridor of the castle, heading towards the private meeting room for Asmodeus to discuss business. Yumna, Andreus' private secretary, was listing out the events and duties to be done.
"At 2pm, you will be checking in at the hotels in the Pride Ring for the preparation of the upcoming Hell Games. At 3:30pm, there will be discussion of the sinners that will be participating in the Hell Games. And at 5pm, is the hiring of new staff for the hotels since more sinners are coming within this year." Yumna listed out.
Andreus listens while nodding as they continue walking to the corridor. "Understood. Now, to other matters, are all sinners aware of the upcoming event?"
"Yes, your majesty, many are anticipating this year's Hell Games." Yumna said to him calmly. "Some Overlords are sending their sponsors to the Hell Games, in hopes to win big."
"Of course they did." Andreus mutters with a sigh.
Even though the Hell Games was to stabilize Hell's population, there are times some people, mostly Overlords, found loopholes by sending their contracted sinners to participate in the games, so that they could use this as some sort of publicity for their business.
The one in particular is "The Vees".
The Vees were once humans who died by a terrible accident or were murdered, and went to Hell, reborn as Sinner demons that somehow gain power. Their names are Vox, Valentino, and Velvet. Once in Hell, they began working together and took over the immense metropolis of Pentagram City in the Pride Ring, well most of it. They are extremely dangerous and cunning, to the point that a mere sight of them terrifies others. Except for higher demons such as Royalty, the Devil's Crown, and other Overlords. That said, the Vees are also not respected by other Overlord demons, Andreus once recalls Carmilla calling them smug wannabees and Cain calling them Dumbass Bastards with no manners. Consequently, they have very low opinion of most Sinner Demons other than each other.
They tried to expand their empire, but they couldn't because all other territories belong to the Devil's Crown and are being protected. For the Devil's Crown syndicate is so vast, the Vees can't even reach that potential. They tried once to make a partnership. But both Andreus and Cain refused their offers because they didn't like them. And because they were illegally trying to take their territory without their consent. Thus, Andreus and Cain showed the Vees on what would happen if they crossed the Devil's Crown and let just say...the Vees' business almost went bankrupt because of them. In order not to piss off the greatest demons of Hell, the Vees backed off and tried to win their favor by sending one of their best sponsors to the Hell Games. They probably thought if they get one of their sponsors to win, they will be on Andreus and Cain's good side.
But unfortunately for them, every Hell Games, they would always lose. Because every trial in the Hell Games changed every two years. Thus, winning the favor of the Devil's Crown is out of reach.
"Typical." Andreus mutters with a sigh. "How many Sinners have entered Hell?"
"About two dozen or more." Yumna responded, writing down everything in her clipboard. "Their crimes in the living world have been ranked and they will be placed in the Hell Games soon."
"Good to hear things are going smoothly." Andreus said with a small smirk. "Anything else that is not part of the agenda?"
Yumna thought for a while before responding. "Well...there's nothing out of the ordinary going on. Your parents are coming to visit here in two days, and Lord Satan wishes to have a discussion with you about transferring Genevieve to him...again."
Andreus sighs at the last part. There was a reason why Satan wishes to speak with him. It's to discuss letting Satan take Head Maid, Genevieve, to work for him. But in truth, Satan only wants Genevieve because he was smitten with her.
Even though Genevieve is an Imp/Baphomet hybrid, she gives out a calming aura that allows sinners to relax, calm, and feel drowsy. The first time Satana met Genevieve is when he and Yogirt came to visit Andreus, and Genevieve was the one to greet them. Serving them calming tea and sweets and having a nice conversation to pass the time.
This encounter allowed Satan to take a liking to Genevieve.
Thanks to her calm nature, Satan rarely gets angry...most of the time.
Yet the downside, Satan wants Genevieve to be his personal maid (or better yet, personal cuddle buddy).
But sadly, Andreus refuses because he hired Genevieve since he took her in, and she is forever loyal to him and his syndetic. Plus, no one is better at keeping the castle clean than Genevieve. Satan, of course, does not want to give up and tries (or force) Andreus to give Genevieve to him. But as the next Sin of Pride, Andreus downright refuses. Not wanting to surrender his best maid to Satan.
"Figures that he won't give up." Andreus mutters, earning a stiff giggle from Yumna. "But nevertheless, I am not the one to ignore his request."
"...You're going to give him a hard time, aren't you?" Yumna questions her boss.
Andreus chuckles slowly. "You know me well, Yumna."
Yumna smiles but is silent for a while, catching Andreus attention.
"Is something on your mind, Yumna?" Andreus questions his secretary.
Yumna shook her head. "It's nothing to worry about, Prince Andreus. It's just a little matter."
"Yumna, if Hell has a problem, may it be big or small, I must know." Andreus said, as he continued walking towards their destination.
Yumna hesitated, as if she didn't want to tell, but Andreus is her superior, she can't keep secrets. Taking a deep breath, Yumna responded with a worried tone.
"...The nobilities of Hell...they're starting to have doubts about your sister, Charlie again...and...and they all wish that she would be removed from Hell's High Society." Yumna hesitantly spoke, hiding her face with her clipboard.
Andreus stopped at his track when she mentioned his sister's name. A sigh escaped from his lips as rubbed his temple.
Charlie Morningstar is Andreus' younger sister. She's nineteen years old and looks exactly like their father. She's young and is very optimistic, but she's very gullible and naïve. She dislikes the idea of the Hell Games, it was too much violence and death, and wanted a better approach. She believed that Sinners should be redeemed and go to Heaven instead of the Hell Games. She wanted what's best for the sinners.
It sounded easy in Charlie's mind, thinking it was a great idea. However, no one agreed to this, since many of the Sinners chose Hell Games over her idea of redemption. Even her father, Lucifer Morningstar, disagreed. Saying that it can't be done, and they can't risk getting Heaven involved, for they do not wish for a war with Heaven.
Charlie tried to get her brother to change the games, but he cannot, for he, along with the higherups in Hell and Heaven agreed with Hell Games. The redemption idea of Charlie's cannot interfere with the agreement.
Yet Charlie refused to give up and attempted to make a hotel for redemption called the 'Happy Hotel', in hopes to help the demons for redemption. But sadly, she cannot get territory of her own since they are all occupied by other Overlords, and her brother has many chains of hotels for the participants and people who wish to watch the spectacle of the games.
Though Charlie did attempt to build her hotel, however, she nearly got kidnapped by some sinner demons who will use her as a hostage. Fortunately for Charlie, she was rescued in a nick of time thanks to her bodyguard Vaggie and her governess, Lady Ophelia of the Tanzanite Family.
Vaggie is a Moth Demon that Andreus recruited to be Charlie's bodyguard, keeping her safe whenever the young princess goes out.
Lady Ophelia is an Ars Goetia (Great-tailed grackle) and is the sister of Paimon the King of the Ars Goetia and is the Archduchess. Her power is unknown, but powerful, all Sinners and Hellborns fear that female Goetia. For she is strict and strong like a general or an Alpha Predator.
She was assigned to be Charlie's governess by Andreus since she too was his former governess. Ophelia trained and taught Andreus everything he needed to know to be a proper and great ruler of Hell. And to her satisfaction, he became the perfect heir of Hell. He was epitome of perfection in the eyes of Hell's High Society. But Charlie, on the other hand, was not like her brother nor even remotely close to catch up to him. She didn't focus on what's on stake but rather doing her own things to make Hell better. No matter how many times Ophelia and Vaggie tried to stop her, Charlie was determined to make her ideals a reality.
Which escalates Charlie almost getting kidnapped, mugged, assaulted, and above all, getting killed. Vaggie had to rescue her time after time, fighting off any sinners that attempted to harm Charlie, while Charlie tried to stop her from harming them.
There was no big fight or bloodshed because all the sinners ran off screaming when Lady Ophelia of the Tanzanites arrived with a deadly expression.
Ophelia was the one who had to drag Charlie back home, lecturing her about the dangers of Hell and that her naiveness almost got herself killed. Charlie tries to argue, saying she was trying to get them help of redemption, but was countered by the Goetia who retorted that silence her.
"No Sinners or Hellborns will listen to your childish singing and ranting, they only see you as an easy target that they would exploit and discard if you are no longer useful. They will continue to be disrespectful towards you, if you don't show power and authority which you lack. So, stop with your ludicrous idea of redemption and be the true Princess of Hell that you are meant to be."
Charlie didn't leave her room for days because of that. Her only companies with her at the time are Vaggie, KeeKee (Charlie's Demon Pet Cat), and Razzle and Dazzle (Her little bodyguards). They kept her company and tried to lift her spirit. It works only a little bit.
Even though Charlie was safe, it didn't stop the ridicule from Hell's Nobilities. Many nobles believe that Charlie's demeanor and personality is weak and is not fit to be in the nobilities. They all agreed that Charlie is a disgrace to be a royal member of the Morningstar, and that Andreus should only be the only child of Lucifer and Lilith, and Charlie was nothing more than a spare. A spare heir that doesn't even know the first thing of running Hell and only knows how to be an embarrassment.
Of course, Andreus and Ophelia had to make sure that Charlie doesn't hear this. Her emotions are very sensitive compared to Andreus. He keeps his emotions in bay while Charlie's like a ticking time bomb of unstable emotions. That is why Ophelia was signed to be governess. Trying to prevent Charlie from losing face and saving what little reputation that the princess has left since only a few nobles, mostly the low tier nobles, show a bit friendly towards her. However, if Charlie loses the last remaining support she has, she will be targeted by assassins that were sent by Andreus craze supporters. These supporters are actually Hell's higher nobility who support only Andreus and despise Charlie to the bones. Wanting to rid of Charlie's presence so Andreus would rule Hell without distraction.
But Andreus would never let anything happen to his sister. That is why he deliberately prevents Charlie from building her 'Happy Hotel' and has Ophelia to train her, to prevent Charlie from sneaking off, and making sure that Vaggie, Razzle and Dazzle keep her safe if she attempts to sneak off again.
No matter how busy he is, Andreus would not allow any danger to fall upon his sister, even if it means preventing her dreams from becoming reality. Because he knew that Heaven would think that Charlie would be a threat since her idea of bringing sinners to Heaven might mistake it as an act of war. That is why some nobles were sending assassins at Charlie, thinking that would one day cause the downfall of Hell.
"I will deal with those nobles later," Andreus said, suppressing a growl. "Contact Lady Ophelia to bring Charlie over, I need to have a conversation with my sister."
Yumna nodded her head. "Of course." She said as she took out her phone to contact Ophelia. Andreus sighs as he continues walking through the hall with Yumna trailing behind while she talks to the phone.
They soon arrived at the room as the two massive doors opened to reveal a luxurious room with a beautiful glowing aquarium of demonic looking fishes inside and sitting on one of the massive and fancy armchairs was King of Lust himself, Asmodeus.
He's a large, vibrantly colored, and burly demon of intimidating stature. He has long arms and digitigrade legs, a broad upper chest and narrow waist, and a tuft of cyan rooster-like tail feathers that have three sickle tail feathers colored red, black, and ivory-white each. His head is colored dark blue with red and white head feathers sticking out from tufts on his head, and he has large feathers running to his chest. He has glowing neon green-colored eyes and mouth on his main head, and a thick mane of cyan hair, in which there are two additional faces of a ram and a bull on the right and left sides.
"ANDY! Good to see you again!" Asmodeus greeted with a happy smile.
"Hello, Lord Asmodeus." Andreus greeted the King of Lust with respect, sitting on the other armchair while Genevieve came in to set up the tea and sweets.
"Oh, come on, Andy, don't be so formal! Just call me Uncle Ozzie!" Asmodeus said with a grin.
Andreus chuckles softly. "Sorry, I guess I've been busy with those prompted up nobles that I forgot to address you as my uncle." He joked, earning a laugh from Asmodeus.
Unlike some demons, Asmodeus is laid back and very kind to those who are in his inner circle. There's also Beelzebub (Bee) the Queen of Gluttony and Belphegor (Bel) the Queen of Sloth. They and his family are the only ones who can call him Andy. They are the most chilled and easy-going Rulers and have a strong alliance with Andreus. However, don't be fooled by their looks, they can be dangerous when they are angry. And no one wants that.
They, along with the rest of the Seven Sins, support Charlie's stay in the upper circle, preventing her from getting kicked out by the rest of the nobles. Leviathan the Queen Envy also supported her since she wanted to be the best aunt than Bee and Bel. Satan may also support Charlie, but only to keep her in check since he found out that she was getting into trouble and prevented her from going out of the rings without bodyguards. And Mammon...yeah, he doesn't give a fuck about Charlie, but he does have his support since Andreus paid him.
Safe to say, Charlie was in a secured by the protection of the Seven Sins of Hell, prevented from being kicked out. But it didn't stop the nobles or Andreus obsessive (crazy) followers from sending assassins and many hitmen to get rid of Charlie, which were thwarted by Andreus and Cain.
Andreus snaps his fingers casually. Coming in the room are two Imp seamstresses who came in with a cart full of fine silks. They presented Asmodeus with silk fabrics that are the color of red wine.
"Here are the best silks produced by my Bebiliths." Andreus said with a sly smile.
Asmodeus takes the silk from the Imp and observes the fine product with a whistle. "Now that is fine looking silk! I gotta say, your Bebiliths are quite the silk makers."
"Indeed, but you should be thanking Shiruku, for she was the one that made these." Andreus said with a casual smirk. With a wave of his hand, and soon the two imps brought a line of mannequins wearing sexy different color and style lingerie.
Asmodeus admired the lingerie of Shiruku. If you're wondering who she is, Shiruku is a female spider Demon Sinner that came to Hell in Japan's Feudal Era. She was once a child born by seamstress parents but soon was sold off by greedy relatives after her parents died and forced to grow up to be a courtesan. She was then sentenced to death at age of twenty-six after she poisoned a noble client, who was beating her, and was soon reanimated to hell as a spider demon. She was able to escape the Hell Games because she was hired by Andreus to work as Devil's Crown seamstress, creating fine silk products and has a strong connection with Bebiliths. She agreed in a heartbeat, rather working as a seamstress than surviving in Hell as a prostitute. And she works so hard until she becomes the Head Designer of the Devil's Crown, besting Velvet from the Vees.
"Wow! These things are amazing~!" Asmodeus said happily, admiring the design. "Compliments to your head designer, maybe I should take her from you and let her work in the Lust Ring."
Andreus rolled his eyes with a smirk. "Uncle Ozzie, are you trying to ruin my business?" He joked.
Asmodeus laughed whole heartedly. "Oh, Andy, I would never! But if you hand her to me, I'm sure I'll give her a great time in the Lust Ring."
Andreus shook his head at Asmodeus's playfulness. "Ugh, please don't be like this, Uncle Ozzie. I'm already have my hands full with Lord Satan who wants to take Genevieve."
Asmodeus chuckles in amusement. "Hey, I don't blame him for his brashness, after all, Gennie here is looking fine." He gestures to Genevieve with a playful smile and wink.
Genevieve responded with proper etiquette. As a Head Maid of the Devil's Crown, she must always be in proper composure. They discuss the price and shipment. They discussed diligently and made an acceptable price. Soon, Asmodeus purchased 300 silk products and Shiruku's lingerie. Yumna led the Imps out to bring the items to transport with Genevieve following them from behind as she closes the door to give Asmodeus and Andreus some privacy to talk with each other.
"So, with that out of the way, did anyone visit you besides me, your parents, and Satan?" Asked Asmodeus with a teasing smile.
Andreus shook his head and responded. "Well, Beelzebub came for Yumna's delicious desserts, Belphegor's servants came for our soft silk blankets and pillows, and Mammon called me for more money."
"Of course that flaming pile of clown shit only calls for money." Asmodeus mutters in annoyance, his two other heads pouting in agreement.
Andreus chuckles at Asmodeus, knowing the bitter hatred that the King of Lust has towards the King of Greed. "Don't worry, Uncle Ozzie, he only gets the money if I say so."
"Wow, you are really the next King of Pride." Asmodeus said with a smirk.
"I get that a lot. Though, Father and Mother believed that I should relax a bit."
"Who can blame them? There's pwecious wittle pwince is wowking too hawd! He needs nappy time. Yes, you do! Yes, you do!" Asmodeus said in a baby tone as he teased Andreus by pinching Andreus' cheek in a playful manner.
Andreus didn't argue as he let Asmodeus play with his cheek. Asmodeus has been like this since the day he was born. Always teasing him with Bee. Calling him Mini-King or the Cutie Sin of Pride, and so on. They are very good caretakers along with Bel whenever Ophelia was out doing her own duties. Those three were the perfect babysitters for Charlie whenever he or their parents were too busy with work.
Asmodeus stopped pinching Andreus' cheek and smiled. "What about Char-Char? Is she here today?"
"She's coming over, she's just finished with her lesson with Lady Ophelia." Andreus responded.
"I still can't believe you gave your old nanny to your sister." Asmodeus said to Andreus.
"Charlie needs a tutor to help her understand Hell's rules and hierarchy. She needs this to be ready for what challenge might come to her." Andreus looks at the window towards the red sky, eyes narrowed. "And to prevent her from getting harmed by those lowlifes."
Asmodeus's eyes soften by this, understanding how Andreus cares for his sister. However, it also made him worried.
"Is she still doing that redemption idea?" He asked in a worried tone.
Andreus sighs softly but nodded in response. "She's convinced that sinners can go to Heaven instead of doing the Hell Games every two years."
Asmodeus sighs a bit. "I get she cares for the sinners, but she can't just go out gallivanting. She's an open target for those sexual predators! Especially that Valentino the fucking faker of Lust." He mutters the last part, knowing about the Valentino who believed that he's the real King of Lust, but he is not. He's an amateur in Asmodeus's eyes.
"That is why I assigned Lady Ophelia to be Charlie's governess." Andreus said in a serious tone. "She's the only one that could help Charlie defend herself from those idiotic mongrels."
Andreus despised those sinners that disrespect his sister. They called her many names behind her back, saying how weak and pathetic she was. That she is a failure and a joke to the Royal Family. Even Katie Killjoy, a sinner preying mantis demon that is the head anchor of 666 News, talked shit about Charlie and broadcasted to the entire media of Hell. However, there were consequences. When Andreus learned about those sinners mistreating his little sister, he asked Cain to help him...clean up Hell of all trash. And being a supportive brother in arms, as well as caring for Charlie as a little sister figure, Cain helps Andreus get rid of those sinners that insulted Charlie. They made sure to leave their statement after they got rid of those insulters and set the TV station on fire, leaving Katie Killjoy and her co-anchorman, Tom Trench, nearly burned alive by the two powerful demon overlords. They threatened Katie that if she talked shit about Charlie again and broadcasted in 666 News, then she would be forced to enter the Hell Games with the most brutal trial that would leave her paralyze for all eternity.
That threat was enough to shut Katie up as she learned the hard way that if she messes with Andreus' little sister, her fate will be in his hands, something she would never dare to happen.
No one dared spoked ill towards Charlie, though it didn't stop Andreus' crazed followers from hurling insults in secret.
"Still, can you at least let her have a bit of fun?" Asmodeus asked his nephew.
"Uncle Ozzie, you know what happened last time when Charlie went out without supervision? She nearly got kidnapped and assaulted if it weren't for the bodyguards and Lady Ophelia." Andreus reminded Asmodeus about the incident.
"I know, I know, I'm just worried about here. I sometimes think Charlie's trying to prove herself too hard." Asmodeus said with a sigh of worry. "Maybe she could just work under your wing? You know, learn from the Master of Business."
"I tried, Uncle Ozzie, I suggested she work alongside me and Cain for the upcoming Hell Games, but she refused as she wants to run a hotel of redemption on her own."
Asmodeus made a worried look. "Eehh...no offense, but she has no experience running a business. Don't get me wrong, I love Char-Char, but...she's easily gullible, she might get tricked into hiring the wrong staff that might...well...backstab her."
"That is true, Uncle Ozzie, and I hoped Lady Ophelia's training could help her understand how not to trust sinners so easily. You can never tell who a traitor is until it's too late." He then lowers his head with a sigh. "And that is why I prevent her from ever opening her own hotel of redemption."
"She just wants to help those sinners, but they're not willing to." Asmodeus said with a worried look.
"Because they refuse to leave the life they created. Yet, her childish demeanor is making her deny the truth as she believes that everything might go her way." Andreus said, resting his chin on the palm of his hand. "Sometimes I wonder if I did something else instead of isolating her from Hell's society."
Asmodeus came to his nephew's side and placed his massive hand on Andreus' shoulder, causing the Prince of Hell to glance at his uncle. Asmodeus gave him an assuring smile.
"Hey, you were trying to keep her safe. She'll come around and realize that everything you're doing was for her."
"Were it so easy?" Andreus said, shaking his head a bit.
Just then, Yumna knocks at the door before entering. "Prince Andreus, the items that Lord Asmodeus requests have been loaded and ready to go."
"Excellent, thank you, Yumna." Andreus thanked his secretary.
"I also got word from Lady Ophelia. She will be arriving shortly with Charlie."
"Good, tell Genevieve to prepare tea in the garden." Andreus said, earning a nod from Yumna, as he got up from his seat and looked at Asmodeus. "Do you wish to greet Charlie before you leave?"
"Wouldn't miss it for the world!" Asmodeus said with a grin.
With that, the two rulers left the room to greet the Princess of Hell.
Andreus hopes that his sister won't give Lady Ophelia any trouble. After all, his sister can...stubborn...very stubborn.
The Bebiliths belongs to fantasy world called Forgotten Realms.
Chapter 3: Brother and Sister Time
Notes:
Lady Ophelia’s voice actress is Shohreh Aghdashloo.
A big thank you to Wacko12 and ThatWriterGirl04 for letting me use their image of Cain in my story. You can find their stories here in AO3.
Please enjoy the story.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Andreus and Asmodeus made their way down to the large stairway that leads to the main entrance hall with two giant black knight statues standing on both sides of the stairway. Once they got down, they saw a female Ars Goetia (Great-tailed grackle) and beside her is a Hellborn demon girl who has white-skinned. She has long, ankle-length blonde hair with thin light coral streaks on the paler-blonde highlights, which is usually tied into a twice-banded low-ponytail by two black hair ties. Her hair also features bangs that are flipped to the left side and ends with a curl. Her eyes sport light yellow sclera and red pupils and have thick eyelashes and gray eyelids. She has black lips and rosy, red cheeks. Sporting a Lolita style black dress.
(Lady Ophelia is made by @IsabelCHernandezRobl)
( @IsabelCHernandezRobl was the one who drew this, base on the family portrait in the episode)
They were Lady Ophelia Tanzanite and Andreus’ little sister, Charlie Morningstar.
“CHARLIE!” Asmodeus greeted happily, seeing his favorite nibbling.
“Uncle Ozzie!” Charlie said happily, happy to see her uncle.
Charlie literally jumps in Asmodeus’s arms, who begin spinning around, both laughing in pure joy. Andreus smirks as he walks over to a stern looking Goetia.
“Lady Ophelia, welcome, I hope the journey with my sister wasn’t difficult.”
Ophelia nodded her head calmly. “There were no difficulties, Prince Andreus.” She responded calmly, her voice sounded strong and full of authority.
Andreus nodded his head, mentally sighing in relief that his little sister didn’t make things difficult for the Archduchess.
“By the way, where are Charlie’s bodyguards? Were they not with you?”
“Vagatha is storing our transportation with Razzle and Dazzle accompanying her.” Ophelia responded, earning a nod from Andreus. The Grand Duchess of Ars Goetia noticed the quiet expression of Andreus, ignoring the joyous laughter that Asmodeus and Charlie were making, and knew very well what he was thinking. After all, she was the one who trained and took care of him.
“Something in your mind, Prince Andreus?” Ophelia questions him.
Andreus simply glanced at her and then turned back to Asmodeus and Charlie. “Apparently, some high nobles are starting to believe that Charlie should be removed from high society.” He said in a quiet tone.
Ophelia sighs inwardly. She knew what he meant. She heard from her servants that many of Hell’s nobilities are against Charlie. She is aware how cruel the nobilities of Hell are towards the young princess. Charlie is still a young demon girl and has yet to show her full authority and potential. That is why Ophelia is doing her best to let Charlie unlock her true demon self, to unleash her power and authority instead of holding back. Otherwise, she will be targeted by assassins that were hired by the nobles that were against Charlie. Ophelia made sure that security was tight and instructed Vaggie, Razzle, and Dazzle to always stay close to Charlie. For who knows when those assassins will strike. And the three bodyguards follow her orders diligently.
“They are getting bolder each passing time whenever Princess Charlotte attempts her ideas of redemption would come.” Ophelia said in a quiet tone.
“Indeed, it won’t be long before they’ll find ways to crush her spirit.” Andreus said, watching as Asmodeus tosses a laughing Charlie in the air. “We’re fortunate that the Seven Sins of Hell agreed to support her stay as a royal.”
“For now, even with their support, it won’t stop the nobles from harming Princess Charlotte.” Ophelia said, worrying about the princess.
“And I wish my sister would stop her idea before they use it against her.” Andreus said in a solemn tone.
He didn’t want to see his sister suffer. Charlie is young, believing her naïve dream that she could help change Hell for the better. He didn’t want to discourage her, but he had to. In order to protect her from Hell’s hierarchy, Andreus had to isolate Charlie
Asmodeus puts down Charlie, both still laughing joyfully.
“So, Char-Char, how’s your lesson with Ophelia?” Asmodeus asked his niece happily.
Charlie giggled before clearing her throat and straightening her posture when she saw Ophelia watching her, as if she was silently instructing Charlie to mind her manors. “My lessons are doing great, Uncle Ozzie.” Charlie said with a smile. “I was able to cast a sleeping spell and summon items.”
Asmodeus clapped his hands happily. “That’s great! My little Muse is so talented!” He complimented as he patted Charlie’s head.
“So, Uncle Ozzie? Are you staying here for tea?” Charlie asked her uncle excitedly.
“Oh, how I love to, but I have to get back to the Lust Ring, I have business to attend to.” Asmodeus said to Charlie with a sad smile.
Charlie was saddened by this but understood. “Okay, well…if you have time, maybe we can teatime together.”
“I would like that.” Asmodeus said happily. “Welp, gotta go! See you soon, Char-Char!”
“Bye Uncle Ozzie!” Charlie waves as Asmodeus makes his way to the door.
“Take care ya’ll!” Asmodeus said happily before leaning over to Andreus and whispered. “Hey, go easy on your little sister, okay? She’s trying her best.”
Andreus simply nodded and gave his uncle an assuring smile, “Don’t worry, Uncle Ozzie, I will.”
With that, Asmodeus left the castle and headed to the limo that was parked outside. Andreus looks at his sister with a calm expression. Charlie fidgeted a bit at her brother’s gaze. He may be her older brother, but truth be told, Charlie gets nervous around him. Sure, he took care of her when she was little, yet her older brother felt so intimidating whenever she stood next to him. Whether at parties or events, Charlie feels small (literally) around him.
“I heard correctly that you successfully did some spells?” Andreus suddenly asked, looking at Charlie.
Charlie nodded her head, “Yeah…I mean…Yes, I was able to cast a sleeping spell without missing and summon some items like a book, a brush, and a mirror.”
Andreus nodded his head in satisfaction. “Good, your performance in magic is improving well.”
Charlie sighs a bit, feeling the pressure from her chest dissipating a bit.
“Come, Genevive has prepared us some tea at the gardens.” Andreus said to his sister.
“Your Highness, I will stay behind to wait for Vagatha’s arrival, we will meet afterwards.” Ophelia said respectfully.
Vagatha is the full name of Vaggie’s. She prefers her nickname, but Ophelia calls her by that name.
“Alright then, we’ll meet up later.” Andreus said.
He lifted his hand and swiped it to the side. And suddenly, both he and Charlie were transported under a gazebo of Andreus’ private garden. It was a beautiful and massive garden and looked otherworldly too. Inside the gazebo was Genevive the Baphomet/Imp Hybrid stood behind the table that had sweets and tea ready for them.
Andreus pulls a chair, allowing Charlie to sit, and pushing the chair near the table before going to his seat. Genevive prepares the tea for them.
“The afternoon tea is Darjeeling.” Genevive said towards Charlie, pouring her a cup of tea.
Charlie smiles at the maid. “Thank you, Genevive.” Charlie thanked her kindly as Genevive served the tea to Andreus.
“Tell me, Charlie, how is your day?” Andreus asked suddenly towards Charlie.
Charlie gave her brother a small smile. “Oh, um, well…everything is great, yup. Totally great.” She said, sounding hesitantly.
Charlie took a sip of her tea, ignoring her brother giving her a raised brow. He was leaning on his chair, his elbow on the side of the arm of the chair and his cheek resting on his fist, studying his little sister with an unreadable expression.
“That’s good to hear…by the way, did you visit Shiruku’s boutique two days ago?” Andreus asked his sister, taking a sip from his tea. “She’s designing your dress for the upcoming Hell Games’ event.”
Andreus saw Charlie flinch at his words, her posture slightly trembled a bit by this sudden question.
“Oh…well…yeah! Umm…I went to get measured and got some designs ready for my dress.” Charlie answered, her voice sounding a bit nervous.
Andreus looks at her with an unreadable expression, making Charlie nervous. Genevive serves Charlie a piece of Charlotte Cake, her favorite, giving something for the Princess of Hell to relax.
“I see…where did you go next after your fitting?” Andreus asked, getting a macaroon from the dessert stand, and eating it.
Charlie nervously gets a small piece from her cake and eats it, “Well…Vaggie and I went to the café with Razzle and Dazzle…and we hung out there. And after that…we went home.”
“Hmm…so you just went to the café?” Andreus asked his sister, taking a sip of his tea.
“Yup! Just sit there and eat.” Charlie answered, taking another bite of her cake.
“Huh…is that so?” Andreus asked, watching Charlie nodding her head and taking a sip of her tea. However, Charlie was suddenly caught off guard when Andreus asked her this. “Then…why were you spotted at the BFBYB agency instead of the park two days ago?”
Charlie nearly spits out her tea when her brother mentions that. And she knew that she was caught.
The reason why is that BFBYB, which short for ‘Buy a Fuckin’ Building, Ya Bitch!’ (which was a strange name) is the only real estate agency in Hell that is located within the Inner City. Hellborns or Sinners, mostly Overlords, buy or rent a building to start their companies, registering themselves as businessmen in the Pentagram City. However, when starting a business, they must fit the credentials. Firstly: They must have Seven Thousand Sinners that they are contracted with. Second: They must have a ton of money. Third: They must expand their business within seven months. Fourth: If that said Demon did not expand the business before end, their business and money will be given to higherup or an Overlord that runs the district. And finally, if they resist and refuse to give up their property, they will be executed, and all their assets will be given to the highest buyer.
That’s why starting a business in Hell can be difficult, especially to low rank sinners and Hellborns, mostly Imps, as the BFBYB only provides buildings at high prices to those who can actually pay the bills.
And as it turns out, Charlie attempted to build her ‘Happy Hotel’ by buying a building using BFBYB agency. Unfortunately for her, Charlie does not have the requirements or assets to start her business. BFBYB has strict rules, they don’t accept bribery from, they follow the rules of the agency.
“I…I wasn’t there...” Charlie hesitantly said.
“Charlotte.” Andreus said, using Charlie’s full name. “Don’t lie to me.”
His voice filled with authority and power. He often uses it to assert his dominance in Hell, but sometimes he only uses it to show the people that he isn’t patient and doesn’t like it when someone lies to him.
Charlie felt herself shaking a bit. Knowing that she cannot lie to him, she had no choice but to tell the truth.
“Yes…I went to BFBYB.” Charlie said with sigh, looking at her half-eaten cake on her plate. “I…just want to build the hotel and…and...”
“Charlie…” Andreus said with a sigh, “You know you cannot buy a building without sinners that you make a contract with.”
“Well, it’s not fair for them!” Charlie exclaimed, slamming her hands on the table when she stood up, pushing her chair back. “I wanted to give them second chances, letting them choose, not binding them to serve me for life!”
Genevieve was startled by the young princess’s outburst, clearly not expecting this. Andreus, however, wasn’t faced by this. He knew how stubborn his sister was.
“That’s how things work around here, Charlie.” Andreus said casually, unfazed by Charlie’s outburst. “You try to…what you say…butter them up with your kindness at the BFBYB, they won’t give you a free building. Even if you are my sister, they won’t give you one until you have all the credentials needed for getting one.”
Charlie was disappointed and upset by this outcome. She slumps back to her chair, looking defeated by this. Andreus sighs again, resting his head under his hands as he leans over the table where his elbows rested.
“Charlie, the Sinners are not easily sueded by your kind offers or singing.” Andreus explains to his sister. “Here, they want money, power, alcohol, thrill, and danger, not…candy, puppies or rainbows.”
“I just want to give them a chance of redemption.” Charlie said to her brother, sounding almost desperate. “People deserve second chances! Instead of going on to the Hell Games!”
Andreus shook his head at Charlie’s naïve determination. “If only she knew…” He thought bitterly before looking at Charlie.
“I know you want to help them, Charlie, but the Sinners refused to be helped.”
“That can’t be true!”
“Do you recall how you almost got kidnapped?” Andreus reminded, causing Charlie to flinch. “Those sinners tricked you into a dark alley and attempted to violate you, if it were not for your bodyguards and Lady Ophelia, you would have been on the 666 News as the violated princess of hell.”
Charlie flinched at this. She recalls how three sinners ‘wanted’ to be redeemed. She believed it in the heartbeat and followed them, saying they have others that needed help. But it turns out to be a trick and Charlie was almost assaulted by them. Fortunately, Vaggie, Razzle, Dazzle, and Lady Ophelia came just in time to subdue the Sinners. Ophelia threatened them with her magic, warning that if they tried this again, they would face not her wrath, but Charlie's older brother’s wrath. They backed off, but not before Ophelia eradicated some of the gang and the few members that remained had their memories erased from ever encountering Charlie and them. Charlie was brought home and was lectured by Lady Ophelia, scolding the young princess for running off and wearing an attire that is not suited for a princess. Charlie was then grounded by her parents after discovering how she was easily tricked and was homeschooled by Ophelia until she learns how to defend herself and get over her childish behavior.
Andreus sighs again, seeing his sister was clutching the hem of her dress, her eyes brimming with tears that were ready to fall. He knew very well that he may have gone too far. Getting up, he walked over to his sister and placed a hand on her shoulder. Charlie looks at her brother with a surprised look as Andreus looks at the distance.
“Charlie…Heaven and Hell are two different worlds. Heaven is where the innocent finds peace while Hell is eternal damnation, where all the wicked are forever imprisoned.” Andreus explained the roles between heaven and hell. “You cannot go gallivanting out of the street and expecting that everyone would listen to your ideas through singing.”
“It was for motivation…” Charlie mumbles.
“I get it, but Sinners don’t give a crap about it.” Andreus continues his lecture, “They only care about material things like money, drugs, and power. Your ideals are nothing more than false words to them.”
Charlie interjected. “It could help them get a second chance! Redemption could be possible if they can…”
“They can’t because they are not willing to give up what they have built here.” He said, looking at the garden. “The reason why they are trapped here is because of their pride. They will never surrender their pride and power. They rather stay here than to leave their work. For if they do…then someone will take it and use it to expand their own business.”
Charlie stayed quiet, not bothering to speak as she looked at the ground.
“And even if you did succeed, some sinners, mostly the Overlords, would see you as a threat in their business. They want to lose their assets, and they won’t hesitate to stop your work.” Andreus continues, using his levitation power to take the teapot from Genevive, bringing it to Charlie’s teacup and filling it. “And that is why I have the Hell Games, to ensure that the Overlords are kept in line, and that no one shall dare challenge the Morningstars. For we are the ones in power, not them. You don’t give them power, you let them know you have the power.”
Andreus returns the teapot back to Genevive and looks his sister in the eyes. She was filled with mixed emotions about her situation.
“That is how everything works around here.” Andreus said with a serious tone, stroking Charlie’s hair. “Furthermore, you don’t have to worry about anything around here, Charlie. Let your big brother do his job while you just spend your time with your friends instead of running around Hell.”
“But…”
Andreus cuts her off, holding her hand. “If I recall, you haven’t even spoken to one of them. When was the last time you spoke with Princess Octavia?”
Charlie froze at this. It didn’t take a genius to realize that Charlie had been ghosting Octavia for months when she tried to establish her Happy Hotel.
“Um…yesterday?” Charlie lied through her teeth.
“Mm-hmm…don’t you mean six months ago?” Andreus corrected, making Charlie sink on her chair in shame. “This is why you should leave all of Hell’s problems and businesses to the Devil’s Crown, Charlie. You don’t have to lift a finger.”
“But…Andy…I…” Charlie wanted to say something, but Andreus cut her off gently.
“I don’t want you to neglect your life, you have friends, Charlie.” He continues, “I know you do not want to ignore our subjects, but you can’t ignore your friends. You barely even have a social life outside, and they assume that you were locked away or avoiding them.”
“I-I wasn’t! I was just trying to help our people find redemption and…and…”
“And nearly got hurt in the process.” Andreus reminded her again about the incident.
Charlie tries her embarrassed blush on her face. “Andy…”
“Hey, I’m just stating the truth, Charlie.” Andreus said to his sister. “You don’t have to struggle so much, everything happening in Hell is being monitored by the Devil’s Crown. So, you, the Princess of Hell, can just sit back and relax, and let your older brother do the work.”
Charlie looks down on her hands, sadly accepting defeat because no one can beat her brother, even her parents.
“Okay, Andy…” Charlie mutters out.
Smiling softly, Andreus kissed his baby sister’s forehead. “That’s my Little Starshine.” He said to her gently. “You should spend time with Octavia, you two have a lot of catching up to do.”
Charlie responded with a nod, understanding the situation. Andreus looks at her, seeing her sadness, he couldn’t help but sigh silently, knowing that Charlie may have lost some of her confidence.
“Although…I did notice that you helped a Sinner.” Andreus said to Charlie, causing her to look at him. “Angel Dust, correct?”
Charlie’s eyes widened by this, surprised by her brother’s knowledge. “Yeah…how’d you know?”
Andreus smiles at his sister. “Oh, Charlie, I’m your brother, I know everything.”
-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-
Flashback, two days when Charlie attempted to get a building to create a hotel, a Hell Crow was sitting on a branch of tree, next to a building of BFBYB, watching as Charlie and Vaggie were sitting in the waiting area.
Charlie was not wearing her usual formal dresses, instead she was wearing a red tuxedo-jacket with darker red lapels and a small white tag located on the left side. She wears this over an untucked, long-sleeved, high-collared white dress-shirt that has two black buttons and dark red cuffs, worn with black suspenders and a small black bowtie. Her pants are colored in a slightly darker shade than her jacket, and her footwear are heeled, white saddle shoes with black toes and tips of the heels.
Next to Charlie is her bodyguard, Vaggie. A Moth Sinner that has a slim-figured female, subtly sports a moth-themed design with grayish-lavender skin. Her right eye has a light pink sclera and an ivory iris, while her left eye has been replaced by a slate-gray eyepatch that sports a red pink "X" shape. Has knee-length grayish-white hair with faded-purple tips and long jagged bangs which cover the left side of her face. On the back of her head is a red pink hair bow with small tears on each side and two long tails.
She was wearing a uniform that Charlie provided her when they managed a hotel.
It’s a red-pink short-sleeved blouse that is the same color as her bow, with a dark gray peter-pan collar, dark gray trimming on the sleeves, and two dark gray buttons down the front. She also sports a dark grey choker and a dark grey skirt with a thick pale pink waistband hugging her waist. And also has fingerless slate-gray opera gloves with matching thigh-high stockings, which include white scallops at the cuff and toes.
They waited for their number to be up, to talk with the real estate agent about buying a building. There were few demons here, considering not many could have money or power to offer a building. After all, this place is the only one that offers a building.
“Charlie, are you sure it’s a good idea to buy a building?” Vaggie asked the Princess of Hell with concern etched in her voice.
Charlie was looking optimistic as she waited in line. “Don’t worry, Vaggie! Everything’s gonna work out, I just know it!”
She was determined to purchase a building to start her hotel. She can already imagine that her plan of redemption is coming its way.
Vaggie, on the other hand, was still uneasy, “Yeah, but…the BFBYB is not gonna just hand you over a building.” Vaggie said to her friend. “I mean, this is the BFBYB we’re talking about. They don’t let anyone fucked them around, not even the Overlords dare challenge them.”
True to Vaggie’s words, the BFBYB is rumored to be the most ruthless real estate agency in Hell.”
“Oh, come on, they’re named states to buy their building.” Charlie said positively.
“I think they’re being ironic.” Vaggie mutters out, which Charlie didn’t hear.
Just then, the receptionist, a female Bat Sinner, called out. “Number 207?”
Hearing this, Charlie sat up and held up her number in her hand. “That’s me~!” She sang out loudly before she and Vaggie went to the counter.
Unfazed by this, the Bat Sinner gestures to the hallway on the right. “Go to door 7, someone will be there to discuss with you the building’s market price.” She responded in a natural tone as she handed Charlie the paper. “Please keep in mind, you must have the requirements needed to purchase a building in one of the Pentagram City’s districts.”
Charlie gave a bright smile. “Okie-dokie, thanks for your help!” She said cheerfully. “Come on, Vaggie~”
Charlie happily went over to the hall with Vaggie followed behind with a worried expression. The receptionist watched them from her desk with a blank expression. Her coworker, a female Naga Sinner, who was next to her, leans behind her chair to watch Charlie and Vaggie disappearing to the corner.
“She seems…happy.” She said with an Indian accent.
The Bat Sinner scoffs. “Meh, she probably had too much coffee with happy pills laced with steroids.” She said to her coworker before they continued their work.
Charlie and Vaggie walk to the hallway and reach door 7. Charlie was beaming with excitement. She was in her first step to make her dreams a reality. Vaggie, still uncertain, wants Charlie to be happy, but worried about the consequences that would come.
“Charlie, maybe you should talk to your brother about this.” Vaggie said to Charlie. “I mean, he literally owns Hell. I’m sure he’ll give you a building.”
“I tried, Vaggie, but Andy won’t let me because he said I don’t have ‘experience’ in running a hotel.” Charlie said with a pout. “He thinks I shouldn’t worry about Hell’s priority because he and the Devil’s Crown got everything covered.”
“Well, yeah. The Devil’s Crown have been doing Hell’s business for many years, Charlie.” Vaggie reminded the princess. “Hell has been under a tight leash thanks to your brother. He was the one that kept the Overlords in Pentagram City in check.”
“That’s his way.” Charlie said to Vaggie, “I’m doing this my way.”
“Charlie, your way always gets you into trouble.” Vaggie said to the princess. “We don’t know if we can get a building here. Let alone at the BFBYB. They could scam you like those thugs. Maybe we can just avoid this and head home.”
“But I have to try, Vaggie.” Charlie said, sounding hopeful. “To have faith things will be better! How can I turn people away? I can't. It goes against everything I'm trying to do. Everything I believe in.” Charlie puts her hands on Vaggie's shoulders as she gives her a hopeful and pleading look. “Just...trust me. I can take care of myself!”
“Charlie, Hell’s real estate agents aren’t so easy to convince.” Vaggie stated to her with a worried tone. “They can be very rude and won’t easily give you a building.”
Charlie gave her bodyguard a smile. “Don't worry, I picked up one thing from my dad and Andy!” Charlie then began imitating her dad and her brother’s voice when they lecture her. "You don't take shit from other demons!"
Vaggie lets out a sigh, knowing that Charlie won’t give up her dream, and she wants to be supported, but she worries for Charlie constantly, knowing the dangers that would come.
“Okay…but you still have to be careful.”
“I got this, Vaggie.” Charlie said in assurance. “What could go wrong?”
-Inside the room-
“Welcome to BFBYB, what building you want to fuckin’ buy?”
(Ruthie voiced by Bob Peterson who voiced Roz, the administrator for Scare Floor F from Monsters, Inc.)
A female Slug Sinner sat on the opposite side of the desk, facing Charlie and Vaggie, sitting on chairs, staring at them under her purple/red glasses with blank and don’t give a shit attitude. The Slug Sinner is Ruthie, hence from the nameplate on the desk, and clearly, they know that she was a no-nonsense type.
Charlie, trying her best not to be fazed by Ruthi’s tone, gave the Slug Sinner a kind and cheerful smile. “Hi! I’m Charlie Morningstar. Princess of Hell and…”
Ruthie cut her off as she spoke with indifference. “If you’re the princess of Hell, then prove it.”
Charlie and Vaggie looked at her in confusion. “I’m sorry…what?” Charlie asked Ruthie with confusion etched in her voice.
Ruthie, who remained unfazed and grumpy, repeated her question to Charlie. “I said: If you’re the princess of hell, then prove.”
Vaggie, feeling angry at this, glared at Ruthie. “Why do you want proof?” She questions Ruthie in a harsh tone.
Ruthie was still unfazed and grumpily answered. “We had a few stragglers that attempted to impersonate the princess of Hell to get a free building, all because she’s the sister of Hell’s powerful and dangerous ruler, Prince Andreus. But of course, we dealt with them.”
“Dealt with them…how exactly?” Vaggie asked with nervousness.
They suddenly heard a commotion from the outside.
“Whoa-Hey! The hell ya doing?! Let us go!” Screamed a voice of a male sinner.
“Sinners attempting to impersonate the Princess of Hell is a violation of rule 102: "Impersonating noble or royal family members is against Hell’s Law”. Prepare to be eradicated.” A cold voice that belongs to a different male sinner.
A female sinner's voice stuttered from the outside, “H-hey! We didn’t mean to-”
BANG!!!
BANG!!!
BANG!!!
BANG!!!
Loud gunshots were heard from outside, causing both Charlie and Vaggie to freeze in horror. Two sickening thuds were heard after the shootout.
“Threat has been neutralized, call in the cleaners.” Said the sinner that ended the two sinners that attempted to impersonate Charlie before footsteps came, indicating he was leaving.
Charlie and Vaggie stared at the door with wide and horror filled eyes, hearing another set of footsteps with someone pushing a cart, followed by someone cleaning the scene. They slowly turned back to Ruthie. The Slug Sinner was not fazed by what just happened as she continued staring blankly at them.
"That’s how,” Ruthi answered blankly.
Charlie gulped in fear as she rummaged through her pocket and took out a golden pendant that had her family’s symbol on it.
“I-I’m the real princess! I swear!” She said, handing Ruthie her pendant.
Ruthie takes the pendant, adjusting her glasses to observe it closely. Ruthie has the ability to see the truth of the items they carry. That way, she will know if the money and money are legit or counterfeit and prevent Sinners from getting away from it. Fortunately for Charlie and Vaggie, the pendant has a strong magical energy signature that Ruthie recognizes of a Morningstar’s. She placed the pendant down and handed it over to Charlie.
“So, you are the princess of hell.” Ruthie said, confirming the pendant authenticity.
Charlie sighs in relief. It was good that she brought the pendant with her. Ophelia often lectures her about the pendant’s power.
“Now that’s taken care of, I wish to buy a building in the Magne District.” Charlie said happily.
The Magne District is where high class demons/sinners reside. It is also where her family home is and where Andreus built the Devil’s Crown base. That district is also where winners from previous Hell Games reside as well. They live a life of luxury, owning their own businesses and have high paying jobs with the rich. That place is so great and has better resources that the Vees attempted to get an alliance with the Devil’s Crown to expand their branch. However, after a certain incident with Katie Killjoy insulting Charlie, the Devil’s Crown refused the alliance and nearly destroyed the Vees. Because of that, the Vees backed off and tried their luck when Andreus calmed down. If he calms down.
Anyways, the Magne District is also a perfect place for Charlie to start her hotel. And being the Princess of Hell, she has the privilege to start a business there.
“Uh-huh.” Ruthie wrote down everything in her paper. “What particular building do you wish to have?”
“Oh! It has to be big and tall, enough space for guests to relax and roam around.” Charlie explained enthusiastically. “You see I’m building a hotel to rehabilitate the sinners to find redemption.”
Ruthie stares at Charlie, blinking lazily at her cheerful demeanor. She didn’t comment on her idea or anything. She just do her job and that’s it. Ruthie then types something on her computer to search for available properties in Magne District. “Okay…the building of your description is available here at the edge of the district.”
She turns her computer to them, revealing the huge building with a big space at the far end of the district. It was far, but the area is very wide, enough space for outdoor activities. Charlie admired it with a wide smile. Vaggie was mildly impressed by this. She gotta admit, the real-estate agents here can be cold and rude, but they make really good offers.
“That’s the one!” Charlie exclaimed happily.
“This building has been vacant for a while.” Ruthie said in a blank tone. “So far, no one has claimed it yet.”
“Well, that someone is me!” Charlie said happily, “I’ll buy that building!”
“Mm-hm…” Ruthie grunts out while turning the screen back to her. She typed something on the keyboard. “Okay, so if you want to require this property and building you have the requirements.”
“What kind of requirements?” Vaggie asked Ruthie.
“What else? Money that you have in your bank because this place is worth a fortune.” Ruthie explained as she turned the screen back at them, to show the two girls the price.
Vaggie’s single eye widened in pure shock and her jaw dropped. The color on her face drained by the staggering amount that the property cost. Charlie, on the other hand, wasn’t fazed by this. Being the Princess of Hell has its perks, she has tons of money, she can definitely buy this property.
“Oh, money won’t be necessary.” Charlie said happily.
“No kidding.” Ruthie mumbles before turning the screen. “The property is massive, though there are more requirements needed when running it. You need furniture, staff, lighting, and equipment.”
Charlie nodded her head. “Taken care of.”
“Oh, and seven thousand contracted sinners.” Ruthie added blankly.
Charlie's smile vanished at instant when Ruthie said that. Vaggie was also startled by this. Wondering, the hell do they need seven thousand contracted sinners?
“I’m sorry…what did you just say?” Vaggie asked Ruthie.
Ruthie sighs, “Ugh, you clearly didn’t follow the rules here.” Ruthie snaps her fingers and behind her is a white screen that shows the rules in BFBYB. She took out a pointer to point out the first rule.
“When getting property in Hell, one must follow the Five Rules here. The first one, Sinners must have Seven Thousand that they are in contract with.” She points at the second rule. “The second one is that they must have a ton of money. Third, they must expand their business within seven months. Number Four, if that said Demon did not expand the business before the end of the seven months, their business and money will be given to higherup or an Overlord that runs the district. And finally, the pièce de resistance, if they resist and refuse to give up their property, they will be executed, and all their assets will be given to the highest buyer.”
After finishing her explanation, the white screen withdrew back, and Ruthie put her pointer down.
“You can’t be serious?” Vaggie said in disbelief.
“I’m dead serious, girl.” Ruthie said blankly. “This is how we make sure that the buildings that are being purchased aren’t scammed or being ripped off.”
“But…but I don’t make deals.” Charlie said with a distressed look.
“If you don’t have seven thousand souls, then you can’t have a building, that’s how it works.” Ruthie continues explaining blankly.
Vaggie has her arms crossed at glares at Ruthie. “Oh, come on! She’s the Princess of Hell!” She gestures to Charlie with both her hands.
“Yeah, and I’m the queen of this desk,” Ruthie said sarcastically, “She may be the princess, but she needs to have a contract with seven thousand sinners. That way, they won’t try to scam or steal fundings behind the people’s back.”
“But…” Charlie tried to find the words to argue.
“Look, you seem like a nice girl, literally…” Ruthie mutters that last part as she continues, “However, you must have sinners contracted with you. That’s how the fucking system works.”
“Well, that’s not how I work!” Charlie argued, getting up from her seat. “I want people to come to my hotel for redemption not imprisonment!”
“If you don’t have sinners that are on contract, you can’t get the fucking building.” Ruthie said blankly.
“Is there like…a nicer way to do so?” Charlie asked the real estate lady.
“No. If they are not in contact with you, then they’ll easily betray you and sell off assets behind your back.” Ruthie explained to a distraught Charlie. “That’s how business here keeps afloat, the sinners kept in check, and no properties taken unless there’s a gang war and if that tenant somehow died, then that property will be given to the victor.”
Ruthie types something on her computer, ignoring the sad look Charlie was showing.
“So, if Charlie doesn’t have seven thousand sinners contracted to her…she won’t get the building?” Vaggie questions Ruthie.
“She won’t get any territory around here or any other district.” Ruthie corrected.
“Is there an alternative?” Charlie asked pleadingly.
“If you know someone with seven thousand sinners contracted with him or her, then you can buy a building, but it will be owned by one who has the seven thousand sinners.” Ruthie explained further.
Charlie and Vaggie knew that Andreus had many sinners contracted to him. He can easily buy any territory, but he will be the sole owner of the hotel and will do it his way. Charlie can’t let her older brother find out, otherwise, she will get a scolding for a lifetime from him and Ophelia.
“So, there’s no other alternative?” Charlie asked pleadingly.
“Nope.” Ruthie responded with no nonsense attitude. “This type of business is not suited for a young princess like yourself.” She explained, gesturing Charlie from head to toe. “You have zero experience in business and you’re gullible. Your business will fall before you know it if you don’t grow a backbone.”
“But-”
Ruthie cuts her off. “Come back when you have the right credentials and requirements needed, for now, this building will remain vacant until someone else buys it.” Ruthie said she stamped the document for the building to be on hold. “NEXT!”
Later, Charlie and Vaggie sat at a coffee shop called Inferno Café. Charlie was sulking on her seat, her face filled with sadness and disappointment at the fact that she couldn’t secure a building for her hotel. Razzle and Dazzle were comforting her while Vaggie ordered their drinks, donuts and pastries.
Vaggie gave Charlie a strawberry shortcake while she has the Forêt-Noire and Razzle & Dazzle get the donuts. While the two small creatures eat, Vaggie comforts Charlie.
“Hey, it’s okay, Charlie. We’ll get another chance.” Vaggie assures her.
“How? I can’t get a building in a district without the BFBYB’s approval!” Charlie said in frustration, taking a bite on her cake. “And the only way to do it is to get seven thousand souls of sinners that I have to make deals with. I can’t do that!”
“Hey, take it easy.” Vaggie tries to cheer Charlie up. “We’ll figure things out.”
“How can we?” Charlie mumbles, munching sadly on her cake. “Everything in Hell has messed up rules! I can’t follow them because it goes against what I’m working for.”
Vaggie placed a hand on Charlie’s shoulder. “Charlie…”
While Vaggie comforts her, Razzle and Dazzle are munching on the donuts, eagerly enjoying the delightful snack. They were hungry after waiting outside of the building for Charlie and Vaggie to finish. Suddenly, Razzle stopped when he heard something. He nudges his brother’s shoulder and points at the garbage can nearby. The two Hellborns fly towards the garbage can and peek through, trying to find the source of sound.
What they found was a small Hell Piglet, sniffing around the garbage can, as if searching for food.
The Hell Piglet stops on what’s it doing and looks at the two-winged goat Hellborns with a frightened expression.
Seeing the frightened piglet, Razzle and Dazzle backed up a bit to give it space before Razzle offered it his donut. The piglet looks at the donut and sniffed at it for a few seconds before taking a bite. Squealing in delight, the Hell Piglet happily munched on the donut, filling its little belly.
Smiling, Razzle and Dazzle take the piglet to their table to give it more food to eat. The little Hell Piglet munched on the donuts, enjoying the sweet taste of the pastry. Charlie and Vaggie finally notice the commotion and look down on the table to see Razzle and Dazzle offering donuts to a Hell Piglet.
“Hey, where’d you come from, little guy?” Charlie gushed, getting off her seat and squats down in front of the Hell Piglet.
“Where did it come from?” Vaggie asked, looking at the Hell Piglet.
“I don’t know, maybe its lost.” Charlie said before noticing a color on the Hell Piglet’s neck. “What’s this?” Charlie looked at the coller and saw the name. “Fat Nuggets? Is that your name?”
The little Hell piglet oinked at her happily before munching on the donuts happily. Charlie cooed at this.
“Aw! That’s so cute!” Charlie smiles happily, clasping her hands together. “Where’s your owner, little nuggie?”
Fat Nuggets responded with an oink, as if trying to tell them something. Before they could do anything, someone came rushing over.
“Fat Nuggets!”
They looked up to see a tall Spider Sinner coming rushing forward. His face etched with worry as he searches for someone.
The Hell Piglet heard him and squealed at the sight of the sinner. Hearing this, the Spider Sinner’s face was filled with relief at the fight of the Hell Piglet.
“Fat Nuggets!” He exclaimed in relief, rushing over.
Fat Nuggets rushed over to the Sinner and jumped into his waiting arms. The Spider Sinner cries in relief, seeing his pig okay and unharmed, his worries finally washed away. He then stopped when he noticed that he wasn’t alone. Looking up, he saw Charlie, Vaggie, Razzle, and Dazzle looking at him with curious expressions. Frowning, the Sinner looks at them with a blank look while holding Fat Nuggets closed.
“Who the fuck are you bitches?” He asked rudely at them.
Vaggie frowns at him, wanting to say something snarky, but Charlie stops her. She gave him a polite smile.
Charlie introduces kindly while Vaggie has her arms crossed and grunted and the two hellborn winged goats waved at him. “Hi, I’m Charlie Morningstar, Princess of Hell, and this is Razzle, Dazzle, and Vaggie-”
“Like Vagina?!” Angel Dust exclaimed with a teasing grin.
Vaggie glares at him with a growl, already planning to stab him, but is prevented by Charlie.
“So, what’s your name?” Charlie asked with a weak smile.
The Sinner stared at them with a scrutinized expression, judging them from all the flaws. Finally, the Sinner turned his head a bit and introduced himself, “The name’s Angel Dust.”
“Wait a minute…aren’t you that porn star that works for Valentino?” Vaggie asked Angel Dust.
Angel Dust, using one of his four hands to flick his hair, responded, “The one and only, baby.” He commented with a sly smirk. “I’m pretty famous in the entertainment industry.”
“Oh, what do you do?” Charlie asked.
“I make porn and sex movies.” Angel Dust boastfully said with a grin.
“O-Oh…” Charli responded hesitantly as she gave a weak smile. “That’s…that’s awesome…”
“Correction, Sexy~” Angel Dust said while wiggling his eyebrows.
Vaggie groans in annoyance while Charlie makes strange sounds of somewhat understanding. Razzle and Dazzle, meanwhile, appeared with a box full of donuts.
They went in to buy more for their new friend. Fat Nuggets squeals at the donuts, hungry for more treats. Upon seeing this, Angel Dust’s eyes soften at his pet and puts him down. Fat Nuggets oinks happily and went over to Razzle and Dazzle, who put the box down, and shared their donuts with their new friend.
“Wow, he seems hungry.” Vaggie commented.
“Yeah…well…we couldn’t get food at this time.” Angel Dust said with slight hesitation.
“You don’t have money for food?” Charlie asked with concern.
Angel Dust was hesitant, not wanting to reveal the whole truth, as if he didn’t want to admit defeat. “My dick of a landlord raised the rent, and my ‘boss’,” He finger quoted with a sarcastic tone, “Still hasn’t pay me any shit after I made a bunch of fucking videos.”
Charlie and Vaggie understood what he meant. They knew that Valentino was selfish, cruel, and most of all, abusive towards his staff. Charlie remembers from what her brother told her that Valentino is the worst of the Vees, always abusing his workers. He even warns Charlie to not wander to the Entertainment District with her bodyguards. For he knew that there were sickos out there, ready to take Charlie.
“I’m sorry to hear that.” Charlie said in an apologetic tone.
Angel Dust heard this but didn’t say much. “So…what are you two bitches sulking here for?” He questions them.
“Oh, it’s nothing really, I…” Charlie tries to explain but couldn’t since she was too embarrassed to say it.
“Just what? Some assholes won’t fuck ya?” Angel Dust asked, taking a seat on the table they were on.
“NO! It’s…It’s…” Charlie sighs, “It’s a long story…”
“If it’s long, can you gals buy me something to eat? I’m starving.” Angel Dust asked with a grin.
Charlie and Vaggie looked at each other, then back to Angel Dust. It clearly shows that he wanted a free meal, since he’s telling them to pay, but Charlie, being sensitive and kind hearted, decided to do so. For it was the right thing to do.
“Sure, what do you want?” Charli offers, earning a sly grin from Angel Dust.
Few minutes later, their table was filled with different types of pastries and cakes. Vaggie frowns at this while glaring at Angel Dust, who was enjoying his mocha chocolate parfait, and Charlie tries to calm her down.
“YOU ORDER ALL OF THIS FOR YOURSELF?!” Vaggie exclaimed in anger.
Angel Dust simply waves her off. “Hey, she offered to pay.” He points his spoon at Charlie, “I’m just accepting her offer.”
“You mean taking advantage, you piece of sh-”
Before Vaggie could say anything, Charlie cuts her off. “Vaggie! It’s okay! I’m just helping out. That’s all.”
“Yeah, listen to the naïve princess,” Angel Dust said, enjoying his dessert. “Besides, I’m three months behind my rent, so I need all the energy I need to get the money.”
“You can’t be serious.” Vaggie grumbled at him.
“Hey, it’s better than sucking my landlord’s dick to expand my stay.” Angel Dust responded, taking a sip of his iced coffee.
Vaggie groans in disgusts at his words, wanting to punch him in the face.
“Anyways, since you paid for my meal ticket, now explain to the Great Angel Dust why you gals sulking about?” Angel Dust asked.
Charlie sighs a bit as she looks at Angel Dust with a sad expression. “I was supposed to buy a building in the Magne District.”
“The Magne District? Isn’t that where the very rich demons and the winners of the previous Hell Games live?” Angel Dust asked, eating a macaroon.
“Yeah, and it’s also where my older brother’s base is located, so I can buy a building there, to make my hotel to rehabilitate sinners.” Charlie explained before she slowly became sad. “But have to have seven thousand sinners that bind by contract in order to get one.” Charlie said in a disappointed tone.
“Why? Can’t you ask your sexy older brother?” Angel Dust asked, recalling Charlie’s older brother owning that place and having many souls bound to him.
“I can’t,” Charlie said with a grumble.
“What do you mean you ‘can’t’? Doesn’t your brother spoil you or somethin’?” Angel Dust points out to Charlie.
“He does, but he never allows me to start a business.” Charlie crosses her arms. “He thinks I have no experience in running a hotel. And even if he did get me a building, he’ll assign someone else to be a manager and will be owning it.”
“No offense, toots, but your Big Boy Princy has a point there.” Angel Dust said, siding with Charlie’s brother, “I mean, no offense, but you have zero idea about how thigs work here in Hell, and more importantly, your ‘salvation’ idea is not going to work because the sinners here don’t want to ‘cause they don’t give a damn. Plus, they’re fucking terrified of your brother.” Angel Dust pointed out the big picture.
“Andy’s not that scary.” Charlie mutters out.
“You can say what you want, toots, but your big sexy brother is the only one that can control everything around here.” Angel said to her. “He and his best buddy, the Second Sexy Demon, Cain, nearly destroyed the Vees’ turf and brutally, and hilariously, scared the shits out of Katie Killjoy after what she did.”
Charli flinched at this while Vaggie rolled her eye. Everyone still can’t forget how Andreus and Cain teamed up to attack the news station, almost tearing it down, and brutally beating the shit out of the sinners, especially Katie Killjoy. After all, she was the one who started it after insulting Charlie on screen for being weak. She was taken by the Devil’s Crown and was placed in the ‘Disciplinary Room’.”
The Disciplinary Room is a facility that is hidden in a pocket dimension, created by Andreus. It is used to discipline or punish sinners by various torture education. If any sinners dared try to anger the Devil’s Crown, they would be severely punished in that room. Because when they entered the Disciplinary room, it changed a demon’s perspective towards the Devil’s Crown, to realize that they should never mess with Andreus and the members.
“I’m not like my brother.” Charlie said, eyes looking at her drink.
Angel Dust blew a raspberry, “No shit, princess. Your brother’s got the good parts and you’re…well, Sad…and pathetic. Like an orphan...with no arms...or legs...Oh! With progeria!”
Vaggie growls at his rudeness while Charlie’s face falters in disappointment. It wasn’t the first time people commented about her. She heard it whenever she was at galas for the noble gatherings. She heard them talking behind her back, saying that she wasn’t fit to be a princess. That she was a distraction to Andreus, and that she is nothing compared to him. All nobles in Hell all share the same thoughts that Charlie wasn’t good enough and was not even fulfilling her duties as princess. They mock her idea of redemption, adding that it was a ruse for her to start trouble in Hell and Heaven. Even though her brother and Lady Ophelia silence them, people who basically worship her brother are against Charlie, thinking that she was not really the daughter of Lucifer and Lilith.
But Charlie wasn’t like that. She didn’t care about what they said (sometimes), all she cared about was to help others in need. Even if they looked down at her.
“I’m not like my brother.” Charlie confessed as she clutched her cup. “But I know I can make a difference in my own way without my brother’s status and reputation. I’m just…me…and that’s all I care about.”
Angel Dust looked at her, wondering what she meant was true or not. Sure, Sinners around here are full of murderers, dicks, assholes, rapists, convicts, and all those bad guys and shit, but to be honest, there were some that came down here because they committed acts that caused them to lose their faith in the living. He knew that because he was one of them.
Angel Dust looks down at Fat Nuggets, watching as he plays with Razzle and Dazzle. He seems so happy with them. Angel Dust couldn’t help but smile at his pet. Feeling something inside of him that changed his perspective towards Charlie.
“Great, now I'm bummed thinkin' about what you said.” Angel Dust commented, resting his chin on one of his four hands that was resting on the table. “Though to be honest…you’re kinda rebellious on your brother…that takes guts to do so.”
“Well, Andy can be strict, we have sometimes argued and have some disagreements but…I still love him. After all, he is my brother. He’s always there to protect me.”
Angel Dust stared at her with an unreadable expression. He has to admit, Charlie has spunk and charisma, and can be a bit gullible, but he understood her, just a bit. I mean, he knows what Charlie’s older brother, a dangerous overlord, yet a caring brother…like him.
“Huh, you’re alright, toots.” Angel Dust said with a sly smirk.
Charlie smiles softly at this, feeling some small hope in her heart. Just then, Vaggie’s Hellphone, causing the Moth Demon to answer.
“Hello?” Vaggie responded on her Hellphone, a few seconds later, she stiffened by the one who called her. “Oh, Lady Ophelia! HI!” Vaggie straightens up when she hears Charlie’s governess on the phone.
Charlie flinched at this; her eyes widened with worry. Angel Dust glanced at her with a curious yet confused expression, wondering who the heck is Lady Ophelia.
“Yes, we’re done with the fitting…yes, we’re at the Inferno Café at the inner city…uh-huh…of course…we’ll head back…no! No, no, no! There were no troubles at all, milady.” Vaggie assures Ophelia through the phone.
“Who’s she talking to?” Angel Dust whispers to Charlie.
“Shh!” Charlie shushes him, silencing him in the process.
Vaggie continues speaking with Ophelia. “Okay…we’ll be home soon. Have a good day, Lady Ophelia.” Vaggie ended the call with a sigh and turned to Charlie. “Lady Ophelia wants you home before sundown. She’s sending us a ride to our location.”
Charlie sighs but nodded her head, knowing she can’t ignore her curfew she was given. Angel Dust, still confused by this, looked at the two girls with his head tilted to the side.
“Seriously, who the Hell is that chick?” Angel Dust asked again.
The two girls looked at Angel Dust in confusion.
“Wait, you don’t know Lady Ophelia is?” Vaggie asked Angel Dust with a dumbfounded tone.
Angel Dust simply shrugged his shoulders at her.
“Lady Ophelia Tanzanite is the Grand Duchess of Hell and the top matriarch of the Ars Goetia?” Charlie listed out, recalling her lessons with Ophelia.
Again, Angel Dust shrugged his shoulders. Earning a groan from Vaggie.
“Seriously, how come you don’t know her? Everyone in Hell knows her but you.” Vaggie questions him. “When did you even die?!”
“1947.” Angel Dust answered casually, causing Vaggie’s face to falter before being replaced by annoyance with a hint of rage.
“You’ve been here for 80 years, and you don’t even bother to know the matriarchs in Hell are!”
Angel Dust scoffs at her. “Eh, not a big fan of political shits. Besides, I was busy.”
“Doing what? Sex with random pervs and cracking pot?” Vaggie said sarcastically.
“Hey, I only have sex who pays good money and FYI…cracks are expensive around here.” Angel Dust said to Vaggie in a matter-of-fact tone.
Vaggie growls in annoyance, wanting to rip his head off, but Charlie stops her. “Easy, Vaggie, he’s just joking around.”
Angel Dust snickers before picking up Fat Nuggets, who finished playing with his new friends. “And besides, now I know one of Hell’s rich ladies.” He said with a grin.
“She’s a grand duchess, Angel.” Vaggie said with a frown.
“And she has ancient powers far greater than any overlords.” Charlie added with a small smile.
Angel Dust was surprised by this sudden information. He did not expect that. “Huh, sounds like one woman powerhouse.”
“You have no idea.” Charlie said with a sigh as she slowly smiled. “Welp, gotta change before we go home.”
“Wait, that’s not your outfit?” Angel Dust asked, gesturing to her clothing.
“No, I wear this to look professional, but Lady Ophelia doesn’t like it if I wear it. Since she’s my governess, she’s always making sure I don’t look like a fool. Because if she does see me wearing this, she’ll go: Princess Charlotte, a princess of hell does not wear these kinds of clothing, you must show the people that you are regal and respected.” Charlie mimics her governess’s words.
Angel Dust burst into fits of laughter, pounding his fist onto the table. “Oh, my God! You nailed your nanny’s expression! Hahahaha!”
After Angel Dust calms, flicking a tear from his eye, and grins at Charlie. “You know, you ain’t half bad there, princess.”
Charlie made a faint smile at him. “Thank, Angel…you too.”
Then the royal family limousine came driving over and parked at the café, honking to get the girls’ attention.
“Here’s our ride.” Vaggie said, getting up. “We have to get back before Prince Andreus and Lady Ophelia find out what we are doing.”
Charlie nodded her head as she got up. “So…see you around?” She asked Angel Dust.
The porn star simply shrugged, “Meh. It depends; I’ll be too busy trying to pay off my rent.” He said in annoyance. “It looks like I have to sleep with some simps to get paid.”
“Ugh.” Vaggie groans in disgust.
“You don’t need to.” Charlie said before taking out a large stack of money and handing it over to Angel Dust, shocking him in the process.
He looks at the large stack of money and then to Charlie as he points at it. “What’s this?”
“Money.” Charlie responded casually.
“For?” Angel Dust continues to ask, still unsure what just happened.
“For listening and understanding.” Charlie said with a smile.
Angel Dust tilted his head, still skeptical about this. “Is this a trick?”
Charlie shook her head, “Nope, consider this as a thank you.” She said kindly, “It means a lot.”
Then the driver of the limo started honking, signaling the girls to hurry it up. Charlie waves at the driver before turning to Angel Dust one last time.
“Well then, see you around.” Charlie said kindly before waving at Razzle and Dazzle, “Come on, guys.”
They left Angel Dust and Fat Nuggets at the café before they entered the limo as it drove off. Angel Dust watched the limo leaves, a strange feeling in his chest and his mind filled with swirling thoughts. He couldn’t help but feel somewhat grateful for how Charlie gave him money for his rent. He won’t have to work overtime for Valentino anymore. Glancing at the money on the table, Angel Dust takes it with his free hands and counts it. This money can cover his rent for the next two months, and he will have enough food for him and Fat Nuggets.
Angel Dust sighs as he looks down at Fat Nuggets, who was looking at him with a smile. Angel Dust stroked his pet gently, “Heh, looks like we made some new friends there, right Nuggs?”
Fat Nuggets oinked happily as Angel Dust sat there thinking. He wasn’t aware that the demonic crow that was perched on a tree watched the whole thing and sent it to his master.
-0-0-0-0-0-0-
“I have to admit, I was surprised by the fact there was actually one good sinner out there.” Andreus commented from his seat, sipping his tea with a small smile.
Charlie smiles at her older brother, feeling a sense of accomplishment after earning praise. “Yeah, I was surprised too.”
“Though, I was skeptical on why you gave him a huge stack of cash.” Andreus said to his sister. “He might take advantage of your kindness.”
“He won’t.” Charlie said to her brother. “I could tell he isn’t like that…he doesn’t want to take advantage and…and…”
“…You saw how he struggles, correct?” Andreus asked, setting his tea down.
Charlie nodded her head. “Yeah, I just want to help my people the best way I can…and…a little bit of hope.” She said with a soft smile.
Andreus looked at his sister with a raised brow. He understood that her intention was pure and innocent, but sometimes she isn’t careful. Angel Dust works for Valentino, one the Vees, and he is in contract. If Valentino finds out that Angel Dust defriended Charlie, they will use him to get Charlie and try to win the favor of the Devil’s Crown.
Of course, that’s never going to happen because he’s always one step ahead of them. And above all, the Vees can touch them.
“You know, Charlie. There is a vacant room from one of the luxurious apartments, Burning Light. I'm sure your new…friend would enjoy it there, free of rent.” Andreus offered.
Charlie’s eyes glimmered with hope.
“Really?!”
“Yes, on one condition that he takes a part time job with Shiruku, she needs a model for one of her dresses.” Andreus responded, taking a sip from his tea.
Charlie was so ecstatic that she jumpS off her seat and hugged her brother. Fortunately for her, Andreus used his levitation power to prevent the tea and food from being spilled to the ground or on to them. Charlie hugs Andreus tightly, squealing in delight.
“You’re the best big brother ever!” Charlie squeals happily.
Andreus smiled and patted her head gently while arranging the tea and food back in place. “Anything for you, Charlie.”
After they let go, Lady Ophelia, Vaggie (wearing her bodyguard uniform), Razzle and Dazzle came. The noble Goetia did a curtsy towards the Crown Prince of Hell.
“Greetings, your majesty, how is your time with Princess Charlotte?” She asked with respect.
Andreus nodded his head. “Yes, everything has been resolved.” He said before getting up, “Now, if you excuse me, I have some tasks to be dealt with. Lady, Ophelia, please continue the afternoon to educate my sister,”
“Of course, your majesty.” Ophelia bowed.
Andreus smiles before turning to Charlie’s three bodyguards. “Please enjoy the rest of the afternoon with them.”
Vaggie bowed along with Razzle and Dazzle. Andreus bid them a farewell before using his shadow manipulation to teleport him back to the halls of his manor. He walks a few paces before stopping briefly at the massive portrait of him and his family. He stared at it briefly, imagining his family safe and sound without the burden of Hell’s task on them. Andreus turns forward with a cold gaze before snapping his fingers on his side.
Suddenly, the shadows started to move, getting closer to Andreus before manifesting behind him. Two cloak shadow figures emerged, bowing towards Andreus with respectful manners.
These are Andreus’ Shadow Guards.
The Shadow Guards are demonic shadow beings that Andreus conjured during his time in Hell. He created them as his personal guards, spies, and informants. They gathered any information or spy on his enemies and reported them back to him. The Shadow Guards are loyal to Andreus as he is their master.
“Locate a sinner named Angel Dust.” Andreus began his order without turning around. “Find any information about him and his allegiance towards Valentino of the Vees and report it back to me.”
“Yes, master.” The Shadow Guards spoke in unison, their voice cold and echoed that could shake a sinner to its knees.
“And if you find any malicious attempts that Angel Dust would do to my sister…you know what to do.” Andreus said before walking away.
The Shadow Guards disappeared, doing the task that they were assigned by Andreus.
The Prince of Hell made his way to his office, entering the room, a small smirk appeared on his face.
“I was wondering when you will show up.” Andreus spoke towards a figure on one of the armchairs.
It was none other than Cain, the First Murderer and the First Vampyre.
Cain was wearing a long black collared leather duster trench coat that was tattered at the bottom, a black buttoned blazer with inner red lining over a dark purple waistcoat with golden root-shaped patterns, a red dress shirt and a black tie with a golden upside down cross imprinted on it, followed by black pants with a golden chain around his waist and pockets, and matching ones around his wrists. He also wore black leather dress boots with matching straps. His dark hair was kept in a tightly bound ponytail. And over his eyes were a pair of circulars, heavily tinted, wire-framed orange sunglasses with goggle sidings.
(This image belongs Wacko12 and ThatWriterGirl04 from AO3) (Cain’s voice actor is James Callis who voiced Alucard from the Netflix series Castlevania)
Cain’s red eyes gleam with amusement as a small smirk appears on his face as he shrugs.
“What can I say, I love making an entrance.” Cain commented with a smirk.
Andreus chuckled at his friend/brother in arms before walking up to him. With a flick of his hand, Andreus summoned two wine glasses and a wine bottle in midair before using his power to open the bottle to pour them a drink.
“So, how’s the business deal with Carmilla?” Cain asked Andreus, accepting the wine that Andreus offered.
The Prince of Hell smirks at Cain with amusement. “As usual, perfect. We made an agreement for the weapons to be delivered privately. We wouldn't have any stragglers attempting to steal them.”
Cain chuckles as they clink glasses. “True, the demons these days are so desperate to survive here.” He said with a smirk, swirling his wine. “Too bad for them for not winning in the Hell Games. After all, the winners get the luxuries in the Magne District.”
“Indeed, Cain. That’s why we created the Magne District, so all the victors and high aristocrat demons can live there.” Andreus said before drinking his wine.
“Speaking of the Hell Games, is the famous Kathleen Everson coming again this year?” Cain asked his partner.
“Oh, yes, her name is listed in the upcoming Hell Games.” Andreus said while swirling his wine.
Kathleen Everson is a Cannibal Sinner that came to Hell with her brother, Price Everson, in the 1990s. They committed the act of cannibalism on their parents after they refused to feed the siblings, Kathleen and her brother killed them and feast on their parents to survive, before committing suicide to end themselves from hunger.
They entered Hell when the Hell Games assigned the participant. Kathleen was amongst them, winning every trial of each Sins of Hell. She won by her wits, strength, and amazing agility. She may be a Cannibal, but unlike those in Cannibal Town, Kathleen is far more skilled and determined to win not for fame or glory, but to secure a home for her and her brother.
She earned the title as Hell’s Champion and is quite a celebrity. All Sinners of Hell, new and old, either admired, feared, or respected her. Every Hell Games she entered, she won with great precision and skills. Victory after victory, Kathleen was the sinners’ strength and is admired by all.
“She’s getting stronger with each Hell Games she entered, taking down any Sinners that were trying to get in her way.” Cain said with a sip of his wine.
Andreus simply shook his head. “You can’t blame her determination.” He commented. “She’s only entering the Hell Games to secure the safety of her brother and boosting Rosie’s Emporium.”
Rosie is one of the Overlords of Hell. She runs the Cannibal District, all the Cannibals listen to her and the other Demons fear her. And as a Cannibal Overlord, she is considered the most darling, delightful, and dangerous Overlord this side of the Pentagram. She was the one that took in Kathleen and Price under her wing, sponsoring Kathleen in the Hell Games. And she was the reason why the Cannibals have steady supplies of dead demons for them to consume.
Cain simply smirks at this. “You know, I still can’t forget how happy Rosie was whenever Kathleen wins every Hell Games.”
“Who can blame her?” Andreus said, turning to his friend. “After all, with each kill Kathleen commits, the souls of the fallen demons go to Rosie, making her stronger as ever.”
Cain snorts, sipping his wine, “Don’t forget that smiling bastard. He was the one that brought Kathleen to Rosie.”
The Smiling Bastar that Cain was referring to was Overlord and one of the most powerful beings Hell has ever seen. And his name is Alastor the Radio Demon.
Alastor manifested in Hell decades ago, seemingly overnight, making a splash quicker than anyone had ever seen. At first, the demons wanted to dismiss him, thinking that he was some amateur high-ranking demon. But soon, overlords of old started disappearing. No one knew what happened to them until these strange radio broadcasts started going out.
It turns out, Alastor broadcast his carnage all throughout Hell from all the radios. The screams of the Previous Overlords were heard with each radio broadcast. As if showing all of Hell that his power is beyond any of them. That enabled him to rival Hell's most ancient and destructive evils.
Since then, no one, not even the new Overlords, dare challenge him because every time an overlord tries to, he or she went missing, and there'd be a new voice screaming in the radio broadcast. For anyone that would mess with him, let's just say, his broadcasts never lacked new voices.
Thus, Alastor earned the name ‘The Radio Demon’, and all of Hell knows that.
Andreus was somewhat impressed by Alastor. For he was the first sinner to possess such raw power. Because no mortal soul had never been able to harness before. He heard rumors from some Sinners that Alastor is a force to be reckoned with.
With such an unpredictable source of danger, a wicked spirit of mystery, and a violent monster of chaos, the likes of which we can't risk getting involved with unless we want to end up erased, Alastor could be a worthy opponent. However, that was just his wishful thinking, for he knew Alastor has limits with his power.
Cain, on the other hand, doesn’t give a fuck about Alastor. He finds the Radio Overlord completely uninteresting. In his own words, Alastor is just one of a long line of demons who have made names for themselves but eventually brought forth their own downfall by being overconfident. He knows it as he watched many sinners rise and fall from their actions.
Even though Alastor was full of himself, he was the one that introduced Rosie to Kathleen. Alastor was the one that found Kathleen and helped her find Price. In the end, Kathleen not only enters the Hell Games on behalf of Rosie but also Alastor, making the two Overlords to have many souls within each Hell Games.
“He may be an amateur, but you have to admit, he’s very calculating when it comes to entertainment.” Andreus said casually.
“Tsk, yeah, yeah, whatever you say my friend.” Cain said, taking another sip on his wine.
Andreus simply smiles before his eyes become serious. “With that said and done, did you find out what I asked for?”
Cain placed his glass down as he looked at his friend with a serious look. “Yes, from what my spies learned, there were some groups of demons that were attempting to tarnish Charlie’s reputation by attempting to spread false rumors of Charlie being a fake princess.”
Cain’s spies are a group of elite Vampyres. They reside in the underground catacombs of Hell, where the underground city was hidden. The underground city is called the Nocturnis, where all Vampyres live with riches and advanced magic. Cain owns a business called ‘The Crimson Industry’, a Victorian style business where they make magical base vehicles, tech, equipment, and more. Since the city is underground, there were also many gemstones and rare minerals that could be mined off and used for accessories and jewelry.
But behind that, it was also an assassin organization that trains vampyres into lethal killers. They wield ancient and dangerous weapons that could rival angelic weapons called Vampirium Steel. A dark metal that can kill demons. It can only be wielded by Vampyres. As it was specifically made for them thanks to Cain and Andreus, who were the ones who used alchemy to create Vampirium Steel. That way, the Vampyre assassins will easily take down their prey.
And they make sure that they get their jobs done.
Andreus’ eyes narrowed at this information. “So, it seems that this faction is trying to get rid of my sister from her status as a princess.”
“No shit, brother, those bastards have a sick belief that Charlie is the root of trouble for Hell, thinking that she will be the downfall of Hell.” Cain said with a growl, already imagining many ways to torture those sinners that dare insult Charlie. “She just wants to help her people, that’s all, not causing war.”
“I agree, but there are some beings that think the other way.” Andreus said with a serious look. “Heaven might think that Charlie was trying to bring sinners to heaven to take over, while factions that are against Charlie believe that she was trying to recreate Extermination Day.”
Cain growled. “Those sick bastards won’t give up.” He said getting up from his seat as he glared at the window. “Some noble assholes are even trying to get her off the royal family registration. Fortunately, the Seven Sins are on your side, and prevented this.”
“Yes, but it won’t be long before they’ll find loopholes to rid my sister.” Andreus said with a sigh. “This faction could be Devil’s Crown’s enemies or my crazy followers that only believe that I alone should take the throne.”
Andreus walked over to his desk and took out a document that showed a picture of a hooded figure that was talking to some sinners.
“Either way, this needs to end now.” Andreus said in a dead serious tone. “I can tolerate those assholes talking shit about me, but to target my little sister, that crossed the line.”
“I agree, they need to know their place to have the gall to insult Charlie behind our backs.” Cain said, crimson eyes glow due to his anger.
“Calm yourself, brother.” Andreus said to Cain gently. “We must move cautiously. We cannot let them know that we’re on to them. Otherwise, they’ll disappear back to the dark. And the trail will go cold.”
“So, what shall we do?” Cain asked Andreus.
“For now, we stay low, making them believe that they have the upper hand.” Andreus planned out, looking at Cain. “And when they gave their guards down, we strike, bringing them down to their knees.”
Cain smirks in agreement as he stands next to his brother in arms. “And we’ll make sure to get the job done.”
Smirking, the two immortal beings clashed their arms together, symbolizing their strength and bond that they share.
“Let’s prepare ourselves then, for this is gonna be one Hell of a task.” Andreus said with a smirk.
Notes:
I hope you enjoy the story.
And thank you again to Wacko12 and ThatWriterGirl04 for letting me use their image/artwork of Cain for my story. You can read their stories in AO3.
More chapters will come soon, thank you for being patient.
Also, the reason why the district is called the Magne District instead of the Morningstar, is because previously Charlie’s last name was Magne in the Pilot before they changed it to the Morningstar. I looked up the districts of Pentagram City and found out that the district where the Hazbin Hotel was located has no name yet. It was called Magne district because it was technically owned by Lucifer, I think.
I decided to use the Magne for that district because it’s Norse that means "mighty" or "great". Meaning, the higher ups like aristocrats like demons and the winners of the previous Hell Games reside there. It’s basically the highest ranking district like an upper class district.
The City of Nocturnis, where all Vampyres live, is underground in the Pentagram City. The Vampyres are considered high ranking Hellborns. Thanks to Cain who sponsored them. The Crimson Industry is Cain’s company which also operates throughout the Seven Rings.
I hope my explanation helps.
Chapter 4: Magne District
Notes:
Sorry for the long wait. I've been busy for a while, and my country has been dealing with an earthquake. Fortunately, my area wasn't affected, but for those who were, I'm praying for their safety and recovery.
I hope you all enjoy the story.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Angel Dust sat in a luxurious limousine provided by the Devil's Crown. He just sat there, staring off into space with wide eyes, Fat Nuggets resting in his lap, as they were taken to the Magne District. He still couldn't believe what had just happened.
One minute, he was scraping together rent, and the next, he was offered a penthouse suite in one of the finest apartments in the Magne District.
At first, he thought it had to be a scam, maybe some sleazy bastard trying to kidnap him or something. But when those towering, black-armored guards (who probably had huge dicks under all that metal, he joked to himself) showed him the Seal of the Morningstar, pulsing with powerful energy, he knew it was real.
And let's be honest, he couldn't exactly say no. You don't turn down the Devil's Crown. Not unless you're into eternal suffering.
He was escorted into the limousine and brought to the Magne District. Even then, he couldn't believe his eyes. He'd heard all the rumors, that it was the most elite, cleanest, and most exclusive district in all of Pentagram City.
They finally arrived at Burning Light, one of the district's most famous apartment complexes. Angel Dust couldn't help but admire the place. The rumors were true — it was like a little piece of Heaven. No creeps, no kidnappers, no grime on the streets. Everything was clean, high-class, and crawling with former champions of the Hell Games.
"Mr. Angel Dust?"
The spider demon turned his head and saw a petite woman with silver-white hair and eyes as blue as gemstones. She regarded him with a calm, composed expression.
"Hello. My name is Yumna, Assistant and Secretary to Prince Andreus," she greeted with a polite smile.
Angel Dust blinked, a bit thrown by the formal greeting, but quickly gathered himself. He adjusted Fat Nuggets in his arms and gave a half-smile.
"Uh...hi. Are you here to give me a tour or somethin'?"
"If you're referring to the Burning Light Apartments, then yes. Do you need assistance bringing up your essentials?"
"...My what?"
"Your stuff," Yumna clarified patiently.
Angel glanced back at the small pile of boxes and bags he had brought along. It wasn't much, but it was enough for him and Fat Nuggets.
"Oh, uh...yeah, sure?" he said, sounding a little unsure.
Suddenly, his belongings floated into the air, wrapped in shimmering blue mist. Startled, Angel Dust jumped back a little.
"What the hell?!" he muttered.
"Come along now," Yumna said simply, already walking ahead as his floating luggage followed behind her.
Angel snapped out of it and hurried after her into the building. He took in the interior design, elegant blacks accented with gold and silver. It was jaw-dropping. He spotted former Hell Games champions lounging around, chatting, or minding their own business. The district really was paradise for the elite.
They approached the front desk. Yumna spoke briefly with the imp receptionist, explaining that Angel Dust was the newest resident of Burning Light. The imp typed something into her computer until a chime dinged, confirming his arrival.
"Here we are. Room 787," the imp said, handing Yumna a keycard. "Need any help, Ms. Yumna?"
"That won't be necessary. Thank you," she replied in a respectful but neutral tone.
"Have a Helluva day," the imp nodded and returned to her work.
Yumna motioned for Angel Dust to follow, and he obeyed. They stepped into the elevator. As it rose, Angel Dust looked out through the glass walls, admiring the glittering view of the district below. He still couldn't believe he was here, let alone about to live here.
When they reached his floor, Yumna led him to his new apartment and began explaining the situation.
"As you know, you're acquainted with Prince Andreus' younger sister, Charlotte Morningstar," she began. "Because of this connection, you are now under the protection of the Devil's Crown. Any outsider who threatens you will face severe consequences."
Angel Dust's eyes widened. He couldn't believe what he was hearing.
"Well, damn. Who knew the Devil's Crown had a soft spot for little ol' me?" he said, fluffing his hair.
Yumna's expression didn't change. But her tone did.
"Don't take this lightly, Mr. Angel Dust," she said, her voice firm. It caught him off guard. "Your safety is guaranteed only due to Princess Charlotte's personal request. If you abuse this kindness, you will be returned to the Vees."
That shut him up.
He swallowed hard. He knew better than to mess with the Devil's Crown. If he did... Valentino wouldn't just hurt him. He'd break him.
"Heh...yeah. Got it. I won't spill any beans, promise," he said nervously.
Yumna nodded. "Good. I'm glad you understand."
She handed him a card. "This is the address of your new job, a boutique called Kumo no Ito. There, you will assist our seamstress with new designs and serve as a model. Do you understand, Mr. Angel Dust?"
Angel Dust, who usually half-listened to people, paid close attention this time.
"Yup. Loud and clear."
"Excellent. You'll start tomorrow morning. 7 a.m. sharp. We'll send an imp to escort you to the boutique."
"Uh...okay," he said, giving a small nod.
"Enjoy the luxurious meals provided in the cafeteria, or visit the restaurants nearby. Someone will give you a proper tour of the district once you've settled in. You'll be contacted shortly. Have a Helluva day, Mr. Angel Dust."
With that, Yumna left.
Angel Dust stood in the middle of his new apartment, overwhelmed. He let out a long sigh, mind buzzing with questions. He walked over to the lavish sofa and gently set Fat Nuggets down beside him.
He still couldn't believe any of this was real.
A penthouse apartment. No rent. Protection from the Devil's Crown. No creeps breathing down his neck. It almost felt like he was free...
But his thoughts drifted to his contract to Valentino.
Angel Dust pulled out his phone, half-expecting a barrage of threatening texts.
But there was nothing.
No missed calls. No messages. No voicemails. Nothing.
In fact...Valentino's number was gone.
Frowning, he tried dialing it manually, thinking maybe he accidentally deleted it.
But when he typed it in, it just vanished.
As if he'd never had it in the first place.
"What the—?"
"FUCK!?!?!?!"
Screamed Valentino, the Moth Overlord of Lust.
He was having a meltdown in his penthouse, furiously trying to call Angel Dust to drag him back into his sexy videos and business. But when he tried to dial the number, it vanished. All that played was an auto-response:
"Unfortunately, the person who gave you this number doesn't want to hear from you ever again. We know this sucks. And fuck off, bitch. BEEP!"
"GOD! FUCKING! DAMMIT!!!"
Valentino hurled his phone at the wall, shattering it on impact.
Growling, he took a long drag on his cigar and exhaled a plume of red smoke.
"KITTY! BRING ME A DRINK!" he barked at a small, red jester-like robot.
The grinning robot obeyed immediately, zipping off and returning with a drink.
Valentino tried calling Angel Dust again using a spare phone from his drawer, but was denied again. Enraged, he smashed that phone too.
"That son of a bitch thinks he can ignore me?!" Valentino snatched the drink from Kitty's tray and downed it in one gulp. "That cum-sucking whore thinks he can just walk out on me?!"
He flipped the nearby table in a rage, sending everything crashing to the ground.
As his tantrum continued, the doors to the penthouse opened, revealing Vox, the T.V. Overlord with a flat-screen for a head.
He had come to check on Valentino after Velvette called him, saying the moth demon had trashed her entire department.
Vox sighed as he watched the chaos unfold. "So...what's got you all pissy this time?"
"CAN YOU BELIEVE THAT UNGRATEFUL PIECE OF SHIT?!" Valentino raged, flinging his now-empty glass at Vox, who coolly sidestepped it.
Vox raised a brow. "Which whore are we talkin' about? You've got so many."
"FUCKING ANGEL DUST!" Valentino stormed up to him. "WHO ELSE?! THAT FUCKING SLUT WALKED OUT ON ME!"
Vox held up his hands. "Alright, damn. Chill." He turned away, checking his phone for damage reports from the department.
"Without me, he's just a bag of meat with some mildly entertaining holes," Valentino sneered bitterly.
"Oh, Angel quit?" Vox asked dryly.
"NO! He didn't fuckin' quit! It's worse!" Valentino snatched Vox's phone and hurled it against the wall. "HE MOVED!!!" he screamed.
"He thinks he can just work for me and then go home to some other fucker?! CAN YOU BELIEVE THAT?!" Valentino ranted. "He's probably shacked up with some random asshole right now!"
"Wait, wait...Angel's living with someone?" Vox blinked in confusion.
"YEAH! And I'm gonna kill him and whatever poor bastard he's staying with!" Valentino stomped to his weapon cabinet and opened it, revealing rows of guns, drugs, and a disturbingly large poster of himself. He grabbed a long revolver and a semi-auto pistol.
"Which one makes me look sexier?" he asked with a grin, twirling them.
Vox groaned. "You don't even know who he's with, do you?"
Valentino ignored him, loading bullets. "That slippery twink is gonna remember who owns him. I'll fuck up everyone in that rancid little apartment!"
Before he could rant further, Vox grabbed him by the collar, slamming their faces together.
"VAL!!" Vox shouted, his voice distorting with digital rage. Then he sighed and let go, smoothing out his suit. "Think about it."
He wrapped an arm around Valentino and guided him toward the shattered window.
"Our brand is perfection. Chasing after whores like a jealous ex makes us look pathetic."
Valentino frowned, offended. "I ain't pathetic!"
"Then act like it." Vox smiled tightly. "You still own his contract, don't you?"
Valentino blinked. "...Yeah?"
"Then relax. He's not going anywhere. So...you should?"
Valentino hesitated. "Do...nothing?"
Ding-ding! A cartoonish slot-machine noise played.
"Exactly! See, that's why they pay you the big bucks." Vox smirked, pinching Valentino's cheek.
Valentino crossed his arms. "Ugh, but I really wanted to shoot someone."
Vox chuckled and sparked up a heart-shaped flame with his powers, lighting Valentino's cigarette.
"Well, let's call up the lowest earners this month. You can shoot them."
Valentino grinned. "Ooooh, you do know me well."
Just then, two Shadow Guards materialized outside the window. Black-armored and cloaked in darkness, they phased into the penthouse silently.
"AAAHHH!"
Valentino stumbled back in fear.
Vox's face glitched. "Oh shit...not again."
He had just recovered from the last incident involving Prince Andreus' Shadow Guards, when Katie Killjoy insulted the prince's sister. It nearly bankrupted his entire operation.
This could be worse.
Before they could react, there was a cold chuckle in the room, he turned and froze as he saw a demoness was suddenly sitting on Valentino's couch, sipping a cocktail, one Kitty had prepared. She was striking: dark hair with a white streak, glowing red eyes, black lipstick, four wings (two black, two red), and a pointed tail.
(Voice Actress: Beyoncé)
She smiled coldly.
"Hello, boys. How've you been?" Her voice was smooth but laced with malice.
"Ma-Ma-Mazikeen?!" Vox stuttered. "Wh-What are you doing here?!"
Mazikeen
Lucifer's lieutenant. Hell's Executioner. Mentor to Prince Andreus. A living nightmare.
Mazikeen sipped her drink and leaned back. "This is a warning."
Vox and Valentino both went stiff.
"The warning is for you, Mr. Valentino," she said casually.
"ME?! What did I do?!" Valentino barked, but instantly shut up when Mazikeen glared at him.
She stood, her wings stretching wide, as she paced.
"One of your employees, Angel Dust, has been taken in by the Devil's Crown. He's now under royal protection. You can't harm him. You can't take him back by force. Not even with a contract."
Valentino's jaw dropped. "You're fuckin' kidding."
"Oh, I'm deadly serious." Mazikeen's aura flared, lights flickered, the room trembled, and screens crackled with static.
"If either of you lays a finger on anyone under the Devil's Crown's protection, it will be seen as treason against the Royal Family, and war."
Vox and Valentino tried to back away, but the Shadow Guards blocked them.
Mazikeen smirked. "But don't worry. If someone under our protection betrays us, they'll be cast out without hesitation. And their souls, if contracted, will revert back to the original owner."
Valentino raised a trembling finger. "S-So...if he screws up, I get him back?"
"Yes," Mazikeen said flatly. "If he returns..."
Valentino blinked. "Wait. What's that mean?"
Mazikeen conjured the original contract Valentino had with Angel Dust and held up a magnifying glass.
"You forgot one detail," she said smugly. "Your fine print. It says: 'If the sinner who made this contract wishes to leave, they may buy their freedom for $70,000."
"WHAT?!" Valentino and Vox screeched in unison.
"You seriously didn't read your own contract?" Mazikeen deadpanned. "You added that clause as a joke, and now he's using it."
She tossed the contract at Valentino's face, who read it fiercely.
"You forgot you had fine print in the contract?!" Vox whispers harshly.
"Oh, shit, I put it there as a joke! I didn't think he might get a new job to pay it off!" Valentino barks back.
"You dumbasses really thought there was no way out?" Mazikeen snorted. "You let this happen."
The two overlord sinners tried to find a loophole of the contract but there were none.
"Oh, and by the way," she added with a wicked grin, "Since Angel Dust is now working in the Magne District, he will get good pay there, and he'll be free within 13 months!"
"13 MONTHS?!"
"Yup!"
"But Angel Dust doesn't know anyone from the Devil's Crown!" Valentino cried.
Mazikeen turned, sipping her drink again.
"Oh, you didn't know?" she said coyly. "He met Princess Charlotte. She personally requested his protection."
Both overlords froze.
"Y-You mean THE princess?" Vox whispered. "The one we're not allowed to touch?"
Mazikeen's smile turned cold again. "Try to interfere with her or Angel Dust again, and I will HUNT YOU DOWN until the last thing you see is my rage."
BOOM!!!
A blast of demonic energy exploded through the room, shattering every window in the penthouse. Fire scorched the walls. Vox and Valentino were thrown to the floor.
As smoke filled the room, the Shadow Guards phased out with Mazikeen.
Vox groaned, coughing. "Of all the demons...Mazikeen had to be the one to show up..."
Valentino, blackened and trembling, screamed, "I CAN'T GET ANGEL BACK NOW! HE'S IN THE MAGNE DISTRICT! THAT'S FOR THE NOBLE RICH ELITES AND THE HELL GAMES WINNERS!"
Vox sat in silence, pondering.
He couldn't send spies THERE. Anyone without an invite dies. But if Angel Dust got in because of Charlie... maybe...just maybe...
A new idea was forming.
He just needed to find a stupid, expendable idiot to get close to the princess. Someone dumb enough to get in and plant a bug in that district.
Before he could finish the thought, his spare phone rang.
He sighed and picked up.
"WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED UP THERE, VOX?!" Velvette's voice screamed. "THE WINDOWS ARE FUCKING GONE AND THE POWER'S OUT!"
Vox groaned. "Ah, crap..."
The plan has to wait; he has to fix the tower and bring the electrical power back up.
Angel Dust was putting his things in the closet of his new room. He still can't understand why his contact with Valentino was gone and why he suddenly got a new job here. A place for the rich and champions. He heard rumors that only the chosen few have the privilege of coming here. And to be honest, Angel Dust always wanted to come here. After all, he saw many celebrities and influencers visiting the Mange District, looking like a golden paradise.
Just then, a knock came from the door, causing Angel Dust to stiffened. He walked over to the door and checked the peephole to see who it was. He then becomes surprised for some reason and opens the door.
It was a tall bulky demoness with white skin, a ridiculously big puffy, blond wing, and flashy yet fashionable hot pink outfit, and bright white stiletto heels, and a bright red lipstick on her puffy lips and green eyeliner. Bright blue eyes looked at Angel Dust with enthusiasm.
"Hello, Darling, my name is Paulette Chardonnay! Owner and founder of Big Fashion and the number one bar of Hell, Beautiful Pride!" She greeted (Voice actor: Trixie Mattel).
Angel Dust's eyes widened by the introduction. Paulette Chardonnay is Hell's Number One Drag Queen and is the top fashionista in all of Hell, and owner of a top bar with great alcohols and wines. He idolizes her the moment she started Big Fashion and opened a successful bar called Beautiful Pride. He wanted to work in the fashion business but due to his contract with Valentino, he never got the chance.
"Ms. Chardonnay! I'm a huge fan!" Angel Dust said in idolization.
"Sweetie, just call me Paulie." She said with a smile. "Not every day we have new hires around here."
"New...hire?" Angel Dust asked in confusion.
"Yup! Since you're new in the Magne District, new hires are often Hellborns." Paulie said casually. "However, there are few Sinners coming here for work, but only the exclusive ones. But you are the lucky ones."
"Oh yeah, very lucky... hehehe..." Angel laughed awkwardly, already wishing he could slap himself.
Luckily, Paulie was as friendly as she was fashionable. "Oh hon, you don't have to be nervous. We're basically family here."
"Family?" Angel Dust repeated.
"You bet! In this district, your coworkers become your chosen family. They won't backstab you—and even if they tried, they wouldn't survive," she said with a surprisingly serious tone.
Angel tensed slightly. "Wait, what do you mean by—"
Before he could finish, Paulie pulled out a gift basket full of chocolates, a bottle of fine wine, and an assortment of cookies.
"Here's a little something from the fam. We wanted to make sure you're settled before your first day at the boutique tomorrow."
She handed over the gift basket, and Angel Dust accepted it with surprise.
"Whoa... wow, that's... that's something," he said, setting it down on a nearby counter. "So... I'm gonna work at the boutique called... uh, Ku-something?"
"Kumo no Ito. It's Japanese for 'Spider Silk,'" Paulie said. "It's one of Hell's number one fashion houses, with the best products this side of the Underworld. Much better than anything the Vees ever had." She laughed.
Angel had to agree. The products from the Devil's Crown were so rare and authentic they made the Vees' merch look like clearance rack trash. He'd always wanted to try them, but they were either too expensive or sold out before he could snag any.
"Anyway, I hope you're not too tired," Paulie said with a smile. "I was going to give you a tour around the district."
"Huh? Oh, nah—I'm good. Just settling in with Fat Nuggets." Angel gestured as the tiny demonic piglet peeked out from behind him.
Paulie gasped. "D'awww! What a cutie!" She knelt down and pulled out a butter cookie. "Does wittle Nuggie want a cookie? Yes, you do! Yes, you do!"
She gave the cookie to Fat Nuggets, who munched it happily while she gave him belly rubs. Angel smiled, feeling an unfamiliar warmth in his chest—something fuzzy and safe, though he tried to shake it off.
"Now, let's give you the grand tour!" Paulie said brightly.
Angel Dust and Paulie left the Burning Light tower with Fat Nuggets safely nestled in Angel's arms. Paulie drove them around the Magne District, showing off its best spots—cafés, restaurants, spas, salons, malls, resorts, and Lu Lu World, the most famous theme park in all of Hell.
"Wow! This place is fucking awesome!" Angel Dust exclaimed.
They eventually settled at Grande Festa, a high-end Italian restaurant owned by Nero, Hell's number one chef and a former winner of the 1990 Hell Games. A bulky bull demon, Nero had been sent to Hell after killing a man who was harassing his employees. Later, he was burned alive by a rival business who torched his restaurant. In Hell, he entered the Games and survived alongside six other sinners, earning the title of 'The Survivor Seven'.
Paulie ordered carbonara, tiramisu, spaghetti, and fine wine. They dined at a premium table, chatting while live Italian music played.
"Now this is the stuff," Angel Dust said, loving the food.
"I hear you, girlfriend," Paulie replied, slurping her spaghetti.
Fat Nuggets nibbled on a slice of pizza Paulie had ordered just for him, tail wagging happily.
"Compliments to the chef!" Angel said with delight. "I missed good Italian food when I was alive."
"Why thank you," came a deep male voice.
"Nero, darling!" Paulie waved.
"Ciao, Paulie. How are you today?" Nero greeted her warmly.
"Fabulous as always. I'm just giving Angie here a tour."
"Holy shit! You're Nero the Bulldozer!" Angel exclaimed.
Nero chuckled. "Been a while since someone called me that."
"Man, you bulldozed through the 1990 Hell Games like it was nothing!"
"Now I bulldoze in the kitchen," Nero said with a grin.
"And you're killing it!" Paulie winked.
"So you own this joint?" Angel asked.
"Yup. I earned it after surviving the Games with my fellow champions."
"Oh yeah, the Survivor Seven," Angel recalled.
"Yup. The seven of us made it through. That year's Games were brutal," Nero said, shaking his head. "We're lucky Kathy-Kat helped us out in some trials."
"Kathy-Kat?" Angel blinked.
"That's what we call Kathleen," Nero chuckled. "She didn't like it at first, but it grew on her after we survived."
"Damn... wait, does she live here with her brother?"
"No. She and her brother Price live somewhere between the Weapon District and the Cannibal District," Nero explained.
"Wait, why would they live there instead of here in paradise?" Angel asked.
"Because Kathy isn't the fancy type," Paulie explained.
"Yeah, and neither is her brother. Living near the edge makes it easier for them to access the Cannibal District," Nero added.
"...Huh." Angel could only nod. "So... who else from 'The Survivor Seven' lives here?"
"Well, there's me, the twins Azure and Scarlet, Drake, Arion, and Phazr," Nero answered. "They live here but often leave the district for...other work."
Paulie nodded, familiar with them due to her role in the district registry. She knew their histories.
Azure and Scarlet are Combat Sinners. In their past life, they were assassins, raised from birth to be killers. They died after completing a mission to destroy an enemy base. However, their superiors ordered them to stay behind during the final phase of the operation, deeming them expendable. The twins were caught in the explosion and perished.
After arriving in Hell, they were chosen to participate in the Hell Games. They accepted without question and followed Kathleen, who had helped them survive the first round.
Drake is a Dragon/Chimera hybrid Sinner. In his past life, he worked as a mercenary. He killed many people, but only to earn money to support his impoverished family. Once he'd saved enough and ensured his family was safe, he tried to hide them when his former commander came hunting him, believing he still had more wealth.
Drake led his pursuers away to protect his loved ones. He and his former commander faced off in a final battle, both falling off a cliff and dying. After being sent to Hell, Drake entered the Hell Games and used the opportunity to finally eliminate his ex-comrade for good.
Now, Drake works as a private operative under the Devil's Crown. No one knows exactly what he does, but a few sinners are aware of where he's been stationed.
Arion was once a humble songwriter and musician. His life took a dark turn when a colleague stole his work and passed it off as their own. Betrayed and furious, Arion murdered his colleague in a fit of rage. After realizing what he'd done, he vanished from the music industry.
He later awoke in Hell as a humanoid snake Sinner, though he doesn't remember how he actually died. Regardless, he was selected for the Hell Games and emerged as one of the champions.
Now, Arion is a leading music producer in Hell. His company, Seraksa Studio, is one of the most powerful music labels in the Underworld. It boasts the best singers Hell has to offer, enhanced by powerful enchantments.
And lastly, there was Phazr, the digital/tech Sinner, was an inventor and hacker in his past life. During his time on Earth, he created an encrypted code that triggered explosions in target computers. He designed it as revenge against high school bullies who relentlessly abused his autistic younger brother, simply because he couldn't speak.
The bullies were all seniors; his brother was just a sophomore. They would beat him, harass him, and torment him for no reason. In retaliation, Phazr used his code to overload and destroy their computers while they were in their dorm rooms.
The authorities never discovered it was a hack—they assumed the explosions were caused by overuse or faulty hardware. Though Phazr had protected his brother, he was killed not long after. A stranger stabbed him at a bus stop during a mugging.
He was sent to Hell for committing murder out of revenge.
Phazr was chosen for the Hell Games, where he fought and won alongside the other champions. Afterward, he founded his own tech company: Nexar Inc. It quickly surpassed Vox's technology, offering more futuristic and advanced innovations than Vox ever could. Phazr's knowledge was simply generations ahead.
Despite their dark pasts, they all found purpose in the Devil's Crown.
"Wow...six of the Survivor Seven are here." Angel Dust said with a grin.
"Yup! We had a shitty life back then...but winning the Hell Games gave us a new start." Nero said with a smile.
"No shit, you guys survive the hardest of all trials!" Angel Dust commented. "It's amazing you all survived."
"That would be Kathy, she saved our sorry ass, after all, she's the survivor one." Nero said before someone called out to him that table 15 wants some food. "I'm coming!" Nero called out before looking at Paulie. "Well, duty calls, enjoy your meal!"
"Thanks, darling!" Paulie called out as Nero headed back to the kitchen. "Now, once we're done with lunch, I'll show you where the boutique you're working for is."
"Sweet." Angel Dust said, clinking glasses with her.
After their meal, Paulie took Angel Dust to a fancy-looking boutique, decorated with spiderweb designs and spider symbols. It was Kumo no Ito, the number one boutique in all of Hell, and Velvette's biggest rival.
Paulie explained to Angel Dust about Shiruku, the founder and owner of the boutique. She designs all the clothes for royals, nobles, and the winners of the Hell Games, and she's also responsible for creating the outfits for the contestants.
When they entered the shop, Angel Dust's jaw dropped. The whole boutique looked like a massive fashion hall. New outfits and designs filled every corner of his vision. There were even pet outfits, which Angel Dust definitely planned to use for Fat Nuggets.
They soon approached a male Blue Butterfly Sinner, who was doing inventory work, checking a clipboard in his hand.
"Good morning, Skye! How are you?!" Paulie greeted kindly.
The Sinner named Skye smiled. "Hello, Paulie. How are you today?" he replied in a posh English accent.
"Skye, say hello to the new employee of Kumo no Ito, Angel Dust!" Paulie introduced. "Angie, this lovely and fine-looking sinner is Skye."
Skye extended his gloved hand. "A pleasure to meet you, Mr. Angel Dust."
Angel Dust shook it. "You too, boss man. Your place is swanky."
Paulie and Skye stifled laughs, causing Angel Dust to frown. "What? What'd I say?"
"First of all, yes, everything here is very swanky, but I'm not the boss," Skye said with a chuckle, pointing toward the silk-covered ceiling. "The boss is up there."
Angel looked up to see Shiruku, elegantly maneuvering through the spider webs like a professional silk acrobat.
(Voice Actress: Kelly Hu) ( This image was made by @IsabelCHernandezRobl)
She floated from floor to floor with graceful ease before landing near the trio. Angel's jaw dropped again, he clearly hadn't expected that kind of entrance.
"Skye-san," she said calmly, "please remember to restock some of our fine silk robes on floor ten. Also, be advised, Lady Cerian's dress for her upcoming banquet will be delivered within two days. And begin preparing the combat attire for the upcoming Hell Games."
"Yes, Madam Shiruku," Skye said with a respectful nod.
Shiruku smiled and turned to Paulie. "Ah! Kon'nichiwa, Paulie-chan. How are you today?"
"Doin' fine, luv! Oh! say hello to your new employee, Angel Dust!" Paulie said, gesturing toward him. "He'll be working here at the boutique."
Shiruku looked at Angel Dust, who stiffened under her golden gaze. She then smiled.
"Ah, good to hear. We need all hands on deck with the Hell Games coming up. There's a lot to prepare, outfits for the contestants, nobles, and guests."
"Wait...the rich elite enter the games?" Angel asked, confused.
"Oh no, hon, they don't," Paulie corrected with a chuckle. "They just order new outfits to watch the Hell Games. Gotta show off, you know?"
"Ohhh, that makes more sense," Angel said, realizing. He thought back to all the nobles and rich folks he'd seen wearing extravagant outfits. "Do you also make outfits for the royal family? And the Devil's Crown?"
"Hai," Shiruku replied proudly. "My boutique is the only one with rare materials that make any outfit shine."
"That reminds me," she added, "I should prepare Charlotte-hime's dress. How is it coming, Skye-san?"
"The dress will be delivered to Princess Charlotte within two days, just putting on the finishing touches," Skye replied.
"Good."
"Wait-she's gonna be there?" Angel asked in surprise.
"Oh yes," Paulie replied casually. "As the sister of Prince Andreus, she has to be present at all times."
Then, thinking aloud, Paulie added, "I wonder what she's up to now..."
"Remember to mind your manners, Princess Charlotte," Lady Ophelia instructed Charlie as they sat inside the limousine, heading toward their destination.
Charlie and Vaggie sat across from her, with Charlie wearing her formal outfit. Razzle and Dazzle sat next to Charlie, looking at the window.
"When you meet Lady Xiáng of the Yàn Family and Lady Alondra of the Songbird Family, you must greet them with respect. You may be a princess, but their status is much greater than yours. Remember that."
"Yes, Lady Ophelia," Charlie replied softly.
The Yàn Family is a high-ranking Ars Goetia bloodline, known for their mastery of dark arts and combat. The Songbird Family is also a noble Ars Goetia house, second only to the Yàns. Members of the Songbird family possess enchanted voices that can hypnotize or curse any sinner who dares to challenge them.
Lady Xiáng and Lady Alondra are high-ranking consorts of the Goetic Prince of Hell, Prince Stolas, father of Octavia and husband of Stella.
The reason they were forced into this arrangement was due to Stolas' father, Paimon, King of the Ars Goetia. He assigned both women as Stolas' official consorts, or concubines, for the sole purpose of producing heirs. Neither had a choice in the matter, as their families were closely tied to the royal Goetia bloodline. And so, they became Stolas' consorts.
However, Lady Xiáng and Lady Alondra do not live with Stolas. They refuse to reside in the same home as Stella, and never will. Instead, they live in a grand estate, more like a palace than a mansion, attended by many servants and guarded day and night.
They also have children, both born three years before Octavia.
Prince Fèng, the son of Stolas and Consort Xiáng, is a high-ranking Ars Goetia noble who can conjure Hellfire. He is the youngest general in Hell's army and one of Prince Andreus' closest allies and subordinates. As the firstborn, he is the half-brother of both Octavia and Princess Aya.
Princess Aya, the daughter of Stolas and Consort Alondra, is a famous singer, the number one diva in all of Hell. Her voice enchants both Hellborns and sinners alike, making them fall in love with her. Like her brother, she also serves under Prince Andreus, who personally sponsored her career. She is the second-born, and half-sister to Prince Fèng and Princess Octavia.
Because of their strong alliance with the Devil's Crown and their high status, nearly all noble families of the Ars Goetia favor the two oldest royals, especially Fèng, due to his reputation as the youngest general in Hell's history. Many even wish for him to be named the next heir of the Ars Goetia.
However, Stella strongly opposes this. At every noble gathering, she insists that she is Stolas' lawful wife, and that Octavia, her daughter, is the rightful heir. But she is often shut down by nobles who point out that Octavia has yet to fulfill her duties as a princess, she hasn't even completed her magical training.
In fact, the only reason she's considered one of the potential heirs is because she serves as Princess Charlie's Lady-in-Waiting, a position she holds thanks to her older half-brother, Fèng, who personally requested it from Prince Andreus. Andreus agreed and allowed Octavia to serve his younger sister in the royal palace.
Stella, of course, was fuming with rage whenever anyone brought it up. Even though she was the wife of Stolas, her status wasn't nearly as grand as that of the consorts. In fact, due to their children being prodigies and prominent nobles, many favored Prince Fèng as the next ruler. After all, he had become a general at a young age and had already led armies into battle.
Others favored Princess Aya, whose voice and presence captivated the masses, making them eager to follow her every word.
Two powerful factions, each supporting a different heir.
And Octavia?
She was barely a topic of serious consideration among the nobility, a fact that only fueled Stella's growing frustration.
Desperate, Stella tried to push Octavia into High Society. But every conversation ended in comparisons, questions about her half-siblings, their achievements, their growing influence. No matter what Stella did to shift the spotlight onto Octavia, Fèng and Aya always outshined her.
Of course, Octavia didn't mind. Unlike her mother, she loved her half-brother and half-sister. They were always kind to her, checking in, buying her thoughtful gifts. Though they shared only a father, the bond between them was real, and warm.
But Stella couldn't stand it. She hated her daughter associating with "the competition".
She wanted Octavia to be the sole heir of the Ars Goetia.
In a desperate and disgraceful move, she tried to arrange a marriage between Octavia and a random noble Goetia, one significantly older than even Stolas himself.
That plan, however, was swiftly and mercilessly shut down by none other than Lady Ophelia.
The Archduchess was furious. She had already disapproved of her brother's decision to betroth Stolas to Stella at a young age, and to saddle him with two consorts without her counsel. But now, Stella was attempting to force her own daughter into a marriage she didn't want, history threatening to repeat itself.
And Ophelia would not allow it.
She made sure that Stella knows her place.
"This is your one and only warning," She once told Stella coldly. "If you, or any member of your family, dares to arrange a marriage for Octavia without her full and willing consent, you will face immediate and absolute consequences. No exceptions. No negotiations."
The threat was crystal clear. Stella backed off.
Even she knew better than to provoke the head of the monarchy.
Lady Ophelia was, without question, the living embodiment of law in Hell, and her word is law.
After that ordeal, Lady Ophelia appointed Xiáng and Alondra as Octavia's personal tutors and governesses. They would be the ones to teach her the rules and etiquette of what it truly means to be a noble of the Ars Goetia.
Both women accepted the task without hesitation, because to them, Octavia was like their own daughter.
Unlike Stella, who viewed her child as a tool to elevate her status, Xiáng and Alondra loved their children deeply. They didn't treat them as accessories or political leverage. They nurtured, protected, and guided them with genuine affection and care.
And they extended that same love to Octavia.
They ensured she felt valued, safe, and loved, not because of her title, but because of who she was. In their presence, Octavia was not just a princess, she was a young girl who deserved kindness, patience, and family.
Stolas was deeply grateful to his consorts. While there was no romance between them, there existed something just as powerful, a shared parental bond, forged through mutual respect and the love they had for their children.
And through it all, they remained close, not just as co-parents, but as true friends. Good friends.
They made proper arrangements: Octavia would stay with them for half a month, as she preferred spending time with her aunties, a term she lovingly used instead of calling them stepmothers.
It was fun, comforting, and most importantly, she felt genuinely cared for.
They gave her the emotional support she needed, especially during times when her mother was too busy with her own affairs. And her father, though often tied up with duties, always made the effort to be present for her whenever he could.
All in all, Octavia was happy with this arrangement.
The limousine passed through a large, elegant gate and pulled up to the entrance of the mansion. There, the servants were lined up in formation, and standing in the center were Lady Xiáng and Lady Alondra.
(These images were made by @IsabelCHernandezRobl) (Voiced actress for Yàn Xiáng is Phillipa Soo and Alondra Songbird is Queen Latifah)
Lady Xiáng bowed deeply, hands folded within her sleeves, as she formally greeted the high monarch.
"Chénqiè kòujiàn Tàihuánggū, yuàn dé Tàihuánggū chuí ēn guānglín."
(This humble concubine respectfully greets the High Imperial Aunt. May we be honored by your gracious presence.)
Lady Alondra gave her own graceful curtsy, smiling gently at Lady Ophelia.
Ophelia returned the greeting with a firm nod.
"Greetings, Lady Xiáng. Lady Alondra," she said in a respectful, yet neutral tone. "I am pleased that you received my message."
"Of course. We're always happy to hear from you, Lady Ophelia," Xiáng replied with calm grace. "Please, come in. We have much to discuss."
They entered the manor, with the servants trailing behind. Charlie walked beside Ophelia, towering slightly over both Xiáng and Alondra. She knew that her mentor was considered the most powerful Goetia in all of Hell. Lady Ophelia had once tutored her brother, the so-called prodigy, and Charlie often felt the pressure of living up to his legacy.
Just then, from around the corner, came a tall, slim adolescent avian demon with unkempt slate-gray feathers that formed into back-length shaggy hair with bangs. Her pale, mask-like face and overall owl-like features gave her an ethereal appearance. Her eyes had pink sclera and bright white pupils, and her long, pointed fingers were stark white. A small black beak protruded slightly from her face, and her long tail feathers were tipped in a shade slightly darker than the rest.
She wore soft purple eyeshadow, and when barefoot, the lower part of her legs appeared white and boot-shaped. Her attire included a black beanie with a pale yellow tiara design, a magenta choker, and a matching magenta long-sleeved dress decorated with pale yellow stars. Over this, she wore a black feathery cardigan, along with black leggings and heeled boots.
Two Imp maids followed closely behind as the young owl demon scrolled through her phone, unaware of the approaching guests.
"Princess Octavia," Ophelia called out sternly.
The Owlet, known as Octavia, nearly tripped and dropped her phone in surprise. She quickly stood up straight and faced her great-aunt, hiding her phone behind her back as beads of sweat slowly rolled down her face.
"O-Oh! Great Aunt...I-I mean, Lady Ophelia! Greetings!" Octavia stammered.
Ignoring her flustered tone, Ophelia continued in her usual cold and authoritative voice.
"I see you are doing well. How is your education?"
"D-Doing well! I mean... doing great!" Octavia fumbled, throwing in a thumbs-up before quickly trying to correct her posture and adopt proper etiquette.
"Wh-What brings you here?"
"I'm here to discuss important matters with the noble consorts," Ophelia said, referring to Octavia's stepmothers. "Please spend the afternoon with Princess Charlotte for the time being."
Octavia glanced at Charlie, surprised, then looked over at her aunties, who offered her gentle, encouraging smiles.
"O-Oh... um... okay?"
"Via, sweetie," Alondra said gently, "why don't you girls stay in the private gardens? We'll send some refreshments over."
"Are you sure, Auntie Ally?" Octavia asked as she walked over to her.
Alondra smiled kindly. "I'm sure, sweetie. It'll be nice for you two to catch up, it's been six months since your last visit." She didn't notice the brief guilty expression on Charlie's face.
Octavia gave a small nod in response.
"Well, with that settled..." Xiáng began, "Chun, Hua, please escort the princesses to the private garden and inform the cooks to prepare refreshments."
Chun and Hua bowed respectfully before guiding the girls toward the garden.
Ophelia turned calmly to Vaggie. "Keep an eye on them," she ordered.
Vaggie nodded silently and followed the princesses out, while the three noble Goetia women proceeded toward the meeting room.
Both Charlie and Octavia sat across the small table beneath a fancy marble gazebo, both looking awkward. Vaggie stood silently beside Chun and Hua. Razzle and Dazzle were playing around the garden. And the two royals attempted to make small talk, but the sheer awkwardness prevented any real conversation.
"This is so awkward," Vaggie thought to herself, glancing between the two royals.
Truth be told, there were many conflicts weighing on the minds of the two young royals.
Charlie felt awkward and guilty; she had ghosted Octavia for six months. She didn't know what to say. Was she supposed to apologize? Would it even matter now?
Octavia, on the other hand, was equally uncomfortable. She hadn't spoken to Charlie since she disappeared. She didn't know how to react. Should she be mad? Annoyed? Happy? Sad? Everything felt so complicated.
"Via—"
"Charlie—"
Both girls spoke at the same time, then fell silent.
"No, you go first," they said in unison again.
The awkwardness only deepened as they struggled to speak.
"Um... Via, you should go first," Charlie said quietly. "I... I think I should listen to what you have to say... about me."
Octavia raised an eyebrow. "You think? Charlie, you ghosted me for six months." Her voice trembled slightly, equal parts hurt and frustration. "I don't even know where to start."
Charlie flinched at the words. Her guilt twisted deeper in her chest. She had ignored Octavia while focusing entirely on building her dream hotel for redemption. Her brother had been right, again. She should have kept in touch.
"Via... I'm sorry," Charlie murmured, staring down at her untouched tea. "I've just been so focused on helping sinners find redemption."
Octavia looked at Charlie, really looked at her, and asked softly, "But why?"
Charlie let out a slow sigh. "I... I don't like the way my brother runs the Hell Games," she admitted. "It's...it's too extreme."
"But...doesn't it keep the population steady?" Octavia asked, blinking. "I mean, he's running things pretty smoothly. You don't have to do anything. And he cares about you, like my siblings care for me."
"That's the thing!" Charlie said, her voice growing more desperate. "He does things his way...but I want to make a real difference in Hell. I want to give people a second chance."
Octavia hesitated, her expression shifting. "Still...sometimes the sinners...aren't good people," she said cautiously, thinking about how her older half-brother Fèng always sent guards to accompany her when she left the palace, or how Aya insisted she keep a powerful potion on hand. Or that time Aunt Alondra advised her to just punch someone in the gut if they got too close.
"I know," Charlie said, nodding. "But I truly believe some of them can change. And they deserve a chance at Heaven."
Octavia stared at her, surprised. She understood now, Charlie wasn't just trying to be a rebellious princess. She wanted to prove something...to Hell, to herself. Octavia had seen the hate forums, the online comments calling Charlie foolish, naive, even dangerous. Some said she was tarnishing Prince Andreus' legacy. But that wasn't true. Charlie wasn't ruining anything, she was trying. She was trying to do something good, even if it meant trying too hard...and yes, ghosting a friend for six months.
"Well... at least you're trying to do something good," Octavia said softly, her tone turning supportive. Then she glanced around with a sigh. "Meanwhile, I've been dealing with my parents' constant arguing since my dad slept with an Imp."
Charlie blinked and turned to her in confusion. "Wait, what?"
Octavia slowly stirred her tea, watching the dark liquid swirl gently in the porcelain cup.
"It happened during one of my mum's parties," she said quietly. "Dad got drunk with some Imp... and they slept together. Mum blamed him for being unfaithful, but Auntie Xiáng's royal eunuch later found out they had both drunk a Super Party Spiked Drink of Belphegor. The twist? It was Mum who ordered it for the party she hosted."
Charlie blinked. "Wait...so it was basically your mom's fault?"
Octavia nodded with a tired sigh. "Yeah. She didn't even remember ordering it. But it still caused a huge mess."
"I remember that," Vaggie suddenly spoke up, surprising both royals. "Lady Ophelia was furious about that incident. She called Lady Stella personally and banned her from ever hosting another party. I always wondered what happened at that party that made Lady Ophelia so mad...Now I get it."
"Yup," Octavia said with a small, wry smile. "Great-Aunt Ophelia stripped Mum of her party-hosting privileges and handed them to Auntie Xiáng and Auntie Ally. Guess she finally had enough of Mum's over-the-top disasters."
She took a slow sip of her tea.
"...To be honest," Charlie said, glancing over with a gentle smile, "your mom's parties were always about her. Remember your sixteenth birthday?"
Octavia let out a small laugh. "Yeah... she kept bragging about how fancy the party was. But really, I just wanted something simple."
Charlie chuckled softly. "Right? Until our siblings came to our rescue. Andy and General Fèng distracted the nobles by talking politics, and Aya snuck us out so we could just have some girl time."
Octavia's smile softened. She could still remember that night, how her older half-sister had whisked her and Charlie away to the Magne District. Just the three of them, walking through the glowing streets, laughing, exploring shops, and eating junk food their parents would never approve of.
It had been the best birthday she'd ever had.
Her siblings always knew what she needed, even when she didn't. Fèng was her strength, calm, steady, unshakable. And Aya...Aya had always been her support, her shield from the weight of royal expectations.
"It was a great birthday," Octavia said quietly, her smile lingering. "One of the best."
Slowly but surely, the two friends began to mend their bond, their conversation flowing more easily now, genuine, no longer weighed down by awkwardness.
Vaggie smiled at the sight, her heart warmed by the two royals reconnecting. It felt right, like something broken was finally being made whole again.
Their peaceful moment was gently interrupted by the arrival of a Goetia eunuch, a tall crane demon in elegant robes. He bowed respectfully before the two young royals.
"My apologies for interrupting your tea time, Your Majesties," he said with a calm, practiced voice. "I've been sent to inform you that Lady Ophelia, Lady Xiáng, and Lady Alondra will be extending their meeting. Additionally, Lady Alondra has asked me to personally deliver this package."
He held out a small crimson wallet, elegant and embossed with golden patterns. Attached to it was a folded note.
Octavia took it and immediately recognized the handwriting.
This wallet has all the credit cards. Go out and have fun in the Magne District with Charlie. Bring a bodyguard.
Love you! – Auntie Ally
Octavia couldn't help but smile. The corners of her eyes softened, and her heart felt a little lighter.
Aunt Alondra always knew exactly what she needed, even when she hadn't said a word.
"Let's go out to the Magne District," Octavia suggested.
"You sure?" Charlie asked, surprised.
"My aunties are busy with Great Aunt Ophelia. They said we can go have fun. So, come on!" Octavia said, almost smiling.
And so, they did. Razzle and Dazzle got the limo driver to pick them up and take them to the Magne District. Vaggie came along as their bodyguard, keeping the royals safe. To her credit, the Magne District was the safest district in all of Hell. Many would do anything just to get into it, to have a little taste of paradise.
"Wow, I always visit this district, but I never get tired of how cool it is," Octavia said, admiring the glamour of the Magne District.
"Well, Prince Andreus is the one in charge of this district," Vaggie reminded her, sitting on the side, between Chun and Hua.
Just then, Octavia's phone buzzed. She glanced at it.
It was a text from her half-sister Aya.
-If you have time in the Magne District, you should check on your new outfit for the Hell Game. It's at Kumo no Ito, the trending boutique.-
Octavia texted Aya back to say she'd check it out, maybe even grab some boba tea afterward. Aya responded with a heart and kissing emojis, making Octavia smile.
Octavia told the group they needed to make a quick stop at Kumo no Ito. The limo driver nodded and headed toward the enormous, mall-like boutique.
Inside, the place was bustling, likely with people prepping for the Hell Game events. That's when they saw Shiruku talking with Paulie, Skye, and...
"Angel Dust?" both Charlie and Vaggie said in surprise.
Angel Dust turned, equally stunned.
"Wow, Princess. Scary Bodyguard. What are you two doing here?"
"Getting our outfits," Charlie replied, still surprised. "What are you doing here?"
"I work here now," Angel Dust said, eyes wide, then looked at Octavia. "So... is she your friend?"
"Oh! Right. Angel, this is Octavia. She's my friend, and the Princess of the Ars Goetia," Charlie explained.
Octavia waved awkwardly. "H-Hi..."
"Sup...Wait. Does that mean you're related to Charlie's nanny, Lady Olivia or something? Because she's the duchess?"
"Her name is Lady Ophelia. And yes, she's my great-aunt... my dad's aunt. Who is, by far, the scariest Goetia ever known," Octavia confessed.
"Wow, here I thought my family was scary," Angel Dust commented.
"Wait 'til you meet her brother and sister," Skye said, jotting something on his clipboard.
Shiruku giggled and walked over to the girls as Angel Dust looked confused. "Gokigen'yō, ohime-sama-tachi. Are you ready for your fitting?"
"Yeah, Aya made my appointment," Octavia replied.
Shiruku chuckled. "Hai. Your onee-san informed me about your dress." She gestured for them to follow. "Come, your dresses are in the back. Angel Dust-san, I believe we should test your skills first."
They headed toward the back while Paulie chatted with the girls.
"Well, it's good to see you girls back together," Paulie said with a warm smile. "I missed you two."
Charlie and Octavia returned a small smile. "We missed you too, Ms. Chardonnay," Charlie said.
"Oh, don't call me that, darling," Paulie said in a stern yet playful tone. "Remember what I told you when you visited the Magne District?"
Both girls giggled. "Yes, Auntie Paulie."
"Good. Now give your auntie some sugar~!" Paulie grinned, arms open.
Charlie and Octavia laughed as they hugged her, then followed Shiruku into the private dressing room. It was a luxurious space, filled with mirrors and racks of exquisite wardrobes.
Each royal stood on a separate mirrored platform. Shiruku measured Octavia while Angel Dust helped Charlie, he could definitely pull off being a fashionista when he felt like it. Paulie assisted by helping them choose the perfect jewelry, provided by the imp stylists.
"Holy shit, you guys have everything here," Angel Dust said, clipping earrings onto Charlie.
"Big Fashion and Kumo no Ito have a strong partnership," Paulie replied, examining which crown suited Charlie best. "By the way, how's your big brother, Lil' Star?" she asked.
"Oh, Andy's fine. He's in a meeting with Cain and General Fèng," Charlie said, extending her arm for Angel Dust to measure. "Though I don't think Aya was there."
"Oh, Aya's at a photo shoot today. She'll be home tonight, after I get my dress ready," Octavia added, shaking her head at the silk scarf offered by a nearby stylist.
"Wait a second...Aya...Aya..." Angel Dust muttered, repeating the name over and over before his eyes widened. "AYA SONGBIRD IS YOUR SISTER?!"
"Technically, she's Princess Octavia's half-sister, while General Fèng is her half-brother," Skye clarified while taking notes.
"Hold the fucking phone... If she has half-siblings, does that mean she has a stepmom or stepdad?" Angel Dust asked, lifting Charlie's hair so Paulie could style it.
"No, actually, we were all born from different mums, same dad," Octavia explained. "Fèng's mum is Lady Xiáng, Aya's mum is Lady Alondra, and my mum is Stella."
Angel blinked. "You have two stepmoms? Damn... your dad must've had a field day with three wives."
"Actually, Auntie Xiáng and Auntie Ally are royal concubines of my dad," Octavia clarified, letting a succubus hairdresser fix her hair. "My grandfather, King Paimon of the Ars Goetia, appointed them to expand the royal bloodline."
"Huh... wow. So... who's gonna be the big boss of the bird nobles?"
"Goetia, Angel Dust-san," Shiruku corrected, adjusting Octavia's bracelet.
"Well... everyone's voting for my brother, Fèng, to be the next heir," Octavia said, picking a lipstick from the options displayed by a fashion imp.
"Makes sense," Skye added, signing a paper handed to him by an incubus. "General Fèng became the youngest general in Hell's history. He's a diplomatic genius."
"Yup, I think my dad's choosing Fèng as his successor," Octavia said casually. "Though...maybe Aya. I don't know. Everyone in the noble circle has different opinions."
"What about you?" Angel asked, handing Shiruku some diamonds. "Aren't you like...one of the succors or something?"
Octavia shrugged, choosing a nail polish color for the Hell Games. "Meh. I don't fit the credentials of a ruler. There's no noble faction supporting me, except for the Devil's Crown, of course, but I'm not into politics."
"Seriously?" Angel asked, surprised.
"Seriously," they all said in unison.
"Fuck...who knew nobles had to deal with this kinda shit," Angel Dust muttered.
"You tell me. Everything's about reputation and titles," Octavia sighed. "That's why my mum keeps pushing me to interact with the other socialites."
"Damn. Did your mom actually try to make you do shit to impress those rich people?" Angel asked, raising an eyebrow.
"She tried, and failed. It was exhausting," Octavia groaned. "I hated every second of it. It's hard enough trying to impress the other Goetias, but when she tried to hook me up with one of them who was older than my dad..."
"I'm sorry, she tried to do what now?" Angel nearly dropped a box of accessories. "She tried to set you up with some rando rich pervert older than your daddy?! That's fuckin' messed up!"
"Oh, you have no idea," Octavia muttered as a succubus adjusted her crown. "My dad and mum had a massive argument that night. But the one who finally shut it down was Great Aunt Ophelia."
"She's the one who stopped your mum?" Angel asked, stunned.
"Yeah. After all, Great Aunt Ophelia is basically the Law of Hell," Octavia said. "I still remember, she stormed into our house. Dad told me to stay in my room while he and mum talked with her. But before I went, I think I heard my aunt threatening my mum...I don't know what happened next, but the next day, everything was quiet. Neither of them ever spoke of it again."
"Makes sense. She is the feared Archduchess of Hell," Vaggie chimed in with a sigh. "I don't blame them for being scared, I was scared shitless when I first met her after getting hired as Charlie's bodyguard."
"Fuuuccckkk..." Angel Dust said in a shocked voice. "Your mom really screwed up. No offense."
"None taken," Octavia muttered as the other designers left the room to gather more supplies. "That wasn't even the worst thing she did."
"What do you mean? What's worse than your mom forcing you to date some crusty old pervert?" Angel asked, raising a brow.
"Are you talking about that one incident? Of your mommy buying that drink that wasn't meant for a high-society party, got your daddy drunk, and then he slept with that drunken Imp? What was his name again? Benji? Bark? Blank...Bob?"
"His name is Blitzo," Skye corrected calmly. "He runs a company called The Immediate Murder Professionals, I.M.P. for short. It originally started as an assassination business within Hell, but later expanded to carrying out hits on humans on Earth. These contracts are usually commissioned by Hell's residents as a form of revenge against people who wronged them in life."
"They can't do that!" Charlie shouted. "They can't just kill humans-"
"Those humans manipulated others into committing sins—like adultery, murder, fraud, and worse," Skye interrupted. "Is it really so unfair for the victims to want payback?"
Charlie fell silent, unable to respond.
"Isn't that illegal?" Vaggie asked, glancing at Charlie with concern.
"Technically, yes," Skye replied. "But the I.M.P. was granted an exception because they have a minor partnership with the Devil's Crown."
"Wait, WHAT?!" Charlie, Vaggie, Angel Dust, and Octavia nearly choked in unison.
"You didn't know?" Skye blinked at them. "It was publicly announced. The I.M.P. has a deal with the Devil's Crown, killing specific humans who were responsible for sending their clients to Hell. It's also meant to bring in more sinners for the Hell Games. How did you not hear about this?"
"Uhhhh...Iiiii waaaas...umm..." Charlie scrambled for an excuse, clearly flustered. The truth was, she hadn't been paying attention to the news while trying to launch her hotel, with Vaggie too busy keeping her from getting into trouble.
"I didn't listen to the news," Angel Dust said flatly. "I was busy making porn for Valentino." He rolled his eyes. "Which he didn't even pay me overtime for."
"I didn't know either," Octavia admitted. "I was still upset about what happened with my dad...and then my mum got into trouble again with Great Aunt Ophelia...for bringing a banned drink to a noble event."
"What drink did she bring?" Angel Dust asked, intrigued. He knows his alcohol well.
"The Super Party Spiked Drink of Belphegor," Octavia replied flatly.
Angel's jaw dropped. "Oh, SHIT! That drink is only for crazy motherfuckers who party 'til they pass out and wake up in someone else's bed that they don't even remember sleeping with them!"
Octavia scoffed. "Well, my mum forgot she even bought it. She was too busy partying instead of checking the inventory. Now she's been stripped of her title as princess. She's ranked below my aunties and holds the title of madam of the house."
"Wait, isn't she supposed to be, like, the lady of the house or some shit?" Angel asked, blinking.
"Nope," Octavia said bluntly. "She can't hold that status. Great Aunt Ophelia made sure she doesn't get any royal privileges anymore, especially hosting parties. All event and hosting duties were transferred to my aunties instead. They never overdo it. They never embarrassed themselves or my dad. And trust me, Mum was not happy about it."
"To be honest, sugar pie," Paulie chimed in as she adjusted the last details of Charlie's outfit, "your mommy doesn't have a single shred of proper education in royal duties or any of that noble shit."
Octavia sighed in agreement.
"I know. And Great Aunt Ophelia refuses to reinstate her title until Mom learns proper etiquette and reeducates herself on royal duties."
"Huh... so it was your mom's fault that no one supports you becoming the next royal big boss," Angel Dust finally understood.
"Yup. Ever since her status was demoted from princess to madam—and after everyone found out about the scandal she caused with my dad—my chances of becoming the next ruler are basically zero. Which is fine. I actually prefer staying neutral," Octavia said with a sigh.
"Though, I've had to stay with my aunties until everything's sorted back home. And to be honest... I'd rather be with them than with my parents."
Charlie looked at Octavia with sadness and guilt.
She hadn't been around for her. Only Octavia's half-siblings and stepmothers were there to help during her difficult times. Charlie quietly admitted to herself that she hadn't been a good friend.
"I'm... I'm sorry, Via. For not being there," Charlie said softly.
"It's... fine, Charlie. Home's been... pretty intense. But I manage," Octavia replied with another sigh.
After they finished preparing their dresses, a succubus entered, followed by a group of imps rolling in a mannequin covered in silk.
"Ms. Shiruku, we've brought Kathleen's battle outfit for the upcoming Hell Games," the succubus announced.
"Bring it in," Shiruku ordered.
The succubus clapped her hands, and the imps pulled away the silk cover to reveal Kathleen's outfit. It was badass, the design was sharp and clearly made for battle.
Charlie, Angel Dust, Vaggie, and Octavia stared in pure astonishment.
They had always heard that each battle armor Kathleen wore during the Hell Games was sponsored by Rosie the Cannibal Overlord and Alastor the Radio Demon. Being backed by two of Hell's most powerful Overlords—and having won every single Hell Games, Kathleen was a force to be reckoned with.
"Wooow... Kathleen's outfit is badass," Angel Dust said in awe.
"It's like the first one she wore back in the 1990's Hell Games," Octavia recalled from footage she had seen on Voxflix.
"But sexier," Angel Dust added with a smirk, earning a glare from Vaggie.
"Yup. We had to upgrade it after the last Hell Games—where she may have caused the explosion of a lifetime that made her champion again," Shiruku explained.
"Oh yeah! The Mother of All Fuckin' Explosions! My bestie Cherri loves her!" Angel Dust said, grinning.
"Ah yes, that one. All the pyromaniac demons adore her," Shiruku said with a nod.
"Thank you for your help. You may go now."
The imps and succubus obeyed and left the room while Shiruku stored Kathleen's outfit in a secured chamber.
"That's all for today. Thank you for your assistance, Angel Dust-san. I look forward to your continued work here at my boutique," she added.
"No prob! Thanks for having me!"
"It is by Prince Andreus's decree that you must work in this district to pay off your debt to Valentino and regain your freedom," Shiruku reminded him, then turned away.
"You may go now. I'll finish up with Skye-san today."
Skye added with a polite smile, "We'll deliver your dresses tomorrow, Your Majesties. Take care, and have a helluva day."
With that, everyone left the boutique, saying their goodbyes to Shiruku and Skye. Angel Dust picks up Fat Nuggets, who was lodging in the waiting room, which Octavia found adorable. As they headed to their vehicles, Paulie received a call.
It was from a delivery service, they needed her signature and ID to release a new shipment of liquor. The deliverers refused to give it to anyone without proper identity, no imposters allowed.
Paulie gave Angel Dust an apologetic look.
"Sorry, sweetie, but I have to cut this trip short. I need to head back to the bar—there's a delivery that needs my signature and ID," she said gently.
"Aww... I was enjoying the tour," Angel Dust whined a bit.
"Hey, I have an idea. Why don't you gals show Angie around the district?" Paulie suggested, gesturing to the three demon girls. "Since you all know the place like the backs of your hands, I think it's a good idea."
"Are you sure?" Charlie asked, almost sounding excited.
"Sure, hon. Besides, it'll give Angie here a leg up in the district. Oh! And make sure he doesn't leave without his ID Pendant. It'll let him come and go from the Magne District—and protect him from any assholes who might want to hurt him," Paulie informed them.
"We will, Paulie." Vaggie said, giving Angel Dust a stern look. He just grinned innocently.
"That's good to hear! See ya later, sweet peas!" Paulie said, heading to her car while the others waved and said goodbye.
As she drove away, Angel Dust looked at his new tour guides. "So, any cool places to watch movies?" he asked.
"Well, there's Fallen Star Cinemas. Or we could go to the Hell Games Archives, they've got recordings of past events," Octavia suggested.
"Oh! I wanna go there!" Angel Dust exclaimed with a grin. "I wanna see all the champions of the Hell Games, especially Kathleen's! I never got to watch some of it 'cause my power went out, and I was working overtime."
"I kinda want to see Kathleen's clips too," Octavia said, holding Fat Nuggets, who nuzzled into her chest. "I missed some of the fights because my mum made me socialize with nobles."
"Yeesh, your mom made you miss the Hell Games for that?" Angel Dust asked, gesturing dramatically.
"Yeah... I only saw half of the first round," Octavia muttered.
"Well, I guess we can watch there. And they sell snacks too," Vaggie added, opening the door to lead the others in, with Chun, Hua, Razzle, and Dazzle standing beside her.
"Sounds good," Charlie said as they walked toward the limo. "I have to tell Andy I'm here before he sends his Shadow Guards to search for me."
Angel Dust laughed. "You gotta work on your sarcasm, toots. Almost believed you for a second."
"No, no, like, he will actually put together a search party to find me," Charlie corrected, making Angel Dust's grin disappear. "He's...heh...been a little much lately."
"I don't blame your brother for being protective," Angel Dust said as they got in the limo. "You're his baby sister. He probably still sees you as a baby, with your doe eyes, chubby cheeks, and tiny nose..."
"Angel!" Vaggie scolded, sitting on the other side with Octavia's maids and Charlie's bodyguards. Charlie blushed in embarrassment as Octavia giggled.
"What? It's true!" Angel Dust argued, sticking his tongue out.
The limo drove off, with Vaggie and Angel Dust bickering inside.
It was shaping up to be an interesting day.
Notes:
If any of you are wondering about Kathleen's outfit, it's similar to Mira's black battle suit from KPop Demon Hunters.
Yes, Stolas has concubines, but there are no romantic relationships involved. They're more like friends who were forced into it for diplomatic reasons. This concept was inspired by the anime/manga: The Apothecary Diaries.
Yes, Octavia has half-siblings, but not the evil kind. They're more protective and loving (which is rare in Hell).
Yes, I.M.P. has a partnership with Andreus' business, The Devil's Crown, and I'll explain more about it in future chapters.
That's all. Bye!
Kunoichi_BeastKnightress on Chapter 1 Sat 08 Mar 2025 09:54AM UTC
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Wacko12 on Chapter 1 Sun 09 Mar 2025 02:41AM UTC
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Dolphinheart99 on Chapter 1 Sun 09 Mar 2025 03:39AM UTC
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Kunoichi_BeastKnightress on Chapter 2 Sat 08 Mar 2025 10:07AM UTC
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Wacko12 on Chapter 2 Sun 09 Mar 2025 03:09PM UTC
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Kunoichi_BeastKnightress on Chapter 3 Fri 23 May 2025 02:59PM UTC
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Wacko12 on Chapter 3 Thu 12 Jun 2025 11:47AM UTC
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Wacko12 on Chapter 4 Mon 13 Oct 2025 07:08PM UTC
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Kunoichi_BeastKnightress on Chapter 4 Tue 14 Oct 2025 01:16PM UTC
Last Edited Tue 14 Oct 2025 03:33PM UTC
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