Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Chapter 1: Not A Love Story...Right?

Friendships, or even love, can be complicated things at time. While some have good experiences, others do not. It's difficult to even say how a relationship, any relationship, should go. Especially when you're in Hell. A good majority, but not everyone, wanted to find love. To date, to find that special someone in their life. Which is what this story is going to focus on. But it's going to be a bit more complicated then that. Because this is a story of two figures. One who has dedicated her life to her child and the other seeking to repair broken trust. Will the two manage to find common ground, even love, together? Or will pains of their past prevent them from coming together?

When Elli Lablanc had arrived down in Hell, she only had one goal in her mind, find her son. Being as she used to be a former angel up in Heaven, that dream was once just that, a dream. Since arriving in Hell, it had came true. She found her son, Alastor, got a job working for his fellow Overlord and good friend, Rosie. Got a second free-lance job as being a consultant for the hotel that the Princess of Hell owned. She even made friends! Except well... there was two hiccups. One was a gentleman from her past, Alastor's father, Adam.

Now, Elli and Adam were never together in the first place. But they did know each other from growing up in New Orleans. While Adam had fancied the strong-willed and determined woman, she did not. So after a traumatic experience one night from him, she found herself pregnant with Adam's child. Fortunately for her, he was charged and killed for what he did. Since they have ran into each other at the hotel, she's been keeping her distance from him. Truthfully, she didn't want Alastor to have anything to do with Adam as well, but he was an adult and he could what he pleased.

Besides Adam, she had another man that caused her some trouble. Vox. Alastor's hated rival. Several months of being down in Hell, the TV-headed demon had come up to her with the idea and sob-story of him wanting to be friends with Alastor, and that their rivalry was all based on a misunderstanding. Feeling sympathy, she agreed to help him out. That ended up coming to light that she was lied to. That he was just using her to get at Alastor. Using her time, attention and emotions to disregard her son's feelings. She felt horrible when she discovered the truth. And furious.

Now, that months had past, and he had managed to get her agree to try and be just her friend again, he was really hoping to earn her trust back. But there was something else that had been added to the mix. After the battle between him and Alastor, he had ended up confessing his love for her. In some vain attempt in maybe that she felt the same way. She didn't. But it didn't hurt him too bad. Because he was sure that in time, he'd hope to make her understand that he really is serious about carting about her. He just had to be diligent. Hopefully one day, she would return his affections...

Elli, the Southern Doe-demon, was currently sitting in the library, patching up one of Angel Dust's dresses as Niffty was reading one of her fanfictions to her. She loved seeing the little female's eye light up when someone takes an interest in her stories and fanart. While a majority of them would startle the more conservative of sinners (Alastor most of all), she knew that just praising the younger female brought a huge smile on her face. While she was at first hesitant at the idea of Nifty writing stories about her son commiting such lewd acts with others, feeling it was a violation of some sort, but she learned that it all just a fantasy. Something that would remain as wishful thinking. And thinking of their time in the human world, she agreed.

How could she not? She too had dreamed of the day that Alastor would find the sweet girl of his dreams and settle down to start a family. She'd often tease him back then, and even now, about dating. It actually had become a fun bit of banter between them. Any time he would speak to someone, especially the females in Cannibal Colony and Mimzy, she'd make a comment to him about courting them. It was just basically harmless teasing between a mother and her son.

He, of course, did the same to her in turn. They had a very strong relationship. While she knew that most of the Sinners in the hotel didn't have the same with their own parents, she had no problems stepping in when the needed it. A few of them, like Angel Dust, had taken to calling her, Mom. Though Alastor had some reservations at first. She was brought out of her thoughts when Niffty asked her a question.

"Ms. Elli?"

The doe-demon looked up at her.

"Yes dear?"

"Do you think finding love is possible down here?"

The older woman was surprised at the question. She hummed as she thought. Seeing the relationships between most Sinners, it was hard to believe that love existed. But there was many married couples and some genuine ones that were dating, such as Charlie and Vaggie. She then turned to the smaller woman.

"I do believe it's possible. It's just the matta' of findin' 'em. 'Nd believin' no matta' what."

This caused the housekeeper to let out a happy squeal and hug her. Niffty was a sweet darling girl. After months of living at the hotel and helping her out, she had managed to learn what her sin and what her death was. Her heart ached for the her and she happily took a shine to her like she was a daughter. She could even see that Alastor enjoyed her company as well. She was pretty sure that Alastor saw her as a little sister. She could see that she did tend on fancying the men around them, but she had a suspicious feeling that she was more attracted to the little angler-fish demon, Baxter.

Personally, she thought they'd make a cute little couple. And the two could balance each other out. Baxter's introverted, grumpy, realist and somewhat neurotic personality would compliment well with Niffty's sweet, extroverted, optimistic views. She... what's the word Niffty used? Ships them? Yes. That's it. She absolutely ships them. She did think they would be a very good couple. She had also been working on her accent. Making it not so thick. While she herself did't see anything wrong with it, she remembered Alastor learning to speak in the Transatlantic accent in order to help him be more clear on the radio. So she took some tips from him to

"Ms. Elli, do you think you'll find love to?" She asked.

Elli smiled at her, petting her hair.

"Not fer me cher. Ya'll know my story 'bout Adam. I'm happy wit' all of ya. What use is findin' a man when I have all the love I need right now?"

"Oh I get it! Alastor says the same!"

The former angel chuckled. She was about to reply when Niffty gasped.

"Oh my gosh what time is it!?" She zipped over to the clock. "Oh goodness! I need to finish up my rounds! And who knows what type of messes have been made in my absent! Oh no, no, no! This won't do! This won't do at all!"

She gathered up all of her stories and looked at Elli.

"Thanks for listening to my stories, Ms. Elli! I'll update you on any progress! I'll see you later!"

And with that the little beetle-demon was gone. Elli chucked once she was gone. She looked over Angel's dress to see that she was finally finished. She drapped it over her arms as she stood up. She headed towards his room. Love existed everywhere. And she knew that it takes the matter of time of finding it. After all for her, her life and afterlife didn't have need a love story. ...Right?

Chapter Text

Chapter 2: How to Build Trust (For Dummies)

When you lose someone's trust, how do you earn it back? That's what Vox was currently trying to figure out. He knew it was going to take time. But how much time? And what was the best course of action should he go? Well... actually he did, but he wasn't sure if he bring himself to do it. And that was making an ACTUAL effort to be nice to Alastor. He wasn't sure if he could do it. It was Alastor after all. The old-fashioned coot. He had to apologize to his rival. It was the first thing that Elli requested of him. And it had to be sincere.

Fuck. He knew Alastor would be a smug bastard about it. Actually, now that he thought about it, Alastor was a literal bastard. He was going to have to keep that to himself. He was already was on thin ice with Elli. He actually wanted to avoid apologizing to the Radio Demon. She had given him clear instructions on how to earn her trust. But he really didn't want do that first one. He was the Media Overlord! Hell was practically ran by him!

Still. He knew this would be the big one for Elli. Alastor was the apple of her eye. How could be bring himself to actually apologize to him? Urg. The things he does for this woman. It didn't matter. As long as it was good enough for the doe-demon. Alastor wasn't going to accept it anyways. And he was a showman himself. He can bullshit it and she wouldn't be none the wiser. Feeling better that he had a plan, he made his way out of his office.

It was time that he headed to the hotel. After all, he had an apology to make.

When he pulled up to the hotel, he could see that it had improved. It was looking more professional, lighting up like a fancy casino. He had to admit that when he first heard of the hotel, he too, thought it was all a big joke. Until Alastor got involved and it started making some progress. But it really started booming when Elli made the scene. When word got out that a former Angel from Heaven was staying there, many desperate demons flocked towards the hotel's door. They were all most newer sinners that arrived and were confused on how they ended up there. All curious if maybe this former heavenly resident can guide them to reach the one place that they longed for.

He knew full well that Killjoy and Trench were trying to get an interview with the doe-demon. An idea came to him. What could be an even better way to get her to forgive him than to promise help promote the hotel? A grin stretched further on his screen. Yes, that was a great idea! He got out of his limo and made his way up to the door. First thing first though. Do the bullshit apology to Alastor. Convince Elli that he was genuine and heartfelt, even though he and Alastor both knew that it was a lie. Damn it. He should've brought a "gift" for Bambi. Act like he actually cared about this apology. He'll just lie and say it got lost in the mail. He sent it last week. Another radio or something like that.

He remembered Elli saying that Alastor had a shit ton of radios in his tower. Apparently he collected them like how Valentino collected lamps. He even remember one instant where he saw Alastor pushing a stroller out while he was taking Vark on a walk. It was the weirdest shit he's ever seen. And they were in fucking Hell. He apparently names them too. He remember asking him the fuck he was doing pushing a radio in the stroller. And that Alastor replied that "George" loves going on walks. So that day he learned that he names his radios too. And they all have personalities. Fucking weirdo. He perked up when he saw the door opening. There was the little maid, Alastor's associate, Niffty. He flashed a smile at her.

"Hello... Niffty was it? Is Elli and Alastor here? I need to speak to them."

The maid gave him a doubtful look.

"They are. You can wait in the Lobby. I'll go get them."

Once inside, she zipped off to find the two deer demons. He pulled out his phone and ordered a radio. Valentino and Velvet would ask questions but he would just say it was to help earn Elli's forgiveness. He put his phone up when he heard them enter. He flashed a smile at the doe-demon.

"Hello Elli!" He turned his attention over to his rival. His tone more neutral. "Alastor."

"Vox." Alastor greeted, his smile tense.

"I came to apologize." The Media Overlord made sure that he sounded sincere. Elli was there after all. "I shouldn't have used your mother against you. It was a very underhanded ploy."

Elli smiled. She was pleased that Vox was apologizing. There was hope for him after all. She was about to comment when Alastor scoffed.

"Ha! Like I actually would fall for that!"

"Hey, I'm being sincere here!" He held up his phone. "I even ordered you a gift to show how serious I am!"

The Radio Demon snorted.

"I'll believe it when I see it."

Vox pocketed his phone. He knew this was going to happen. All he cared about was showing Elli that he was doing it. As long as she was convinced, that was all that he cared about. He could give a damn less about what Alastor. He gave Elli a look. He was "trying"! She nodded. Hook, line and sinker. She bought it. Perfect. That's all he needed. And once the stupid radio arrived, it would cement his "apology". The stag turned to leave.

"Since there is nothing of importance here. I have work of my own to get to. Farewell!"

He looked over at Elli.

"I can print out the the confirmation code and delivery address where for it." He offered.

"I would appreciate it." She replied.

She didn't fully trust Vox. But his apology was sincere. And if he did buy a gift to show that he was serious, then it was good enough for her. But he still wasn't off the hook. The apology was only the beginning. He had to work to earn her forgiveness. But he was taking a step in the right direction, in her opinion. Her ears perked when she heard Baxter screech. Her name was then called. She send Vox an apologetic smile.

"I'm sorry Vox. I have a client ta get help out. I'll speak ta ya next time."

"O-oh sure! I'll have one of my worker's bring the papers to you tomorrow."

She nodded. Another crash was heard. She gave him a quick wave goodbye and went to go deal with whatever chaos was happening. Vox made sure to leave the hotel. His plan worked! He had convinced Elli that he was serious. Perfect! Now he just had to keep showing her how much he was willing to earn her trust back. Now he just had to figure how to keep it up. He was going see if he could get a book about rebuilding trust. And maybe... just maybe, it'll lead to something more.

Chapter Text

Chapter 3: Apology Accepted (Not)

Several days has past and sure enough, Vox's "apology" gift had arrived at the hotel. A radio like he said. It looked like it was made sometime in recent years. Or modeled like it was from the 50s. Alastor was tempted to toss it. but he knew that he couldn't. Oh no. He could just "hear" how his fellow radios would be so disappointed in him! How could he dare cast out one of them! So here he was with the new radio in his Radio Tower. His entire basement was filled with other radios. Big, small, old, modern, it didn't matter. A radio was a radio. Most of them broken ones that he found in antique shops or just rummaging through the dump.

His mother had gotten on him plenty about coming back stinking to high heavens from his exploits to the landfill. As much as he hated bathing and showering, she had insisted that he'd take one every two weeks, right before the mandatory Overlord Meetings with Lucifer. He looked for a place to put it. He sat it down next to Hertz. A beautiful 1924 RCA Victor radio.

"Hertz, this is Mabel. She's new. I would like you to make her feel welcomed!"

He pat both radios. With that out of the way, he teleported back to the hotel. He still didn't buy Vox's apology. No. This was all some ploy for another plot. And he knew it. Bless his mother's sweet, caring soul. How naive she is. There was a reason why she ended up in Heaven and not in this infernal pit of misery. Her optimistic trusting soul was already being exploited and he cannot allow it to be continued! He had been wanting to speak to her about his rival's gift but due to their work schedules, they had both been distracted. Now was a good as time as any.

His ears perked when he heard her voice coming from the library. He went in to see her talking with Razzle and Dazzle, Charlie's little bodyguards/servants. He wasn't quite sure what they were talking about, nor did he really care. He sauntered over, spinning his microphone cane before leaning against it. He waited until she was finished speaking to them. She got on him the last time he interrupted a conversation she was in. He certainly did not appreciated being talked down to like a child. But then again he was her child. So in a way, she was entitled to speak to him in such a manner. Once the two said their good-byes to her, he went over.

"Mother? May I speak for you for a moment?"

"Oh of course cher! Come sit."

The stag did so, following his mother over to the set of chairs that were in the center of the room. Once they were seated, he summoned up a pot of tea and some tea cups. He poured the tea and offered her a cup.

"Thank you sha. What do you wish ta speak to me about?"

He watched her take a sip as he stirred the spoon lazily in his cup. His was mostly for show than drinking.

"I want to speak to you about Vox's apology and his... gift for me."

"Oh it was so thoughtful of him, wasn't it? He's at least trying."

Alastor scoffed. Trying, right. He didn't believe at all. Vox was a liar. A cad. A swindler. And this was all just another ploy so he can unleash another plot. Nothing good came from the TV-headed bastard.

"Mother, I don't truly believe that he is sincere. And his..." He summoned up the radio that he was given and placed it on the coffee table in between them. "Gift is not without malicious intent. I mean look at this! This... this... has to be rigged! I know it! He's got something implanted so he could spy on us! On me!"

Elli sighed. She knew that Alastor had every right not to fully trust Vox. They did have a history that she was not fully aware of. But Vox did look so remorseful! And he went out of his way to get him a gift! And from the look of it the modern radio it looked very, very expensive. She really did believe that Vox was doing what he could to make amends.

"I know you two have had your... disagreements. But he did apologize and he was very sincere about it. And you know it was very thoughtful that he went out and got you a gift."

"That's just what he wants you, us, to believe!"

She frowned.

"Alastor."

"He's a no good, brazing, self-centered, egotistal-!"

"Alastor William LaBlanc!"

The Radio Demon flinched at his mother's tone. He looked at her, his ears flowered.

"You listen here young man. Mr. Vox went outta his way ta apologize ta the both of us and spent good money on yer new radio. Now he didn't have ta, but he did. I don't fully trust him either, but at least I'm gunna at least him a chance ta make things right."

"But he's-!"

"I know. Ya go on long winded tangents about him all the time."

"I do not..." he huffed, crossing his arms.

"Ya do so."

He huffed again. Just because he had mentioned what made Vox so insufferable didn't mean that what he said in passing was long-winded. Ridiculous! The Media Overlord deserved to be called out on all of his actions! Especially after what he did to them the last time! The scheme! The deceit! The betrayal! The scoundrel! He had played his darling mother for a fool and he knew that he planned to do it again! Oh his sweet, optimistic, yet naive mother. She know not how Hell works! Just like sweet Princess Charlotte, she was blinded by hope and good-will.

If it was anyone else, he would laugh and join in their deluded vision for his entertainment. But since this was his mother? He couldn't bare to disappoint her! But this was reality and she was now in Hell, not Heaven. The rules she abide up there did not matter down here. He wished that she would stop and be more aware, but how could he? He did not wish to shatter her spirit. He adored her! Loved her personality! But how could he continue to allow this when she could get hurt?

He was glad that it was Rosie who she had meet first and not anyone else. He dare not fathom what horrors she could've been subjected to if not for his dearest friend. Pity to the hypothetical fools that dared harassed her. He'd hunt them down and turn them into meals for what they would do to her. She was the light of his life and Lucifer himself wouldn't stop him from protecting her. And the fact that Vox has slithered his way into her friendship circle disgusted him.

"It doesn't matter. What does matter is what Vox is doing! You can't trust him!"

"I don't."

This response caused the Radio Overlord to look at her surprise.

"I don't trust Vox, Alastor. Not afta' what he had done. But I am givin' him a chance ta gain my trust back."

"Well you shouldn't."

Elli sighed. At this time it was looking like they were at an impasse.

"Allie,"

"Mother."

She frowned, not like his tone.

"Do not take that tone wit' me. I know you have yer reservations with Mr. Vox, but I at least am giving him a chance ta make things right. He apologized ta the both of us. I ain't askin' ya ta forgive him. But he's making an effort. And I can acknowledge that."

"Well then you're daft to believe anything he said."

She narrowed her eyes at him. She went to go say something but decided against it. She stood up.

"I am not happy with your attitude Alastor. I understand you do not like Mr. Vox, but that gives you no right ta insult me. I am yer Mama. I make mistakes, but I ain't stupid."

He winced.

"Mama, I-"

She headed towards the door.

"No. No. You made it clear how ya feel about what I'm doin'. I will allow you time ta come up with a proper apology." She looked back at him just as she was walking out. "And as yer mama, I know that ain't gunna happen fer a good while."

Without another word she left. Alastor gave an aggravated growl as he pulled at his hair. He stood up, irritated that she was ignoring his concerns.

"Oh, she is just the most stubborn, ignorant, gullible-!" He growled again. "If she wants to fall victim to his lies again, then fine! It'll be her own fault! But she won't come crying to me when he hurts her. Again!"

Officially pissed off and needing to blow off steam, he vanished. He'll host a broadcast or maybe just go on a hunt. Whatever it takes for him release his anger. He will never accept Vox's apology. Until then, he was not going to apologize to her until she acknowledges that what she was doing was foolish.

Chapter Text

Chapter 4: To Forgive Or Not To Forgive

The hotel could feel the tension between the mother and son. Adam LeBough, Alastor's biological father, had managed to sense that the two were not happy with each other after Elli stormed her way into the kitchen. He had heard about what had happened with Overlord Vox. He was greatly concerned for her and Alastor. More for her than Alastor. Since his son had been arguing and battling with Vox long before he was in the picture, there was no reason for him to get involved. Now Elli. Elli was a different story. She didn't arrive down in Hell the moment she died. She went to Heaven. And the only reason she's down here now was because of her wanting to be with Alastor.

He admitted that he made a mistake. But overall, without that mistake they wouldn't of had their son! So shouldn't she be able to look past that one flaw and embrace the family that she had always wanted? He knew about her dreams, her passion, everything! He had their whole lives planned out if it didn't end the way that it did. So what if she was Creole? That didn't matter to him! He was sure that his own mother and father would've adored her if they had a chance to meet her. And their grandson! But that was all a dream that would never be able to come true.

Speaking of, he wondered if his mother and father were down here. Maybe then they could be reunited and they all could be the family that Elli always wanted! Hell, he could even try and find her own family as well! But like Charlie said, look forward and improve! She truly was an optimistic woman despite being the literal Princess of Hell. He managed to find her in the kitchen. She was currently baking. She was a stress/angry baker. Hopefully he could ease her bad mood. Be supportive! He knocked on the table in order to gain her attention and not spook her.

"Hello Elli. Can we talk?"

She huffed, hearing him.

"I have a good assumption that if I told ya no, you'll do so anyway."

"So... that's a yes?"

She sighed.

"Yes."

"I want to talk to you about Overlord Vox."

She started kneading her dough.

"What about 'im?"

"Is it true? About him using you against Alastor?"

"He did." She confirmed, separating her dough. "Is that all ya want? I'm making beignets."

"I heard about you still being friends with Vox."

"It's true."

The Radio Demon's father was stunned. After everything that Vox had put her and Alastor through, how could she forgive the Media Overlord and not him!? Vox was ten times worse than he was! He was an Overlord for a reason! They were ruthless brutes! Okay, Alastor was an a exception because he was their son, but still! How could she do this? When here he is caring about her best interests at heart and that TV-headed bastard doesn't!

"Why the hell did you forgive him and not me!?"

She groaned. She did not need this right now. She was already upset with Alastor. She didn't need Adam bothering her now as well. She ears flattened slightly in irritation. The dough for her biegnets suffering the abuse from the agitation Elli was giving out due from her stalker berating her.

"Well gee. Maybe it's cuz he didn't rape me!"

"I apologized for that! I lost my temper!"

"Dat don' mean shit ta me!" She snapped, turning to face him. "Who I spend my time with ain't none of yo' concern!"

"It is when it's Overlords!"

"Alastor is an Overlord! 'Nd so is Rosie!"

"I'm not talking about them!"

Alastor was currently sitting on a bench after doing a hunt. He was currently drenched from head to toe in blood. But he didn't care. His only thought at the moment was reflecting on the argument he had with his mother. He was tempted to go see Rosie and Mimzy but he didn't want to bring them into this. This was something between the two of them. And while he knew that Rosie and Mimzy would understand where he was coming from, he was unsure if it would be the best course of action. He looked over to see Shadow next to him. His ears lowered.

"She still loves us... right?"

Shadow could talk, but only he was able to understand what he was saying. He is his shadow after all. And while no one else knew what he was saying, he did. But since he was a shadow, he was all of Alastor's raw emotions. Emotions that Alastor dared not allowed himself to express outward. Insecurities that he didn't like to acknowledge.

"Of course she does. Don't be ridiculous! She's our mother! And disagreements happen. ...sometimes..."

"We over did it, didn't we? Again."

Alastor scoffed. Of course he didn't! He was making sure that he was protecting her! It was a promise he made to himself when he was a child and dammit was he going to keep it! And this wasn't like they were on Earth anymore! She was now in Hell! She needed his protection here! Word already got out that she was his mother! And with Vox trying to snake his way back in, he couldn't allow it! But... she has been down here for a couple of months. And she did say that she didn't trust Vox. But still. He didn't like that she was giving him a chance to, pardon the ironic pun, redeem himself to her! He sighed as he fiddled with the cuff of his jacket, a nervous tick of his.

"Perhaps I was a bit... judgmental on how she approached the situation..."

He sighed. He did feel really bad for the argument. Especially since he did basically mocked her and called her foolish for who she was hanging out with. In a way, he was the fool. He was treating her like she was the child and he was the parent. And it was wrong of him. He sighed, standing up.

"I better go apologize to her."

With that, he made his way back to the hotel. He hoped that he would be forgiven.

Vox was currently in his limo, on the way to the hotel. After much back and forth between his emotions, he had decided that it was time that he told Elli the real truth on how he and Alastor met and how their rivalry started. It was the right thing to do after all. ...As well as maybe gain sympathy as well. After all it wasn't his fault that Alastor was so stuck in the past. He looked over at Velvet, who was accompanying him.

The Fashion/Social Media Overlord, was once again on her phone. She was typing away. Probably on Voxtagram or something. He hadn't been on a while as he was busy with work and trying to figure out the Elli situation. He had spent hours looking for ways to repair their relationship. One of the articles stated that being truthful and communication was the two main things for a relationship to work. This is what he needed to do.

The limo was spent in silence. He tried making conversation with Velvet, but she was so wrapped up in her phone that she barely acknowledge him. He sighed as he looked out the window. He could see that they were approaching the hotel. He looked over at Velvet who was giggling. He nudged her with his foot.

"Vel. We're at the hotel."

The doll demon looked up from her phone. Seeing that they were, she whooped.

"Yes! I'm finally going to meet your girlfriend!"

"She's not my girlfriend!"

She giggled as she climbed out of the car. He sighed as he followed her. He blinked in surprised when as they were about to enter Alastor was as well. He did his best not to make a snarky comment. Which the deer didn't mind to do so.

"And just when I thought my day couldn't get any worst. Here you are!"

"Well aren't you in a bad mood. You and Elli get into argument?"

"That's none of your concern."

"Ooh... sounds like a yes to me." Velvet giggled.

The stag stared down at her then turned his attention back to his rival.

"And why are you here?"

"I came to speak to Elli." The Media Overlord responded. He grinned at him. "After all, that is what friends do after all."

Alastor snorted then looked down at Velvet.

"And you?"

"Emotional support!" She grinned, started to hold up her phone to take a picture of him. "Can I take a picture of you?"

"I'm sorry Ms. Velvet, but no. I want nothing to do with the... inter-cobweb or whatever it is called."

"Internet." Vox corrected.

"Whatever."

The Radio Demon started to head towards the entrance. The Media and Social Media Overlords looked at each other and followed the deer inside. As the door was pushed opened, the heard shouting. Alastor's ears immediately perked up. His grin grew wider as at the potential drama that they were about to witness. He started to make his way towards the sound when Elli and Adam entered the lobby. It was evident that the drama was from them.

"You're being hypocritical Elli! And you know it!" Adam exclaimed.

"Ha!" She scoffed. "This comin' from Mista' Hypocrite himself!"

Everyone in the lobby had their attention on the Radio Demon's parents. The two were so wrapped up in their argument that they didn't notice that they were being watched. Elii went to move away only to be grabbed by Adam. He spun her around to face him.

"Will you stop bein' so damn difficult!?"

Seeing Adam grabbed Elli, made something snapped in Vox. He was brought back to their conversation on what Adam did to her. His growled, the lights flickering on and off from his anger. Before anyone could step in, he went over and sent a powerful punch into the older demon's face. Causing him to hit the ground. Adam groaned and rubbed his jaw. He looked up to see Vox looming over him. He gulped seeing the Overlord sparking electricity and the lights flickering from his rage.

"Don't you ever grab her like that again!" He snapped. "She told you that she wants nothing to do with you! And she has good a reason to after what you did to her! Speaking of, how DARE you do such a thing to her! Yea, I did a fuck ton of awful shit. But I would NEVER scoop that low to fucking raping someone because they rejected me! Get through your fucking skull! Elli and Alastor want NOTHING to do with you!"

Adam started to sputter. In anger and fear. But the Overlord continue.

"Stay the fuck away from Alastor and Elli or I will make sure suffer you end up in Double Hell."

Terrified, Adam nodded and fled from the hotel. The Media Overlord sent a warning shot of electricity at him, causing Adam to cry out as he was struck. Alastor was standing there like a literal deer in headlights. What the hell just happened!? Did Vox... stand up for his mother against his father!? What the actual hell!? Shrill static was starting to be emitted from him as he tried to process on what was going on.

Satisfied that Adam was gone, he turned his attention towards Elli. Realizing what he did, he rubbed the back of his neck in embarrassment. He hoped that she wasn't upset at him for losing his temper like that. He probably shouldn't have came.

"Uh... Elli, I'm... sorry for that outburst. I just saw him grab you and..." He sighed, unsure what to say. "I'll just go. It was probably a mistake to come here today."

Just as he was turning to leave, the doe-demon gripped his arm.

"Mr. Vox, wait."

The TV-headed demon looked back at her. Oh boy... was he in trouble? He hoped that she wasn't.

"Y-yes...?"

"I want ta thank ya. Fer puttin' Adam in his place fer me. It was a mighty kind thing ya did."

"O-Oh well... you're... my friend and he shouldn't have grabbed you like that."

"Well still. Thank ya. I'm currently a little busy ta day, but I would like ta thank ya. Ova' at de coffee shop in Cannibal Colony, say Friday? Afta' my shift wit' Rosie?"

Vox blinked in surprised. He couldn't believe it! Elli was asking him out on a date! Well... maybe it wasn't outright stated, but that's what it seemed like to him! A date! He was going to have a coffee date with Elli!

"I... yes! Of course! That's just perfect for me!"

The doe-demon chuckled.

"Then I'll see ya on Friday."

"I'll see you then."

Velvet couldn't help but giggled as she typing away on her phone. Vox and Elli were just so cute! She had taken pictures, and the video of Vox's rant and posted it online explaining the situation, adding a bunch of heart and kissy emoji's with the tag #Velli #Cutest Couple. Her grin got bigger as she saw people instantly commenting and liking her posts. The Velli ship was setting sail!

"Velvet, let's go." Vox told her.

"Sure thing Voxxie!"

She followed him out. Alastor was standing there with still stunned expression. What the fuck was happening!? This wasn't happening right? Vox did NOT just stand up for his mother! And she didn't offer him out for coffee as a thank you! He felt the world start spinning around him. Not wanting to make a fool out of himself, he vanished to his room. He couldn't do this right now. He needed to properly process this!

Adam was furious. How dare he. How dare he! How dare that TV-headed bastard humiliate him in front of Elli and Alastor! He was just trying to do what was expected of him! He was Alastor's father! Elli was his mother and the love of his life! Okay, so he lost his temper that night with Elli, but it worked out! They had Alastor! And if he wasn't dead, he would've married her and supported the both of them! Why couldn't everyone see that he was trying to step up?

"The son of a bitch!" He snarled, punching a wall.

Vox would pay for this! He didn't know how, but he would. He saw the way that Vox would look at Elli. No way was another suitor going to try and take her as a bride! He already got something that he never would. He at least had a child with Elli. That was something Vox would never have with her. He growled to himself. The Media Overlord had entered a dangerous game with him. He just needs to figure out a plan to take him out of the picture.

"Hey, you!"

Adam blinked and turned to see a pink limousine was pulled up next to him. Oh wow. He didn't even noticed it parked next to him. He gulped seeing the window as rolled down to show Overlord Valentino sitting in it. The door swung open.

"Get in," the Porn Overlord commanded.

Not wanting to piss off another Overlord that day, he did. Once the door was shut, the limo started driving again. He had no idea what Valentino wanted with him. There was no way that he was going to work for him. He already had a job and he wasn't going to be fooled into signing a contract with him.

"Uh... Hello Overlord Valentino...what... can I do for you?" The former LeBough heir asked.

"I saw you leaving the Princess' hotel. The hotel that Vox went into today." He blew out a puff of red smoke. "Now, as you may know, or you probably don't, but Vox and I have an on-again-off-again relationship. Now, we've been on a break for the last couple of months. But I have been trying to get back with him and he's being a goddamn pain in my ass."

Adam snorted.

"You 'nd me both. The mother of my child is actin' the same way. I've been tryin' ta get her ta understand that I am the man for her! We have a fucking child together!"

The moth nodded. It seems the both had a common goal. They wanted their former lover's attention.

"Voxxy fooling around with your wife?"

"Elli was never my wife. I had fancied her but we were neva' together."

Valentino found this interesting. So he wasn't married to Elli, but they still had Alastor. That was interesting. Bambi must've gotten a lot of shit for being born out of wedlock. He smiled at him. His gold tooth flashing. They both wanted something. Adam wanted to be with Elli and play happy family, and he wanted to be back with Vox. To him, this was a win-win deal.

"I have a plan that I think work for both of us."

The Louisiana man raised a brow up at him.

"What type of plan?"

The moth's grin widen. He leaned forward. It was time that they both got their exes back.

"Well, let me tell you..."

Chapter Text

Chapter 5: Cannibal Colony

It was finally Friday! Vox was currently fixing his tie in his private bathroom in his office. He didn't really go into Cannibal Colony. Mostly because it was Alastor and Rosie's territory and there was barely an modern day technology there. It was like everyone was stuck in the late 1800s and early 1900s. How anyone could deny modern technology was baffling to him. Another reason because it was Cannibal Colony. Seeing other Sinners happily devouring others was not his forte. His stomach churned at the thought of seeing such actions happen in front of him. There was actually a few times that he literally vomited after witnessing Alastor in the midst of a broadcast. He learned quickly that it was better to stay inside than to go out when the stag was on the prowl.

He was glad that Elli wasn't like the other cannibals. Though it was probably because she didn't use to eat people so this was new territory for her since she arrived in Hell. But he was doing his best to mentally prepare himself for the trip. Even though this was Hell, some things you just can't get over. And for Vox, it was watching others digest their fellow peers. He just hoped that the cafe didn't just serve food with demon flesh inside of it. But he was sure that Elli wouldn't put him in a position that would make him uncomfortable.

Once he was sure that he was presentable to his standards, he made his way down to his limo. Elli would be getting off of her shift soon, and he wanted to be at the Emporium just as she getting off! Or maybe a little earlier to show that he liked being punctual. Okay, maybe he was always a couple of minutes early to basically anything that he was expected to show up to. But that was just good business and social etiquette! Everyone knew that! But there was something big that he was going to do...

He was finally going to tell her the truth about his and Alastor's rivalry.

No one knew how it actually started. And if you asked each of them, you'd get two different reasons why. The Media Overlord was certain that Elli heard Alastor's side plenty of times. Why wouldn't of she? She was his mother. Wanting this friendship to work, he knew that he had to tell Elli the truth. He knew that Radio Demon's mother adored her son. While he didn't feel guilty about what he did to Alastor, he did for Elli's involvement. Which is why he had to do this. He took to strolling through his phone as the driver headed to Rosie's Emporium. He couldn't wait to see Elli. Should we go inside to let her know that he had arrived? Maybe he should. Why send her a text when in a personal appearance would be more appreciated? A fond smile formed on his screen. He couldn't wait to see her!

Elli made sure to keep herself busy around the shop. Just because Rosie and her were like sisters, didn't mean that she was going to use that to slack off on her job. That would be most unbecoming! After all, that was a very entitled thought process and she refused to acknowledge such a thing! Even though Alastor had offer to cover all of her finances, bless his soul, she refused. He always was so insistent about taking care of her financial needs.

"You deserve it, Mama." He would say. "You took on multiple jobs to raise me, and it's only fair that I take care of you now."

She truly did raise a very caring and thoughtful son. He truly was her pride and joy. There was some guilt on how she died. It was so easily presentable, but she was so stubborn about not wanting to worry her son. She ignored the signs of her illness and kept working. And it resulted in her fainting after a church service. How embarrassing. And it caused such stress and worry for Alastor. She needed to apologize to him again about neglecting her health.

Speaking of apologizing, her and Alastor have yet done their own for the fight some days earlier. It wasn't for a lack of trying! She had tried to speak with her son, but he kept making up excuses or was no where to be found. She knew that he was worried about her, but to go for this period of time without speaking to her? This was unusual. They always made up by the next day. Was her friendship with Vox really a problem? Was she being insensitive to his feelings? She really need to apologize to him when she finally cornered him.

"Elli."

The doe-demon's ears perked and looked over to see her employer coming up to here.

"'Ello Rosie. I'm just restocking the selves. I noticed we were running a little low on certain items."

The female Overlord nodded.

"I appreciate the initiative. I just came to inform you that your shift is over and Vox has arrived."

"Oh thank you! I'll sign out just as soon as I put the rest of these items on the self."

"I'll inform him that you'll be out shortly."

Rosie made her way to where her fellow Overlord was. Honestly, she didn't trust Elli leaving with Vox. After all, he had lied and used her against Alastor. This wasn't something that she could easily ignore. Elli was a younger sister to her. And she would be damn if she allowed anyone like Vox to hurt her a second time. The cad did it once, and who was to say that he wouldn't do it again? She was going to make it clear to him the consequences he would face if he repeated what he did last time.

She saw the TV-headed Overlord looking around as he waited in front of the check-out counter. He was looking creeped out by her Marionette Workers that were strung up and making their way around her store. A grim smile formed her on lips as she took delight in his unease. Other than Elli, she only had two other Sinners that weren't Sinners turned into Marionette dolls.

"Elii will be up shortly. She's currently restocking the shelves."

She took in a bit of delight of seeing him jump at her appearance. He was weary of her. Good. As he should be. She maybe a lady after all, but she wouldn't hesitate into making him a fine meal.

"O-Oh okay. I uh... don't mind waiting."

She smiled.

"Wonderful! Because I've been meaning to speak to you about a very personal situation."

The TV demon couldn't help but give a small gulp. He didn't like the eerie sharp toothy smile that she was giving him. He instinctively took a cautionary step back as she stepped forward, leaning towards him. Her eyes glowing from her demonic powers.

"Elli may have agreed to give you a second chance, but you are on very thin ice. You use her again for personal gain like last time and I will personally shatter your screen till it's beyond repair. Elli is not just my employee. She is my sister. And if you mess with her, you mess with me. And I won't hesitate on turning you into my next meal, which I'm sure Alastor would have no issues in indulging with me. Technological demon or not. Is that understood?"

"Cr-Crystal..."

The dangerous aura sounding her vanished as she stood straight up, a more calm smile on her face.

"Wonderful! I'm glad we have come to an agreement."

Vox gave a crooked smile at her. If anyone else had threatened him, he wouldn't have cared. But Rosie was a fellow Overlord. And she's been down here longer than Alastor. She was a prominent figure in Hell. Pissing off Alastor was one thing. But Rosie was an entirely different story. He had no intentions of hurting Elli again, but now he definitely needed to make sure to never do it again. He saw a glimpse of red and purple and looked over.

"Elli!" He grinned, moving around Rosie to greet the doe-demon. "Are you ready to head out?"

"Jus' let me sign out and I'll be there right there."

She went behind the desk and into the backroom. He was once again alone with Rosie. He only hoped that she wouldn't be too long. He didn't really want to be left alone with the female Overlord. He shifted awkwardly as he continued to wait for her. After a minute or two, she came back out with her purse and a purple cloche hat. He perked up seeing her.

"Have a pleasant day dear." Rosie told her.

"You as well!" Elli waved.

The two were currently walking through Cannibal Colony. A suggestion made by Elli since she was wanting to meet and greet the other residents. He personally didn't want to, but he couldn't help but agree since it was only a few short blocks away. Vox had to admit that it was a nice district. In an old fashion kind of way. It reminded him of his great-grandmother. The stories she used to tell him when she used to visited Paris, France. He had seen seen pictures, but nothing compared to what he was experiencing now.

The two were making small talk as they walked. Just talking about work and what was going with their friend groups. She talked about the sewing club and their new outfits they were creating and he spoke about the crazy adventures that Velvet had dragged him and Valentino on. It was a nice walk. Until they turned a corner that caused Vox to stop dead in his tracks. Several feet away from them was a group of four women surrounding a body. They were tearing into poor soul as they lay dead on the ground. He was sure the tint on his screen had turn green on what he was witnessing.

"Hello Hazel, Primerose, Ivy and Willow. How are you ladies doing today?" Elli asked.

The four women looked up hearing her.

"Elli!" They greeted cheerfully.

Vox had no idea who was who. But apparently they were good acquaintances with Elli.

"Oh we're doing just fine, thanks for asking!" The red-headed one said.

She only had one eye, horns on her head, and wearing a green dress. The blonde wearing a pink dress piped up.

"Alastor wouldn't happen to be with you, is he?"

The girls giggled. Oh god. They were Alastor fangirls. Of course they were. The TV-demon couldn't fathom why so many girls fawned over the Radio Demon. Sure, he was charismatic, a smooth talker, dramatic, enthusiastic, captivating, attractive-

Okay, maybe he could understand why they admired him. But still! The forums that he had seen online for the deer-demon was insane! And he was not spending hours on end on said sites for pleasure! He was collecting research on his hated rival! There was a different! He was gathering evidence! He was not obsessive with the Radio Demon like other demons! He wasn't.

"I'm afraid not. We got into a little quarrel and he hasn't spoken to me in a few days."

"Oh, that's awful," Another said. She was wearing a dark red dress and hat, with a lighter red flower on the side. "Is there anything we can help?"

Elli shook her head.

"No. This is an argument between a mama 'nd her son. But thank ya kindly fer ya concern."

"Well, if we see him, we'll make sure that he tell him we saw you! And to make amends with you!" The fourth one stated.

She wore a mauve-colored dress with a matching headband on top of her white hair. Vox had to admit. They all were very attractive women. He probably would've been willing to date them. If only they weren't cannibals. Just as he was sure that Elli was going to excuse them, the women took notice of him.

"Oh who's this fine gentleman that's with you?" The hat woman asked.

Not wanting to appear rude, he bowed at them. Making sure to put on the charm for them.

"I'm Overlord Vox. But you all can call me Vox. What I really should be asking is for your names. Never before have I been graced by such beauty before."

The ladies giggled, obviously flattered by his words. He smiled at them. Though he did his best to make sure that his uneasiness wasn't shown. He did his best not to focus on the blood and flesh that was dripping from their mouths and on their clothes. Stay strong Vox. Don't vomit. It would be humilating and make a bad first impression in front of more friends of Elli's. Especially when they're in Alastor's social circle! The last thing he needed was for Alastor to hear about such an embarrassing ordeal from him!

"Oh Elli, where did you pick him up? He's such a charmer!" The red-head giggled then turned to the TV-demon. "I'm Ivy."

"I'm Primrose." The hat one answered.

"My name's Hazel." The blonde responded.

"And I'm Willow." The headband wearing woman stated.

"Well it's a pleasure to meet you all." He told them.

"I'll have to tell you that story another time." Elli answered Ivy's question. "Vox and I are on our way to Cadaver's Cafe. But it was wonderful to see you all!"

"Goodbye Elli! Goodbye Vox!" They waved.

Vox was relieved that they were continuing on. He wasn't sure if he could keep himself from getting sick if they stayed longer. He swallowed in hopes to calm his nerves. It wasn't that blood bothered him. Far from it. He tortured and murdered himself. You have to when it comes to being in Hell. It was basically just second nature. No, it was the fact that they were eating a body in front of them was what got to him! No matter how many times he had seen it happen in front of him, it still made him sick to actually watch it.

Cannibal Colony was as he expected it. Old fashioned and stomach churning. There was no way he was going to be able to eat anything once they got to the cafe. Looks like it was just going to be coffee for him. But he had to admit one thing. The smile on Elli's face did make the trip worth it. While he didn't care about the cannibal aspects of Cannibal Colony, he did like the atmosphere of it. It was like being in a friendly small town up on Earth. He wouldn't mind come back here. With Elli of course. It was a charming district.

Chapter Text

Chapter 6: The Battle Begun

Vox had to admit that the cafe wasn't as bad as he thought. There was no demon meat in the pastries (Thank Satan!), and the coffee was pretty good! He had purchased a breakfast sandwich along with his coffee. It was mostly due because he hadn't eaten anything all day and he was starving! The whiff of the food reminded him of his empty stomach, despite the earlier shock of cannibalism from earlier. Elli had gotten a croissant and an Éclair with her tea. She wasn't very enthusiastic about coffee. Something else it seems that she and Alastor were different on. He took a sip of his coffee.

"So uh... how are you managing?" He asked. "With...being down here and working for Rosie?"

"I'm adjustin' well." Elli responded. "I'm very grateful fer Rosie. She gave me a job, found me a home wit' de hotel, and she led me ta my little boy! I'm eternally grateful for her."

The TV demon nodded. He was making some small talk in order to help himself ease in his conversation about his and Alastor's rivalry. But he was having such a hard time trying to find the words. How could he begin? He didn't want to bring it up abruptly. Should he just wait for her to ask? Damn it! Why was this so hard? Why was he so nervous about this? He was going to tell her the truth! It should be easy! So then why couldn't he just say it?

"How's Vark doing?"

Vox blinked, having gotten lost in his thoughts. If it was one thing that he did love to talk about, it was his precious shark-puppy! A smile split onto his screen.

"Oh Vark is doing amazing! I taught him a new trick! How to play futbol!"

"Football?" Elli giggled. "My, that must really be fun!"

"Oh yea! He loves chasing after the ball every time I kick it. Though I'm still trying to get him to not knock over the goal-post each time we make a goal."

The doe-demon nodded. She did enjoy how happy that he got when talking or playing with Vark. She had to admit that she really did like the shark-dog. She did learn from Angel Dust that he and Valentino, the spider's Overlord, had an on-again-off-again relationship. While she personally haven't been in a romantic relationship since she was a teenager, she did have many friends who did get married. So she would often listen to their problems and be as helpful as she could be.

"How are you 'nd Valentino doin'? Angel told me ya two were datin'."

Vox blinked. He was surprised that she would bring up Valentino. Though he shouldn't be surprised as he had heard the spider-demon calling her "Ma".

"Oh we've... not been together for a while. Val is..."

He stopped unable to form words. The moth Overlord was a lot of things. Controlling, abusive, insufferable, but he couldn't exactly unleash all of his emotional baggage on her. At least, not right now. Not when their relationship was still fragile. Plus, his and Valentino's last break-up was... he couldn't say it was mutual because it was done over a fight. He couldn't remember what it was over now that he thought about it. It's been smoothed over, but they had not hooked up again. What could he say?

"Val is... difficult, sometimes. We're currently not together."

The doe-demon nodded. She did not know the circumstance of his relationship with his ex. So she was not equip to give him some helpful romantic advice. But all she could be was a listening ear.

"I'm sorry 'bout that sugar. Must be pretty hard on ya."

He just shrugged.

"It's Hell. Of course it's going to be hard. Romantic relationships aren't meant to be healthy ones like up in Heaven or Earth. But I guess every- well, I can't say everyone, but a majority of people want to believe that they can find that right one, despite being down here."

She nodded. She took a sip of her tea as she hummed, glancing around.

"I've not been down here for very long, Vox. But from what I can see, there is still some good down here. It just takes finding it. When I speak ta my patients, most of 'em had already lost hope or doubt things'll get betta'. But they will. Life, even de Afterlife, of course, ain't gunna be easy. 'Nd lots of folks ferget about that. We fall into habits, 'nd let it control us. But we can't let it. Or else we will loose who we really are."

It was such a profound and insightful statement. And it deeply touched the Media Overlord. He interpreted it that if he waited and worked hard enough, he would eventually earned her trust and love. Feeling more confident, he decided to finally tell her.

"Elli, I need to tell you something very important."

She turned her attention back over to him. Tilting her head slightly.

"Yes?"

He took a breath to calm himself down. He wasn't going to spin the narrative into his favor. Not when he really wanted to gain her trust back. He circled his finger around the rim of his cup, feeling anxious.

"It's... about mine and Alastor's rivalry. How it all began."

Her eyes widen in surprise. She was not expecting this. But she didn't want to interrupt him, so she nodded, taking a sip of her tea as she wanted for him to continue.

"I died in 1956. But I didn't physically meet Alastor until 1961. It was that meeting that changed everything..."

1961

Vox had learned to adapt quickly to being in Hell since he died. Hosting a game show in the middle of a thunderstorm probably wasn't the greatest decision that he had made. Getting electrocuted by a TV that was struck by lightening was a truly painful experience. Now he was in Hell. Granted, he was still surprised despite knowing that he wasn't exactly the greatest person alive.

When he first arrived, he had learned quickly that being an Overlord was the way to go. And being the ambitious guy that he was, rose his way to the top. Befriending Valentino and Velvet in the process. But there was another demon that he was hoping to impress. Alastor the Radio Demon. The guy, from what he could tell, was very hard to track down. Hell! He had missed every single Overlord Meeting with Lucifer that Vox had attended so far! Which was every single one of them!

He found it both terrifying and admirable that the Radio Demon was so bold to ignore mandatory meetings from the King of Hell himself. He was hoping to meet with him. He did admire the guy for being able to lay claim over so many Sinners. He heard so many terrifying and admirable things about him. The Radio Demon was a charming guy. Witty, cunning, powerful. He's captured the citizens of Hell's hearts and minds in both respect and fear. He too, wanted that. And with him being the Media Demon? To have both Radio and TV working together? They would be unstoppable!

It was time for another Overlord meeting. And at the moment, Alastor had yet to arrive. Vox was silently praying that the allusive demon would finally come. Lucifer hadn't started the meeting yet. Waiting to see if the only missing Overlord was going to show. He looked over at Rosie.

"Rosie, Alastor will be showing up today, correct?"

She gave a small nod. Keeping her cool, despite the King of Hell speaking to her. Vox had no idea how she could keep calm.

"I made sure to call him before I left. I made it abundantly clear that his tardiness will not be tolerated and that your patience is wearing thin. But I am not his mother, so I cannot just go and grab him by his ear to drag him here."

The King hummed. Vox wasn't sure if he got the funny mental image of Rosie dragging Alastor by his ear like he did. Apparently, Alastor was one of those demons that still had ears. He didn't know if it was a good thing or not. He was about to ask a question when the door swung open. Everyone turned their heads to see a sillhoute standing in the door way. The figure's eyes snapped open to reveal that they were glowing red. Sharp yellow teeth formed into a smile. The figure stepped out to show an incredibly thin man, with gray skin, with red bob-styled haircut with... deer-like ear turfs? Huh. Strange. And he had antlers. Oh, he was a deer demon. He were a red pinstripe jacket with matching red pants with black... boots? Heeled boots? He wasn't sure. He wore a red monocle resting on his right cheek, just below his right eye.

"Hello everyone! So sorry for the late arrival! I know you find my lack of presence questioning, but I ensure you, I was incredibly busy! So much entertainment that I could not past!"  He laughed before giving a small sigh. "Oh the naive fools."

Vox was surprised to hear the radio filter over his voice. He thought that was just the radio it self. But it looks like it was part of his actual voice. Hell was such a strange place.

"You're late. Again." Lucifer told him. "And you've missed several meetings."

"Then maybe you should revoke my Overlord status." Alastor told him, his grin stretching wider.

The king snorted but said nothing. Vox looked at Velvet and Valentino for information.

"Al doesn't take his Overlord duties seriously." The doll demon explained.

The new Overlord nodded. Alastor seated himself next to Rosie. Who whispered something sharply in the deer demon's ear. Vox couldn't tell if he was bothered by what she said or not. His smile never went down. Vox couldn't wait to get Alastor alone after the meeting. He had a whole presentation ready for him! There was no way that he couldn't say no! Right?

After the meeting was finished, Vox made his way to go talk to him in private. This was finally his chance! He'd get to meet his idol and form a partnership with him. He managed to catch up to him a block or so away from the palace.

"Alastor, right? I'm Vox. The new Overlord. We never officially met."

"Ah, so I have not! So sorry my good fellow! I have had so many other arrangements that I have not had the time!"

"I understand. We all have our businesses to attend to. But there is something I wanted to discuss with you."

Alastor tilted his head.

"Oh?"

"Yes!"

Damn it. He should've brought his portfolio with him! He had a feeling that he'd meet the Radio Demon today, and instead he left it in his room! Fuck! Well, no matter, improvising was one of his greatest skills! As one must have to be in the world of broadcasting! Something Alastor of all demons had to understand! He'd just have to display what he wanted to get across on his screen. As well as throwing in well-thought out pitch! First of all, flattery. When getting a business partner, a bit of flattery is the best way to ensnare them!

"I first would like to say that I have been listening to your shows since I first came down here and they are truly revolutionary."

The deer's grin widen. Almost looking smug.

"Why thank you. The radio has always been a passion of mine."

"And I can see that!" Vox continued. "As an entertainer myself, while with you on the radio and me on the screens, I wanted to make a business proposition for you!"

"Is that so?"

"Absolutely!" The TV demon responded.

This was his big chance! His screen flicked to different photos and graphs as he talked.

"There is no question why Sinners and Hellborns alike fear you. Respect you. And I, myself, is getting up in the ranks. And while your power is something Hell has never seen before, your presences alone, is just the icing on the cake! So I wanted to offer a partnership! You're viewers, while as loyal as they are, tune into every single segment you produce, must take not that the sound of your voice can't be enough. Which is why I believe if we work together, your shows will reach all over Hell! The citizens will see the results that you cook up! No longer will their imaginations fill in the blanks! They can see you in all your glory! We can host shows, cooking segments, anything! We'll be the kings of broadcasting! Radio and TV! A powerhouse that Hell will have never seen before! Hell would basically be in our complete control!"

His screen went back to his face. That was a very fine presentation if he say so himself! Alastor was still smiling. That was a great sign!

"So? What do you say?"

The deer laughed. Was that a good laugh? Or a condescending laugh? He wasn't sure. The other Overlord wiped a tear from his eye.

"Oh, a truly humorous show that was!"

Vox was shocked. Humorous? Humorous!? It wasn't suppose to humorous! It was suppose to be inspiring! Alastor continued.

"No, no, my good fellow. Why would I want to give an insight to these lowsome scum on my operation? Why mess with the thrill of suspense and curiosity? Oh no! What use are these inferior gadgets to me?"

"I-inferior!?" Vox sputtered.

Was this guy serious!? How could he ignore the technological advantages that have been achieved!? The fact that everything was being so easily obtainable compared to not so many years ago! How could he ignore such amazing advancements!?

"Yes! Inferior! So complicated, so useless! Why sure, the picture shows may entertain for a bit, but to allow such mindless dribble for hours on end? How dull! Why, take away the joys of mystery and lay all your cards out for others to see?" The stag shook his head. "Oh no, my good man. I just can't see the appeal!"

The TV-demon felt his confidence diminished. No. No! This couldn't be happening!

"B-b-b-but my proposal, my plan-!"

"Truly misguided! Oh you poor ignorant fool! Ah, but I can't fully blame you. You're like a moth. Drawn in by the pretty shiny lights. Only for you to meet your brutal end!"

He laughed again. Okay, now Vox knew he was being laughed at. It was making him angry. The fact that the older sinner was basically calling him stupid for having a vision! He stopped listening to him. Anger over taking him. All those years! The work! The pitch! Everything he did to get the Radio Demon to side with him! And he had the gall to laugh at him. HIM. A fellow Overlord! He was so angry that he hadn't notice that Alastor had started to walk away. Before he knew it, he was alone.

If Alastor wanted to call him foolish. Then fine! He'll show him! He'll show the outdated deer that he was worthy of being noticed! He'll prove to him that he made the mistake to brush him aside!

"You made a mistake Alastor. You have made a very deadly enemy..."

"Oh Vox," Elli frowned softly.

The Media Overlord didn't look at her. Shame and anger preventing him from looking in her eyes. He never told anyone how his rivalry started with Alastor. Well, Valentino and Velvet knew to an extent. That their rivalry started with a disagreement over technology. But he never told them about how he offered a partnership with him. And that Alastor just blew him off.

"I had such great plans! For both of us! But he just kept ignoring me and basically insulted everything I did!"

He did his best to not crush the mug that was in his hands. He didn't want to have pay for damaging property.

"I'm really sorry 'bout that. Alastor..." She paused. "Alastor has always been a bit difficult ta work wit' or understand. But he's a stubborn one. It's hard ta change his mind. Even I have some trouble."

Vox nodded. His resentment had been built up for decades. He took him some reflecting on how it all started. He was gazing down at his coffee. Reflecting on all the years that he had dedicated to their rivalry. He looked up when he felt his hand being grabbed. His eyes locking with Elli's.

"Thank ya fer tellin' me this Vox. Fer tellin' me how this fight between ya 'nd Alastor started."

Vox was sure that he was blushing. He prayed that it wasn't noticeable.

"Y-you're welcome."

He felt himself melt when she smiled at him. Satan, was he in love with this woman. He felt a tiny bit of sadness when she pulled her hand away.

"Now, I can't actually make any promises. But I can try 'nd talk ta him."

"Thank you Elli."

"No problem sug'." She took a sip of her tea. "Now, let's on to more pleasant things. What have ya been up to last time I saw ya?"

Vox grinned. He was making progress! And he was more than glad to tell her everything!

In the world of the internet, Velvet's photo had been blowing up. Different comments from Sinners alike where spreading like wild fire. It appeared that it was starting to become divided. Some Sinners were invested in the new relationship that Vox was getting into, while other's were staying with Vox and Valentino's previous flings. It was becoming so big that everyone that followed the Three Vs were getting split into two groups. The StaticMoth and the Velli Shippers. It wasn't even staying online any more. It was leaking into reality as well.

"I heard this female Sinner that Vox is seeing is the Radio Demon's mother!" A female plant sinner told her friend. "Her name is apparently Elli! Isn't that ironic?"

Her friend, a female bee demon, laughed.

"Oh it is! The Media Overlord and the Radio Demon's mother? That's hilarious!"

"You know if those two really did get married, that would make Vox the Radio Demon's step-father!"

The two burst into fits of laughter, catching the attention of several other sinners. A lamp demon came up.

"What's this about Vox becoming the Radio Demon's step-father?"

The plant sinner held up her phone, with an image of Vox and Elli together.

"It's the latest trend on Velvet's blog! Overlord Vox had befriended the Radio Demon's mother and Velvet says that Vox has a HUGE crush on her!"

"The Radio Demon's mother?" Another sinner spoke up. "What about Valentino?"

He was a black skinned demon with five eyes and a horn coming out of his forehead.

"They broke up!" The Bee explained. "They haven't been together in months! Vox is all about Radio Mama right now! Her name is Elli and Velvet is totally supporting their relationship! She's calling the Vox and Radio Mama ship "Velli" now!"

"No way," Another demon, a brown barn owl-like demon snorted. "Vox and Valentino always get back together. StaticMoth will prevail. Like it usually does."

"Puh-lease!" Plant-demon exclaimed. "Valentino is such an asshole! Vox deserves waaaay better than him! Which is why Elli is the perfect one for him!"

"Oh yea? What do we really know about the Radio Demon's mother? Who's to say she isn't roping him in for Alastor to attack him? Or vice-versa?"

This lead into a full blown-argument. Which resulted in demonic-forms coming out. It appeared that a Shipping War was just beginning...

"So what's your plan?" Adam asked as he watched Valentino pace in his office.

Each was smoking a cigar. The Moth Overlord had brought him over to his studio as he contemplated a plan. While Adam didn't actually like the Overlord, if it meant getting his family to finally be united, then he'll do what he has to. The Pimp hummed as he thought.

"Wine and dine them first. We got to lure them in. Show them just how much better we are."

"I've been tryin' ta do that with Elli when we were alive. She never agreed ta go out with me. 'Specially now."

Valentino nodded. He knew too well how stubborn Vox could get as well. And it was getting irritated that he was being fucking ignored. It was time to show him just who he belonged to. And as far as the Moth was concerned, the doe-bitch was collateral damage. The faster she was out of the picture, the better.

"Don't you worry 'bout that. If they still ain't eating outta the palms of our hands, there are other ways."

The LeBough heir raised a brow.

"What kinda 'otha' ways' we talkin' about?"

Valentino smirked as he took another drag from his cigar.

"No need to worry 'bout that right now babe. All that is important is gettin' our lovers back. One way, or another."

He tossed a necklace over to him with a purple gemstone on it.

"Give the little lady this. No girl can refuse a gift of jewelry."

Adam looked at the necklace. It did look like something that Elli would love to wear. He grinned. This was certain to get Elli to warm up to him!

"I can agree ta that. How soon do ya want to meet up again?"

"Don't call me. I'll call you."

He nodded as he walked out the door, unaware as the gem glowed before he placed it in his pocket. Valentino smirked once more as he looked down at the compact disk on his desk.

"Oh yes Voxxy, baby. It's time that we had another date night."

He chuckled darkly as his cigar smoke circled around the disk. Vox and Elli were both going to be getting exactly what they deserved.

Chapter Text

Chapter 7: Viva La Revelation!

With the two were finished catching up, they went their separate ways. Vox had a lot to think about. As Elli said, Rosie really was the one to help her adjust to Hell. She gave her a job, a place to stay and reunite her with Alastor. The female Overlord was the main reason that he and Elli met in the first place. He needed to show her that he did appreciate her efforts. He also need to make things right with Alastor. He was her son. And he was the entire world to Elli. So even if Alastor was a stubborn old-fashioned twit, he was Elli's blood. So instead of heading back to work, he made his way back to where he last saw Elli's friends. Hopefully they were finished with their...lunch.

He made sure to keep his guard up. Even though he was a powerful Overlord, that didn't mean some ignorant Sinners would take pleasure in trying to kill him for his position. He did his best to retrace his steps in the direction he and Elli had came from. Several Sinners had stopped to watch him. Wondering why he was on Overlord Rosie's and Alastor's turf.

He paid them no mind.

He stopped when he saw who he was seeking. Ivy, Willow, Hazel and Primrose. They were just straightening themselves up after their meal. He swallowed the vomit that he felt start to rise in his throat. Okay. Here we go. Don't make a fool of yourself Vox. He flashed a smile at them.

"Hello ladies!" He greeted.

They all turned their attention to him, grinning.

"Hello Vox!~" They chorused.

"What can we do for you?" Willow asked.

The Media Overlord did his best not to focus on the droplets of blood that still lingered on their clothing. He made sure not to focus on it too long. He didn't want to give them the wrong idea.

"I was talking with Elli, and I realized something very important. It's about her relationship with Rosie."

"Oh yes!" Primrose spoke up. "They're so close that they started calling each other sisters!"

Hazel giggled.

"Makes since to be honest. Rosie always said that she saw Alastor more as a nephew than has a romantic interest."

Vox nodded. He didn't realize that was the case. He knew that Rosie and Alastor were friends. But to think that they had a Aunt/Nephew relationship? It explained a few things that he never actually realized. The subtle way she would fuss over his appearance but straightening his tie or jacket. The whisper-scolding in his ear when he did something that she didn't approve of. It explained so much now.

"Why do you ask?" Ivy inquired.

"I was speaking with Elli at lunch, and I realized just how much Rosie has done for her. I want to give Rosie a token of my appreciation because without her, Elli and I wouldn't have met."

The four women looked at each other, then, one by one, they started giggling.

"You like Elli, don't you?" Primrose grinned.

The Overlord's screen glitched in embarrassment. Was he really that transparent? Fuck. He was sure a blush tint went across his screen.

"Am I really that obvious?"

"Oh sweetheart, you were staring badly after her. You were positively drooling in her presence. Does she know about your crush on her?"

He nodded.

"She does. But I'm working on earning her trust back. I'm sure she told you the story."

"Oh yes!" Ivy spoke up, then wagged a scolding finger at him. "That was a very nasty thing you did to the both of them. Manipulating a mother against her own son! That was a very callous thing! How would you like it if someone was using your own mother against you?"

Shame filled him. He realized that now. He knew damn well his own mother would've knocked him upside the head. She'd probably force him to live with her and his father as a "grounding" for a punishment. Speaking of his mother, he'd have to go visit her at some point. While he didn't have the best relationship with his parents, he didn't out right hate them.

"I understand that now. I do. It's why I'm going my best to make it up to Elli. And...even though Alastor and I don't... agree on many things. I want to mend things with him as well. Which is why I need to prove myself to Rosie."

The four women looked at each other. Whispering to each other. After some agonizing minutes of waiting, they turned back to him.

"We'll help you on one condition." Primrose stated.

"What would that be?" He asked, wary.

"If you two ever get married, we get invited to the wedding!" Hazel exclaimed, basically bouncing.

Vox took a moment to process then started laughing. He went over and shook their hands.

"Deal. But if not, let me know what else I can do to help pay you back for your help. I'm not the Media Overlord for nothing."

They giggled again.

"Deal!" They chimed together.

Vox grinned. Look like he got some allies in getting him together with Elli!

Arriving back at the Hotel, Elli started looking for her son. She was hoping that he was there and not off gallivanting to who-knows-where. She was tired of him not speaking to her. And she was going to corner him one way or another. She glanced around to see her son was in the lobby. He was not. She perked her ears to see if she could hear the familiar radio waves that came from him.

Hearing the distant hum, she followed it. There was so many things that she needed to discuss with him. Their fight. His and Vox's rivalry. After some time she managed to locate the sound behind his door. She knocked.

"Alastor! It's Mama! We need to have a serious talk." She frowned when she didn't get a reply. She spoke a bit more softly in hopes to coax him out. "Bebe, please open. I don't want us ta keep ignorin' or avoidin' each other. I miss hearin' ya voice."

A few moments later, the door opened to reveal the the stag. His ears were flat and his eyes were glazed with sadness. She felt her heart ache at the sight of him. As she went to say something, he enveloped her into a hug, burying his face in her shoulder.

"Mwen dezole... (I'm sorry...)" He told her.

Her eyes softened as she placed a kiss on the top of his head.

"Mwen regrèt tou. (I'm sorry too.)" She gently pushed him back. "We need to have a discussion."

He nodded, stepping aside to let her enter. He shut the door as she went to sit down on his bed. They both sat there in silence. Unsure how to get past the awkwardness. After some time, Elli finally spoke.

"Do ya remember when ya used ta play wit' Hunter Pritcher?"

Alastor wrinkled his nose at his mother. That was a very long time ago.

"Mother, Hunter and I never played together. If anything, he and his friends tormented me."

"Ah, that's right." She hummed. "Ya two hated each otha'."

The stag was confused on why his mother was bringing up someone from their past. More specifically, his childhood. He did best to not think about those who mocked him in life. As far as he knew, he probably already killed them once again since he's been in Hell.

"Any particular reason for you bringing this up?"

"I was chattin' with Vox earlier after work."

Alastor's lip curled in displeasure. Of course. Vox was the reason. The flat-headed, egotistical, son-of-a-

"He told me how yours 'nd his rivalry started."

His ears perked up at that. He snorted. No doubt trying to gain her sympathies once more. Ha! What a fool! Like she would fall for that once again! My, what a fool he was! To think he would try to spice things up to get his revenge!

"Trying to paint himself in the lime-light that he was the victim, I assume? He is, without a doubt, trying to pull the wool over your eyes once again mother. What outlandish tale has he given you?"

She reiterated the tale that Vox had told her. As the Radio Demon listened, he couldn't help but ponder what he was being told. He remember Vox had said that he was a fan of his. But many demons were fans of his show. So that was nothing of importance to him.

"That's why I wanted ta confirm his story wit' ya. So is it true?" She finished.

He shrugged.

"Perception is a thing, Mother! Just because Vox couldn't handle my response is his own problem!"

The doe-demon sighed. She had a feeling he would deflect the main issue. He often did.

"Yes, I can agree ta that. But doncha think ya could at least try 'nd see things from his perspective?"

He tilted his head. Lower his standards to peer into the thoughts of his hated rival? What a laugh! And he was about to as well, but her stern gaze prevented him from doing so. He rolled his eyes, waving his hand in a small circular motion.

"Oh very well. Mother. I'll play along with this hogwash of his." He strutted over to his desk chair. "Proceed."

Elli sighed. Honestly, her son's lack of empathy towards others frustrated her at times. But understanding now of why that was, she still made in effort to help point out why his behavior was incorrect. Not that she expected him to actually change. But it wouldn't hurt for him to act like he would be considerate. Like when he was growing up, she was going to have to walk him through to open his eyes on his contribution to the issue.

"Okay then. Let's go over yer conversation with him." She gave him a disappointed look. "Calling his technologies "inferior gadgets"? Really?"

He flicked a dismissive wave with his hand.

"Well they are. It's obvious how complicated and mind-numbing they are! Have you seen how these younger generations act? They lack focus, discipline, passion! Too wrapped up in these new-fangled devices!"

"Even so, Vox worked incredibly hard ta produce 'em."

"Oh I know that. I just don't care."

Her ear twitched in annoyance.

"As that maybe, he did offer you a chance at a business partnership."

"Which I had explain why to him why I did not see the benefit."

Elli did her best to keep her parenting mode on. He maybe an adult, but it was obvious he still needed to her guidance.

"And that's all good 'nd dandy ta make yer boundaries clear, but bein' crass towards him afta' is my issue."

He tilted his head. Not quite seeing the problem. Why should he care about something that happened decades ago? Especially when it was involving Vox? And how was he crass? He did not swear at him.

"He just wanted to be yer friend, Ali. 'Nd ya were rude ta him." She lightly reprimanded.

Rude? How was he rude? He just brushed off his- Oh... Oh... Okay. Now he was understanding the problem. That was... a bothersome revelation. He gave a sheepish smile at her.

"I... guess I could... make some effort in being... less antagonizing towards him."

She nodded.

"That's a start."

"But I cannot make any promises of it being at a complete stop."

It was a step in the right direction. That was all she could as for at that moment. She knew that not everything was fixed with a simple "I'm sorry." This was years of physical and verbal lashings. It was up to the both of them to settle their disagreements. She went over and patted his cheek.

"I don't expecta ya ta. I only expect ya ta try."

He nodded. She kissed his cheek.

"I betta' get ready for my next client. Sir Pentious should be coming in shortly."

The Radio Demon rolled his eyes.

"I don't see why you bother with a blow-hard like him."

"He's a very sweet man once you get ta know him."

"If you say so."

She chuckled as she started to walk out. She ruffled his hair as she passed him.

"Ya ain't gettin' jealous again, are ya sha'?"

He gave an offended gasp, placing a hand on his chest.

"Moi? Mother, I would never! How low you think of me!"

She rolled her eyes, shaking her head.

"Sure minou (Kitten). Whateva' ya say."

Adam stood outside of the Hotel as he tried to figure out how he was going to gift the necklace to Elli. She made it very clear that she wanted nothing to do with him. And he doubted that she would actually accept it. He moved the necklace between his fingers as he pondered. What was he going to do? And how was he going to do it? He groaned as he rubbed his face. This would be so much easier if she wasn't so hostile.

"Fuck..." He complained to himself. "How am I going to do this...?"

He perked up when a shadow fell over him. He looked up to see a giant airship above him. He blinked when a hatch lowered and a snake slithered down it. He managed to recognize that it was Sir Pentious. He had seen him visiting the Hotel a few times. All of them to see Elli. Realizing what he needed to do, he went up to the serpent.

"Hello there." He greeted. "You're Sir Pentious, right?"

The cobra smirked, standing a bit straighter.

"I am. I pleasure to meet you. What can I do for you my good fellow?"

Adam grinned, holding up the necklace.

"I was given this by a friend, but I have no use for it. If there is any chance I can pass it on to you? Maybe you have a friend or family member that'll appreciate more than I will."

Sir Pentious gently took the necklace. After a moment or two, he beamed. He knew just the person who would love this piece of jewelry!

"Well thank you! I do have a friend in mind who would adore this necklace!"

It was working! His plan was working! Elli was going to get the necklace! Great!

"Well I'm glad that you have someone in mind!"

The snake nodded. He made his way inside.

"Thank you for the gift!"

The red-haired demon waved as the other disappeared behind the door. After another moment or two of waited, he went over to the door. Peering in to see if he was going to. His grin got bigger when he saw the snake give Elli the gift. It worked! She accepted the necklace! He gave a happy giggle as she put it on. Valentino had said this necklace had something special to help her accept him and be willing to date him.

He didn't fully know what that meant, but he was eager to find out. He saw the jewel glow. He grinned. He wasn't going to do anything today. Not yet. But he couldn't wait to see what was going to happen tomorrow. They were finally going to be a family! And he couldn't wait for it! He was sure to thank Valentino later. The Overlord said he had his own plan to win over Vox. It looked like both of them was going to get what they desired!

Chapter Text

Chapter 8: The Start of a Cat-and-Canary Game

"So what exactly do you think I should get?"

Vox was currently out shopping with Ivy, Willow, Primrose and Hazel. They were window shopping at the moment, trying to decide what store to go into. The girls had plans to get help him get gifts for Rosie and Elli. He had dubbed them (to himself) as the CCGs. The Cannibal Colony Girls. It was just easier for him separate them from Rosie's employees at her Emporium.

"Oh there's so many things. A new dress, a new hat-" Willow began.

"But those are so standard! She can easily make herself a new hat and dress." Hazel piped up. "Vox wants to show Rosie that he's serious!"

"Um..." Vox scanned his eyes over what was inside the store. "What about jewelry?"

Girls like jewelry, right? Maybe Rosie would appreciate a special engraved necklace or something? Primrose shook her head, lightly clicking her tongue in disapproval.

"No, no. Save that for Elli. Rosie isn't one for accessories like some other ladies."

The Media Overlord frown. Then how was he going to show Rosie that he was changing? A majority of girls, and Valentino, liked receiving gifts of a new clothing or bling. But if she didn't care for them, then what should he get? He tried searching through his memory banks on any past conversations he had or overheard from her regarding her interests. He knew that she didn't like modern technologies like Alastor.

Maybe a new radio? No... that was more of Alastor's thing. What would Rosie like? Some new books? Fabrics? A sewing machine? Shit... why were girls so hard to shop for? Okay scratch that. Why was Alastor's social group so hard to shop for? Normally he gifted people the latest products from his companies but he knew that his standard wouldn't work.

Fuck... Why did this have to be so hard?

As he was about to make another suggestion, an all too familiar moth demon came up. Realizing who it was, he couldn't help but groan. He really didn't want to put up with his bullshit today. It was Valentino.

"Voxxy. We need to talk. Now."

He rolled his eyes at him. Fucking Satan. Couldn't he see that he was busy? He turned to the girls and gave an apologetic smile at them.

"Apologies ladies. But it seems I'll have to take a rain check. Overlord business. I'm sure you understand."

"O-oh yes!" Primrose nodded. "We completely understand."

"Just let us know when we should continue!" Hazel added.

"I'm looking forward to it." He waved as they left. Once they were alone he turned to the taller demon. "There happy? You wanted to talk? Fine! What do you want?"

Valentino snorted, leaning to where their faces were almost an inch apart.

"This thing for the Radio Demon's mother."

Vox scoffed. He's been on his ass about his friendship with the doe demon for months. He didn't even bother calling her by her name.

"Her name is Elli."

"Whatever. I don't care. What I care is about our relationship."

Before the TV-demon had a chance to say anything, Valentino continued on.

"For fuck's sake Vox! Every since she came into the picture, we've never spend time together any more! You don't think I don't know your plan? Your motivation? Do you honestly think she actually gives a shit about you? What about your reputation? Your businesses? The reason you're running yourself dry for someone you have used not even 3 months ago to get rid of your greatest rival in hell? You think she actually gives a flying fuck about you?"

Oh this asshole. Who did he think he was to insult Elli like that. Especially after everything he has done! Hypocritical bastard!

"Yes I do! And I'm fucking sick of this stupid rivalry that me and Alastor has! Elli has been more kind and honest to me than you ever were!"

Valentino made sure to keep himself calm. Getting angry wasn't going to do him any good in this situation. Not when he wanted his plan to work. He had to show that him that he did care. Even though he really didn't about his friend's attraction to the rouge angel. He just wanted back what he deemed as his. So if he had to pretend that he cared, he'd do it. Because he knew the end result.

"Alright then. Why don't I help you with this plan of yours?"

Vox couldn't believe it. Was he serious? After all this time of him bitching and complaining? He really wanted to meet her? He raised a brow at him, crossing his arms.

"Oh? What's in it for you?"

"Hey, you're my friend. Shouldn't I care about this type of shit? Introduce me of this 'deer' friend of yours. And I won't say a word about my transgressions again."

The technology demon wasn't sure if he was actually genuine about wanting to meet her. But if it got him shut up then that was a deal he couldn't pass up! So he reluctantly agreed, following the moth into his limo. Hopefully this meeting will go well.

Elli was pleasantly surprised by the necklace that Sir Pentious had gifted her. It was beautiful. The silver chain and the amethyst stone sparkled when it hit the light just right. He really was a very sweet person. As she was put it on, she heard her phone buzz. Curious, she looked over to see that is was Vox. Oh? What did he send her this time? Curious, she picked it up to see that he sent her a message.

Valentino is really eager to meet you. We'll be arrive in about 30 minutes. Sorry to spring this one you last minute. He cornered me shortly after our coffee meet. -Vox

Elli could feel her heart leap into her throat. So soon!? She had met Velvet, one of Vox's friends, but she never thought she'd get to meet Valentino. He wasn't just his best friend, but also his ex. Sure, she knew that Vox making an effort in curb his behavior, but this was his best friend. So she had to make a good impression right? As she was complementing which outfit she needed to change into, she stopped herself.

What was she doing? Vox was her friend. Why was she getting so worried about what his best friend thought of her? Feeling a bit more calm, she went to prepare herself and Alastor for the V Overlords arrival. They had a lot to do!

Velvet was out running some errands as she scrolled through her phone. She was currently snacking away some sugar confection that she had forgotten the name of. It didn't really matter. She just knew that she was really in the mood for some sugar. As she was walking around, she heard someone calling her name. Curious, she looked up her phone to see who it was.

Prince Stolas.

The Ars Geotia Prince was waving at her from his limo. Curious, she made he way over. It wasn't everyday that Hell's royalty actively sought her out. Not unless King Lucifer or Queen Lilith needed her to do something. And even then, that was very rare.

"Hey there Prince Stolas! What's up?"

She has never personally been acquainted with the Owl Hellborn. But she knew from his social media posts that he got involved with an Imp. He was married to Stella and they had a daughter. But apparently the marriage wasn't that great. Arranged probably.

"I would like to have a talk with you, if you please." He opened the door for her to get in. "Just business. I assure you. Besides, I have someone else I rather do such activities with."

She giggled. She climbed in, sitting herself in the seat across from him.

"So whatcha want to talk about?"

Stolas grabbed a bottle of champagne, pouring them each a glass.

"It's about the Shipping War you have created."

The doll demon blinked in surprise. She started a Shipping War? She swallowed nervously. So what did that mean with him being here?

"I... I did?"

"Oh yes. It's taken Hell by storm! The StaticMoth and Velli shippers are at each other's throats! Even us royals have gotten into it!"

Velvet couldn't help but feel intimidated by the news. Royalty have gotten into it?

"What... what's your stance on it?"

Stolas smiled, showing her his phone.

"Oh I'm a Velli shipper all the way! I've seen the arguments and spats between Vox and Valentino. I do believe that Ell is a much better fit for him than Valentino. Just based on their abusive history. Though the other rulers, like Mammon, Beezlebub are for Vox and Valentino to stay together."

Velvet couldn't believe it. If she managed to split the royals on this... did that mean she ended up reaching Lucifer and Lilith as well?

"What's... what's Lucifer's and Litlith's take on this?"

"Oh I have no idea," Stolas replied, putting his phone back up. "I think they know about it and are working on a course of action to address it. But I don't fully know what runs through their minds."

She gave a small nod. As she looked at her phone, she couldn't help but be worried and scared at the same time.

"O-Okay um... thanks for letting me know. Um... If it isn't too much trouble to ask... could you drop me off at my place?"

"Oh it's no trouble at all!"

She gave a nervous smile. From the looks of it, it looks like she needs to hide in her closet until the next Overlord Meeting with Lucifer.

Valentino was pleased when they arrived at the Hotel. If Adam did as he told him to do, then their plan would be set into motion. Once they were inside, they saw Elli waiting for them. Seeing Vox, she stood up, going over. Valentino glanced over at his friend to see his expression. It was one of those doopey-love sick grins. Oh gag. But he made sure to keep his own face neutral. As she got closer, he could see that she was wearing the necklace. He was grinning like a cat about to eat a canary.

Bingo.

"Hello Vox." She turned and smiled at Valentino. "You must be Valentino! I heard a lot about ya."

Being sure to keep his emotions in check, he flashed her a smile, taking her hand and kissing it.

"The pleasure is all mine. Vox has just been over the moon discussing you. And it's such an honor to meet such a respectable woman that raised the Radio Demon."

The doe-demon could feel her face getting hot, and she didn't know why. She gave a weak smile. She wasn't sure if it was because of knowing that Vox spoke about her or just Valentino's friendliness.

"Th-thank you."

"I'd love to stay longer and chat, but I'm needing to head to the Studio. One day we should set up a time to go get coffee."

It complete utter bullshit. He didn't want to do shit with the doe-demon. But it was better to let Vox and her think that he was taken a genuine interest in being friends.

"Sounds lovely!" She agreed. "Any time after my shift with Rosie would be a good time. Or we can schedule it on our lunch breaks."

"Lookin' forward to. I'll see you around." He turned and patted Vox's shoulder. "Good luck with the deer, Voxxy!"

Vox gave Elli a sheepish smile. She gave one of her own back. Valentino wouldn't say it, but he could feel their attraction for each other. And it was disgusting. He couldn't wait for the plan to be put into motion. Looks like it was time to let Adam know that it was go time. He pulled out his phone and sent him a message.

To activate the necklace, say "Your eyes shine like an amethyst." and it'll trigger it. She'll be hopeless in love with you. She has to wear it at least a week for it to be in full motion. Understood? -Valentino

Understood. But what about Vox? -Adam

Leave that to me. -Valentino.

Chapter Text

Chapter 9: Doe-ing AWOL

To activate the necklace, say "Your eyes shine like an amethyst." and it'll trigger it. She'll be hopeless in love with you. She has to wear it at least a week for it to be in full motion. Understood? -Valentino

Understood. But what about Vox? -Adam

Leave that to me. -Valentino.

Adam couldn't help but grin at the message that received. All he had to do is just get her alone for a short while. Putting his phone up, he walked into the hotel. He made his way through the hotel looking for her. After going through the first couple of floors, he managed to find her in the library. She was busy with that Sir Pentious guy. Okay, no worries. He can wait for them to finish.

After waiting a couple of minutes, the serpent finally left. Once seeing that she was alone, he pounced.

"Elli! Just the woman I wanted to see!"

"How funny. 'Cuz I don't wanna see you."

As she was starting to walk away, he made quick work of getting in front of her. He put on a charming smile. It was now or never. The sooner he said the phrase, the faster Elli would fall in love with him. Just like he always should've been.

"You know, your eyes shines like an amethyst. Simply beautiful."

She opened her mouth to say something, but there was something that was stopping her. A subtle swirl of purple flashed across her eyes. Seeing it, Adam grinned. He gently took her hand.

"Are you alright, Elli?"

She looked down at him, blinking twice before seeing the hearts in her eyes. Bingo.

"A-Adam?"

"Yes, dear?"

He was a bit taken aback by the on slew of kisses he started receiving. He chuckled, gently cupping her face and returning the affection. Perfect. Just like it always should have been. The two pulled away. He would've been more than pleased to continue. But he had ensure this week would go by without complications. He grabbed her hands.

"Meet me outside the hotel tonight at midnight. I'm going to treat you to a midnight picnic." After a thought, he added something. "And make sure no one sees you. After the... bad history from before, it'll be a bit difficult to explain if Al gets a hold of this information.

She nodded in understanding.

"O-o-oh of course!" She giggled. "It's like bein' teenagers again. How romantic."

He grinned.

"Isn't it? I'll see you then my darling doe."

As he walked away, he couldn't help but grin. His plan was finally putting into action. Now he just need to make sure that no one would intervene for the week. He needed to make a phone call to Valentino.

Two days. It's been two days since he last seen his mother. Which was odd since they basically spoke with each other every day. Alastor tried not to fret about it. They were both adults. She was probably busy working for Rosie and hanging out with her friends. And since he was busy himself with taking care of the hotel, watching the residents fail at their attempts, and running his broadcast, so that was his reason for not seeing her for he last few days. He went up to her room, knocking.

"Oh mother! I know it's been some time since we last spent some time together. So how would you like to go on a stroll with me?"

Silence. He tilted his head in confusion. Was she asleep? Or was she just not in? He looked down at his shadow.

"See if she's in. She might be napping."

With a salute, the being did as it was told, slipping through the bottom crack of the door. Once inside, Shadow looked around. Not seeing her in the single room. He went over to the restroom. The light was off and the door wide open. Not there. With his duty fulfilled, he went back to his master.

"She there?" Alastor asked.

Shadow shook his head. Alastor hummed, turning on his heel and making his way to search the hotel.

"She's around here somewhere. Search the hotel. I'm going to check the kitchen and lobby."

As the two split up, the Radio Overlord headed towards the mentioned rooms. His smile got a bit smaller not seeing her. How odd. Just as he was about to summon his shadow, it appeared right before him.

"Did you find her?"

A shake of his head. Where could she be? Maybe she was at work? As he was heading up to his call Rosie, Charlie ran up to her.

"Hey Al! Do you happen to know where your mom is? I needed to ask her a couple of things and I can't find her."

"I'm afraid I don't. I have been searching for her as well so we can have lunch together. I was just about to call Rosie to see if she was at work."

Charlie nodded. She was starting to get a bit worried, but Elli was a very busy woman! And she was doing her best not to be too over-bearing. After all, Elli has done a lot for her! But this was some very important information that she needed.

"Alright. Let her know that I'm wishing to speak to her. When she gets the free time."

"I'll inform her once I speak to her."

The princess grinned, flashing two thumbs up.

"Cool beans! Thanks Al!"

Once she turned and left, Alastor went up to his room. He went over to his phone, dialing Rosie. A few short rings, his ally picked up.

"Rosie's Emporium, this is Rosie, how may I help you?"

"Rosie darling! Just the lovely woman I wanted to speak to!"

"Oh hello Al dear. What can I do for you."

"I was just wondering if my darling mother was there. We haven't seen each other in the past two days. I was wanting to have lunch with her and sweet Charlie is needed to speak to her. Is she there with you?"

"No. She hasn't been scheduled to work for the past two days." Rosie responded, then worried crept into her voice. "You don't think something happen do you? It's not like her just to disappear."

That was sending alarm bells off. If his mother wasn't there... where was she!? He took a breath to remain calm.

"No. No. Thank you Rosie. I'm sure she's... off running errands. Don't worry. I'm sure she'll turn up. Until next time my dear."

"Very well. I hope everything goes well for you."

Once off the line, Alastor knew there was only one person that his dear mother could've been taken by. Standing up, he summoned his cane, spinning it as he turned towards his shadow. Shadow gave a nasty grin. Knowing exactly what his master was thinking.

"Looks like we have a TV to shatter."

While he was trying to thinking of a good gift for Rosie, he visited the Cannibal Colony Girls a few times in hopes to get some perspective. After a few days of trying to decide what to do, he finally came with the perfect gift! He had a few empty buildings that he bought some time a go. He never got around to using them like he planned on. So he was currently working on transferring the buildings into Rosie's name.

"Oh this is perfect! There is no way Rosie can turn down this!"

He was speaking to Vark, who was lying on his stomach, chewing away on his favorite chew toy. He was placed next to the Overlord's office chair. His tail wagged at his owner's voice. The TV-headed demon went and scratched the top of his head.

"No, she certainly can't! Not with this gift!"

As he was gathering the paperwork to present to her, he heard static. He stiffened at the sound. That wasn't his static. That meant it was only- oh shit. Alastor! He knew he should've ditched his old radio! He scrambled over to the closet he kept in. Right when he opened the door, he's screen flickered from the glitching from Alastor's own frequencies scrambling with his own.

He could make out Alastor coming out of the radio, his antlers outstretching and his eyes radio dials. He took a couple of steps back. Both in fear and to give them space. He had no idea what he did. He hadn't done anything to piss Prancer off! The only thing he did was spend time with- oh fuck! He quickly started talking in hopes to calm him down. It probably wasn't going to work, but he had to at least try!

"Whoa! Whoa! Hold it Al! I haven't done shit!"

"WhY SHoULd I beLIeVe YoU!?"

"Talk to your mom! She'll tell you!"

"I cAN't beCAuSE yOU dId SoMEthINg tO hER!"

Vox had been cornered against the far corner of his office. His back pressed against the wall as his rival loomed over him. The deer was practically in his Demonic Form. His radio dials eyes had turned into black voids. His body now extremely thin and his limbs having elongated. His teeth were sharper, dripping with saliva. The Media Overlord wouldn't admit it, but he was terrified right now. He would become the stag's next meal if he didn't calm him down! As he was trying to think of a plan to escape, he managed to comprehend what he was saying.

"W-wait. What do you mean? Did something happened to her?"

He flinched when the static started to increase.

"ShE'S mISsINg, YOu MuNZ-waTCher! ANd yOU arE BeHINd iT!"

Vox blinked. Elli was...? Now it was making sense. But he wasn't behind it! Okay sure, the last time Elli went "missing" was due to him, and while he couldn't fault Bambi for assuming that it was him... it wasn't!

"She's missing!?" He exclaimed. "We got to find her!"

Alastor was caught off guard. We? Hearing that, Alastor went back to his natural form. He raised a brow at him, tilting his head in suspicion.

"What do you mean, "we"? The only culprit that could be behind this, is you."

Vox tried to think of a way to show the deer that he wasn't the mastermind behind this. He quickly ran over to his computer, pulling up files.

"L-Look! I can prove it to you! I got timestamps of everything! My phone, my computers, cameras! As you know, I'm the Overlord of Media and Electricity. Technology! I know everything! If anyone can find her, it's me!"

Alastor wasn't convinced. But he couldn't exactly argue with his logic. He went over to him, eyeing his computer with suspicion.

"Very well. If we don't find her by the end of the week, or I learn that you are behind this-"

Vox gulped as the deer leaned close against his screen, his nose pressed against it. His eyes were returning to radio dials and the area around them was starting to glitch again.

"I will personally make you into my next meal, technology demon be damned."

The younger gave a nervous chuckle.

"U-Understood..."

Without another word, the two started working. Vox searching through cameras, while Alastor sent out his voodoo shadow minions. Hopefully they'll be able to find her. Because if they don't, Alastor is going to make good on his threat and bring another level of Hell.

Velvet had finally managed to get her closet. She was pretty sure that all this drama would settle down as long as she didn't make any new posts. No one could fault her for that logic! Especially when royalty is getting involved! So, she made sure to grab all of her pillows, blankets, snacks and plush toys to make her stay extra cozy. So that way, if anyone came looking for her, they could see that she wasn't home.

As she was about to stroll through her phone, a message appeared. Curious, she opened. The moment she did, she felt her heart leap into her throat. Oh shit. Shitshitshitshitshit! It was from King Lucifer! King Lucifer wanted to speak with her! Oh fuck! She was trying to think of a response in hope to weasel herself out of the meeting. Before she could text back a reply, she felt herself being teleported.

She gulped recognizing the interior of the the throne room. Her eyes drawn to the intimidating throne where the Fallen Angel was seated. Lucifer. The King of Hell. The being behind the creation of Hell. She smiled nervously, flashing some finger guns at him.

"H-Hey there your Kinglyness. It's so great to see you! Did you get a new haircut? Gotten taller? A new outfit? You are looking fierce!"

Lucifer said nothing, slowly rising from his throne. She gulped, take a small step back. She rung her fingers together.

"W-which I mean is, y-you're always looking sharp! 'Cuz you're the king! An Angel! So you always look amazing!"

"Velvet."

Her name from the King's mouth caused her to freeze. Unable to take the pressure, she dropped down to her knees, hands together as she started pleading for her life.

"I'm sorry! I'm so sorry! I had no idea it would get to this point! I just thought Vox and Alastor's mom would make a cute couple! I didn't think it would blow up to be this big! Please don't erase me! I didn't mean for this to happen!"

She cowered with her head with her arms. This was it, wasn't it? She was going to die. And all for a Shipping War! She whimpered, waiting for him to unleash his anger at her. She was double dead. She was going to go to Double Hell. Or whatever happened to those that got erased. But instead of yelling, she heard... laughter? No. That... that couldn't be right... right? She cautiously peeked out.

"Now why would I do that? I'm actually very impressed! I haven't see this much discord and chaos in decades! Not since Alastor's arrival!" He chuckled, helping her to her feet. "Bravo, Velvet! You managed to do something in a week in Hell that took me a millennia to do in Heaven!"

The Doll Demon was stunned. This... was not what she was expecting when she was summoned. She gave a nervous smile.

"O-o-oh uh... Thank you."

With a dramatic twist on his heel, he made his way back to this throne.

"Now, as much as I am loving this strife that you have created, it is getting a bit of a hassle when it is seeping it's way into important meetings that I have to attend. So-" He looked back at her, sitting back on his throne, with his elbows on his knees and his chin resting on one hand as he pointed at her with his other. "For us to proceed, I am in charging you to end this Shipping War! So, which ever couple gets together, is the winner! Is that understood?"

Velvet gulped as she nodded.

"Y-yes your majesty."

"Fantastic! Now run along! I'm eager to see how this will end!"

Without another word, she took off running. She managed to have her life spared, but for a price. Now she needed to use the time wisely until the next time she was summon. She had to get Vox and Elli together! And fast!

Chapter Text

Chapter 10: Panic in the Pride Ring

Three days. Three days. Three fucking days.

That was how long Elli had gone missing. And while they were both frantic about finding the messing doe-demon. No one was more on edge than Alastor. They have literally tried everything. It was so bad, that the stag had held a broadcast, threatening that if his mother wasn't returned to the hotel safe and sound at the end of the week, he would go on a massive rampage and slaughter anyone who was in his way.

So saying that the ring was in a panic, was an understatement. Basically, they had gotten many leads that resulted in dead ends. This resulted in the poor soul being attacked by Alastor for wasting their time. They were currently on their way back to the hotel after another misleading sighting. The elder Sinner was so aggravated that static was being emitted. Even his horns had grown from the intense anger and stress that he was feeling.

Vox mentioned nothing about it.

Sure, he didn't like Alastor, but if his mother went missing, he'd be on edge too. He might've caused a black-out or several if it did happen. Speaking of her, he needed to call her. Something that Elli had encouraged him to do since they started seeing each other. Sure while he wasn't on the best of terms with his parents, he still cared enough about his mother to call her at least once every two or three weeks. Though if she found out that he was pining after someone as old as his grandmother then he might have some issues...

But that didn't matter right now. Right now, he had to help find Elli.

"She can't be that far." The Media Overlord tried to console. "We've practically searched all over Pentagram City. She's around here somewhere."

"She better be." Alastor growled. "Because if I learned that someone had harmed her, I will personally hold a broadcast to torture them."

Vox didn't blame him. Elli was his mother and the two had a very close relationship. He wanted Elli to be found just as badly as he did. Though for... different reasons that he didn't need to reitterated. He was about to say something when he noticed Velvet running up. She skid to a stop, taking notice of them.

"Hey Voxxy! Great timing! I was uh... lookin' for you! Ya see, I'm really, really, really need to talk to Elli about something. Like really super duper important! Ya haven't seen her, have you?"

Vox could see that Alastor's ear twitch in irritation.

"No, we haven't. Because she's missing!" The stag snarled.

"Al, cool your wires. We're both worried about her." Vox snappped at him, then turned to Velvet. "But yea. Elli's been missing for the last couple of days. Blitzen's been throwing a tantrum over it."

"I have not!"

The Media Overlord ignored his rival. He was worried about Elli too, but he wasn't going to be throwing himself into a tizzy like the way Alastor was.

"Missing?" Velvet tilted her head in confusion. "Really?"

"You didn't notice Bambi's rampage all over the city? Or his broadcast threatening all of Pride?" Vox questioned.

"Oh, was that what everyone is going on about? I thought it was about…never mind!"

"What? You thought it was one of your shipping war things you're always going on about?"

Velvet pursed her lips, looking down at her phone with Lucifer's texts still coming it. The phrase "CUT THIS SHIT OUT!" was repeatedly being sent to her. "No."

"Anyway, unless you have any clue where Eli would be, we need to get going. Al here's is getting," the two looked over at the Radio Demon who's currently twitching uncontrollably, static screeching in the air and foaming at the mouth. "Antsy."

As the two media demons started walking away, Velvet swayed her head left and right before yelling out, "What about Ali's daddy?"

"What?" Alastor briefly turned back to his normal state.

"Ya know, that weirdo Adam guy that's sooooo obsessed with Eli and getting back together with her. Did ya ask him?"

"Why the fuck would we?" Vox's raised a eyebrow. "Eli hates the asshole for what he did so she wouldn't got within ten feet of the guy."

"You'd have to force my mother to get…near…"

The trio stared at one another.

"He wouldn't dare…" Alastor growled.

Could his sperm donor really be behind his mother's disappearance? If he was, the deer demon was going to devour him for whisking his mother away! Without another word, they all headed towards the hotel. Hopefully, they weren't too late!

Outside Pentagram City, in luxerious vacation home, two demons were taking a stroll through the gated garden. Adam couldn't help but be pleased with the arrangement. Sure, Alastor might be a bit worried that Elli wasn't at the hotel, but this was benefical for the both of them! Once he solidifies Elli's feelings for him, and Vox is out of the picture, then the three of them can finally be the perfect family!

He was watching the beautiful doe admiring the flora around her. Her normal purple dressed switched out for a more light green sundress, and her hair was up in a loose bun. She looked stunning. Especially when the light of the Hell-Sun was reflecting off her pinkish-red hair. He never stopped being in awe at her beauty. Alive and dead. It was even better now, that she left Heaven! Surely the fates were smiling down on him to have this opportunity!

"Beautiful, aren't they?" Adam spoke up, coming closer to her.

"They are." She agreed. "Your friend has a wonderful garden."

He went up and wrapped his arms around her.

"We could get a house too. And you can have your own garden. I mean, we can figure out a way for Alastor to help with it as well, granted as long as he doesn't touch the plants."

Elli hummed, looking thoughtful.

"He could help water them. But where would the house be located at?"

"Outside of Pentagram City, maybe? Or in the Second Circle of Pride. Anywhere you like."

Was it risky that he was already in the process of looking for a house for them? Probably. But there was only two days left for the necklace's enchantment to become permenant. As long as he kept Elli away from everyone. then there shouldn't be any problems. After all, this is what they're lives should've been like when they were alive. At least now, in Hell, they had a second chance.

Adam's eyes widen at the realization. This was his second chance! And there was no way that he could pass up such an opportunity! He quickly turned to look at her, taking her hands in his. This was the perfect chance to do it!

"Elli, we didn't have the pleasure of doing this when we were alive, but I would be a fool to not sieze this moment." He got down on one knee, causing the doe-demon to gasp. "Would you, Elliana LaBlanc, make my After-life the most joyous thing and marry me?"

He saw the necklace glow, the magic flashing in her eyes. Unable to contain the joy, she nodded.

"Yes! Yes, of course!"

Adam grinned when she kissed him. This was perfect. He and Elli were finally going to get married. The enchantment would be complete, and no one, not even Vox was going to be able to shatter the perfect family that he always wanted. It was all going according to plan.

Up in the Porn Studios, Valentino was in his office. He took a drag from his cigar as he watched the city below from his window. He had set Adam up at one of his vacation homes outside of Pentagram City. With Elli out of the way for the moment, and only two days left for the necklace's magic to become permenant, he had to make his move on Vox now. He knew that his darling television, was with Alastor, frantically looking for the form Heaven Resident.

He honestly hated the bitch. First, the fact that she used to be an Angel. Self-sacrifcing the paradise bullshit. She left behind a good thing, and for what? Because she missed her son? Boo-fucking-hoo. Anyone who said it was noble was a damn idiot. And the fact that her presence alone was stealing away his boyfriend was pissing him off. Well not anymore. Vox was his. Nothing the doe-bitch could do was going to change that.

But he had a plan.

He took a hold of his phone and dialed a number. It was time to set his own personal plan into motion. And it first required seperating Vox and Alastor from their little rescue mission.

"This is Overlord Valentino. I want to schedule an attack on the Princess' hotel. Yea. That one. I don't care what you do. As long as it distracts Overlord Alastor. Great. The money will be in your account."

Once he hung up, he took another drag from his cigar. Now, he just had to convince Vox to come to him. He took a moment then sent out a text to his friend-with-benefits.

You need to get your ass home! Vark is sick! I don't know what's the fuck wrong with him! He's vomiting all over the place! -Val

Once the message was sent, he pressed the button on his intercom.

"Gina, I'm heading home for the night. Vox and I have a date tonight."

"Understood, Overlord Valentino." Responded his secretary.

With a pleased smirk, he gathered his things and made his way to the elevator. It was time that he and Vox get back together. He was going to make sure that they were. Willingly, or by force. No one was going to stop him. No matter what.

Chapter Text

Chapter 11: Harrowing Heeds at the Hotel

As the three Overlords made their way to the hotel, they could only hope that Alastor's... father? Sperm donor? Whatever Adam was to the stag, he needed to be there. He had to know where Elli was! And if he wasn't, they had to figure out where he had gone! The deer-demon was more concerned. His mother was a Fallen Angel. Literally. Just because she's been there for a few months around a good few people, didn't mean that all of Hell was like that! It was still Hell! Harsh, unforgiven, sinister, and he couldn't allow her to get into a situation where she was killed!

Once inside, the three stumble upon Sir Pentious in the hall.

"Serpent!" Alastor adressed the snake.

"It's Sir Pentious." The snake corrected. "How do you not still recognize me? We're enemies!"

The stag hummed as he looked him over.

"Nope. Still don't know you."

The cobra gave an irritated hiss.

"I was just here several days ago!"

"Whatever." The stag dismissed him. "Have you seen Adam?"

"The Angel?"

The angel, he was thinking off was Adam Eden. The first man that God created. The snake didn't know anyone else by the name of Adam. Especially since the last time he was at the hotel, he had gotten into a discussion with Elli over meeting Adam and Eve when she was still in Heaven.

"No, my father."

"Your father is an angel?"

The cobra tilted his head. He was greatly confused. Fromw what he recalled, Elli had said that Adam and Eve were very much in love. How could the angel have impregnanted the doe-demon when she was alive? At this point, the deer was getting truly pissed at the snake daftness. Luckily Vox clarified.

"No! Adam is Al's HUMAN father!"

"'Ohhhh. What does he look like?" After a quick description, Sir Pentious' face lit up. "Oh, him! He gave me the most beautiful necklace for Ms. Lablanc!"

"He what?" Alastor asked/growled in a deep voice.

"He didnt tell you?"

"Since... when?"

The snake was now scared to answer but against his own common sense...

"He gave me that necklace around a few days ago."

Vox and Velvet exchanged a look between each other. That was not good. Adam had to have given the cobra the necklace for a reason. There was no way that it some ordinary necklace. Not with all the weird magical items and stuff that was prominent in Hell.

"What did this necklace look like?" The doll Overlord asked, ready to type in the description on her phone.

"Why it was silver, with an amethyst stone. It was quite lovely! I thought about gifting it to my darling Nissy, but he doesn't wear jewelry."

She quickly put in the description, adding the world "Magic" in front of it. Several pictures and websites popped up. She quickly turned her phone so he could look at the pictures.

"Do any of these look like the necklace he gave you?"

After a bit of scrolling, the elder demon smile.

"Oh yes! It looks just like this!" He handed her the phone back, pointing at the picture. "This one here!"

Vox frowned as he looked over Velvet's shoulder. Most magical jewelry meant bad news. If it was enchanted, then they needed to figure out what the spell was. And how to break it. He hoped that it wasn't a love spell. Because if Adam was using it to get Elli's heart...

Fuck it. He'd fried the motherfucker for trying to manipulate her into loving him.

The bastard.

Suddenly, Vox's phone started to ring. He pulls out his phone. A text message from Valentino? What could he possibly want-

His eyes widened like dinner plates.

"OH MY GOD!"

"Is it mother?" Alastor asked.

While he didn't like that she had one of Vox's cellular devices, he had to admit, at this current time, it would be useful.

"No, Vark is dying!"

"What do you mean he's dying?!" Velvet asked, panicked.

Vark couldn't die! He was best land-shark-dog that they ever had! Granted he was the only one that they had, but the point still stand! Vark was too wholesome and adorable to die! Instead of answering, Vox turns tail to leave.

"'I have to go!"

"What do you mean you have to go!? My mother is more important than some guilded mutt!" Alastor yelled after him.

Velvet gives a little "Uh oh" as Vox eerily turned around. Electricity was starting to spark, and his screen was glitching. He gave a murdereous look at the stag. While normally he would've sent a blast of electricty at him, now was not the time for it. He took a deep breath to calm down.

"Vark means as much to me as your mother does to you, Alastor. She wouldn't let me live it down if I let Vark suffer!"

"This counteracts everything!"

Velvet gets between the two fellow Overlords.

"Okay, enough. Vox, you go and see if Vark is okay. Me and Al will take it from here."

Vox gave a small smile at her. He went and gave her a small hug.

"Thanks dollface. I'll be back as soon as Vark is okay."

With that, he left. Alastor tapped his foot angrily. He glared down at the doll demon.

"You do realize we're now one man short now?"

Velvet looks at the Radio demon. She hummed thoughtfully, then took notice of the Victorian serpent that was still standing there. An idea instantly flashed through her mind. She grinned and gestured towards him.

"No, we don't! This Pentious guy will help us!"

"I will?" Pentious echoed with confusion. He then realized that meant he would be hanging out with two Overlords, one of them being Velvet, one of the other V's, he couldn't pass this opportunity! "I mean, of course, I'll help!" He paused, unsure what they needed help with " ...With what exactly?"

"Finding my mother!"

The Radio Overlord was really getting irritated at him.

"Oh right, of course! Lead the way!"

Outside, a good group of 20 or so demons were approaching the hotel. The main leader of the group stopped. He turned towards his buddies, smile at them. In front of them was the Princess' worthless excuse of a rehabilitation hotel. And inside, was their prize. The Radio Demon. Valentino had promised them a hefty award if they could cause enough damage to the deer. And they were all eager to their slimy paws on the cash.

"Alright guys, you heard the boss! Time to tear this shit up! Make sure we get proof so the rat-bastard doesn't skim out on us!"

Once he was satisfied with all of his goons' responses, he motioned towards the building.

"Alright boys, attack!"

One of the goons pulls the pin of a hand grenade and threw it into one of the windows. The grenade flew right back out the same window, over their heads and exploded.

"What the fuck?"

The door to the hotel opened. Out came their target. The Radio Demon. Said demon greeted them with an insincere smile.

"Well, This is most inconvient. My mother is missing, that good-for-nothing TV run off, and now unsavory types trying to ravish the hotel. But it's nothing I can handle!"

He raised his hand and snapped his fingers to deal with this mess swiftly. But nothing happened.

"What?'. Alastor snapped his fingers repeatedly but nothing happened. "Why can't I use my magic?"

One of the goons laughed viciously.

"Did you think we didn't come unprepared?" He brandished a strange-looking badge. "This here cancels out your voodoo magic. And we all got one. So no-one is gonna save you n-"

Before he could finish, a knife hit him in the jugular. He fell down as he choked on his own blood. The goons looked to where it came from. Next to Alastor stood Velvet who had a naughty smile on her face.

"You do know that those things don't protect you from physical harm, right?"

The goons were shocked by this oversight. One of them stepped up.

"O- oh yeah? So what, there's only two of you and more of us!"

A laser beam hit him and disintegrated him on the spot. Sir Pentious has appeared, with a smoking laser gun.

"Actually, there's three of us. But I know what makes this fair'" He snapped his fingers and yelled "EGG BOIS!"

The Eggboi's popped up in at least a dozen. Outnumbering the goons. But the goons didn't cower.

"ATTACK!"

The goons charged at them. Sir Pentious turned to Velvet.

"Ladies first?"

Velvet pulled out another knife and a potion.

"Why thank you!"

The two overlords let out a battle cry and charged. The Eggbois didn't know what was going on. They shrugged their shoulders, pulled out their weapons, and followed their leader into battle. What followed was a massacre. The Eggbois overwhelmed the goons with their numbers. Sir Pentious used his more advanced weaponry to crush his enemies. Velvet relied on her agility and various potions and knife to ambush her opponents and strike. All the while Alastor just stood there. Partly bumped out since he was supposed to do the massacre. But he couldn't do anything when the enemies used something to nullify his power. But it was entertaining nonetheless. He even conjured up a flip-chair to watch the show.

This was going to be entertaining!

Vox did his best to get home as fast he could. His poor baby! His precious shark-puppy must be so miserable! He hoped that Val was just overexaggerating! He wouldn't know what to do if Vark died on him! He hated to leave Alastor and Velvet on their own, but right now, his pet needed him! And he was sure that Elli would understand! Once he saw his house in view, he picked up his space.

He burst through the door, frantically looking around.

"Vark!? Val!?"

As he moved further into the house, he managed to come up to his office. He heard whimpering on the other side of the door. His senses were alerted. He quickly grabbed the knob.

"Vark! Val! I'm home! I'm here!"

He threw the door open. The moment he stepped in, he noticed Valentino sitting his office chair. Vark was sitting next to him. Enjoying the pets that the moth Overlord was giving him.

"Val? What...? Is Vark- He looks..." The TV-demon was confused at the scene in front of him. "What's going on here!?"

"Hmm? Oh. Vark just got into the trash again. Stupid mutt. He's alright now. But it's good that you're here, I've been needing to talk to you."

"About what?"

"Well, I've heard Bambi's distress call. Something about her mom missing. I knew how important she is to you so I looked around. But you're not gonna like it"

The moth pulled out a folder and gave it to Vox. Vox opened the folder and his mouth dropped. Pictures of Eli and that bastard Adam. Laughing, hugging. Kissing.

"What the hell is this?!"

Val shrugged his shoulder.

"I don't know. The guy I send simply took the pictures and got out. I thought I best informed you."

A thousand thoughts went through Vox's mind. This has to be a trick. Because NO WAY in hell that Eli would be back with the very guy that raped her! But then she noticed something. Eli seemed to have a necklace on her. The same necklace Adam gave to Pentious to give to Eli. But where could he- A thought occured to him. Those magic necklaces weren't exactly cheap. Especially for a sinner who just got here. You had to have connection and money to get them. And who would have money, connections and a motive to give Adam that necklace, then his very ex? He needed to test something.

"So... this is... legit?"

"From the horse's mouth."

Vox frowned as he looked over the photo.

"I'm noticing she has a beautiful necklace on. Looks like something Velvet would love. Might look good on you as well. Purple compliments your skintone."

"Aww thanks."

"I mean it. Matter of fact, I'm suprised you haven't bought a whole collection of them. A bit uncharacteristic if you ask me."

The moth leaned forward.

"What that's supposed to mean?"

Vox casually shrugged his shoulders.

"I'm just saying. With some shiny jewelery, people may forget the person wearing it, is an A-class A-hole. Seems Adam has just a BIT more class."

The moth stood up to full lenght. Vark scurried away as the dog sensed a dangerous tone-shift.

"BITCH I HAVE MORE CLASS THEN THIS PIECE OF SHIT! I SHOULD KNOW CAUSE I BOUGHT IT!"

After his outburst, there was a tense silence. Valentino internally panicked as he just gave himself away. Vox smiled. In a straining matter as he curled his fists. Electricity coursing thorugh.

"Oh really? Then how did Adam get it?"

Rather then answering, Valentino reached for something in his coat. And threw it at Vox. Vox caught the object without a sweat.

"I believe I have my ans-"

The object in his hand exploded with a strange energy. Vox screamed out as he feels it going through his body. After a few seconds, his sceen goes black. And he fell down, knocked out. Valentino walked over to his body. He grabbed a cigarette and lit it up. He blew out some smoke.

"I almost forgot how you can piss me off." He nuffed then threw his cigarette in the trashcan. "I should've known that you would've figured it out. That's my bad." He then grabbed Vox's body and carried it as he leaves the room. "But doesn't matter now, does it? Not when you're hit with a pocket sized EMP."

It seems he had to go with Plan B. Guess that old school dungeon finally comes in handy. He'll have his Voxy back. No matter the cost.

Chapter Text

Chapter 12: The Cat (or Rat) Is Out

After 5 or 10 minutes of pure bloodshed, it was very clear who won. Most of the goons were dead. A lucky few managed to survive. But not without broken bones and missing body parts that wouldn't heal for a long time. It was due to these wounds that it was easy for the Egg Bois to round them up and take them as prisioners. Their weapons and more importantly their badges were confiscated. An Egg Boi walked up to Sir Pentious.

"All enemies are taken prisioner, sir!"

"Good. Their weaponry?"

"Con-fi-scated, sir!"

The snake whispered into his ear.

"And those badges?"

"We took those too? Also why are we whispering?"

"Because if I can analyse their capabilities, I'll be able to nulify everyones power. Hehehehehe..."

"What are you guys whispering about?"

The two looked to their right and saw that Velvet has snuck up on them. The snake tried to play it cool.

"Oh, nothing! Nothing just uhhh, discussing the most terrible torture methods on these ruffians!"

The Egg boi looked confused. Weren't they talking about something else?

"I thought you said-"

The snake covered his minion's mouth before he could say anything. He gave a sheepish smile to the overlord. He changed the subject. He couldn't let her know about his plan!

"Sooo, Miss Velvet. What were in those bottles you used? I have never seen such effects before."

"Ohh, just some alchemy."

The snake's eyes (literally all of them) lit up.

"Alchemy? The precursor of chemistry? I thought that branch was long lost!"

The doll demon spun a bottle on her finger.

"Not in hell. Maybe we could hang out and compare notes?"

Sir Pentious looked absolutly giddy. One of the V's wants to hang out with him!? This was a dream come true! He couldn't believe that it was finally happening! Before he could answer, Alastor butted in.

"I'm sorry, but we have more important things to do. Finding my mother!"

Sir Pentious hummed before his eyes settled on one of the goons. An idea came to him. Of course! What better way to gain information, then a bit of interrogation? He went over to the leader of the group of assassilents. He grabbed hold of the brute, dragging him over. He shoved him in front of Alastor.

"You wish to find your mother, start with the reason why he lead the attack to halt your search."

The demon gulped. Even though Alastor was smiling, there was anger in the scarlet stag's eyes. No doubt he would become his next meal.

"The snake is right. You and your friends DID throw a wrench in our plan. Would you like to tell us why?"

The leader quivered in his boots as Alastor's claw ran around his neck like a blade. He immidiately confessed.

"It was Valentino! He paid us to collect your head! Please don't eat me!"

Alastor tilted his head.

Valentino? That vermin couldn't have done it himself? Tch, Typical.

Velvet was thinking to herself. Val paid these mugs... to attack the hotel... Right when Vox left... And the fact that a jealous sinner suddenly got a magical item on short notice... She gasped dramatically as it all summed up.

"Oh my God! Val gave Adam the necklace, so Adam can give it to Al's mom and kidnap her! That way Val can take Vox back as his boyfriend! And he lured Vox away with that text and paid these fuckers to kill Al!"

She panted from her explanation. Alastor looked at her quizzically.

"Velvet dear. This isn't some drama novel."

Sir Pentious digressed.

"No, no. She's got a point."

Alastor gave him a skeptical look.

"'Oh what, do you read drama novels?"

"I am from the Victorian era. Drama novels were a 'trend'. Besides, it makes sense from a tactitcal view. With you out of the way, Valentino can have Vox for himself. But why would Adam want Elli?"

After a blunt and simple explanation, the snake felt a surge of anger and guilt. The fact that he was used as a pawn by such a low scoundrel for such a motive? It was unforgivable! He immediately turned to his Egg bois.

"Egg Bois, dump these people in a hole! And get my serious weapons! We're going hunting!"

Velvet pumped her fists in the air.

"FUCK YEAH WE ARE! WE'RE GONNA MAKE AL'S DEADBEAT A DEAD MEAT!"

Alastor mulled over Velvet and Pentious' statements. As much as he wants to deny it, it does make sense. This attack, Vox's leave, and Eli's disappearance are too much of a coincidence. If Valentino really played a part in this then oh, there's gonna be blood spilled.

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A flick. Vox groaned as he started to stir. What... happened?

He opened his eyes and saw that he was in some sort of dungeon. Cold and dark. The only sources of light were lanterns on the wall. He then felt his head pounding. He tried to touch his forehand to soothe the pain, but he couldn't. Because his wrist is chained to the wall. Matter of fact, both his wrists and his ankles were chained up to the wall. How the- He then remembered. He came home to check on Vark. He then discovered Valentino was behind Eli's disappearance and then he used some device to knock him out. He should've known his ex had something to do with all of this. That lying snake!

"So you're up?"

Vox followed the source of the voice and saw him. His ex emerging from the shadows. Smug as always.

"YOU!"

Vox tried to channel electricity. Just anything to break out and wipe that smirk off Valentino's face. But he felt nothing. He blinked in surprised.

"What the-?!"

"Don't try it. I have commissioned this dungeon specifically to keep any kind of power out. Including yours."

Vox gritted his teeth as he scowled at him. He then settled to try and strangle the pimp, but his chains wouldn't budge. After a minute of attempting to break free, he slumped down. He ran quickly out of energy, but not out of anger. Not by a long shot.

"Val. Of all the shit anyone has pulled since I got here, YOU, are crossing a FUCKING LINE here!"

Valentino wordlessly lit up a cigarette.

"Wow, never heard that one before." He stated sarcastically.

"I'm serious Val. If anyone finds out that YOU let that bastard Adam take away Elli, then there's a whole line of people who wants to mount your head! Alastor, the princess, and everyone else from the Hazbin Hotel."

"Oh, I know. But that's been dealt with as we speak."

"What?"

"Why did you think I texted you about your pet? Right now, some punks are wrecking up that shithole, and will deliver Bambi's head on a platter."

Vox laughed.

"What makes you think they can do what neither of us could?"

"'Because they happen to have something to cancel out his power. Making him and that hotel easy targets. Even IF it doesn't work, it'll stall enough time for Adam to get what he wants."

Vox did not like where this was going.

"Valentino. What did you do?" He sneered.

The moth Overlord chuckled.

"Don't worry about it baby. Just know that in a few hours, you don't have to worry about little Miss Fallen Angel anymore. Things can go back the way they were."

"What?"

Vox then felt an immense headache hit him. As he held his head, his screen started to become... pink? The moth smiled evilly as the next step of his plan was now unfolding.

"Look at that. Right on time."

Vox screamed out in pain, the pink was slowly overtaking his face.

"VAL WHAT DID YOU DO TO ME!?"

"Oh just a special memory wipe I installed. Don't worry, it will only take a minute. And wipe out everything that has happened when you met that doe." The pimp turned around to leave. "See ya soon, sugarcake."

Vox could only yell out his name as his eyes drowned in pink.

"VAAAAALLLL!"

His screen was fully pink, and Vox lost consciousness again.

Chapter Text

Chapter 13: To Track A TV-Demon

The two overlords and Sir Pentious arrived at the penthouse Velvet shared with Vox and Valentino. She has tried to contact Vox to warn him, but no luck. This made Velvet panic as this confirmed her suspicion. Valentino orchestrated this whole mess, just to get Vox back. She has known jealously from when she was alive, but this was ridiculous.

Instead of using her keys, she kicked the door open.

"Vox?! Vark?! Where are you guys?!"

As she looked around, Sir Pentious and Alastor followed her lead.

"He isn't here." the Radio Demon spoke up. "I can't feel his signal."

The eldest Sinner turned to look at him, raising a brow.

"You can feel his signal?"

"Of course, I can. He may be the TV demon, but his and my signal are similar in frequency and magnitude. It's how I manage to track him in case of... emergencies."

"You mean stalk him."

"It's not stalking!"

Velvet had had it with the banter.

"Can we FOCUS?!"

Velvet scoured the house from top to bottom. Sir Pentious ordered his Egg Bois to set up a perimeter. Alastor summoned his legion of shadows to leave no stone unturned. After 10 minutes or so, Velvet looked like she's about to pull her hair out.

"This is bad. This is bad, SO F*CKING BAD. Why couldn't Val stay out of Vox's business FOR ONCE?!"

She punched the wall so hard, that it cracked. Alastor and Sir Pentious were taken aback by such a show of strength. The fact that the jolly doll demon was this freaked out, was quite unsettling.

Alastor huffed.

"As opposed to your involvement in Vox's life?"

His shadow minion all chuckled. But then something happened. Velvet's form began to glow a strange, dark purple aura. She then slowly turned around with murder in her eyes. The little line around her eyes was glowing pink.

"What. Did you say, HUH?!"

The shadows were spooked. So much so, that they retreated into the darkness. And they have seen gruesome stuff before.

Alastor didn't mind it or couldn't care less. He simply had it out to take a crack at her.

"I'm simply stating facts, dear. While that worm of a moth was all up in Vox's life, you just stood on the side. Looking at your "phone" as it mattered more."

Velvet clenched her fists as Alastor was driving her to breaking point.

Sir Pentious never dealt with overlords like this, but he knew an incoming outburst if he saw one. As a good friend should, he stood between the two.

"That's enough! We won't find Vox by going at each other's throats!" He pointed his finger at Alastor. "And we most won't certainly find your mother."

Alastor turned his face away, dismissive. The snake made a point. Bickering won't help the situation.

Sir Pentious turned to Velvet.

"Miss Velvet, does Valentino have any secret rooms? Maybe a special prison of some sort?"

Velvet put a finger on her chin, trying to remember everywhere Valentino went for this kind of thing. She then had an epiphany.

"He does!"

She ran to a flight of stairs, with the snake and the deer behind her. They stopped at a door, with a code machine next to it. Velvet says

"This is Val's room. Somehow, it's connected to some dungeon he had installed for 'special guests'."

"How do we get in?"

"'Well, one code is to get in his room, which is 106901. As for his dungeon room..."

She hesitated for a bit, then typed in 177013. The wall next the door opened up, revealing a secret entrance. Velvet pinched her nose between her fingers.

"Oh, my fucking... Val. Why?"

The two sinners behind were unaware of the cultural reference NO-ONE SHOULD KNOW OF and shrugged their shoulders. The stag motioned to the darken corridor.

"Well? Lead the way!"

Velvet sighed and nodded. She pulled out a knife, gestured for them to be quiet, and descended into the secret entrance. Pentious pulled out a laser gun and slithered right behind her. As Alastor followed up, he felt a feeling of powerlessness in these. The same feeling when those badges canceled out his powers. If there was any indication that Vox would be in this strange dungeon, it's right before him.

He turned to his shadow minions.

"Make sure no one other than the snake or the doll comes in or out of this door. You may feast on them if you have too."

The shadow all gave concerned growls.

"Oh, don't worry about me. I can kill just fine without powers. In fact-!" He snapped his fingers and a shiv in his hand appeared. His oldest, and first weapon form when he was alive. "It's been a while since I used this one."

He then went down the stairs. Powers or not, he'll gladly get creative to save his mother.

The three walked down the stairs into the mysterious dungeon. From the cobblestone walls and the few torches lighting up the dark, it seemed to be an old dungeon.

They all had their weapons out and their guard up, not saying a word. There was no telling what was lurking here.

"Can we hurry up?" The stag blurted out.

The other two aggressively shushed the deer demon. The doll demon glared at the cannibal.

"Shut up you idiot! You're gonna get us caught!"

"Say Alastor, why not teleport us down further?" The cobra asked.

"I can't."

"You can't?"

"No."

"Okay. Why?"

"These walls… they seem to cancel my magic. Meaning that if there's any place Vox would be imprisoned, it would be here."

This urged Velvet to go down the stairs quicker. The snake was rather curious. It seemed the doll demon was stressed. Given the situation it was no surprise. But he felt this was out-of-character for her. Especially with her near confrontation with Alastor earlier. The kingpin decided to take a chance.

"Miss Velvet-"

"Please don't call me 'miss'."

"Right, sorry. If I may ask, are you and Vox… Close?"

Velvet stopped in her tracks. She looked back at the snake skeptically.

"Who wants to know?"

"Well, you were almost a hair away from clobbering Alastor for insinuating you don't care about Vox."

Alastor's ear twitched. Almost in annoyance.

"As if." He muttered quietly.

The snake continued.

"Between Alastor and Vox, I've never seen you use your powers before. So you must really care about Vox to 'whip it out' as they say."

"Okay first off, I have to teach you proper slang so you won't say shit like that. And second… I do. Vox is like… a father to me. Or at least more of a father then my actual father."

No one could see it, but Alastor tuned curiously. It seems he wasn't the only one with fatherly issues.

"I remember when we first met..."

2007

It was supposed to be a simple challenge.  The Salt and Ice Challenge. She was sure she could handle it. Dousing your body in salt and rubbing ice on it and seeing how long you can stand the burning sensation the reaction between salt and ice creates. She even went a step further by rubbing salt all over her body and then climbing into a tub full of ice.

To say that the pain was inapprehensible was an understatement. And that she did it while home alone, was an even more stupid decision. So when she couldn't take the pain in more, jumping out of the ice tub, she slipped, smacking her head against the corner of the sink. Her body covered in second degree burns just edging on third degree.

With no one to help her... she died. The video camera having caught it all.

Screaming. All she knew now was that she was screaming. Falling from the sky. Was this what dying was like? Falling from great heights?

Wait no... there was buildings. Why were there buildings!?

Before she could think further, she crashed through a glass roof, into... a pool? The sudden warmth of the water snapped her body into action as she swam up to prevent drowning. She grabbed whatever side she felt and tried to regain her bearings. What in the fuck just happened?

A long arm snatched her out of the pool and threw her to the ground. She coughed out all the water. The multiple clicks made her look up, and saw she was surrounded by monsters! All aiming firearms at her! Her arms shot in the air.

"Don't shoot!"

A dark chuckle made her turn around and saw... the tallest pimp she has ever seen. Smoking a cigar and puffing out smoke.

"Now why would I do that? Someone still needs to pay for my roof."

He pointed upwards where, indeed, stood a glass roof. Broken.

She heard another voice call out.

"What the fuck just happened?"

She turned around and saw a man with a tv head walking towards them. What the fuck?

The poor girl fell down on her knees and begged.

"NO! Wait, please! Don't hurt me! I can be of use! You don't know what I've done to get here! The lies I've told, the lives I've ruined!"

She realized what she just said. 'This isn't helping me.'

Valentino smirked.

"Oh really? What kind of use?"

"Uh... I'm a social media influencer!"

The Moth Sinner raised a brow at her.

"A what?"

"Oh I heard about them!" The TV-headed one spoke up. "I've been looking into that form of medium but it's been difficulty with managing all those apps and the employees and most are freelanced which is a pain in the fucking ass to keep track off-"

"I can help with that!"

They turned their attention back over to her. The TV headed man grinned. He went over and held a hand out to her.

"Name's Vox. I'm the Media Overlord. And the moth that was ready to blow your head off is Valentino. Overlord of Porn. What's your name, dollface?"

"Velvette Stiles. Velvet for short."

Valentino raised a brow.

"How so?"

"I have an extra t and e at the end of my name."

"And we have been friends ever since. And I will not have Valentino ruin it. I'd rather die again."

Sir Pentious nodded.

"I see. That is truly a horrid way to go. If it'd make you feel any better. I could share how I died, if that would make you more comfortable with you sharing such a personal piece of information."

The Social Media Overlord looked at him. She tilted her head slightly from side to side as she seemed to be debating. Then she relented.

"I... am a bit curious on how you did arrive. And survived as long as you did down here. I don't really recall many other Sinners living as long as you have."

The snake beamed at this, his chest puffing out in pride.

"Tact, my dear. As some of folks may know, I'm first arrived here in 1888. I was killed by a lynch mob."

Alastor tilted his head, curious.

"Oh? What horrible crimes did you do?"

"Oh, child labor, poor working conditions, nothing unusual for the time. But no. They mistook me for Jack the Ripper as I was working late building my machines. A combination of me being out late, having a conversation with a young woman the night before she was found murdered and my reputation of being a quote 'mad scientist' unquote, that resulted in my death."

Velvet sucked air through her teeth.

"Damn. That sucks."

Sir Pentious nodded.

"Indeed. Funny enough, when I shortly arrived in hell, I ran into the actual Jack the Ripper. We fought and in a daze of animal instinct I ate him."

This caused the two overlords to pause and look at him in shock. Pentious huffed.

"Yes, I ate him and no, it wasn't worth it. The only good thing that came out of that was a couple of coupons I received from the very women Jack killed as a thank you. Who by the way, are very nice people."

Damn. This man beat me to it... Alastor mused.

Well, he couldn't really claim that. As he had only read the old newspapers about the gruesome killings over in Britian. But his dear mother had heard the stories from her mother and grandmother when they were alive. How odd how twenty years before his birth, something so horrid took place. He'll be sure not to underestimate the serpent again.

Note to myself, Velvet thought. Give this guy an reward.

They continued down the passage away. Until they finally came to the end of it. Before them... stood another door. Velvet gulped. She hoped that the Moth Pimp didn't hurt him. Sure, Valentino was an abusive asshole, often hitting, screaming and manipulating Vox throughout the many break-ups that they had. She just hoped that it wasn't as bad as her mind was making it out to be.

"I'm assume he's just behind this door?" Alastor questioned, moving forward to see if it would open.

Alastor put his hand on the door, pushed it... and it opened. Just like that. The room reveled was some sort of dungeon. And chained to the wall was none other then...

"Voxxy!" Velvet yelled out.

She ran towards the TV lord, who appeared to be unconscious. She gently lifted his head up. Pushing something on the side of his head. Most likely the "on" button to his face. She stepped back, ringing her hands together. Hopefully nothing too serious was done! If his memory drive was damaged... she just hoped that the Tech Doctor would be able to fix him up again.

Though she really hoped that they could avoid all that. With Elli missing still... there wasn't a lot of time to deal with an amnesic Media Overlord.

Vox's screen lit up, with a red tint. The TV demon opened his eyes, more pinkish than usual. A strange glint flickered in his eyes. Then he spoke in a very uncharacteristic voice. This made the three looked at each other. Something was wrong. It sent a shiver down the female Overlord's spine as he smiled at her.

"Hello Velvet."

Chapter Text

Chapter 14: Time Tick, Tick, Ticking Away

“Are you insane!?” 

Elli kept her gaze neutral as Adam, the Exorcist Leader and the First Man, raged at her. She rolled her eyes at him. Ever since news got around that she was leaving for Hell, everyone has been trying to talk her out of it. 

“It’s HELL!! The scummiest of the scum live there! Sin is rampant! You’ll be corrupted the moment you arrive!” 

“God has permitted it. And you know how our Lord works in mysterious ways. He might be sending me for a purpose.” 

He scoffed. 

"Yeah, right. Elli, you are one of the best model citizens in Heaven. You have it good here! You can find a husband, continue to be with your family that is here, start a new family once you find-" 

"My family also includes my son, Alastor. I'm going to Hell, whether any of you like it or not. I already said goodbye to my parents and extended family. But I'm a mother. And no matter how you perceive it Adam, my job is to be there for my child." 

Adam tilted his head in disbelief. “Alastor?!”. He threw his hands up in the air. “Oh, of course. Why not? You wanna find your son? Fine, go ahead! But don’t come crying back at the gate cause ya can’t!”

“I won’t. Thank you for your hospitality, Mr. Adam.”

“That’s LORD Adam to you. D’oh whatever. I have better things to do.” Adam said before flying away.

Elli sighed in relief. Now that that’s out of the way, she can continue preparing herself for her journey downwards. When suddenly, she felt a tug on her dress. She looked down and saw a cherub she had never seen before. A blue/white-furred cat, with bowler hat, a black tie and yellow gloves. Which reminded her of a cartoon. 

“Oh hello, there. Where do you come from?”

“Good morning ma'am, Whizzle’s my name. I up and heard about your journey down below. I came here to wish you good luck!”.

For the first time, someone from Heaven aside from God supported Elli ‘s decision. It… was very nice to be honest.

“Why thank you. I appreciate it.”

Whizzle waved it off. “No sweat, ma’am. In fact, I have something for you goin’ underway.” Out of nowhere he pulled out a golden whistle. “Should trouble ever find you, whistle this and Whizzle finds you”. He winked and tipped his hat. “Now if you excuse me, I’m going to ride this rigatoni downstairs.

He stepped on a giant rigatoni and “paddle” while singing “Orale” by Dean Martin.

What an odd fellow, but Eli welcomed it. She put the whistle in her pocket. She had a feeling it could come in handy one day.

Little did she know that Whizzle was grinning evilly as his fur turned from blue to dark purple. His master would be pleased. He couldn’t wait to see what they had planned!

“This is bad… so very very bad!” Velvet laminated. 

“What do you mean, Velvet? I’m fine!” Vox refuted drowsily. 

“No you ain’t!”

“What the devil are you talking about?” Alastor asked Velvet. 

“Clearly Valentino did some shit to him! Look at his eyes!” She explained pointing at Vox’s eyes.

Sir Pentious hummed as he took a closer look. 

“That does look concerning. Maybe… we should turn him off and on again?”

Before Velvet could answer, Vox summoned cables and ensnared the snake and Alastor. The Tv demon chuckled. 

“Just for that, I’m letting off you with a warning. As for you Bambi, I’ve waited a long time for this!”.

“Vox, you idiot! We’re on the same side!” The stag glared. 

He’s completely helpless within the prison walls negating his powers. But he couldn’t let him know that! 

“As if! Ever since you came here, you’ve been nothing but a pompous prick! But soon, that changes as I deal with you once and for all!” Vox exclaimed as he raised his hand and prepared to blast the deer to kingdom come.

Velvet wasn’t having any of it. On pure instinct she blocked the electric blast Vox fired at Alastor with her knife, saving the buck’s life. This shocked everyone present. Including Vox, who growled.

“The fuck Velvet?! Are you… turning against me?! After everything I did for you?!”

Velvet gripped her knife tight. Vox’s accusation hurt, but not as much as what she’s about to do.

“After everything you’ve done for me… I am saving you!”

Velvet rushed towards him. Vox summoned more cables to stop her but Velvet sliced them with her knife. She threw the potion in her hand down to the ground creating a smoke screen. Allowing her to get closer to Vox and tackle him. The two overlords rolled over the floor, trying to overpower the other. 

Sir Pentious saw this as an opportunity to free himself. With one hand, he dialed some buttons on his raygun and set it to “Overload”. He put the raygun on the cable and fired. The cables’ power overload, causing them to disintegrate. Freeing him. He then did the same to free Alastor.

“Come on, we got to help!” Pentious said before joining the fray. Alastor nodded and followed his lead.

Soon Sir Pentious, Alastor and Velvet all dogpiled Vox. Sir Pentious coiled around Vox’s legs, Alastor grabbed his right arm and Velvet his left. 

“Get your hands off me you nasal backstabbers!”

“We will not!” Sir Pentious barked, before setting his raygun to Freeze . “Apologies in advance, but this is for your own good!” 

He then turned the ray gun towards him, beaming hitting the Media Overlord. The Tv demon’s scream died out as he got frozen, still as a statue.

Alastor tilted his head, surprised.

“What did you just do?” 

“I froze him. No wait! I PAUSED him!” Sir Pentious claimed, feeling pretty good at his wordplay. 

“Hmmm, fair enough. But now what? Vox seems to be under some kind of control spell and Valentino is nowhere near to be found!”

“Not for long he’s not!” Velvet hissed and got on her phone. If she remembered correctly… “Gotcha bitch!” 

She turned her phone to show Alastor and Sir Pentious. 

“Sinners have tried to control Vox’s property before. Hackers, sinners with electric powers, all that shit. So Vox created an alert-network to pinpoint and stop such attempts for all his products and technology. Aaand, if I use this alert-network with Vox’s inner system…”.

“You can pinpoint and reverse whatever’s controlling him!” Sir Pentious finished. “Well done, Velvet! The faster we’ve cured Vox, the faster we can continue our search!”

“Yeaaaah, the bad news is it’ll take a while.” Velvet added.

 “Fantastic, we’re killing more time while Valentino’s God-know-where.”

“I’m not finished.” Velvet said. “Vox ALSO installed his technology with trackers, including Valentino’s phone. Aaaand voila!” 

Velvet grinned as she presented Valentino’s current location. 

Sir Pentious ooohed at her.

 “You’re good.”

She gave a smug smile. 

“I know. Alastor, why don’t you pay Val a visit while I and Penty keep an eye on Voxxy?”

Alastor’s grin sharpened in sadistic glee at the idea of squeezing that rat for answers. 

“I will!” He started to turn but paused, looking back at her. “Ms. Velvet, your help has been… more adequate than I expected.” 

Velvet rolled her eyes. 

“Weird apology, but gladly accepted. Now go kick Val’s ass so we can find your mom.” 

The Radio Overlord’s eyes turned into dials, his smile nearly splitting his face as the air glitched dangerously around him.

“ With Pleasure~ ”

The wedding planning was going on without a hitch! With Elli under the illusion of the necklace, it was only a matter of time that it would become permanent. They already got a dress. He just needed to find one of those quickie chapels. Shouldn’t be that hard. 

After some searching, he found a former wedding planner to help with that. A tower of a walrus demon, wearing a blackish-brown suit. The demon smoked a cigar between his two tusks.

“Hmmmm, a chapel, ay? Seems a little underselling for such a momentous occasion, don’t you think?” the walrus inquired. 

“It’s not an issue. A chapel for just the two of us will do just fine.” Adam answered.

“Very well, my good man.” The walrus snapped his fingers and a lackey gave him a huge book which he looked through for the right location. “Let’s see, in the city? Too crowded. By the sea? Too salty. In the country? Too country. Aha! Here!”

The walrus ripped the page out and presented it to Adam. The chapel in question was a small building, with a forest of dark pine and a river of blackish water in the background. “This chapel here is out of the city, and close to a beautiful dark forest. Right out of a dark fairy tale.”

Adam was in awe. A wedding in nature! Eli would love it!

“It’s perfect, sir! Thank you.”

“Not a problem! I shall send my men out to make the preparations! I guarantee it’ll be the best wedding tomorrow!” 

“Tomorrow? It’ll take that long?” The spell will take effect tonight!

“Well, no. But this forest is at the edge of hell. Sinners and demons alike have mysteriously disappeared around the edge, especially at night! Legend has it that, that beyond the edge, there’s no city, no civilisation. Only the cold wind, unforgivable wilderness, and untamed abominations risen from the dead! Clawing at whoever dares to cross the border.” the walrus told dramatically.

Adam resisted the urge to roll his eyes. He will not delay his one chance because of some fairy tale! Risen from the dead, bah! Like that ever happened in hell!

“Sir, with all due respect, my fiance and I have waited LONG enough. So we’d like to marry TONIGHT.”

The walrus smoked his cigar in thought. “You are quite bold, aren’t you?. Very well, tonight it is!” the walrus relented before snapping his fingers and spurring his men. “You heard the man, people! Get to work!”

Adam breathed out in relief. Chapel is taken care of. Soon Eli will be where she should be. And no overlord, or ghost story will change that!

“Do you think you can fix him?” Velvet asked the snake. “Have you done anything like this before?”

With Alastor away tracking down Vox, Velvet and Sir Pentious were back at the snake’s airship with Vox hooked to one of his many machines. The Media Overlord’s screen was still shut off. So they didn’t have to worry about him yelling or sending bolts of electricity at them. 

“I’ve been dabbling in software technology and mechanics for a while. Mostly for the sake of my lover. I’ve worked my way up to becoming what you modern Sinners call a ‘hacker’. Granted, I have equipped my airship to not be interfered with by electrical sinners in the past.” 

“Wait… You actually have a blockage from Vox’s devices?” 

The serpent blinked as he looked at her. 

“Oh uh… yes. I never thought of it having that advantage before. It was mostly for my peace of mind to not worry about someone taking over my airship while I was in the air. Or have access to all of my weapons.” 

She nodded. That was understandable. Hell was a full of vile people that would go to any extreme to fuck over other people as long as it benefits them. Why the hell would Overlords like herself, Vox and Valentino keep their positions? 

“Anyway, applying my machines to the alert-system should accelerate the process. Although it would be still hard to predict when-”

Pentious’ machines suddenly made all sorts of noises. One of his monitors turned on and showed an arrow pointing behind Vox’s head.

“Ooooor maybe not. Now let’s see what we’re working with.”

The snake turned Vox around so he could see the back of his head. Near Vox’s neck stood a microchip the size of a dot. Sir Pentious pulled out a special magnifying glass to take a closer look. It diagnostically dissected the microchip to find out its purpose.

“Hmmm, it seems Valentino has used a special memory wiper on Vox. Quite diabolical.”

Velvet’s stomach dropped. Memory wipe?!?

“Fuck! What do we do!?!”

 Sir Pentious held up a finger, raised it high, and pressed on an intercom button.

“Initiate reverse engineering!”

A loud whirring sound was heard as Velvet watched the Victorian Sinner’s inventions, egg bois and other machines get to work on fixing the Media Overlord’s memories. She was… impressed to say the least. She’s seen his social media posts and his obsession over them. She just thought he was some washed-up old nerd. 

But now… 

Now she understood how cool he actually was! He actually reminded her a bit of her grandfather. Old, a bit dorky with trying to keep up with the trends, nice, spells like tea and oil…

If she didn’t know that he died in the 1800s, she would believe that he was! She was definitely going to try and get to know the snake better. After all, Vox was basically her dad, and here he was trying to save him. 

“So…” She rocked back and forth on her heels. “Ever done anything like this before?” 

“Plenty of times. My lover tends to send me a lot of videos and camera footage from his job for me to look over for him. He doesn’t trust the department section his job has to not screw up. He’s a bit paranoid about it. I’ve done it to two other electric demons. One a laptop demon and the other a picture camera demon.” He paused, giving a small smile. “He spoiled me after he got home from those interrogations.” 

She giggled.

“He as old as you, gramps?” 

“Oh no! Younger than me that’s for sure. He died in 1950. I think you know his younger brother, Angel Dust.” 

She blinked in surprised. 

“ You’re dating Angel Dust’s brother!?” 

The serpent smiled. 

“I certainly am. He’s the light of my life in this dank and forsaken hole.” 

Shit, this snake was an oddball, that was for sure! A beeping sound rang throughout the airship, causing the snake’s hood to flare out. 

“Oh excellent! It’s completed!” 

On cue, Vox shot up, his eyes had returned to normal. He looked scared out of his mind. 

“What the fuck?!? Where am I?” he asked then growled as his memories came to him. “Where the fuck is Val?”

Sir Pentious and Velvet looked at each other concerned. They were not sure whether this is a bad thing or not. Velvet was the first to speak.

“We don’t know, but Alastor is already on his tail and-”

The TV demon took a running start and threw himself through the window. Instead of falling, he was flying in a blue ball of electric power. Fueled by sheer willpower and anger.

Sir Pentious stared in awe.

“He… can fly?”

Velvet, flabbergasted as well, rubbed her forehead.

 “Yes.”

“That's scientifically amazing!!! But we should follow him before he does something crazy.”

Velvet nodded before hauling ass after him. Whatever Vox was planning to do now, she had to be there to see it! After they find Valentino, hopefully they can find Elli! 

Chapter Text

Chapter 15: Clash of the Ages!

After he had his fun with the overlords from when he first came to Hell, Alastor was pretty tame when it came to confrontations with his colleagues. His actions kept the more experienced at bay, like Carmilla and Zestial. His reputation made any ‘newbies’ think twice.

As long as no one bothers him too badly, Alastor sees no reason to rock the boat. But this? Helping his ‘father’ kidnap his mother?

That’s personal. That’s an offense he can’t ignore. It’s fair game now.

Tracking Valentino down would’ve been tricky, given the foreign technology used. But Velvet was kind enough to give him a simple burner phone with a tracker system. So, like a compass, Alastor used it to navigate through the city, straight to a warehouse facility bordering between the Industrial district, the Cannibal colony, and the Entertainment district. 

It may be a coincidence. But Alastor knew that with the right amount of money, it could be used as not only a storage, but also a hideout with utmost discretion. The only catch? The overlords who have a share in the facility, being the Vee’s, Carmine and Rosie, can come in and inspect for whatever reason. Consider Alastor has Velvet’s permission to "kick Val’s ass", that’s a good reason.

He went through the gates, scaring off the guards with a withering look. Standing in the middle of the facility, he tapped his microphone staff. By his magic, he took control of the intercoms of the building.

“Testing: Attention please! On behalf of Overlord Velvet, I’m here on pest control. She suspects a bad case of RODENTS . I advise everyone in the building to leave the premises for the remainder of this inspection. Thank you!”

Seeing the staff and visitors running out and/or diving out the window, Alastor hummed satisfactorily. Now he could begin.

You think he would just use the tracking to find Valentino straight away. But you should know, he’s one for style. The suspense! 

Snapping his fingers, he caused a blackout throughout the building. If his memory served right, no one could open their storage rooms. Effectively, trapping anyone within, in darkness.

With his flair for drama, Alastor sang a song through the intercoms.

“~When you go in the woods today,

You’re in for a big surprise~” 

Alastor pulls out a lighter and flicks it open. A tiny flame helps Alastor stalk through the dark, his senses stronger. For he’s now tracking down the moth, by the smell of FEAR.

“~If you go down in the woods today

You'd better go in disguise~”

There, he heard it. The scattering of feet, the banging of fists against a door. The sure sound of an animal trapped in a corner. Leading Alastor straight to one storage room.

C15

“~For every bear

That ever there was~”

Alastor went step by step, dramatically, to the door. His heart still. His eyes dilated. His whole body coiling itself like a predator, ready.

“~Will gather there

For certain because~”

He was now at the doorstep. Alastor made sure his static noise was good to hear through any door to increase fear. He moved his one hand to the door…

“~Today's the day the teddy bears have their picnic!~”

And he rips the door from its hinges! From the corner of his eye, he saw a big shape run out. His tendrils were fast, though, and they grabbed it. Enlisting a string of Spanish curses.

“Well, well. Looks like I caught one. The biggest RAT in the warehouse!” Alastor moves his lighter to see the shape better. Lo and behold, Valentino was thrashing against his bindings. 

"¡Suéltame, cabrón! ¿Quién te crees que eres?” the pimp screamed.

Alastor’s grin tightened.

“The better question, my rodent fellow, is: Where. Is. My FATHER?” Alastor demanded, his eyes turned to dials, static noise blaring out. “I know you know.”

Alastor ran a pointed claw around Valenitno’s chin.

“I’m not telling you shit-” Valentino spat before the tendrils tightened around him.

“Careful now. I’m stating the facts around here. And here’s one: If you don’t tell me within 10 seconds, I’ll eat your legs. Then your arms, and finally your head. I’ll leave the rest of your shapeless corpse to the cannibals and use your wings for my curtains. Let’s count down! 1-”

BOOM!

Electric cables, torn off the roof. Natural light engulfed the room. And one PISSED off Vox was elevated above the two overlords.

“YOU!” Vox yelled and, like a cannonball, shot himself right at Valentino! Alastor watched as Vox strangled and choked and beat the snot out of Valentino.

Well, at least Vox is back on track with the events.

“I’LL PIN YOUR SKULL TO MY WALL, YOU PIECE OF SHIT!”

Vox slammed Valentino into the ground. He took a rebar and hung it above the moth’s head like a butcher.

“V-Voxy, w-we can talk about this-” Valentino pleaded through bleeding teeth.

“ THIS. ENDS. NOW.”

“Vox-” 

“WHAT?!” Vox growled, stabbing the rebar into the ground, inches away from the moth’s temple.

His eyes locked with the radio demon’s. The stag’s ear gave an irritated flick.

“Priorities first. We need to find my parents. Remember?”

Vox’s emotions cooled a bit. That’s right. Elli. They need to find Elli. He turned to Valentino.

“Where’s Elli? Talk. While you still have a jaw.”

“WAIT!”

Everyone turned, and there stood Velvet. She was panting like she had run a marathon. Which is basically what she did.

“*Pant* Hang on a minute *Pant* I wanna get a hit too. Penty!”

“Yesss?” Pentious asked as he slithered on in.

The doll took off one of her shoes.

“Hit him with my shoe.”

“Really? Uh… Okay…” The Victorian snake blinked, awkwardly taking her shoe. He slithered to Valentino and started hitting him. “Take that! And that!”

“Ow! Stop that!”

“Never!”

“Okay, that’s enough!” Alastor stepped up, spinning his cane, then promptly shoved the tip against the moth’s chest.. “Now, as Vox said: Start talking. Where’s my mother? And why does she have that necklace?”

“It’s what your papito wanted. Something that makes her see her true other half. It has a strong magic of infatuation after all.”

“Oh, your motherfucker! How do you break it?!” Vox demanded.

Valentino gave a bloody smirk.

“You can’t. Only something stronger than its magic can break the spell. And after tonight, the necklace’s magic will be permanent, and she’ll be in love with him. Forever!”

BAM !

Vox just punched him so hard, his heart-shaped glasses broke. Static flickering off his fingers.

“Over my dead body,” he growled. “Where are they now?!”

Val hacked out a cough, spitting out more blood. A tooth fell out. Fuck… 

“Planning a wedding, far away from here. You’ll never find them!”

“Not if I can help it!”, Velvet grinned, immediately going on her phone and searching the internet.

“Velvet, what the fuck?!”

“You shut the fuck up,” Velvet stated no-nonsense. “I love ya Val, but you’re being a piece of shit right now. Aha! There’s a wedding in preparation by one ‘Thaddeus Tusker’, tonight at…  Bloodedge Forrest?”

Sir Pentious gasped in horror. 

“But that’s at the primordial edge of Hell! It’d be suicide to be there at night! It’s also where Overlord Zestial is rumored to reside!” 

Alastor hummed. He has heard of that. Even to the likes of Lucifer, it was uncharted territory. Zestial, the most ancient of overlords, made it abundantly clear to never go to that border at night. And that said something. Even more curious that he would be the one to live in such a proximity. 

“It’d be the best option for my sperm donor to do so without interruption. That’s where I’m going.”

“Hey, I’m going too!” Vox butted in.

Alastor rolled his eyes.

“Are you sure? It won’t be pretty.”

The VoxTech CEO gave a scoff.

“You act like I’m some helpless mortal. Don’t forget, I’m an Overlord too. I don’t give a shit how you feel about me now. I just want Elli safe.”

Alastor nodded. Begrudgingly, the deer-demon knew he needed all the help he could get. He turned to Velvet.

“My dear, you think you could watch Valentino?”

“Like a hawk,” Velvet promised. “He won’t pull any shit with me around.”

“I’ll help too!” Pentious added.

“Then we’ll take our leave.” Alastor stated.

Shadows rose from the ground, wrapping themselves around Vox and Alastor as they were dragged into the depths. Most likely a faster way to travel to wherever Elli and Adam were.

Unbeknownst to them, a cat-like creature was watching their leave from afar, grinning evilly.

“The stag is coming along. Hehehehehehehe. This is perfect! Oh, she’s gonna be so happy to hear he’s coming!”

The venue was perfect. The dress was beautiful. The flowers were ready. It was almost sunset. To think after all these decades, he was finally going to marry the woman of his dreams. He smoothed down his suit. He would love to have their son with him. A picture-perfect family. It’s how it always should’ve been.

Maybe…

There was no doubt their son was looking for them. It would be awfully rude not to have him at their wedding.

They would need a witness to their unholy union.

Besides, who to be a better witness than their own son?

He glanced over at Elli. She was currently doing her hair. Making sure it looked absolutely perfect for their big day. Fuck did he love that woman…

Soon, she and Alastor would be all his. Living the life they should’ve had uptop. The hardworking father, the loyal homemaker wife, and their ambitious son.

A dream of his that shattered when he was killed.

But now it would be a reality.

He’d finally get to help raise his son right. No more of that ridiculous woman stuff. Cooking and sewing… bah! Elli was the only one who needed to do such things! He went over to her.

“Elli, darling doe~” He cooed. “I believe we’re missing someone from our big day.”

She tilted her head at him.

“Oh? Who would that be, my love?”

“Why, our darling son!”

She let out a gasp.

“Oh, that’s right. He should be here too!”

He patted her hand.

“Don’t you fret, my sweet. I’m sure he’s on his way right now. I will meet him to escort him to the premises. You focus on getting ready. You can meet us at the altar, alright?”

She smiled.

“Of course. I can’t wait to be with my favorite boys.”

He gave a smile.

“I can’t either.”

He gave her a kiss, then walked out the door. He needed to go greet his son. He’ll be showing up very soon. Their perfect lives were just hours away. No more would they be a broken family. It’ll just be how he always imagined it. Yes. Everything was falling into place…

Bloodedge Forest. By day, a picturesque forest full of pine trees and chittering birds, just bordering what one can call ‘civilized Hell’. But when the sunlight fades away, the border between the known Hell and the uncharted becomes clear.

Right through the forest runs a crimson line. Flows like blood, glows like lava, and traps any living thing it catches like tar. Hence the name.

At night, just like tonight, it’s here where creatures crawl in search of blood. Terrorizing the neighborhood. Was it someone who tried to play God and raise the dead? Or did true evil reside just beyond the border? Waiting for prey to turn into its minions?

The one person who could answer that was Overlord Zestial. Being a lord once, he has heard and seen the witchcrafters and heretics being punished for ‘doing the devil’s work’. By blade, drowning, hanging, or burning at the stake. When he died and became Overlord, he saw the same dark artists rampaging throughout the cluster of villages that would later become Pentagram City. To prove his loyalty to the Morningstars, Zestial personally dealt with these rogues. And he succeeded.

Matter of fact, he chased the last troublemaker, a so-called ‘necromancer’, into this very forest. Only to turn tail, at the feeling he was being watched and the sound of screaming, even he wasn’t comfortable with.

Thus, he requested Lucifer to be stationed here, to keep anything within the forest out of Hell. Lucifer agreed.

Now Zestal resides in a surprisingly small castle in this forest. Gothic and eerie on the outside, with a lovely garden of bat orchids in the back. But the inside is the existing part. A network of dungeons and rooms, built like a maze. With lit torches here and there. All to accommodate, not just his vampiristic nature, but also many, many of the bats and spiders he has as pets.

He’s built all this himself and knows them like the back of his hand. He even knows when someone is at his doorstep. 

Just like now, when he was enjoying a nice cup of tea. Curious, Zestial rose from his seat and went to the front door. He opened, and there stood Vox and Alastor, who were just about to knock.

“Hark, Alastor. Vox. What brings thee to my abode?”

“We need your help!” Vox said. “Alastor’s mother is under control by his piece of shit father and wants to marry her!”

Zestial tilted his head. Never had he seen the normally suave and arrogant Vox so out of control and urgent. He turns to Alastor. 

“Might thou furnish me with some tidings, good Alastor?”

“What Vox is trying to say is that my ‘father’ has taken control of my mother with a magical necklace of some kind. He wants to marry her tonight, before its effect becomes permanent, somewhere around here.”

Zestial knew Alastor was speaking the truth. He turns to the west, where the sun is barely behind the mountains beyond the border.

“Haste we must. The sun doth wane upon the horizon, and should this mockery of wedlock linger here, who can say what foul beasts it may draw forth? Dost thou possess any tidings of wherefore?”

Alastor and Vox looked at each other sideways. 

“Something small, so as not to attract attention.” Alastor mused. 

“But fashioned enough to make it work.” Vox added. 

“Lo, there doth lie a chapel, not far hence. 'Tis prudent that we seek it first.” Zestial informed. He opened a part of his wings/cape, and a green, swirly portal appeared. “This path shall guide us straight to the chapel. Yet, we must haste, for the denizens of the night give no heed to our station or might. We must tread with caution.”

Vox rolled up his sleeves as if ready for an asskicking. 

“No need to tell me twice.” As he nears the portal, he paused, turning towards the elder Overlord. “Thanks, by the way, we owe you.”

With that, he entered the portal.

“Verily, he doth hold this matter in high regard, if he be of such humble mien to owe us thusly. ” Zestial hummed in amusement, curiouser and curiouser by the minute.

“The feeling is mutual. In advance, thank you for your services. This won’t take long.” Alastor assured as he followed Vox’s lead. 

Zestial was about to enter the portal when he saw a flash of crimson burst out of the forest. The night has begun.

“May fortune be with us,” He prayed before going into the portal.

Thaddeus Tusker took out his pocket watch as the final preparations were made for the wedding in the chapel. 4 hours, 2 minutes, and 27 seconds, on the same day the location was reserved. Sure, it took a bit of bribing to vacate the premises, but it was not a bad record.

He knew his planning skills and flair for class hadn’t left him when he got killed. By the groom of the wedding, he helped to plan just before his retirement! Yes, he got a bit cocky, trying to get away with swindling the happy couple’s money like he did 50 times before. 

But hey, here in Hell, that’d be the least of worries now, so who’s checking where the money goes? Maybe, just this once, Tusker would leave tonight’s couple be. He is a fan of lovers’ reunions. It’ll be harsh to rob them of their money right off the bat.

…

He’ll do that tomorrow. 

Mind made up, Tusker pocketed his pocket watch and went to the altar. There stood Adam in a nice tux. Before Tusker could say a word, a flash of red came from outside.

“What was that?!” Adam gaped in shock.

“Oh, that? That’s the Bloodedge Flash. It means the sun went down, the border went up, and the ghostly creatures are now afoot. But no worries. As long as we don’t attract too much attention from the other side, the wedding will be smooth sailing.”

“A-are you sure?”

“Positive! We even have this at the premises!” The venue owner exclaimed as he proceeded to pull something out of his pocket: A leaf. 

Adam raised a brow. 

“A leaf?”

“Mistletoe. Repels evil spirits. Like garlic to vampires. Or silver to werewolves, or… Um…”

He snapped his fingers trying to think of another example

“Cucumbers to cats!” an imp worker added, moving in with the wedding cake.

“Yes, that.” Tusker answered. “Fun fact: Much like how its leaves are poisonous to humans in the living world, they’re rumoured to be an underrated poison to kill sinners permanently with their evil-repelling qualities! Never tested that theory myself, but hey, you learn something everyday. Change of subject: Is everything to your liking?”

“It’s perfect.” 

“Wonderful! It’s a pleasure doing business with you! Now, do you pay in cash, card, or credit?”

“Actually, I’d like to pay after the wedding. There’s just one thing that has been missing this entire time.”

Tusker raised an eyebrow. “Being…?”

The door of the chapel got ripped open by tendrils, and in stepped Alastor, Vox and Zestial.

Tusker’s eyes seemed to bulge out of his head. He looked at Adam, and back to the overlords. Back to Adam again and back to them.

The red haired man grinned. 

“There's my boy! Alastor! Right on time, sport!” 

Tusker glanced between them. Though noticing the radio’s lip curled into a snarl meant it was anything but a happy union at the moment. 

“I… will give you guys a moment,”

The walrus gave a nervous smile. Then proceeded to take cover behind a bench. As did all the wedding staff. 

Adam smiled.

“Finally, we can start the ceremony!” He made his way over to his son, pulling out a pair of cufflinks. “Put these on my boy. Family heirlooms. I paid a pretty penny to get these from up top.” 

Alastor gritted his teeth, as he yanked his wrists away.

“No. This sham ends now. ”

“Sham? This is no sham! This is a wedding!” 

Tusker poked his head out.

“Does this mean I get my payment?”

“ You are not involved in this.” Alastor hissed, pointing his staff at the walrus. “Begone with you!” 

“Hey! I feel I am very involved!” He insisted, hiding back behind cover. “This is my venue!” 

Adam straightened his suit. He clicked his tongue. Seems this was going to be a bit more difficult than he thought…

“Alastor, we’ve barely begun. A lot of effort, time and money has been spent for this moment.”

“Oh, we know. Kidnapping my mother, working with Valentino to destroy the hotel, and subsequently drugging Vox. You’ll have a lot to answer for, if you survive…” Alastor growled, his eyes turned to dials.

“Valentino’s actions were his and his alone. And I didn’t kidnap your mother! I simply took her far away from all the noise and chaos, for my plan to work.” 

“... What plan?” Alastor paused. “What is it?”

He was befuddled, but piqued with skeptic curiosity. Adam gave a sad look. He went over once more, taking his son’s hand in his own. 

“Alastor, I know we’ve had been… dealt a bad hand. I wasn’t present in your life, and Elli struggled so much. But now? We have a second chance! You, me and your mother! We can be what we’re meant for: A perfect family!”

His proclamation was met with silence. But then the younger stag spoke. He jerked his arm away.

“You of all people, have the gall to say that!?! You ruined her life! You're ruining it now! Well no more!” He snapped his fingers, and his shadowy minions appeared. “Find her.”

Adam stared at him in offense.

“I’m not ruining her life! I’m trying to give you the best version of what you two didn’t have up on Earth!”

“We were fine without you!”

“No! You two weren’t!” 

 After a few seconds, the minions returned with Elli in a wedding dress. She looked around, her voice quivering with a bit of distress. 

“Alastor?! What’s going on here?! And who are those people?!”

Zestial inspected the necklace around the doe’s neck. The amethyst was almost glowing bright.

“There remaineth yet a moment to shatter the enchantment. Yet even this doth exceed mine own strength.” 

“Are you serious?!” Vox exclaimed incredulously. “But you’re the most powerful out of us!”

The vampire bobbed his head.

“Aye. But thine own power is not boundless.” 

“Put her down!” Adam snapped. “That’s my bride!”

He went to say more, but a withering look from Zestial silenced him.

“Spare thy tongue, for another utterance, and I shall cast thee to the beasts. I am no knave of hollow threats.”

“No need for that Zestial,” Alastor said. “We have my mother, that’s all that matters. I’ll deal with him myself later.”

“I did not give you permission to leave," Adam snarled, his eyes transforming into familiar looking radio dials. “So put her down.”

To add insult to injury, Alastor, dusting his shoulder as he started to turn.

“Let’s go”.

“Who exactly do you think you are?! Are you so cowardly, you turn back on your own kin, or did you get that from your mother?” Adam spat venomously.

Vox and Zestial gasped for their own reasons. But more so for Alastor stopping in his tracks. The Radio Demon’s eyes turned to dials, and his hands were twitching to maim. To break something, or someone.

The change of shift caused Elli to perk up in concern.

“Al? Sweetie, are you okay?” She asked, still suspended in her child’s shadowy magic.

In a rare moment of clarity, Alastor let the barb flow away like water over stone. Having his mother back is all that matters.

“I am, mama. I’m fine.”

He continued walking away. 

Adam frowned, not liking that he was being ignored. Not one bit.

“Don’t walk you away from this! You’re a LeBough! Turn around and face me!” He snapped, grabbing his son’s arm.

On instinct, Alastor turned and swiped! A single scar, on Adam’s cheek. Blood gushing out of the new wound. The redhaired man held his bleeding injury in shock.

“You, struck me.”

“Oh no”, Vox gulped, noticing how the elder’s eyes were started to transform exactly like Alastor’s when he’s soundly pissed.

“YOU STRUCK ME?!?!”

His whole body twisted and contorted, very much like Alastor’s would. Big antlers grew from his head, his teeth turned to canines. His cheeks hollowed and his skin were dry like death.

Something had snapped in Adam, and his true colors were showing. In his demonic form: A wendigo. Much bigger than Alastor’s form, and that’s a concern to say the least.

“ YOU INSOLENT BRAT!!! ”

“Vox, Zestial, take my mother and get out of here!” Alastor ordered, turning into his demon form as well. His shadowy minions handed Elli over to Vox and Zestial and returned to their master to help in the sure-battle. “I need to put my old man in his place.” 

“I WILL TEACH YOU SOME MANNERS, BOY!” Adam growled.

Alastor curled a sadistic smile.

“I’d like to see you try.” 

Vox wanted to object, but Zestial put a hand on his shoulder.

“Allow him his fate. Forsooth, this be Alastor’s strife to bear.”

Vox looked between him and Alastor, who’s facing his father once and for all. After debating, he accepted it. “You’re right, let’s go”.

“Adam, what are you doing?! That’s our son! You two shouldn’t be fighting! What about the wedding?!” Elli asked, confused and scared for her boys.

“Don’t mind that!” Vox told her, taking her by the hand back towards the door. “We’re getting out of here before-!”

He was halfway through the sentence, just about to step out the door of the chapel, when FWIP!

An arrow pierced his tophat!

He immediately came to a stop, pulling off his hat. 

“What the-?” More arrows started to rain towards Vox and Elli, but Zestial manifested in front of them. Waving a black and yellow barrier with his hand to repel the arrows.

“We’re too late.” Zestial frowned. “The dead hath risen”

To their horror, Zestial was right. Out of the forest walked an army of individuals in various states of decay and death. Former sinners, imps, hellhounds, other hellborns. Their flesh were without blood, their soul long gone. Only a craving to destroy and swarm all in their path.

Still, some of them still possess some skill, based on the weapons some carry. Swords, clubs, axes, and bone and arrows. Vox pushed Elli behind him. As if trying to shield her even more from the horrors in front of them and behind them.

“Zestial, get that portal open, NOW!”

He didn’t have to tell the spider-bat twice. Though before he could do so, a zombie jumped from the chapel roof unto Zestial like a scavenger. The elder Overlord’s balance was nearly thrown off. But after decades of dealing with them, he knew how to bear. He extended his wings, throwing the rotting creature off of him.

“Verily, they dost outnumber us greatly. Flee forthwith to thine stronghold. I shall withstand their vile onslaught for as long as my strength doth endure!”

“Oh fuck me!”! Vox huffed as he took Elli back inside. 

Zestial pulled out a big long green sword. Fueled by his magic and built with angelic steel. A gift from Lucifer and Lilith themselves when he took over the mantle. 

“Should I stumble this eve, I shall not do so in solitude. This, I proclaim unto thee, vile creatures!”

Inside, Vox rattled his head to come up with something. He doesn’t have his normal powers, this far away from his network. The only technology on him is his phone-

He skidded to a stop, almost causing the doe demon to smack into him.

“Oh right! I almost forgot!”

He could call for help! 

He pulled his phone out. The signal is weak. But present nonetheless. With a thought, he sended a distress signal to everyone in his contact list! Yes! Brilliant! Surely, someone was bound to get it and come to the rescue, right?!?

Something crashed through the window. A moving, rotten hand. 

“Oh you’ve got to be kidding me!”

He zapped at the hand. Causing it to explode into ashes. A shrill warped shriek pierced into the air.

“Wh-what is happening?! What is going on?! Why is Adam fighting my baby?!” Elli asked.

Her face was completely wrecked with fear as she watched the chaos unfold. Mainly, Alastor using his tendrils to fight Adam man-to-man, tossing him around and throwing his shadowy minions at him. Adam pushed and he shoved as he heaved and he hawed like a rabid animal.

Vox knew Alastor was supposedly the more experienced in this fight. But Adam having the same kinda demonic form, made a lot of alarm bells ring. What more could Adam be capable of in that form?! It just solidified that the elder wendigo was the Radio Demon’s father. As of this moment… Zestial can’t help. He’s holding off a horde of the dead all by himself after all!

Perfect! Just fucking perfect!

Now despite the hopeless situation, the certain doom made Elli… think. Like the fog in her mind cleared just enough to remember something important. There was something important! But what?!

Subconsciously, her hand moved to her pocket for something she was given. She felt nothing in it. What could…?

A golden whistle?

Why was that important?!

“The whistle…” Elli mumbled.

“Whistle? What whistle?!” Vox asked, turning his focus on her. He swore when more rotting creatures were trying to break through the windows. He zapped at them. “Stay back you shitheads!” 

“There was a whistle in my pocket. Golden. I… know I had it. I remember someone gave it to me! It could help me in need…” Elli frowned, placing a hand on her head fighting… something!

How did she know that? Who gave her the whistle? Nothing was making sense!

“Golden whistle?” Vox had never heard of that. But then again, whistles weren’t something most people forged in gold. But the way Elli was acting now… Maybe she’s trying to remember! Maybe that’s breaking the spell! He nodded. “Right! A golden whistle! Do you remember where you had it last?!”

“Changing room… of the chapel…” She glanced around struggling to point to a door on the other side of the room. Right where Alastor was fighting Adam. She pointed at the room. “There!” 

Vox internally groaned. He held Elli’s hand in support.

“I’ll get it for you! Just stay here and try to remember. ” He stressed. He then grabbed her face, resting his forehead against hers. “In case this is it… for me… for you… all of us… I love you. More than anything.”

He stood up, took a deep breath… and gunned for the door. Jumping over thrown objects, dodging swipes of claws and frying an undead who broke in here and there. He had to get that whistle!

“Shitshitshitshitshitshitshitshitshitshitshitshitshitshitshitshitshitshitshitshitshitshitshit!” he hissed, his figurative balls in his throat. 

He reached the door and went to the changing room, frantically looking for said golden object. It had to be here! Please be here!

As the battle, both inside and out continued, one of the wedding staff turned to Tusker. He jabbed a finger at the walrus’s chest.

“YOU SAID THOSE STUPID LEAVES PROTECTS US FROM THIS SHIT!”

An undead crashed in, rolling across the floor before landing at their feet. They all shrieked in terror, but Tusker shoved the mistletoe in the creature’s face, making it shriek in terror before getting crushed by a thrown bench.

“It does, see?! There should’ve been 20 of them outside!”

“EVIDENTLY NOT ENOUGH!!” the staff member snapped. “I AM NOT SITTING HERE AND WAITING TO GET EATEN!”.

He grabbed a wrench as a makeshift weapon.

Another staff member, a female Baphomet grabbed his arm.

“Cerulean, no! You might not make it!”

“We either die fighting, or die like cowards! And I ain’t no coward!” He turned to the undead. “NOW BRING IT ON YOU SHITHEADS!”

He charged into the battle, beating the intruding creatures with gusto. The other staff members shared a look, then decided to follow Cerulean’s lead.

“DIE FIGHTING!” The chorus, grabbing their own makeshift weapons as they too charged into battle.

All the while Tusker admired their courage, safely behind cover.

Meanwhile, Alastor was surprised this fight was going on longer than he thought. For someone he knew grew up privileged, his father knew how to hold his own. Moreso, that he didn’t feel like killing Adam. Not yet anyway. The way his sperm donor finally, finally showed his true self. All because of a single cut. It was captivating to watch the mask fall and shatter against the grain. He was grateful that the man wasn’t alive with him and his mother. He couldn’t imagine the horrors he and his mother would’ve faced in such an alternate timeline. He was very tempted to just trap Adam in his shadow realm and torture him for more delightful writhing.

But that would mean… She would find out about all this. A risk he couldn’t take. Not that he minds. He wants to take his time-

“ ENOUGH! ” Adam roared, managing to find an opening, grabbing his son by the throat.

Alastor tried using his staff, but Adam snapped it in half. The younger demon gasped in pain. His staff! Not his staff! 

“ I’ve tried to be reasonable. I’ve tried to be patient. I’ve tried to be a father! I’ve tried to help you be a man for ONCE in your WORTHLESS life! And THIS, is the thanks I get?!? AN UNGRATEFUL SISSY FOR A SON?! ”

“First… Time… for everything…” Alastor choked out.

Adam backhanded him hard against the floor.

“ YOU SHUT YOUR GODDAMN MOUTH! ”

Tendrils of his own came out his back and restrained Alastor.

“ Now, stay still, and let me give you your heirlooms. ”

Adam’s tendrils put on the cufflinks on Alastor. Adam’s demonic influence made them glow purple, and restrain Alastor in a purple aura. Adam let Alstor go. The deer thrashed on the floor. Trying to fight this off.

“What devilry-” Alastor tried to say, but this aura was too much. Fueled by Adam’s desire of control, it took over his mind and reason. His eyes became glassy and blank. Even his smile became a thin line.

“There. That’s more like it,”  Adam said satisfactorily, finally reverting back to his usual form. He turned to Tusker, giving him a smile as he clapped his hands.   “Oh Tusker! Begin the ceremony! NOW!!”

“N-now?! But the undead creatures outside-”

A growl from Adam made Tusker consider.

“Will be a problem for later!” Tusker chuckled nervously. “R-right this way!”

The walrus went to the altar getting his book out.

Adam turned to Elli.

“Elli, darling! Come over here! Our wedding is starting!”

He was barely hanging onto his sanity and the dream of a perfect family! ALMOST there!

“I… I-”, Elli hesitated. She was still trying to… What was it? Remember? Remember what?

A tendril from Adam pulled her in, a little too close to Adam’s face. 

“I. Said. NOW, woman!” He shouted. He pointed to Tusker. “Skip to the vows!”

“Okay, okay!”, Tusker said turning the pages to the vows. “But before that, does anyone object to this wedding?”.

Vox kicked the door open. Golden whistle in hand. He found it! “I OBJECT MOTHERFUCKERS!”

Adam growled, looking over at his son. He pointed at the television demon.

“Al, be a good boy for your daddy, and GET RID OF HIM! ”

Alastor moved like a zombie towards Vox in an attack. Not slow like most zombies. But quick. Agile. Like he’s always been. He swiped at him, which Vox was quick to dodge. Years of flighting with him has made him have quick reflexes. The TV overlord saw the glowing cufflinks. Fucker! He knew there was some tomfuckery about them!

“Alastor? Al, snap out of it!”

“No. I must obey my father’s wishes…” Alastor responded robotically.

“Fucking mind control-!”

Vox’s eyes darted around. Think Vox! Think! The lives of Alastor and Elli were at stake here! He had to think of something! Wait… THAT’S IT!!  He almost forgot about that!

He dodged another swipe, backflipping several feet away. Cables rose out his back. Entangling Alastor till he was trapped.

“I think your broadcast should be on pause for the meantime, old friend!”

Alastor growled and hissed, struggling against the cables. 

Satisfied that he was finally subdued, Vox stepped closer. He gripped the cannibal stag’s head. Cables forcing his eyes to stay open so he would be unable to look away. His hypnotic eye started to pulse.

“Al, think for a second: Has your father always been there for you? Has he accepted you for who you are? Has he ever said he cared? Because newsflash: I do!”

Alastor pausing in his tracks, gave Vox the chance to keep going. Amping his hypnosis to full power, he advanced. Memories of their old times started to surface. The truth. The truth of how it all came to be.

Not the original lie he told Elli a long time ago. About how they started off as rivals. A bitter lie he conjured up to ease the pain of their tarnished friendship. Of a love he once had but was crushed by his own stupid plans for payback. All because his best friend didn’t return his feelings for him at the time.

It stung.

It still stung.

But that was the past. It was probably time he let go of it. 

“I was your friend once. Before it all went to shit, I was always by your side. And above ALL ELSE, I love your mother! If she doesn’t return my feelings, fine! I’ve learned since we were together. I can accept that now! But I will still be there for her! And for YOU! Remember that! Remember! Please!!”

Alastor, listening to every word, began to believe. Because Vox was right. Vox was more present in his life and his mother then his father EVER was. Solidifying one thing:  Alastor can accept Vox in his life, as Vox accepted him.

Their past… they had their ups and downs. Vox… his old friend… his mother’s friend...

Adam saw he was losing control over Alastor.

“Alastor. Stop standing like a moron and ATTACK him!”

 Adam’s influence was strong. But something within Alastor was stronger then that.

In a fit of control, Alastor ripped the cufflinks off, smashing them with his foot, then crumbled to the floor exhausted.

“No, the cufflinks!”

Elli, who too, stared into Vox’s hypnotic eye, remembered. For 10 solid seconds, she remembered.

“VOX! THE WHISTLE!”

Vox, not wasting a minute, threw the whistle.

“CATCH!”

“WHAT?!” Adam exclaimed. He had been so preoccupied with commanding their son, that he wasn’t able to stop Elli from catching it. “NO! ELLI DON’T!!”.

She gave it a hard blow.

FWEEEEEEEEEEE!

All the undead creatures, inside the chapel and out, heard it. As fast as they could, they ran away. Even the ones fighting Zestial paused, then turned tail and retreated to whence they came.

The ancient Overlord blinked in surprise.

“T’was that Angelic whistle blow?” He suddenly felt a cold, chill ran up his spine. “What is this presence?”

The golden whistle floated out of Elli’s hand, shining like a bright lamp… till it completely darkened and morphed into-

“TADA!”

Whizzle, the dark-purple cat sprite appeared in confetti. 

“... What?” Vox said with a blank stare.

“Phew-Wee, I thought she’d NEVER use that thing!” The sprite exclaimed, stretching his little limbs. He looked around and saw the thrashed wedding. “Gee willikers, a wedding?! Awww man, I didn’t bring a gift!”

Vox blinked at the new creature.

“Who the fuck are you?” 

“You don’t know me? I’m Whizzle! Everyone should know who I am!” He pouted. His eyes turned to Elli. Or moreso, the amulet. “Oh! Shiny snack!”

Whizzle took the amulet and, the writer kids you not dear reader, ate it. Completely breaking the spell. The pink glow that surrounded Elli’s eyes shattered, finally snapping her out of her daze.

“Wh-what’s going on?” The doe asked as she looked around. “Where am I?”

“You’re at your own wedding! Boop!” Whizzle said, booping her nose. “Who’s the lucky guy? Or gal?”

“W-wedding?!” Elli said before she saw what she was wearing. Then, her eye fell on Adam. And automatically…

“Oh hell no!” She seethed. “You did NOT just try to force a marriage on me! First you assaulted me, got me pregnant with your child-”

She paused, turning to Alastor.

“Who I love more than anything in the world~” She crooned, then went back to verbally attacking the man who made her life hell on Earth. “And after your death when it was revealed that not only did you attack me, but other women as well, we lived happily! Now here in Hell, you’re attempting to ruin our lives! Again! Not on my watch, you disgusting, pathetic, fucker!!”

Alastor blinked.

“Mother!” 

 “E-Elli-” Adam tried to explain himself before….

KAPOW!

Elli punched him with the fury of a woman scorned!

“ Chen sal moso kaka!! ”

She leaped, scratching, kicking and biting the shit, out of him! Decades of anger, resentment, and heartache flew out her body, into her fists, square unto the sonuvabitch!  The life she would’ve had was stolen from her. The life that she had dreamed about was gone the moment she found out that she was with his child!

While she’ll always love her son, she was still angry that she didn’t get to have him on her terms.

Vox, out for words, walked over to Elli. With each punch, kick and bite, more blood squirted out of Adam’s body.

“Elli?”

“NOT NOW VOX!”

“Elli!”

“I SAID NOT NOW!!”

“ELLI!!” 

“WHAT!?” Mid-kick, Elli turned to Vox, blinking when she was grabbed by her shoulders by him. “Vox?! What are you doing here?!”

Before Vox could answer, a slow, suspenseful applause sounded. From one person, stepping forth from the shadows. A woman, dressed in a plaid blood red vest, black skinny jeans with matching boots, with hair as black as nightmares, and a matching red fedora.

“Bravo, bravo. An extraordinary performance. And now we get to the fun part.”

Tusker stood up, fed up with all these interruptions. 

“Now see here madam-”

The person gave a dark chuckle, chilling everyone to the bone. 

“Whizzle, if you would?”

“Boo!” The sprite jumped out.

Though he was more cutely than he was scary. It was enough to scare Tusker’s employees.

“AAAAHHHHH!”

One staff member screamed, as the rest of the workers hightailed it out of there on his tail. 

Tusker, near-pissing himself, wiped his sweaty forehead. 

“Ehe. Ehe. Um… THE TIME HAS COME!” The walrus sputtered then bursted through the wall, making his exit.

“Thank you Whizzle.” The mysterious woman’s eyes fell on Alastor. She smirked. “Ahhh, there he is”.

She went to Alastor, kneeling down to him. She grabbed his chin.

“Alastor, time to wake up. Your mistress is here.” Zestial, who had joined just as Elli was in the middle of beating the shit out of Adam, blinked at her.

“Madame… thou art…?”

“What?” Vox questioned. “Who is she?”

The black haired woman chuckled.

“I am known by many names.”

Elli frowned, eyeing her with caution. She wanted nothing more than to run over to her son and shield him from this creepy woman that claimed to be his… “mistress.”

“And your name…?”

“You can call me…. Roo.”

Chapter Text

Everyone stared at the mysterious woman that have made her presence known. Yet the only person who seemed to stir was a certain Radio Demon. Roo’s words shocked Alastor wide awake. When his eyes met hers, he almost curled up a little.

“Y-You?! B-but how-” He stammered, before Roo shushed him.

“Tut, tut, tut. Looking all messy and bruised is no way to look in front of your mistress,” Roo tsked. “I thought you were better than this.”

She snapped her fingers and in a red, shadowy magic akin to Alastor but much ancient, Alastor’s form was restored to what it was before his fight with his father. The cannibal stag’s eyes darted to the crowd behind him.

“I-”

“There. Much better.” She smiled, then snapped her fingers. “Whizzle, table for two. And clean up those mistletoes. They give me a headache.”

The cat sprite obeyed and set up a table. He also took up a broom and duster and cleaned away all the nasty leaves out of the building. Roo took her seat, then gestured for Alastor to take his.

“Sit.”

Alastor, knowing his mother, Vox, and Zestial were watching this, looked at the floor. His hair covered the feelings of shame on his face.

“Mistress, please. Not here-”

CLING!

A green chain formed around Alastor’s neck and pulled him down. The chain came from Roo’s hand, which she handled casually.

“Alastor. I am not asking. Didn’t your mother teach you not to sass your elders? Sit. Or I’ll make you.”

Her eyes started to turn black. A threat that she would make do with how she saw fit. 

Alastor bowed his head and took his seat. Roo took that as a win and summoned a cigarette. She held it out, and Whizzle lit it up with a burning clawtip on his thumb. She inhaled and blew out black smoke.

“I am not happy, Alastor. Not happy.” Roo said, frowning. “Want to know why?”

He did his best to ignore the burning heat of embarrassment that was settling in the pit of his stomach. Why now? Why must she arrive now??

“Why-”

“Why what?” She corrected him. “Be specific, Alastor.”

He swallowed. His claws were digging into his palms. He hated how she spoke to him like a child who was caught doing something they shouldn't..

“Why are you not happy, mistress?”

“Because, Alastor, you went and worked for the Morningstars. Specifically, their daughter and her ‘redemption project’.”

“It was for my entertainment. Nothing important-” Alastor explained before the chain around his neck tightened.

“I’m. Not. FInished. You did so, without either my knowledge or orders. And what I order you, goes. Or have you perhaps forgotten… our deal?” Roo asked, flicking away the tuft of hair on Alastor’s head that revealed the x-shaped scar. It was glowing along with the stitches that went along Alastor’s mouth to form his iconic smile. “Did you forget, my dear fawn?” 

“No, m’am.." Alastor said, trying to hide his emotions.

“I think you did. In fact, I think you were trying to get a deal out of the princess and find a way out of mine. You’ve always been clever, seeking out only the most bleeding of hearts for deals. But you also forgot who taught you so in the first place.” 

“You are in trouble, nenenenenene~” Whizzle taunted the deer.

A look from Roo had the sprite grin sheepishly and back out. Roo continued, turning her attention back to her subordinate.

“But don’t worry. I can forgive this little oversight, because I have a new deal to settle your loyalty to me.”

“A-a-a-another deal?” He gulped anxiously.

He didn’t like the sound of a new deal. He had no idea what she had planned.

“It’s simple, really: You leave the princess and her hotel and work for me full-time , so I can keep an eye on you better.”

“And if I say no?” Alastor pressed with defiance.

Roo’s gaze turned, and Alastor’s followed. To his utter horror, her eyes fell on Elli. His beloved mother. He instantly jerked.

“No! Not her! Not my mother!”

A smirk formed on her lips.

‘Ah, the deer’s mother. Just what I needed… ’ Roo thought before turning to Alastor.

“Well, it would be in your best interest to say yes. Because if you don’t…”From Roo’s finger, a red energy beam charged, and she aimed it at Elli. “We’ll see if angels go to Heaven the second time around.”

“No! No, don’t please!” He begged. “Roo-!”

“OVER MY DEAD BODY!” Vox exclaimed, stepping in front of Elli to shield her from the threat of being killed.

The raven-haired woman let out a laugh.

“Well, if it isn’t Vox himself! You know, I heard so much about you from Alastor. Your media empire. How you left him for some perverted moth-”

The VoxTech CEO's eyes landed on his former friend.

“Al-”

She continued.

“He was so pathetic after your little spat. I couldn’t help but feel bad for him.” 

“NOW HANG ON JUST A MINUTE!” Elli stepped forward in outrage. “Just who do you think you are?! You let go of my son right now!”

At this, Roo chuckled. Her chuckle went to a laugh, and the laugh went to a wicked cackle that had the shadows quiver. Just as quickly as it came, her face got deadly serious.

“I have many titles. Root of Evil. Discord-bringer. Scourge of Eden. But right now, I’m the one your son made a deal with. Long story short, he wanted his pain to end after having his heart broken, and I did him a favor. Now, he owes me, as I own his soul.”

She demonstrated by pulling Alastor’s chain.

Vox couldn’t believe it. Alastor, the most powerful sinner he knew, sold his soul to this crazy bitch?!

Why!? And heartbroken by who??

“Heartbroken?” Elli blinked, then looked at her son. “Alastor, were… were you in love at one point, sha?”

Alastor gritted his teeth. He didn’t want to admit it. Didn’t want to reveal his pain in front of everyone. …but it was his mother who asked. The woman who raised him. The only person who he knew would love him no matter what…

“I wouldn’t say it was love… but Vox… he was my friend at one point… My… I guess my best friend, you would say… then he started to change.”

Zestial hummed.

“Yes… I doth do remember both of you were once of kindred spirits.”

Vox started to step forward.

“Al… I.. I told you we had to get with the times. Hell was changing. We… I was trying to convince you to come with me.”

Anger boiled over in Alastor’s stomach. Years of pain and resentment finally spilled over.

“No you didn’t!” He snapped. “You wanted me to change with you! I didn’t want to change! Change leads to nothing but pain and suffering! To be left behind and forgotten! And that’s what you did to me!”

The TV demon stared at him in shock.

“Alastor…”

The Radio Demon looked away. His voice was now softer as tears threatened to fall.

“....You left me behind… You changed… You made it clear you didn’t want to be with me anymore when Valentino came on the scene… Roo promised to take that away for me…. So that I’d never feel the pain you inflicted on me ever again.”  

“That’s right. I suppose the overlords in this room know that down here, a deal of any kind is binding and unbreakable. No devil, nor God, can break it. Although…” Roo trailed off, leaving the sentence open for Alastor, Vox, and Zestial to catch on.

Elli started to step forward to grab her son. 

“Mother DON’T-” Alastor tried to warn, but part of the green chain gagged him.

“Although what?! Tell me!” Elli pleaded.

Roo smiled deviously.

“I suppose we can make a trade. You give me something of equal or greater value to Alastor’s soul, and he goes free. I’m always a woman with a bargain.”

“Equal or greater value?” The doe-demon whispered.

Meanwhile, Zestial and Vox glanced at each other. They knew they needed to do something for Alastor. Zestial, who saw him as a friend. For Vox, his former best friend was now trapped in deal to suppress the pain that he felt when their friendship eroded. 

“Please tell me you can beat this woman,” Vox asked the elder Overlord.

He shook his head.

“Nay, I cannot. This foul demon hails from ages long past. She surpasseth us all.”

“I thought you were the scary ancient one!”

“Alas, verily no”.

Fuck. Fuckity fuck fuck! Of all times to have this shit! How could Alastor not tell them this?! He knew Alastor had his secrets, but this was BEYOND the word ‘secret’! And how are they supposed to make a trade without anyone losing their soul-

Vox paused. He then turned to Adam, who was still a bleeding pulp.

“That’ll do.”

 But before he could suggest his idea, Elli said hers.

“My place in Heaven.”

“WHAT!?!” Vox and Zestial stared at her in shock. 

Alastor let out a loud, muffled cry in horror as he tried to pull himself free from his binding.

Roo arched an eyebrow in intrigue.

“Go on.”

“I’ll give up my place in Heaven, in exchange for my boy’s soul.” Elli bargained, her wings once hidden, now spread out. Her halo was glowing. “Do we have a deal?”  

Alastor frantically shook his head. More muffled cries were coming from him. They all knew what he was trying to say. How could she? Why would she? That it was a bad idea. But due to him being gagged, there was no way he could.

“Elli no!” Vox began, but Whizzle stood in his way.
The sprite tilted his head cutely, but his eyes glowed with a promise of delightful carnage. He wagged a finger at him. As if he were some sort of child or pet that was about to make a mistake. 

“Ah ah ah! No interference between the Lady and her bargain!”

“Elli! Use Adam! Trade his soul for Al! He deserves it for all he did!”

Roo rolled her eyes.

“That’s not how it works. The offer is already on the table. Now, Elli, was it? You do know what exactly you’re offering, right? You’re practically giving away paradise, eternal bliss. For your son. A cannibal, a murderer, and a monster. One who, if I’m correct, came from your darkest moment.”

While it was true, Elli knew that it wasn’t Alastor’s choice to be born. She knew friends and relatives who were used as breeding stock just because of the color of their skin. The only reason Adam was hanged was that she wasn’t the only woman he had violated. Yet she was the one he was obsessed with for some reason. 

Too many children carried the shame of being the product of an unwanted affair. To be looked down on because of the faults of their mother or father. She vowed never to let that happen to her baby.

And this… Roo woman wasn’t going to twist her emotions to shame her or her darling baby boy.

“Maybe you’ve got something twisted, but I’ll say it again: Alastor is my son. I came down here to look for him in the first place because Heaven… just didn’t do it for me. And if I have to stay here for eternity forever, so be it. But let my son go.” She pleaded with conviction. “Please, Ms. Roo.” 

Roo held her heart with fake sympathy.

“How heartfelt. A mother giving away her chance for Heaven for her son. It would’ve moved me to tears if I had any to shed. But well, you'd be no longer welcome in Heaven regardless."

Vox stilled.

“Huh?”

Elli gawked at her in surprise.

“W-what?” 

Roo’s face morphed into a diabolical satisfaction. Pleased she could reveal the devil in the details.

“You see, that golden whistle you’ve used? That’s a very forbidden object to use. Because it invokes Whizzle, a sprite of ancient times. Before Heaven would banish those they saw as troublemakers.”

“B-but Whizzle… he gave me the whistle. He said it could help me!” Elli protested, not believing a word of this.

“And he did so spectacularly as I ordered. You’d be surprised how easily fallen sprites can sneak past the gates of Heaven”.

“Aw, shucks!” Whizzle waved her off, bashful at Roo’s praise. “You know I would do anything for you, Ms. Roo!” 

“Verily, this dost appear to be thy scheme from the very beginning, dost it not?” Zestial frowned, clenching his fists in slithering anger.

“Of course it was! I needed something as a bargain chip to get Alastor in line! But his father coming along and trying to take Elli back? That was not part of my plan. But it was fun to see it all play out, and it made her use the whistle nonetheless. When Heaven finds out, and they will, do you know what will happen to you, Elli? You are in big trouble. You’d be excommunicated. Banished. Or worse… beheaded.”

She held the back of her neck in discomfort. As if remembering a time when she, too, almost faced the deadly threat. 

Elli staggered back. The angels… they would never do that!

… Would they?

She knew some of the angels, even her family, were worried Hell’s influence would corrupt her. Make her a fallen angel, like Lucifer infamously. But surely-

“But why wait for the inevitable?" Roo asked. “A mother would face any pain for her child.”

She held up her hands, ready to snap her fingers. Alastor, Zestial, and Vox tried to stop it, but it was too late. Alastor tugged on his chains but was held back. Vox and Zestial zapping or flying in hopes of stopping her before she could. 

SNAP !

It was too late.

The green chains released Alastor and flew to Elli. They wrapped around the base of her wings on her back. They squeezed, and squeezed, ignoring Elli’s cries in pain as it burned. The wings popped off her body, onto the floor. Elli could only watch as the angelic wings burned to ashes and disappeared in the wind.

But it wasn’t over yet. Elli felt a new pain as something grew out of her back. A pair of black feathered wings. They were small and juvenile. Like the wings of a newborn.

Before she could address all this, something fell before her. It was her halo. No longer glowing with light. It has become dull and rusty. To put salt in the wound, the halo cracked in little pieces and turned to dust.

“MAMA!!” Alastor cried, finally free and running to his mother’s side. “Mama, why??”

Elli gave him a watery smile.

“You know a mother would do anything for her children…”.

“What did you do to her?!” He growled at Roo.

The ancient woman shrugged.

“I accepted her trade.” She responded coolly. “She lost her divinity to win your soul. Not my fault, it had its price. Speaking of which: Whizzle?”

The sprite stood to attention.

“Yes, mistress?”

“You have done an excellent job. You deserve a treat.” Her eye turned to Adam, who had just started to gain consciousness from his beating, and he tried to crawl away. She smirked cruelly, gesturing towards him. “There you are, my dear.”

“Oh golly! Thank you mistress!”

Whizzle hopped over to Adam. Smile widely to show off sharp, needle-like teeth.

“P-please… don’t hurt me…” Adam sputtered through his cracked teeth.

“I won’t! I’m only going to EAT you! ” Whizzle cackled, pulling out a fork and a knife.

His eyes went dark. He opened his mouth, which turned into a big maw. His cute teeth morphed into long canines. What was his tongue was now what could be described as a writhing monster of flesh from a horror movie. 

“NOW , I FEED! ”

He stabbed his fork into Adam's leg and started to saw it off with his knife. Eliciting a painful scream.

“AHHHH ALASTOR! ELLI! HELP ME! I DON’T DESERVE THIS-” Adam begged before Whizzle slit his throat. In a few cuts, Whizzle decapitated Adam and had his head on a fork.

“The head is always the crunchiest!” Whizzle giggled before swallowing it whole and biting it with a crunch. Brain matter and blood went everywhere.

Alastor blocked his mother’s vision. Covered her ears to drown out the sound. He did yearn for Adam’s suffering. His father’s death. But not like this. Not when his dear mama had to suffer for it.

“I think I’m gonna puke…” Vox cringed, his stomach squirming at the horrible sight.

Under 5 minutes, Whizzle had eaten everything of Adam’s body. Nothing was left behind. Not even his bones. Anything sprites eat will not heal back. In other words, Adam LeBough was gone. This time, for good.

He let out a burp.

“Excuse me. Thank you for the meal, Mistress.”

 Roo nodded. She turned to Elli, who looked traumatized.

 “And now, I am your darkest moment. Remember that. Remember me.” She smirked darkly, then waved her fingers at the group. “Bye-bye!”

In a POOF! 

She and Whizzle were gone.

“Verily, the matter hath advanced with great swiftness.” Zestial sighed in relief. 

Vox’s response was to run outside and throw up behind some bushes. Alastor helped his mother to her feet. Though her legs buckled underneath her. Zestial made his way over to help them both. They carried Elli as gently as they could.

“I extend mine deepest condolences for thy lamentable loss.”

Alastor rolled his eyes.

“My father was a piece of shit. He got what he deserved. I’m only mad I didn’t get to finish him.”

“Pray, I speak not of thy sire. Thy dame hath suffered greatly. I shan't delve into thy prior accord with this... Roo knave. Yet, I must inform the monarch of this, if it may aid her plight.” Zestial corrected.

Alastor nodded solemnly. He had a point. Whether Roo was correct or not about Elli’s place in Heaven after she used the whistle, the damage was done. He could no longer feel the binding of Roo’s deal. Her mother has lost her divinity, and people will ask questions. As much as he despised Lucifer out of a superiority complex, the king was Alastor’s best shot to mitigate her mother’s situation. Not to mention, just because Roo had no more control over him, doesn’t mean this is the last time Roo will try and cause trouble. 

Before Alastor could retort, a golden portal opened, and Lucifer came out with golden brass knuckles!

Zestial had called him about needing aid. As usual, he was late.

“Alright, you punch-monkeys! Let’s get this on-” Lucifer began, then stopped before seeing:

-Alastor and Zestial holding a fallen angel.

-A chapel utterly ruined.

-Vox puking his guts out in the woods.

-Bits of undead strewn everywhere.

“I…. feel like I missed something important.” Lucifer mused.

“NO KIDDING!” Vox snapped before continuing to empty his stomach.

The overlords explained the situation, and the king had a neutral, emotionless look on his face. And that’s even more scary for the overlords than Lucifer looking pissed.

When Lucifer started to laugh, they feared the worst.

Lucifer wagged his finger at Alastor.

“I always thought you were a troublemaker, Alastor. But this? This takes the cake.”

“Your majesty, please forgive-” Zestial tried to say, but Lucifer shushed him.

“Tut-tut-tut, not another word! To error is human, but to forgive is divine.” 

“But, aren’t you a fallen angel?” Vox asked.

That was the wrong thing to say because Lucifer’s eyes and grin became grim and gritty.

“Exactly.”

Vox gulped.

Lucifer straightened his jacket.

“Now. I’ll go contact Heaven and see what this means. Maybe the premise of being tricked into a deal will make them see that Elli meant no harm. But I can’t promise anything because most are stuck-up anyway. In the meantime…” Lucifer paused before pointing to Zestial. “You help to rebuild the chapel and set up better defenses. If one horde can get past a mere twenty of mistletoe, that won’t do next time the sun goes down.”

“Ay, sire.” The vampire bowed. 

“And you two,” He said, pointing to Vox and Alastor. “You take Miss LeBlanc to my daughter’s hotel thing and help her recover. Freshly fallen angels need a lot of time to process it physically and emotionally. I’ll contact Belphegor and have her send you all the medical supplies needed. Moreover, keep things discreet and tell no one about Roo. The fewer people, the better. Understood?”

Vox and Alastor nodded. Eliciting a smile from Lucifer.

“Great!” The Fallen Angel beamed before opening a golden portal straight to the Hazbin Hotel. 

Vox and Alastor took Elli in their arms and went to the portal.

“Alastor.”

Said demon stopped and turned to hear what the king had to say.

He gave the deer a genuine, sympathetic look. 

“Your mother will be fine. She is stronger than you think. Tricked or not, she gave away Heaven for you. Not many would do that.”

Alastor said nothing. Only looking away. As if he didn't know that. But he wouldn't say anything. He wouldn't give Lucifer the satisfaction of seeing that, for once, he was right beyond the shadow of a doubt. Because if his mama didn’t, her deal wouldn’t have worked.

He gave a hum, then stepped into the portal.

Once in the lobby of the Hazbin Hotel, everyone was relieved that Elli was found. Safe and sound? Not exactly. Everyone wanted to know what happened. Alastor was this close to murdering anyone who dared to touch Elli, so Vox curtly said she needs space and time to recover. Those were the king's orders. Charlie immediately understood and, without a word, helped the three get Elli into her room. Vaggie came along as a bodyguard. Redundant because there were two overlords at Elli’s side, but the thought of support was appreciated. 

In the comfort of Elli’s room, Alastor stated he would help Elli to undress and wash up. The wedding dress was beyond ruined. Vox, Charlie, and Vaggie understood and left the room.

Now with the two of them, it was dead silent. Neither said a word as Alastor helped his mother undress to her undergarments. No one said a word as he guided her to the bathroom to wash off the various blood and grime on her with a warm and cleansing shower. Because what the hell could Alastor say?! That she shouldn’t have gambled with Roo?! That he wasn’t worth all this pain?! That it was stupid to make a deal with Roo in the first place?! 

“Al, I’m finished, hon.” She told him from behind the door. 

Without looking, Alastor handed her a towel and some new clothing he summoned with his magic.

Elli stepped out of the bathroom. She was now wearing a pair of silk purple pajamas. She still looked a bit out of it. Must’ve still be in shock.

“Mother, are you alright?” he asked for the first time since they finally reunited after all the bullshit that Adam had caused.

“Honestly… I feel lighter.” 

Alastor didn’t expect that for an answer. He stared at her. 

“Excuse me?”

“I feel lighter,” She repeated. “It must have been the wings."

Alastor was this close to flying into a panic because that wasn’t how one would act to this!!!

… Right?

“Yes. Your wings. Of course. M-may I take a look?”

She nodded and turned around to show him. Her juvenile black wings… didn’t look that bad. He figured the wings of a fallen angel would look skeletal or burned up. But his mama’s were just… regrowing. Perhaps it’s regeneration kicking in since she’s now… a sinner.

“I’m sorry this has happened…”

“Oh, don’t worry. I’m sure it’ll grow back-”

“Mama, this isn’t about the wings! You gave them up! You gave it all up! Heaven! Paradise! And for what?! For me?!”

“Yes, and I’ll do it again!” Elli retorted.

“Wh-what?!”

She took a shuddering breath to calm herself. She sat down on the bed and gestured for Alastor to follow. 

“Alastor. Of all the bullshit that Roo had said, she’s right about one thing: A mother would do anything for their child. Even if no one else agrees. I’ve decided to keep you when I found out I was expecting. Even if no one would agree, I did. I’ve decided to raise you from the moment you were born. Many told me to give you up. But I refused. I decided to come down here and look for you, even if everyone thought I was out of my goddamn mind. I’ve decided to trade Heaven for you, even if no one agrees I should. If God himself came down here and said I can try it all again, well, too fucking bad. I wouldn’t change a damn thing.” She cupped his face. "You've always been the light in my darkness. Heaven or Hell will never stop me from loving you, Alastor.” 

Alastor was left speechless, tears forming in his eyes. He knew she was stubborn. But this was ridiculous! How on Earth could she think that and-

Slow the fuck down! His shadow sat down. Don’t bottle it all up. Let it out! Talk it out!

That would be something Charlie would say, but nonetheless…

“You may be right. But as much as I’m your son, you are my mother. I cannot in good conscience let the fact slide that you suffered for my sake.”

“Al, what do you mean-?”

Alastor cut her off by hugging her. Elli was caught off guard.

“Adam is dead, Mama. Gone for good. He won’t hurt us anymore. Above all else, he won’t hurt you anymore. So… if you want to cry, cry. I’m here.”

The elder LeBlanc said nothing for a few seconds. But as Alastor could guess, Elli tightened the hug and began to let herself cry. The stress, the emotional trauma. It all came out. Tears also started to trickle down his cheeks. 

Alastor turned to his shadow. A questioning look on his face as if to ask, ‘Am I doing this right?’

The shadow gave him a double thumbs-up. Good. Alastor wasn’t good at providing comfort. But if her mother can try and be comfortable losing her divinity, he can do it with hugging and offering a shoulder to cry on!

After 10 minutes of hugging and rocking back and forth, there was a knock on the door.

“It’s me.” Alastor heard Vox speaking. 

With his shadow, Alastor let Vox in. The TV demon carried a tray with cookies, two glasses of water, and milk.

“Is… this a bad time?”

“Not at all,” Alastor assured, wiping his face. “We were just having a good cry is all.” 

“Good, good. I… brought Elli some snacks.” 

He held up the offering tray.

Elli, with tears still running down her face, turned to look at the new person in the room. She gave him a smile. 

“Oh, Vox, you shouldn’t have.”

“Trust me, I did. I… don’t feel comfortable going home yet. And… well… I needed a breather,” The media Overlord sat on the bed beside Alastor. “I… like your new wings. Black looks good on you.”

Alastor had a biting remark on not saying such a thing, but remembered that this could help mom get more comfortable with… all of it.

“I agree.”

Vox was surprised Alastor agreed with him for once in a while. But he didn’t make a big deal out of it… (yet).

“Right,” Vox cleared his throat. “So, everyone in the hotel is… glad you’re okay. The princess- Charlie, made sure you’ll be left alone for now. Her girlfriend… Vaggie will make sure of that.”

“That’s nice of them.” 

“Yes”, Vox said, rubbing his neck. “I am glad you’re okay as well. And um… to hell with it, here.”

He handed Elli a card. It had rainbows and stickers on it. There were scribbles of sentences and words on it.

“What’s this?”

“It’s a get-well card. Charlie figured you needed it, and everyone pitched in. I’m surprised they all signed it so fast.”

Elli read the card. Everyone in the hotel had signed it with love and care. Wishing her a fast recovery.

“Awww, that’s so sweet. What’s this on the back?”

Vox’s eyes widened in horror. “Don’t read that!”

Too late. Elli spoke the words aloud.

“I A-Doe You. Signed, Vox.”

Elli was silent. She chuckled. The chuckle became a laugh. The laugh became a relieved cackle that sent her falling on her back, making rainbows rejoice.

“A pun? Really?” Alastor deadpanned, giving his former friend an unamused look..

“What?! It worked, didn’t it?!” Vox grinned sheepishly. “Plus you love puns.” 

He pointed a warning finger. 

“That-!” He huffed, turning away. “Is totally irrelevant in this situation!” 

He ignored the snicker. Uhg, pompous ass. But it felt… nice. Now that they weren't at each other's throats right now. He sighed. He guessed he could live with the fact that yes, it worked. He watched as Vox and his mother interacted. The way she giggled at his jokes. The fond look on Vox’s face.

The same one he had for him many years ago…

Maybe…. Maybe it wouldn't be so bad if they dated. 

As much as he didn't care for it. 

But they looked… happy. 

Far back in his mind, in a little part of his subconscious, he thought.

‘Why not have Vox as my step-father?’

Quick as it came, he locked it up.

Because there’s no way Vox would actually become his dad, right?

Right?!

(Epilogue)

A week after that fateful day, things settled down for the Hazbin Hotel.

Lucifer announced that the high seraphim agreed not to punish Elli harshly. All she gets to do is write down a testimony and be ‘under house arrest’ for a short while under Lucifer’s care. Elli had no problem with that. In fact, she got to meet the king, who came to check on her, and she never pegged Lucifer to be such a nice guy! 

The Bible really painted him in such a cruel light. He wasn't anything like the character in the book!

Elli herself made a good recovery, physically at least. Everyone at the hotel went out of their way to make sure she wouldn’t exert herself.

She was very grateful for all their support.

As for Valentino, his popularity hit rock bottom for a while when someone told the press he endangered an angel and almost caused an uproar in Heaven. His colleagues did nothing to stop it. They thought it was well deserved.

The whereabouts of Roo were still unknown. Everyone who knew of her was vigilant in case she made an appearance.

Lucifer in particular seemed on edge, but he dared not voice it to his daughter. She had too much on her plate.

Alastor came to enjoy his newfound freedom. He no longer felt pressure to do anything. Not that he’s stopping being an overlord or anything, but he promised to ‘try’ to be on nicer terms with Vox and Lucifer.

But there was still one piece of business that had to be done.

The shipping war came to a close thanks to Valentino’s poor popularity. EllixVox won by default. The uproar from high to low on the hierarchy settled down. But that still left Lucifer peeved with a certain doll who had started this mess. A mess he was alerted to by a certain weapons dealer. Punishment was a must.

In fact, if one came to the Morningstar palace, one could hear Velvet cursing as she was ordered to wash, clean, and alphabetically arrange all of Lucifer’s 4200 rubber ducks. Or at least, try to for a month. Lucifer had teasingly called Velvet ‘duck-doll princess’ so many times that it caused her to swear off the cute princess gimmick by the end of it. 

Velvet’s rebranding into #Bitch! She got tired and sick of hiding her British accent anyway!

So fuck Carmilla Carmine in particular for putting her in this bullshit! 

Their credibility as Overlords took a small hit. And that wasn't going to fly. Valentino fucked them up for a bit. No doubt Vox will be pissy that their brand is gonna get some bad reviews. 

When this was over, the Vees were going to come back bigger and better than ever! 

The Vees were in need of a rebrand!