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Chapter Text

King of hell didn't feel such joy and hope for few thousands years.

For such a long time he was stuck in numbness and day-to-day routine. For so long he spent on creating new rubber ducks (even if he tried make other things) without achieving a breakthrough, without getting actual result.
It's like he just like any artist has reached a point where it is difficult to do something new, original and unique... The crowning glory of his collection...
This is what probably contributed to the deepening of his depression.

However now Lucifer decided that he should try to regain hope, thanks to his sunshine daughter. He was disappointed, he even thought that whole idea was just a waste of time and didn't helped her as much as he should because he was so busy chasing his own goal and wallowing in his own feelings. Now if he thinks about her's stubborn pursuit of the goal, this is just another thing she has after him... Of course! Charlie is after all in his eyes his perfect not-so-little-now girl! Lucifer can proudly proclaim Char-char his greatest accomplishment.

Yes, sadly he was sceptical about how her dream will play out. But he'll fix it, he can help, teacher her... Together they can do what he wanted since the begining.

This is why he has decided to put more work to his role as parent. He saved her from Adam - that ape and his little harem before anything serious happened, he gave a helping hand on renewing and now rebuilding her hotel, that's how he decided he will move in and be on her side (especially now when she's kinda sad because of her friend's death).
Together they will overcome their hopeless situation for sure.

This is why Lucifer now back in his Devil Mansion in the late evening tries to decide what he should pack and take with him. It takes him quite longer than the wanted. The choice was mostly easy but he couldn't pick which of his favourites ducks to bring with him, he can't overdo it unlike his palace new bedroom won't accommodate so many of them.

Also if he really want to move that whole redemption plan he can't waste so much time, he has to finally start acting as king, he has to contact heaven and leave them no choice. Some people could have thought that he is in Sera's and other angel's grasp, but he has some tricks in his sleeve. He is a Devil after all, even if he wasn't very active he still was doing something outside his workshop (he still made business meetings with Sins to keep them more or less satisfied).

Charlie will be so happy when she will hear the news, when she will see his gift to her.
But before that he has to pack the picked ducks.

Then he heard loud banging on the door and before he reacted they opened abruptly. Now looked at him furiously woman with one arm dressed in bloodied exorcist uniform. Hatered in her eyes could make even the biggest criminals or hardened warriors hide from her in fear.

But Lucifer only straightened up and gave a small smile.

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Lute was in disarray, in shock after what happened in that hellhole.
It should be extermination day as any other if you don't count putting one spoiled brat and bimbo traitor in their place, they should have wreck the place and move on to killing scumbags of the world. But everything went so wrong, after that Lute and the rest of comrades in arms that survived had to retreat.

The moment they got to heaven she wanted talk to Top Seraphim, but other angels were concerned about her injuries just like with any other alive exorcist. Now they all are laying in medical facility, lucky they have better technology and care than most Earth's hospitals.

Lieutenant had to taken for treatment by force and the only thing she allowed them to do was just taking care of her arm. So now Lute was sitting on her bed, she stopped panic and took a moment to think. Looking back she shouldn't let Adam give them a warning. Adam... his lost is her biggest regret and failure, it's hard to acknowledge that he won't come back.

People could say a lot of things that would show him in not so good light. If you want to find in someone defects you'll find them in everyone (especially if you don't like them), he was just little more rude and loud than most people. She herself had to get used to it, but with time she started enjoying his company. That devil's spawn called him pig, if Lute had to guess she was brainwash to think that he was some sort of misogynist like a lot of people do it nowdays when it comes to historical figures. Or maybe she picked it from her misandrist lesbian girlfriend. That bitch always had problem with all men.

He didn't deserve such end. All those hundreds years ago he decided to help belligerent heaven born angels insted just resting in paradise (other once-human-angels joined, but it may have been mistake considering that Vaggie was one of them). He protected heaven and it's residents from destructive envious damned. Outside of their trip to hell once a year all exorcist had their own lifes, with no killing, no worry. Few decades ago Adam became interested in modern music... he started a band... lived more or less like normal rock star on Earth...

Now Lute was filled with anger, the numbness has disappeared. She spent the whole day there doing nothing. She had to do something! She knew that sinners won't stop there, if they won't act those criminals will soon come to the pearly gates!

She needed talk to Sera, but she was not let into her office. She heard part of the conversation through the door. Sera was busy with trying to talk some sense into another spoiled girl that thinks that she knows best.
Some people think they know how to fix everything by removing some established things because they see them as unnecessary or harmful, then everything is falling apart and old problem comes back (it would be funny if it wasn't so irritating to watch). Sera failed her parenting, now she tries do damage control while fails keeping our piece of creation safe.
Because she won't acknowledge what happened, won't let Lute speak to her!

At this point Lute is on her edge, she is not thinking straight.
It surely was mistake but now Lute is standing in doors of Lucifer's workshop. Trying to kill him with her eyes is fruitless. You could think he would kill her on spot and she wouldn't be able to do anything about it, but you can tell right away from his body language and smirk that he doesn't intend to do so.

The sight of the one who caused Adam death only made her more angry "You broke the treaty!!!" she stated obvious. "Have you any idea what you have done?! What the hell do you think you are doing?!" she pours out her frustrations.

"Wasn't I clear enough? You got too comfortable and attacked Charlie, don't you remember no killing hellborns rule? After that I wouldn't let you get away with it." he said still keeeping his calm smirk.

Lute said nothing, it began to dawn on her what kind of situation she had gotten herself into.

"You should be grateful that we let the rest of you go back." he continued. "We may not need treaty anymore, my Char-char thinks that it's time for some changes. You know how it works and what is it's goal, I don't know why you are so angry..."

"We wouldn't have done it if you kept your hellion in check. You are disturbing the established balance." Lute regained her speech. "If it will go wrong and let's be honest it will-" she was cut off.

"I know what happened first time, second time we failed again, but maybe now we have chance..." he seemed to be talking more to himself now as he watched his kingdom through the window.
Then he looked at her again "You never seem to be so ill-balanced before, all you ever cared for was killing unpure those that don't deserve for mercy. Where does this change come from?"

"Some people at least try to find fulfillment in which is achievable, some stop trying repeat the same mistakes like a madman." she hissed through her teeth.

"Ah now I remember, you were the one that screamed for Adam when he was about go back to dust. You can do better than that." Lucifer gave small mocking laugh shaking his head, but before Lute got angry again he led her out the room "Tell Sera it's time to get back to work, I personally have to prepare suprise for my sweet daughter and she'll help me. Then we will figure out the rest."

"You think you will get pat on the head and get everything you want after all angels yours daughter's pets killed." she said with a less confident voice than she wanted.
"Eh I'm sure Sera and others got tired of your favourite human. First Man or not, soon people will forget, when they get another thing to be passionate about." he gave final statment while closing the door.

Well that didn't lead her anywhere. Luckly he didn't finished her off, but problem will escalate. Lucifer's fall probably caused him brain damage, considering that they can lead to an acceleration of the catastrophe. She has to prevent it. Even if it is inevitable.
That's what Lute kept saying to herself when she went back to her bed, trying not to think about Adam and her sisters.

Chapter Text

Sera was tired, the problems were piling up and her attempts to control the situation are unsuccessful. It's unbelievable how quickly this delicate structure of everyday life collapsed, after all angels in there worked so hard everyday to keep it together. All because of princess of hell. Sera knows that she means well, after all she reminds her of Emily so much...

But that doesn't change the fact that the damage caused may be irreparable.

She can already see those consequences, Emily supports princess and her redemption plan with all her being. Older seraphim starting to get aware of that she overdid with protecting her from horrible truth... so shameful truth...

Now she needs to bring her protégé back on track, however she won't listen. Every more minute she started to get impression that she tries speak some sense to human teen instead of ancient being of pure light.

When she heard about dead soliders, failed extermination she was flabbergasted, it was beyond belief. She finded out what happened from some less injured exorcists normally she would spoke to Adam... or his lieutenant, but her wounds were too serious for that. She should get some rest. Next few days were full of work, not only she had to deal with her daily duties, quarrels, fact that angel steal can kill angel but also with the effects of breaking the pact with hell which are to come...

"Sera you don't listen to me! I do understand everything perfectly. You just don't want to admit that this is wrong, that system is wrong." younger seraphim exclaimed continuing the same conversation all over again, the same and the only talk those two high ranking angels had for weeks.

"Emily I do understand your anger" Top Seraphim started softly, "but as I said before to you sinners are not some poor souls, they got to hell for their wicked actions. Exterminations had to keep them in check, so they won't grow in power."

Sera was so tired. Since that whole mess, the day before yesterday she had hard time to keep it together. She wanted to take a nap just for few moments. Even if heavenborn angels don't need sleep, she started to have one every now and then and despite all that extra rest she still looked like a mess sitting in the conference room.

"You act as we weren't as bad as that. Even if, those are still human souls" Sera would frown upon it if she didn't know what people were capable of and she knew all too well. "You know that my purpose is to bring joy, but how can I myself feel joy knowing that we are hurting others. This is why we should at least try out Charlie's redemption plan."

"Established rule exist for our safety. If they got into heaven it would be a disaster, instead heaven and hell we would have two hells. You really believe that they would behave? No human is-" Sera said in monotonne sleepy voice, but was cut off by Lute entering the room.

"You have to hear me out, so please your highness we have to talk about breaking the treaty" gold eyed angel requested, but before Sera (now fully awake) said that she knows everything, lower rank woman saw younger seraphim and just she couldn't resist "Do you have any idea what your new best friend downstairs had fucking done to rest us? Or maybe you know and that's just another thing you will sympathize?" she growled.

Emily knew that Charlie and her hotel fough back so she turned her attention and her arguments towards rude woman "I know about it and I'm not surprised that she made such a decision. She had to protect her friends, after all we are the one that attacked them."

"No, either you don't know what you're talking about or you're not that far from them" Lute whispered as she came closer to Emily, now calm like sea after storm "Your BFF could leave and hide, it was should be a lesson that she never got. But that privileged bitch made army of cannibals and called her daddy to kill angels. They were eating my sisters alive. And you still claim they are in the right?" anger left solider's face, but it was replaced with disgust.

When Lute started to scream at curly hair girl, her mentor was thinking if she should stop the tirade, but at this point the angel so similar to her already knows about cruelty of the world even if only superficially. She was just thinking earlier about her protecting her too much from things most of the souls have came to know in their existence.

That said she won't remove her protective instincs towards her, there are other worse things that she needs protection from. But now seeing Emily stuttering trying to answer that, she decided that someone with more aggresive tongue is needed. Sera could speak hard not sugar coated truth but doing the oppositive for such a long time made her get out of practice. Her soft spot for innocent Emily is not helpfull in that case.

Lucky for kind hearted girl she didn't have to respond to these accusations, because in conference room another person appeared. It was white snake with a top hat, which looked as he would be just woken up sleepwalker. Despite his disorientation, he pulled himself together and awkwardly greeted three ladies winged in the room.

They may have never seen him face to face but all three of them knew that was sinner from Charlie's hotel. They saw him at trial.

The implications of that gave dark skinned small angel a reason to sent newcommer her most radiant smile. While she was greeting him, two remaining angels had terror painted on their faces, which was unnoticed and drowned in the happiness of the other two.

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Charlie holds on to her hope now. She needs to do just small baby steps, on at a time. Rebuilding Hotel is just a begginig. Even if things don't go her way you can always find something positive from the every situation.

She rebuild not only her hotel but also relationship with her dad and he moved in with all needed things just week ago. She recalled the moment when he announced his intention of moving in for and supporting her. As if it wasn't the the biggest gift from him, also he gave her rubber ducks that looked just like them. A touching gesture.

Another good thing they have won battle that had place little over week ago. And while she is happy because of it, she still kinda sad because of Sir Pentious and Dazzle demise, but she was grateful that the death didn't reached anymore of those close to her. Charlie shook her head as if to chase away these thoughts, she needed to her mind off that before she became sad again.

She had previously occupied her mind with the reconstruction and improvement of the hotel, however now maybe it's time to stake care of hotel from the inside. Yes relax and strengthen ties sounds nice.

She prepared plan for entire night, kinda like sleepower. This is why whole hotel gang he is sitting now and playing all sort of games while having a lots of snacks. Well almost everyone, dad had to go for important meeting with Sins, but she managed to convience everyone else to participate even if some are less willing than others (she thinks that Alastor will disappear when it'll be time for movies tho).

First they spent time on board games (charlie had a lot of them), later came time for card games. First was Poker, Spaders, Solitaire then Go Fish. They all had so much fun, Alastor and Husk had the best luck yet. Charlie pointed that fact out when she and Vaggie went to kitchen to make up for food shortages.

"Well Hon Husk is a gambler, he probably knows some tricks and I thinks Alastor could be able to somehow use his overlord powers to level his chances" hummed Vaggie.

"Yeah it could be... I'm so happy that we all agreed to spent nice evening together. I think about organizing more of these events in future." the stars appeared in Charlies eyes while thinking about this idea.

Vaggie gave her small smile "Making new plans how to use it?" that was true she did, Vaggie knew her so well. When they ended filling all the bowls of snack Vaggie spoke again, this time in quiet voice "Charlie after our victory sinners do respect us more. They don't sneering or laughing at the idea of the hotel now, but that doesn't mean they trust us or that heaven will accept anyone from our hotel."

That was also true, this was just another reason why she was glad why her dad decided to give her serious help, she hopes that everyone will find a solution together and that everything will be fine. But beyond ideas and hope there is no realistic plan yet. Good thing that Angel's sobbing of fustration tore princess away from negative thoughts. When they both returned to the room they saw that this time everyone was playing Uno and their spider-like friend has more cards than half the group combined.

"Now he must be grateful for that no gambling rule that you established." fallen angel muttered under her breath with a smile.

“Please no, no… IT'S NOT FUCKING RED! AGAIN!!!” Angel Dust wailed as he didn't get red but another yellow card. Even Charlie can admit that situation is hilarious, but yeah it was probably time move to the movie part of that sleepower.

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Next morning (while Alastor was nowhere to be found as predicted) Charlie, Vaggie and Nifty were sleeping on the couch, Angel Dust also snored softly on the floor in position he was watching movies last night and Husk was out behind his bar probably for other reasons.

But that moment of the peace was interrupted by Lucifer that loudly entered the hall and waking everybody up, they could see that king of hell was exiced for some reason. He was so loud that Alastor decided to show up. After waking full up Charlie tried to understand why he ended their sleep so early, so Lucifer explained how after finishing meeting with Sins he recieved invitation to a meeting with heaven representatives. For second everyone (including Charlie) was scared that this is about their last battle.

But dad was so sure this wasn't a trap. After seeing the invitation Charlie got into similar mood - it was from Emily, so she didn't waste any more time and told everyone to go get ready.

"How do you know we can trust this angel chick?" Angel Dust asked cautiously when they were on the way towards white building.

"She was the one angel that was on our side at trial, she was ready to help" said princess literaly giving small happy jump.

"Yeah, I think we're good, Emily is kinda like Charlie when it comes to personality..." Vaggie commented "She might be the only one that may want to help." Vaggie added with a frown.

As group entered into one of meeting room they were greeted by pleasant angelic light.
But that feeling wasn't what made Charlie so joyful right now.

In room waited for them three angels: heartening Emily, motionless Sera and unforeseen guest.

The last person she expected to see.

Sir Pentious.

Chapter Text

This wasn't first time Charlie found herself in embassy, but it was better this time! Not only her friends and her dad were coming this time, but also this time she found out that a miracle had happened. In front of her standed Sir Pentious, he looked a bit different but he was safe and sound.

"Sir Pentious?! " Charlie asked in bewilderment and rushed to hug the snake, who returned it just as happy as she. "You're alive!" she exclaimed.

"Misss Charlie! Guys! I'm ssso happy you all survived!" Pentious said in relief while taking his eyes from Charlie and looking towards the rest of the group. Only after that, as if with a delay, the rest of the hell residents got out of shock.

" He's...alive? An angel? Incredible... are you redeemed?" questioned questioned Vaggie, but by looking on her face everyone could see that she knows anwser as her face changes from disbelief to happiness.

"Yes incredible indeed..." Lucifer started quietly, but then continued more briskly "Charlie you did it! You redeemed sinner! This is unimaginable, I never seen anything like that!" he started to pour his praises for his dear daughter while sending everyone meaningful looks that showed everyone how proud of her he is.

"Oh I think, of course she did it. Such marvelous achievement! If anybody could ever make one of us sinners to get an entrance to heaven, it would be her." Alastor added his part of the praises.
"And there we all assumed that it was impossible, considering that no one has ever achieved anything like this. For ages no one managed, but our darling in there did it in 6 months!" Radio Demon finished while sending sneer to king of hell.

First Fallen Angel decided to ignore that, still, his proud smile was more forced now. Everyone else joined in the unifying greetings while next to them smaller not damned angel shed a tear of joy.

"We are so sorry that we didn't called the moment he came to heaven. Others said they needed few days to make sure he really is an angel now." joy bringer said apologetically.

The another one was just was standing there uncertain, but finally decided to speak up "Yes... believe me, we were just as surprised as you all are..." Sera assured.

"...I was right... redemption really is possible..." Charlie said with teary eyes. Vaggie put her hand on her girlfriend shoulder with an assuring smile while Lucifer looked at Sera with face that screamed 'that's my girl'.
"We did it. We proved that saving sinners from damnation is at our fingertips! Pen you did it! Now my people will be able go to heaven!" Charlie was now shedding tears of happiness.

"Princess, as much as I hate to ruin for you this clearly significant achievement and plans for future" Head Seraphim with her authoritative voice spoke first time since found out about lost battle.
"You and your father broke treaty, you two are are representatives of hell. If now you expect that heaven's council will be pleased by cooperation on your terms you are mistaken." the tallest person in the room finished while glaring on Lucifer and Charlie.

That whole situation was too good to be true for too long apparently, group was pulled back into reality. Charlie should've known that some people will not approve that they fought back, even if they were just protecting themselves. Everyone froze on this statement except the older Morningstar, but before he said anything Emily spoke softly.

"Sera, can't you see? This is the proof that sinners CAN improve, Charlie is right." Sera didn't like that it was the first time Emily talked to her without negative emotions since trail. She didn't like the fact that she choosed their side and now wants to convert her as if she would be in the wrong. "Sinful souls aren't entirely lost! With determination and hard work more souls can earn place in heaven, place among us!" she advocated with excitement as hotel group listened to her while smilling and nodding.
"Like Sir Pentious! He ascended thanks to Charlie's hotel. He worked for his place in heaven. And if redemption is possible then hostile actions towards hell are not necessary! They deserve that opportunity..." she pleaded.

However Sera said nothing, she stared at her and then at hell rulers with stern face. She didn't look convinced at all.

At this moment Lucifer decided that he should step in.

"Charlie maybe you should take your friends and go back home. Sera and I will arrange meeting and settle things up." but before his Char-char argued with him, he turned back to her and gave her calming look "Everything will be fine, I'll take care of that".

This is why everyone alse left leaving two ancient seraphims alone in meeting room. The tension could be cut with a knight. Then the tension was released when Alastor suggested that they go back to the hotel and finally eat some breakfast, Husk added that they can continue yesterday's games to relax.
Princess agreed, she was after all so eager to hear from ex-sinner how was his time in heaven and spent nice bonding time with him just like they all did last night. And of course Charlie invited Emily. Not only so she would eat or play with them, but also to show her new improved building and to introduce eveyone to her properly. And of course Vaggie started threatning others to behave (more Alastor and Angel Dust than the rest, for diffrent reasons).

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And that's how they spent almost whole day. Everything went well. Everyone was on their best behavior, so no one would creep out their guest. Alastor even managed to make Nifty not behave so ... Nifty...
Two disney-princess-like girls had a similar approach to life, this is why Emily was really interested in what she had to show and tell. Charlie found out that despite the skeptical looks and questions asked (from those who knew who he was) there was no trouble. Her snake-like friend got warm welcoming (even if it was just from joybringer).

Despite this nice time spent, they all were quite anxious. Even if they all tried to hide it or downplay it.
The evening came and there was still no news from dad...

Charlie was kinda irritated by fact that even if she proved she was right, that she did it, there was someone who is against the whole initiative.
But she guess it makes sense. Exorcists also didn't even want to listen to her, because they enjoyed suffering of her people. Charlie simmered with anger. She always wanted to see the good in everyone, but people like Adam and the Exorcists...
She did took a few deep breaths so others won't notice and the carpet under her feet don't catch on fire.

All of the group stopped doing anything when thay heard door opening.
Charlie swallowed thickly as she watched her dad close the door. But that bad feeling went away when she saw him smile quietly but victoriously.

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Charlie is full of hope, all the fears she had were clearly not going to come true. Thanks for her dad. He kept his word.
When he returned from the meeting he revealed that he he convinced most of the important people in heaven and thanks to that they'll allow sinners that underwent Charlie's course, people upstairs agreed to assimilate those who can do it. And extermination is officially over!

Hearing that Emily and Sir Pentiuos went to heaven (not without a little celebration and goodbyes) to unite with the angels who support their cause.

Since that moment everything got on those tracks Charlie and Vaggie wanted since beggining, finally thanks to both dad's and Alastor's influences (yeah they are still fighting) Hazbin Hotel got real advertisements (more than one and not only on TV). This time in those they are not sad and pathetic, this time they can show luxury hotel, fancy food and boast with their strong bonds. However the most important thing they can show to the world is Sir Pentious' feat and everything that goes with it.

He is a living proof that if they try really hard, they can get out of that hellhole and leave their horrible lives behind. Now people were actually taking an interest in staying at her hotel.

"And yet no one decided to take part in redemption program that despite the good news. All they do is watch from afar or they just come to look around at best." Vaggie pointed out.

"Well let's be objective for a moment there" said Husk while cleaning cups "we can't expect a few ads to dispel all concerns"

"They got evidence, what else they want!" fallen angel mumbled under her breath as she checked comments under their promotional video.

"Vagina. Whiskers is right there, no wonder people are extra careful around there. This place was founded by devil's child, Overlord is pretending to be host, ex-overlord makes drinks, while you and Nifty are crazy, too eager to stab bitches" Angel Dust deadpanned.
"Yeah, in addition previously mentioned devil also moved in permanently..." barman added his two cents "Be honest, would you be so quick to trust us if you were them?".

But in the end it's worth the wait. Because after a long month since media started promoting hotel, except for those who just checked it out there finaly came real guests.

The first guest was tall, slim teenaged sinner. His entire body and eyes were bright yellow, which stood out among dark blue, baggy clothes. But what stood out the most was his bright blue hair which reminded Charlie of that one animated movie (she metioned it during the welcome party, new guest didn't liked that idea).
It was obvious to everyone that he was new in hell not only because he smelled like a death according to Alastor, but also he didn't know if he should tell whats his name to the demons. Angel Dust was the one who told him that the most sinners changes their name after death. So after a while he introduced himself as Blazeth. Apparently he wandered around the streets for a while and then until he saw the hotel in TV.

After spending some time with Blazeth during the party, Charlie can say that despite his rebelious style he was a quiet and more or less nice kid.
Honestly, she wasn't expecting such a first guest since promoting the hotel. Don't get her wrong, she's happy that she has opportunity of explaining everything about afterlife to him and that he's there for redemption. But their new resident was fresh new in hell, who doesn't have place to go and that's kinda sad that this was main reason why he's there. After teen went to check out his bedroom, she shared her worries to the rest before afterparty cleaning.

"Dollface, even if that kid came there for free place this is fine. I mean that was why I'm there." Angel Dust chuckled, but then gave princess telling look "Yeah he's new in hell but after looking around he came to the conclusion that your place is the best option in this hellhole."

"Angels right in one thing there." Vaggie said kinda annoyed with his free stay comment "It just shows that finally some people start to recognize how wonderful is that what you are doing there Hon."

Radio Demon also wanted to join the conversation " Indeed my dear, you already did the hardest part of that whole project. You should take it easy, little steps, one at a time." he put his hand on her shoulder "Some things just take more time and patience..."

"You are right. I shouldn't be so pessimistic, we have achieved so much and this is just the beginning! Blazeth did said that he wants to try to get better if someone have already done it, I shouldn't search for negatives in good things." hellborn announced.
Yeah, they they have the worst behind them, so everything shoud go smoothly now even if kinda slow.

As they were going to start packing the decorations they found the entire living room completely clean. All that work was done by Nifty, now she stood in the middle of the room. "All done, all clean" she saluted and ran out of the room.

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Back in heaven High Seraphim watched as Emily showed white cobra-angel other attractions that this place has to offer. That's good, all things worth seeing and accessible activities should keep him busy for now.

Then she only gave out gave a resigned sigh. Lucifer convinced a lot of other angels, she was outvoted. Honestly she's not even surprised, it wasn't the first time he has done that after all.

Chapter Text

Sir Pentious was over the moon. Miss Emily was as nice as Miss Charlie, she's been showing all over his new dwelling place for the past few months. She had so many things to show him!
Of course, there were so many attractions in heaven after all you have to spend the rest of eternity here, also everyone has different preferences and interests. Joybringer expressed her satisfaction with that most of heaven council saw the reason and now are willing to help, she herself was wondering how else she could help... Besides taking care of him.

„Oh I’ve an idea! If Charlie's guests behave, they can have tours around paradise as a small reward and motivation, to show them how wonderful that place is.” she suggested.

„That's very thoughtful of you Misss. I’m sure other’sss would be very pleasssed by tour ssssimilar to that which you gave me.” not-so-new anymore winner said.

„If so, I have to leave you now. I have prepare for that, in your case I could show everything spread over a longer period of time and what left you can see for yourself.” she gave him brochures with thing he didn’t saw yet „But I have to pick which to squish into one short trip.”

And then after waving goodbye she flew away.

Sir Pentious just watched her disappear from sight. He did not say that to an angel with freckles, but he would rather to not be alone. As they walked around heaven he noticed that some angels were sending him dirty looks.
He didn't know what was going on until he noticed a very familiar wings among them… Those were exorcists survivors with their friends and family...

Maybe it’s better if he will postpone further sightseeing, maybe he should start organizing his new home or work on his new (non-murderous) inventions…

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Light came into office through window of heaven ambasady as Charlie sat across from Emily, one of her closest allies in the mission to bring redemption to hell. The office was filled with piles of papers, old coffee cups, and a few scattered notes about the recent progress of their work.

Charlie leaned forward, excitement bubbling in her chest. “Emily, this is exellent idea! My guests definitely would love to see their final destination. But I was also thinking... We’ve been talking about this for so long, and we’ve seen so much progress in hell… We even have a few new guests that moved in. We have to take some actions in heaven.”

Emily nodded, thoughtful expression replaced her smile “You’re right. You’re doing so much down here, the word is spreading. But heaven’s a whole other thing. Some of the elders did not agreed for redemption plan with normal citizens it can be the same.”

"“But we can do it!" Charlie’s smile never wavered "We’ve already proved that redemption works. We’ve got Sir Pentious already at its destination, more sinners in the line and important people in hell do treat this seriously. We can show rest of heaven that sinners are capable of change. And if we can win them over, it’ll be another huge step forward.”

Emily sat back, taking in Charlie’s enthusiasm. “I agree, but we need a plan. A real strategy. We can’t just waltz into heaven and hope for the best. Some angels... they just may not accept it. You need to show them we mean business.” dark-skinned girl said while thinking about Sera.

Charlie nodded, tapping her fingers on the table. “Yes, we need something that’ll grab their attention. A way to show them this isn’t just some pipe dream. We’ve got to convince them—really convince them—that they should give us a chance. And that’s where you come in.”

Emily raised an eyebrow. “Me? What possibly could I do?”

“You already know these people, you're the one who can help prepare something what will make an impact." Charlie grinned "You’ve seen what we’ve been doing, and you know how to break it down in a way that’ll resonate with the angels. They’re not going to listen to just anyone. They need to see proof that our work matters and that you support it.”

Emily paused, then smiled. “Alright. I see where you’re going with this. We need a clear, organized pitch. Something that not only explains our success, but we need something emotional, something that makes them feel it.”

Charlie’s eyes sparkled. “Exactly! Something that appeals to both their logic and their compassion. We need to show them that redemption isn’t just a moral argument—it’s a practical one. They need to see the value of what we’re doing. The soul potential we’re unlocking.”

“So, first things first,” Emily said, leaning forward and pulling out a notebook. “We’ll need to outline the progress we’ve made. We need testimonies. Actual stories of redemption in action. I think we could also include a demonstration, talk about our journey. Seeing real change will help them understand that this isn’t just about us wanting to change things—it’s about them wanting to be better.” angel’s fingers drummed on the notebook in thought.

Charlie scribbled quickly her own notes. “Yes, yes! And we can highlight how this can positively impact Heaven itself. If angels could see the potential of rehabilitating sinners who might be too far gone to save in their eyes, maybe they’ll think about the long-term benefits of bringing more souls back to goodness. A win-win case.”
Then princess added after few seconds “I know! We need them on board as partners. Not just as gatekeepers. If they help guide these souls, they’ll feel more involved, more invested if they create a bond.”

Emily wrote all of this down, but stopped for moment “We also need to think about the timing. We don’t want to overwhelm them, so we’ll need a short, focused pitch that gets to the heart of our cause. A clear, strong message. Sooo maybe let’s leave some parts for later”

Charlie’s heart beat faster. “We’ve got this, Emily. We can’t fail. Not now.”

Emily stood up, stretching her arms. “Okay. I’ll draft up some ideas for the presentation, and you’ll start pulling together some stories. But we’re going to need to get a group together—people who have really took part in redemption. They need to be ready to share their stories.”

Charlie smiled. “I’ve got that covered. I’ll talk to everyone and you prepare our favorite inventor. We need to show angels that redemption works and that they can be a part of it. We’ll be a united front.”

“Alright. Together, we’re going to prove to heaven that hell is full of second chances.” with a final nod, Emily began organizing her notes.

The two of them exchanged a look of quiet understanding and resolve. Their mission was clear, and they were ready. The battle for redemption was about to move to new heights. Heaven, whether they liked it or not, would have to hear them out.

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After long and precise planning the day of returning to heaven has finally come, but this time they were more prepared.
Emily divided the plan into two meetings (so audience could absorb the information provided). This morning during the first presentation will be shown the general objectives of their work. Then the rest of the day will be dedicated to showing sinner hotel guests how heaven is like (as motivation for further progress). And the next day on second meeting they will go into details of the redemption plan.
This time all guests go with Charlie and Vaggie, while rest of her friends stay to watch for hotel. After all as Alastor reminded: he, Nifty and Husk are only a staff. Just before they were ready to go fallen seraphim approached his daughter.

„Sorry that I can't go for the presentation. But you know what, I'll try to finish everything that has to be done and maybe I'll join you later."
Would heaven even let in a literal devil? Charlie wondered, but it came to her that if she was let in last time so her dad can get in.

"Charlie listen, even if you show all the best things you’ve achieved, there still will be people that just will put obstacles in your way.” fallen angel gave serious look but then it turned into cheering smile „Don’t let them discourage you, show them that you're right.”

„We’ll do our best.” the daughter smiled back as they went throught portal.

Lucifer stood there for a moment and contemplated about how fast his sunshine grown up and how proud he is of the fact she’ll soon show the world what Morningstar can do.
Well he then quickly he teleported into his workshop before that annoying deer next to him said anything or that creepy maid started getting too touchy.

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It was a sunny day in heaven, the sky a perfect shade of blue, with soft clouds floating lazily overhead. The golden streets gleamed, and the air smelled of fresh flowers. It was a far cry from the chaotic, often grimy underworld they had come from. Charlie, the princess of Hell, had arrived with hotel guest and staff to present a bold idea that might just bridge the gap between their two realms.
Their moods are a mix of nervous excitement. The plan was simple: convince the angels that redemption was possible for anyone. Heaven could be a place where not just the righteous found peace, but those willing to change could find a new beginning as well.

"So, how do you think it'll go?" Vaggie asked, her arms crossed, eyeing the gleaming architecture of Heaven's grand hall. She had lost faith in the mercy of angels, but she couldn’t help the small flicker of hope growing in her heart.

Charlie beamed, her optimism almost glowing. "I think it’s going to go wonderfully! This time we're more prepared. They’re good people, and they want to help, I know it. They just need to hear us out."

Angel Dust was already scanning the surroundings. "Yeah, sure. All these sparkly clouds and perfect little halos—what could go wrong?"

"We’ve got this." Charlie said more to herself. They heard Emily finished introducing Sir Pentious, his origins and giving them opening.
With a collective deep breath, the rest group made their way to a large, open hall where dozens of angels awaited them, their wings and their halos shimmering with light. Charlie took the stage with confidence, the whole group standing behind her as she addressed the room.

"Thank you all for gathering today," Charlie began, her voice soft yet firm. "We’re here because we believe that no soul is helpless case, no matter their past mistakes. That includes those of us from Hell. I know many of you may find this hard to believe, but we want to create a future where sinners can change and find peace, just like those of you who’ve earned your place here."
For a moment, the room was silent. The angels looked at each other, exchanging uncertain glances. Charlie felt a pang of worry, but she pushed it down.

One angel, woman with pale green wings, stepped forward and asked, "But how that work? How does sinner even prove they’ve changed?"

Charlie smiled, nodding thoughtfully. "Great question. Redemption isn’t about erasing a person’s past. It’s about giving them the tools to change and evolve. We believe in second chances—hell has many other people, who are learning, who are already showing they want to do better.” Charlie pointed to those not yet saved „If we give them the right support, they can improve themselves to worthy of a place like heaven."

Another angel, a tall man with dark hair raised his hand. "You want us to accept them, those who’ve been the very opposite of good. Isn’t there a danger in that? Won’t it corrupt heaven’s peace to allow them in?"

Vaggie stepped up beside Charlie, her voice sharp but controlled. "We’re not asking you to accept everyone blindly. The point is to allow those who’ve earned redemption the chance to walk beside you, to help them do the good they’re capable of."

The room buzzed with murmurs, some angels nodding in agreement, others clearly unconvinced.
Princess took her girlfriend by the hand and added when the audience quieted down a bit “We’ve already started the work in hell. Sir Pentious here is a perfect example that shows us that whole operation is a success. He’s gone from cartoon villain to someone who’s genuinely trying to be better. And he’s not the only one. We’ve seen countless souls start their journey toward redemption. All we need is for you to see that potential.”

Sir Pentious, now sporting a much more humble look, stepped forward with a shy smile. “It wasn’t easy. I don’t want to be that guy I used to be. And if I can change, then anyone can.”
Then sinners presented their previously discussed struggles and improvements (grounded in reality but also showing them in best possible light).

"Redemption is not only a chance for sinners, but also a chance for all of us to show the best of ourselves and make better lives for everyone. It'd be only a beginig in creating better brighter future." Charlie finished.

"I think you’re right," someone said softly after they finished the presentation "Perhaps... perhaps there’s room for a few who can prove they’ve truly changed. It won’t be easy, and it won’t happen overnight, but maybe we can start small. Perhaps a few souls, under watch, could find their place in heaven."

Even if that idea about monitoring her friends as they were criminals (even if they would make it into heaven) gave princess bad taste in mouth, she decided focus on positives "Thank you. You don’t know how much this means."
The crowd clapped, some angels smiling in approval. Charlie smiled widely, overwhelmed with the support. It went so well, they provided general information and gained more support.
And now the rest of the day they can spent on admiring the wonders of paradise, before more preparations for a second meeting, she can’t wait.

--------------------------------------------------

During organizing this event Emily had an epiphany. She could use this whole plan to convince not only heaven's population, but also minority of the council which did not support redemption – including Sera.
So she invited them. And they all have came.

„Sera, I’m so glad you’re there!”

„Hello Emily… It’s nice to see you after 4 months.” older seraphim pointed out sadly.

„… I’m sorry, I was busy with work.” younger six-winged angel said apologetically.

„I heard you did you did the opposite, you seem to be neglecting your duties. You spent too much of your time on this.” Sera said quietly and looked at other angels discussing about they have learnt.
They stood there for a moment without saying anything, both thinking about how differences of opinion can lead to people once close to drift apart.

Sera looked at Emily again „I know what your goal was when you invited us here. But things we know and what you want pass to us are not main factor that determined our decisions in that case of redemption and letting in sinners to heaven, but emotions that come out of it." Emily noticed that taller woman was choosing her words uncertainly, as scared for some reason. This is a why Emily decided to don't interrupt her. Also it was weird thing to say, she knew that Sera was not guided by emotions but by reason.

"Our emotions and desires can cloud our judgment, we want something so bad that we loss o̸u̸r̴ ̶i̴n̷s̴i̸g̶h̵t̷ ̵o̷f̶ ̸r̵e̵a̶l̴i̸t̵y̴ ̵w̸e̸ ̶a̶r̴e̷ ̶i̵n̷ a̷̟͂̾n̵̙̞̯̉d̸̢̖̫͑̅ ̸̛̙̙̱o̵̠̙͇̊̎ủ̵͙r̷̥̠̓ ̷̣͂͊͘p̸͇̈́̒ĺ̴̺͔̈́a̶͉͝c̷̖̆͘e̸̦̎͝ ̷̲̆̕ī̵̢̡̝͛n̵̪͒ ̵͐ͅi̸̼͚̝̿̑t̴̍̿́ͅ—" Sera didn't finished that thought, at the end she closed her eyes as if she was in pain.

"I don't understand... Pent proved that's possible... even if we won't be able to save everyone, those few people who can do it will be worth it." Emily was kinda taken aback by that last part but decided not to metion it "It's not just some unrealistic dream anymore..."

After a few breaths Sera continued calmly "Hell's princess killed angels, not everyone will be happy because that we lowered standards and will allow them in. We shouldn't risk what we have, we shouldn't do things that will accelerate the disintegration of what we have." and then she left unable to look anyone in the face.

Emily was froze for minute, she didn't understand... then she looked at the rest of the unconvinced elders.
It seems they haven't changed their minds either.
Apparently some people were not there to be open-minded.
Guess some people won't change their made up mind.

She puts these thoughts aside, it's time for trip that she prepared after all. She shouldn't spoil the mood with bad attitude.

Chapter Text

The hotel’s first grand presentation was finished, and the excitement buzzed through as group was guided so they could admire views more magnificent than any they had seen before (both hell and earth).
They saw the most out-worldly parks and gardens, beach with breathtaking views and crystal clear water. The last two places they were supposed to visit according to Emily's plans small restaurant near their last stop: big lamp fesival under night sky. Restaurant was cozy with pleasant atmosphere. It was nice to just sit down after long day, eat something delicious and talk with close friends.

This is why the rest of the restaurant's customers are met with a strange sight: demon princess, seraphim, fallen angel, ex-sinner (but now new angel) and 4 sinners at the one table.

„You know I made another invention – glitter sssskyrocket.” said Sir Pentious when they waited for their order „It’sss not sssomething original or in my ssstyle, but I decided to make it asss a gift for you Misss Charlie for making my redemption posssible, and of courssse taking care of my preciousss eggsss, but it’sss alsso a gift for Misss Emily for help in getting usssed to thisss place.”

„Thats wonderful, thank you! You shouldn’t have…” said moved, Emily and Charlie in unison.

„Well that’s good to know you moved on with building weapons” mumbled Vaggie with a smile, so quiet that only people at their table heard. Which was followed by heartly laughs from the rest of them.

„I wasss thinking it would be good idea to ssset it at the end of the event, in light of the lampsss it’d be ssspecial experience which I’m sssure you’d enjoy.” he finished when waitress came with their food and drinks. Not only two too-precious-for-this-world girls thought it’s brilliant idea but also all sinners present.

Well maybe except for the youngest among them, moody teenager – Blazeth „Why do we even have to go for that party? This is nothing special. You could have thought that heaven would be something better than just another vacations.” he muttered under his breath while looking at the phone.

This only made waitress look at him, but before she she managed to say anything - probably scold him for complaining even though he gets the best of everything in there, Emily got ahead of her „Don’t mind him he’s just tired after day full of excitement”.

Woman didn’t comment, just left their orders and wished a nice day. Even though this was a satisfying day, they had to deal with stares (with different degrees of judgment) all that time. So that weird look from café staff was nothing new.

When they finished eating everyone (not only guests from hell) started to observe the preparations for the festival, this is why Emily picked that place, for full experience.

--------------------------------------------------

The night has come in paradise, under the soft glow of thousands of lanterns Vaggie and Charlie wandered hand in hand through the vibrant festival. The air was crisp, filled with the sweet scent of jasmine, and the lanterns floated like stars in the night sky, their warm colors reflecting off the calm water in nearby ponds.

Girls laughed as they weaved through the crowds, each lantern more beautiful than the last. Blonde's eyes sparkled as she pointed out a pink lotus-shaped lantern, while Vaggie squeezed her hand, gently pulled her toward less crowded corner of the festival grounds.

"Look at this." fallen angel whispered, leading her girlfriend to a secluded garden where a small stage was set up. The music was soft, a slow instrumental melody that seemed to harmonize with the rhythm of their hearts. It was as if the world had melted away, leaving only the two of them in the glow of the lanterns "Do you want to dance?".

Charlie nodded, stepping closer. The music seemed to wrap around them as they moved together, their bodies swaying in perfect synchrony. The lanterns above flickered gently, casting a dreamy light, their laughter echoing in the night.
For those few minutes, it felt like time stood still. It was just them, lost in the magic of the festival, their love reflected in the soft glow of the lanterns around them. And when the song ended, they stood there, breathless and smiling, knowing that this moment would live in their hearts forever.

After that lovebirds just sat next to little pond and admired scenery.

Suddenly there was heard a quiet 'awww', both girls looked behind them and saw Lucifer Morningstar, which looked like he was about to leave them alone again, but he was catched before that.

"Oh, sorry I didn't meant to interrupt you two. I just came to heaven and I was searching for you... I will come back later." Lucifer said was about to fly off.

"No dad, come there sit with us." Charlie stood up ready to stop him "We're happy that you made it. I want to tell you how it went."

So now three of them are sitting on the grass, two fallen angels listen carefully to her, both smiling.

--------------------------------------------------

But not everyone had a good time. While almost everyone was having a good time during party no matter where did they come from, heaven or hell, here was one sinner that wasn't.

Lately Blazeth was in poor mood, more than than in a long time. That whole redemption thing was going kinda diffrent way than he than he thought it would be. Honestly he didn't even know what he expected...
But demon princess' positivism, impudence, rules and her treating him as a child only made him feel as someone tried to control him... again...

He had no desire to party now, so he just sat down and stuck his eyes into screen of his electronic.
He was too focused at it, he didn't noticed when someone putted hand on his arm, it made him quickly look at the person that invaded his personal space.

It was a waitress from before. Before he managed to push her hand away woman spoke with disbelief "Amir is that you?"

That one sentence made him froze, how he did not recognized this voice back then in restaurant? Or this face? It was little diffrent but it without doubt belonged to person he knew during his lifetime.
It was his mom.

There was silence between them, the worst kind of it. After shock wore out, teen frowned pushed away the hand that reminded him of his earthly life. It was the hand of a woman who thought she had the right to completely control his life.
As he did that, woman's face changed from incredulous and despairing to shocked by that action.

Sinner would like to leave, but he knew that it'd be useless. His mother would go after him, so he can just hope that they'll end it quickly "What you want?"

For a moment, his mother just stood there, processing. Her features were twisted with something her son couldn’t quite read—sadness, confusion, and maybe even relief. But then, as if some invisible wall had broken, the reality of the situation hit her. She stepped back, suddenly overwhelmed "What are you doing there, how are you there...?".

He just snorted "Hell's redemption plan."

"You killed us... You... you killed us." her voice faltered, but he could feel the sharpness of the words hit him, he could feel the coldness that crept into her gaze "You are clearly you haven't changed at all. No regret... and they let you into heaven even if it's for few moments...?".

"Oh no I do regret, that I died with you both, I had plans for life. But you... this is what you get for interfering, trying to control my life while saying that 'you are sick, you need help'." Blazeth said mockingly.

"You think we didn’t tried understand you? You think I wanted to control you? We wanted to help you, Amir. We tried. But you pushed us away every step of the way. And in the end, you didn’t just destroy us. You destroyed yourself." His mother stood taller now, her posture straight and unwavering. There was no softness in her eyes anymore—only a frustration that had built up over the years.

"You all are the same... first you and dad now demon blondie. You all promise something will help... but it's just a pile of shit." on the other hand that part was said in a quiet voice. After a while he asked "Where is dad anyway? I'm sure that while you want to cry over my behavior, he'd love to scold me"

For a moment, there was a flicker of something in his mother’s eyes—something fleeting, something vulnerable. But it was quickly replaced by a hard, flat gaze as she answered. "He’s alive. Angels told me, he’s been this whole time on earth." then she whispered to herself "How horrible it is to survive something like this..."

"What? No. No, he shouldn’t be. He was supposed to be dead too! You were both supposed to be gone from my life!" teen ranted.

His mother didn’t respond. She didn’t flinch at his screaming, luckly for him festival's noises drowned him out for others. She looked at him, her face cold but still somehow sad. Then, simply turned away, her back facing him as she began to walk away. No more compassion. And again he's left with his own thoughts.

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Emily knew that that lantern theme event was a right pick, it gave a special atmosphere.

Joybringer encouraged Charlie and her girlfriend to go spent some time together and create some precious memories. She herself took on the responsibility of looking after the sinners. It was great, well of course paradise had the best in their field, some of her acquaintance took part in preparing all of this. In entertainment they included professional dancers, various food, lamp exhibitions that were more like art illuminated by heavens light, but now came time for group to make their very own lathern.
Blazeth being in bad mood, decide that he didn't wanted to participate in this, so he sat down on the bench and played on his phone.
Honestly, she was starting to get irritated by his negative attitude. But tried not to show it.

She was now about to start working on her own lamp, but then she saw another very familiar angel, it was her friend from dancing lessons - Nala. Emily helped her with finding her own passion when she first came to heaven.
Nala asked her to talk, away from the hustle and bustle, so Emily entrusted others to Sir Pentious' care (this forced him to stop preparing his gift that he talked about earlier).

As the sounds of the music became quieter when they moved away from party to dancer's apartament Emily finally said "You know Nala, we saw you dancing in the begining. Your dance was glorious as always-"

"Emily. My guests in my house are gathering to discuss something and I thought you should come too. This is important, something serious. So please..." dancer whispered as she leaded six-winged angel to something that looked like something that for sure wasn't a cheerful party. That's kinda odd, Emily didn't know her friend made any meeting before that and if so why she didn't just told her but danced around it.

Everyone in her friend's living room had already took their seats, Emily looked around her, everyone had grave serious face and looked at her with different emotions: grief, rage, and an unyielding thirst for vengeance. Those negative emotions made her feel uncomfortable, she had a bad feeling about that whole... she didn't even know what it is... The room was suffocating, the air thick with an unnatural chill that seemed to seep into every corner.
Then she was invited to sit down too.

"Your highness, we didn't expected our friend Nala to actually bring you here..." said cherub surprised by the presence of such high rank "But that's good you're there, because we have important thing we want to clarify... and I won't beat around the bush... It's about your cooperation with hell." this made Emily kinda nervous, she saw where this was going. They gonna educate her. "Most angels of heaven heard about it now."

"Believe us there is a lot more people with worldviews similar to ours..." said Nala.
"You are kind-hearted, Emily, but kindness shouldn't blind us to the truth. The damage they have caused is irreversible. A soul twisted by such darkness cannot simply be wiped clean by an apology." Nala explained as she'd talk to child.

"We..." continued cherub "we believe that you made your a decision without knowing the situation."

"So there is more of you." Emily said to herself but she immediately turned to angels "I understand that changes in our worldview can be difficult. We have possibility to create something wonderful, if we let forgiveness to our-" joybringer tried to say what she learned for the presentation, but she was cut off.

"And what if we don't want to give them any more chances to hurt other people?" said voice she never heard before, as she looked at the source Emily saw one winged woman. It was one of exorcists.

"Well, it's-" she was interrupted again.

"You're talking about change and regret. Yes, those things might come, but it will be mainly caused by the fact that they have to face the consequences now." said person who sat next to exorcist "Of course, some might just pretend to be fixed. Just to take advantage of people that give them benefit of the doubt." everyone in room frowned including Emily, but she did for diffrent reasons than the rest.

"Miss, a lot of people in heaven are victims of those people while they were on Earth. This is why since the news spread that that ...scum... were let into heaven, most of them are barricaded in their homes, the rest are anxious at best."

Emily didn't knew about that some people felt uncomfortable with reconciliation of sinners and winners, but before she asked herself why it is in that way she responded "I'm sure that if they give that program a bit of the time they will be convinced of it just like those people that attended today's meeting with sinners. They're not so diffrent from you, they are human souls too."

"...Just because they're not averted by this idea by this idea doesn't mean other's are too." older man was first to answer after silence." Angels and humans that somehow accept that attempt, only proves that they have never had contact with such people. Not everyone is that lucky."
Now every person in room wanted to add something into conversation, they started flooding Emily with complaints. Each one of them had once been a victim of the very sinners they condemned. The stories of their lives—lives shattered by those who now roamed the depths of hell—formed a haunting chorus that filled the room, vibrating in Emily’s chest like an unrelenting drumbeat.

"I don't want to my cousin who murdered me to come here." said someone with apathy "Should a man like him deserve forgiveness? Should people like this be allowed to walk free in afterlife to roam again, when they shattered the lives of so many, including mine?"

"Do you want to give my rapist a red carpet too?" said another girl with a barely contained anger "I was taken from my home by someone who thought nothing of the consequences of his actions. He… he used me. I was just a means to an end for him—his power, his pleasure, his control. I died in the most violent way, discarded like I was nothing more than an object. Less than animal." She stopped, her eyes locking onto Emily's. The cold fury in them was like a weapon, sharp and unwavering.

"Psychopaths will promise us everything and then go back to their old ways, I know it, I lived with one of those..."

A teenaged boy spoke quietly, with voice full of sadness "Those people are thieves, abusers, killers... when I heard first time about extermination I felt relief that... they... may be gone forever." then he fixed his gaze on high ranking angel "But then you- you stood by their side and said how poor they are... They don't deserve that sympathy."

"Alright, I can see why have bad blood with some of them." Emily started to understand where they come from "But that whole extermination thing was... just as bad... killing them makes us as bad as any killer. Let's say some of them are not willing to change, fact they are in hell is enough punishment."

"Oh, cut that snowflake bullshit!" ex-exorcist took voice again.

"Those waste of a soul had their chance to live without our interfering in their pathetic lives. But those envious dogs decided that they wanted to take from us everything - by force. It wasn't even that long ago! Exorcists were a soliders that protected peace in afterlife, for ages my sister, my friends and I protected everyone from those devils. And then treaty was made by all high ranking angels (including Lucicunt), which that blasphemous bastards broke! —Don't interrupt me!" woman screamd when Emily tried to stand up for Morningstars.
"You and your bff think that, because we killed those scum, makes us bad. But how can you look at their victims" she pointed to the rest of the room "and those criminals that ate alive my friends... and still insist that they don't deserve all the worst. People in hell do deserve to die. And if that makes me evil in your eyes, then so be it. They are the true monsters." one-winged girl lost edge in her voice. Now she was on on the verge of tears.

Then she rested her head on shoulder of another heavenborn with similar face to hers, which hugged her. Then than angel spoke with calm but stern voice "Princess and her subordinates killed and desecrated the corpses of angels because they didn't agreed with their ridiculous delusions. And they claimed that they were already improving. So what's stopping them from doing it again?"

The silence that followed was heavy, a stillness broken only by the faint sound of wings fluttering. Emily could feel the weight of those words, the heavy grief and bitter anger that clung to them. Emily didn't used argument that they were protecting themselves like she did with Sera. But before she could process the enormity of it, the next angel stepped forward...

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Emily had left that room before anymore of gathered there winners could tell her in detail what happened during their lifetimes. She was too overwhelmed. The sound of their voices was almost a physical presence, adding to the oppressive atmosphere that seems to press down on Emily’s chest, making it difficult to breathe. She excussed herself and was on her way back to festival, even if she had no intention to part-take in celebration.
She was finally starting to see what Sera meant... maybe they do should have to tighten the requirements for program entry. They will have to postpone tomorrows promotional meeting, she must first discuss these issues with Charlie.

"Emily!" she could hear Nala's voice so she waited for her (she shouldn't leave her friend's apartament without saying proper goodbye first...), as she caught up with her earthborn angel started new conversation "I'm sorry Ems that I put you in such situation and that we told you all those things on one sitting. But that cooperation with hell must end. I'm kinda disapointed that you are on their side... but you can still make right decision."

"I do have to reorganize my thoughts... I still want at least some sinners to get better. Some people may have not known that what they were doing was wrong..." Emily tried to convince herself so that her worldview doesn't fall apart "Okay maybe not everyone deserve that chance, but Sir Pentious..."

"Does he deserve to be there? I was on that meeting with demon princess and no one from that group of sinners including snake didn't do anything worth heaven after being in hellfire for a reason." for a moment she looked back at he apartment, where she came from "You know when I found out about extermination I was just as terrified as you. I have a really strong emotions about ... genocides."

Both girls were quiet for a moment, that topic was clearly hard for both of them. But Nala pushed it.
Emily could feel the raw emotion in her tone, the unbearable grief and anger that fueled every word. The night air felt colder still, as if the very it was being drained of warmth.

"I was killed in Rwandan Civil War. I saw things that make you loose faith in more than just humanity... I saw things that are for some only a thing of a bloody past or a fiction. Heaven's protectors reminded me of mass murderers on Earth, until I talked with exterminator which you've just meet..." Emily never heard Nala talk about anything from her time on Earth, even if she didn't wanted to hear more about horrible reality joybringer decided that she should hear out everything her friend has to say.

"It was hard to not see similarities at first glance. But there is a thing. On Earth, all sides no matter where you come from or how you look like, we have people that are willing to do horrors to other people because they like it or have something from it. And they all go to hell, the place that doesn't deserve compassion. And we need you and other powerful angels to protect us from them."

There was silence between them again, but in that moment universe apparently decided to prove lower ranking angel right.
In the distance, from the festival venue suddenly an explosion could be heard. Music and heartly laughter turned into screams of panic. Something bad happened.
Emily didn't waste any time, she told her friend to go back to a safe place and then she spread her wings and flew at the speed of light towards the commotion.

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When she arrived she saw more powerful than average angel trying to lead others to a safe place others took care of the fire thatwas ravaging a nearby restaurant and lantern decorations.
In this panic Emily spotted Charlie and two fallen angels that just like her came there when they heard the explosion.

"Everyone's okay? What happened?" asked Charlie while looking around for her friends.

Then they spotted them, all of them stood terrified, but not because of fire. A moment later they found out what scared sinners and ex-sinner so much. It was Sera looking at them, but when she heard princesses' question, she took her gaze off them and turned it towards Charlie. High seraphim taken the form more bird-like, which made her look like a monster in combination with all those eyes.
And the flames of the fire in the background gave the view a horror like aura.

Then she spoke, in the most furious, nightmarish voice that Charlie, Emily, Vaggie and any of hotel's guests have ever heard.

"Ỳ̵̧͎͈̘o̶̜͌̀ù̷̳r̵̢̨̽̒́͊ ̵̧̧̪̿̅͊͜g̶̛̗̣̘ư̴͉͉̪̈͛̋e̸̖̙͜͝s̵̨̯̗͚̿̃t̵͓̠͍̍̀̑͠s̸̢̩̣͐̍ ̸̖̠͊͝ḧ̵̗́͌́ȧ̴̼̬̹͖̌v̷̝͙͎̬̌͋e̷̩͔͛͛ ̵̰͕͌͝h̸̺̮͚̎͌a̴̖̥̖̯̓p̸̦͎͍͝p̷̹̩̬̋͆͝ẹ̵̡͍͓̈̿͘n̷̡̑̋̇e̴̹͍̼͆̈̎͝d̸̡̛͚͔͛͑̃, y̶̧̡̡̡͈̯͚̞̤̮̞̆͆ͅͅơ̴̡̠̣̞̄͌̏̏̔̃̉̔̄ṵ̶̢͔͙̳͖͚̌̅͂̈̓̀̾̔̐̈́́̈͋̊͠ ̸̢̣̝̗̙̰̼̱̳̱̲͐ͅͅh̸̝̞͓͊̈́̈́͗͠ẽ̵̝̮̱̱̚ľ̶͈̱̦͎͔̆̑̐̊͋͋̈́͂͛͝͝l̴͖̝͎͖̺͙͓̠͖̗͐̔̒̈̃̈́͜ͅş̷̮͍̟̻̟̤͎͇͎͌̈̒̾͌p̸̣̘̖͎̟̼̞̼̏̈́̽͒̄̿̿̒̈͌̈́̄̃͘͝a̷̧̖͎͍͔̣͒͊͛̊͑̏̿̈́̌̀̅͠w̷̢̪̬͎̣̣͕̆̈́̅͛̑̾̍̆̍͑͝ǹ̸̮̮̱̙̙̋̒͗͒̍̐̈́̏͝."

Chapter Text

Sera was furious.
The fire, the chaos—as far as the eye can see.

Charlie and her group of misfits earlier killed countless of angels, now prancing around like they were some sort of saviors, strolling through heaven with their "redemption" plans. It's obvious that they don't even know what "good" means.
Or maybe they know, they are just they show their corruption, claim that their evil deeds to be something good. They were testing Heaven's weaknesses. They wanted to see how much they could afford to abuse their patience.

This was never a redemption plan. It was a conquest.

They want to infiltrate heaven—one demon at a time.

On the other hand it's a bit stupid of them to do it now, when their position is not secured.
But it makes it as bad as the first possibility. It means that they can't control those sinners even if they even if they wanted to.

She clenched her fists as a wave of heat hit her, flames licking the edges of the cloud-drenched sky. How could no one else see this? How could they just stand there, watching everything burn, while Charlie’s ridiculous hope blinded them all to the truth?

She gritted her teeth, a sickening anger bubbling in her chest. That fire had to be intentional. If not from princess or Lucifer then from one riotous sinner. A spark here, a little mishap there and suddenly heaven was burning, the flames a symbol of their success. They feel too confident, this is not innocent mistake. It was them—they were sabotaging and destroying everything.

Whether we are in hell or heaven depends on the people around us.

Sera’s gaze snapped to the fallen humans. It was all falling apart because of them.
They’re setting us up to fail. They don't see that they are just pawns in someone else's game.
Lucifer once again reaches out for something that didn't belong to him.

Her wings flared in frustration, countless of her eyes narrowing. The fire wasn’t the only thing smoldering in the air. It was her rage, too.
The fire raged, but it was nothing compared to the storm building in Sera's mind.

--------------------------------------------------

Peaceful and enjoyable night turned into nightmare.

As Charlie arrived into scene she started to look for her friends, when she found them with towering over everyone high seraphim, but Charlie wasn't sure if it even was Sera.

Sera was the celestial being of divine order, her silver wings shimmered with a soft and pure light.

But now she took on an appearance more horrible than any demon of hell had ever seen. As simply as Charlie could describe it, she was now something ...monstrous... thing that couldn't be entirely seen because of feathers that covered her from head to toe. This made her resemble bird with a crown and eyes all over her body. Her eyes no longer shone with gentle light nor fatigue—they burned with the fury of a thousand storms, they showed the depth of an ancient anger.

That being turned to her and answered the princess to her questions about situation. However hellborn couldn't make out the meaning of what she said, because unpleasant vibrations which spread through her entity made it nearly impossible.
The same feeling accompanied all souls with human origin apparently, because all of her friends pressed themselves together for protection and moved away from six winged giant.

Emily on the other hand understanded what was said considering her reaction "What?! What happened?" she turned to the group that she left earlier by the lamp making station. Fact that she turned towards sinners made Vaggie and Charlie sent them scared looks too.

"We don't know! We did these workshop bullshit and then some shit blowed up, more or less where the pub where we ate is." said Angel Dust, while waiting for confirmation from newly ascended and the three other sinners.

Then the sound of a distorted voice rang out again.

This time not only Emily had a strong reaction (her face changed from taken aback and conflicted to hurt and betrayal), but also Lucifer. He looked suddenly nervous and tried to push Sera from others gently.

"Sir Pentious? You started a fire with your rocket? You said it was a glitter rocket..." Emily whispered with a broken voice.

"It was..." snake didn't know what to even say.

"What? Come on! He didn't do it." fluffy spider spoke again.
"He was watching us at that fucking workshop just like you asked! And he told all of us that he didn't finished preparing that shit!" Angel defended one of his closest friends.

"But that fire did started where that invention was left..." said one girl sinner.

"Yeah, but that doesn't mean that Sir Pentious is responsible. Let's be honest, I'm sure some people don't like us, no matter how many others support Charlie." said her sister "Maybe someone is framing us for this fire."

"We will think about it later, first we should leave that place. Angels are gathering to see what happened, we shouldn't be seen there." said Vaggie as she pushed both sinner girls, the rest of the group followed.

Hell's gang left festival fire zone, while Emily stayed to help put it out even if fire mostly already has been brought under control.
Charlie gave one last look in direction of that tragedy, she hopes that no one got hurt.
But in that moment princess noticed that her dad and Sera weren't with them or in place where she saw the last time. After looking around she finally noticed them, as king of hell dragged another seraphim (still in that horrible form).

Even if princess was really scared of that new look, she needed to talk to her and reduce that negative impact that will come just because they were at the scene of the disaster. And if one of them accidentally did started that fire she'll apologize with them, they all will help in repairing the damage.

She can't mess it up. Not now, when everything was going as it should be.

--------------------------------------------------

This whole situation was inconvenient. Another obstacle.

Lucifer made sure that they both left without anyone noticing, when his daughter and her friends were distracted, it's good that he managed to drew all Sera's attention to himself.

Now Sera’s voice echoed through the night in heaven. "Ṯ̶̩͔̏̍̀̐͠ẖ̷̨̨̰̺̋̔̑̔̕i̵̛̫̒͘̚͝s̷͓̀̍͛́͠ ̸̯͇̗͖̀͑͗̇ì̶̖̓͗̓͊s̸̤͍̀̉͂͗̈ ̶͈͔̰̀̎ȗ̷̢͆n̷̟̝̠͑̈́̇̅͜ȧ̵̖͓̳̬̃͋͒c̵̢̢̿̂̏̏͘c̸̤̗̓͜͜͝ȩ̴̈́̄̏̎p̴̺͈̞̫͕̈́̕͝ţ̶̢̛̆͌͜ä̶̯̽b̵̰̱͙̌̉̃̔͘l̴̞̰̗̀̎͂͝ę̶̹̰̼̊!̵̢̣̤̝͍͋ T̸̯̃ẖ̸̏i̷̲͝ṡ̶̮ ̵͈̍f̷̙͝ḭ̶̇r̸͉̾e̵̯̔ ̵̻͆j̷̨͐u̶̻͌s̸̙͗t̶͙̄ ̴̥̓p̸̪̋r̴̦̓ò̷͜v̴͙̿è̵̬s̶͐͜ ̴̲̽ṭ̵̎h̴͉͒a̴̔ͅt̶͍̉ ̸̨͝n̴̹̈́ô̵̢t̶̗̔h̸̹͠i̷̯͝n̷̺̐g̶̫̓ ̶̝͊g̵̖̐ọ̵̔o̵̩͊d̵̤͒ ̸̳̂w̵̪̌į̶̎l̸̳̓l̴̜̋ ̵̫̃c̵̻͘ô̴̙m̷̖̔ẹ̵͆ ̵̹͐o̵̼͋ũ̸͉ẗ̷̳́ ̷̆ͅǫ̸̓f̵̝̀ ̶̱̀i̵̮̾ṭ̵̒!̴̺̂"

The only reason why no one paid attention to that scream was fact everyone awake were busy worrying about fire, so no one was around.

Lucifer would roll his eyes at this tantrum if he wasn't angry himself. He quickly took furious Sera aside to the nearest official building (it was empty at that hour), so she didn't said something that would be inconvenient for him.

"H̶e̶ ̷s̵h̷o̶u̴l̵d̵n̴’̸t̸ ̷e̷v̵e̵n̴ ̴b̴e̸ ̸h̴e̵r̵e̷!̸" horrible voice thundered even if she calmed down a bit "T̸h̸i̴s̴ ̵m̸a̶n̵ ̸d̵o̸e̵s̶n̴’̸t̵ ̶b̸e̸l̷o̵n̴g̵ ̵i̵n̵ ̷h̴e̶a̸v̶e̵n̶!̶ ̶I̸f̷ ̵i̵t̷ ̷w̶e̸r̴e̴ ̶u̸p̷ ̷t̵o̷ ̴m̴e̶,̴ ̵I̴’̸d̸ ̴b̶a̷n̴i̸s̵h̷ ̴h̵i̸m̸ ̵b̸a̸c̵k̵ ̶t̷o̷ ̴h̴e̸l̶l̶ ̸w̴h̶e̶r̴e̶ ̷h̶e̴ ̴b̴e̴l̴o̷n̵g̴s̶ ̸t̶h̶e̸ ̸d̶a̴y̵ ̶h̸e̶ ̶a̶p̷p̴e̷a̴r̴e̶d̶!̷ ̵B̷u̷t̷ ̴a̷f̴t̸e̷r̴ ̶t̷h̸a̸t̸ ̵a̴c̶c̸i̸d̷e̵n̷t̴,̴ ̴e̴v̸e̵n̴ ̶t̷h̵o̸s̴e̴ ̷w̵h̵o̴ ̵s̵u̸p̸p̶o̵r̸t̶e̴d̴ ̴y̷o̶u̵ ̷w̴i̶l̷l̸ ̶d̵e̸m̴a̷n̸d̸ ̵i̴t̵.̷ I̷̜̰̔f̷̨̘͋͆ ̵̭́̒ÿ̵̛̞́o̸̫͒u̷͎͐ ̸̼͆͐t̴̠̓̄ḧ̷͔͉́̍í̵̙͗n̴̓͝ͅk̷͉̅ ̷̼̼̆̔w̸̧͉̍̔ẻ̷̜̙̇ ̶̧̘̒ẁ̴̮͙̚i̸̧̞̍̈l̶̪͓̋l̶͓͆̕ ̴͚̰͂ļ̴͆̑e̸͍͚̽̚t̵̥̬̃ ̵͖̤̓̐y̴̰̰͌ô̴̩̥͐ú̶̪̏ ̸̡̱̀d̷̒͜ẻ̸̻̗͛ş̶̯̾t̵͍̝̄̽r̷̰̉̏ỏ̵͚̣y̸͍̘̌͠ ̸̥̙͂h̷̩̊ê̷̖̣a̵̭͠v̷̾ͅe̷̳̩͘n̵͙͠ ̴̫̐͝ͅf̷͉̼͆̉r̵͕̃̊ͅo̶̠͘m̵̹̏ ̸̝̈w̶̡̖͂͛ï̷̗t̴̘͗̈ĥ̴̗i̶̲͝n̵̜͆̂,̴̛͚͇̑ ̴̻͐y̸͉͆͜o̷̳̲͛u̸̳̰͋ ̷͚͆͑͜å̷̛͇͜r̷̛̫̞͆e̶̺̖͛͘ ̴͔̲̈́̋m̷̧͉͋͝ī̷͔̭̾s̸͚͛̓t̴͔̣̍a̸̛̘̚k̴̹̋̈ê̶̩̭͝ṇ̷͝.̸͉͝"

Lucifer stepped forward, his calm, regal demeanor a stark contrast to Sera’s fiery anger. He wasn't intimidated by her big, more feathered version "Sera, do not make decisions in haste. Sir Pentious has shown real progress. Yes, this was an unfortunate accident... Surely, we can find a solution that doesn’t involve casting him out."

"F̷i̸r̸s̸t̶,̸ ̸h̴e̴ wreaks havoc in Hell, and now he’s burning heaven down." Sera started to speak normally again, but her wings snapped angrily. "Leave your fantasy world and face reality! What you did is as outworldly as your daughter's plan!"

Lucifer did flinch at that (just a little) "Her plan is my plan now, I'll support her. Sera, you must remember that this demands more patience, time and work. Don't you get it? This is our chance to achieve-."

Sera’s eyes blazed, her voice tight with fury. "Patience and time? How many more mistakes do you want us to allow? How many times will you repeat the same mistake?" then heaviness came back at now normal Sera's face "...We shouldn't waste time like this..."

There was a heavy silence because of the implications.

"Yes, our time is precious... this is why we should use it wisely." now as high seraphim calmed down they can conduct a proper conversation. Sera sended him enigmatic look, which he was able to decode. "My daughter reminded me that we must act to change the world around us. She reminds me of young me..."

"So far the only thing you have achieved by leaving this snake on our doorstep is chaos, this is not the first time you do something like this. Have you forgot that you were the one begging for treaty that you've broken?" reminded Sera.

"These are different times and different solutions." short angel said in quiet whisper.

That made Sera stop for a moment, she was still angry but that feeling of unease overshadowed it.
"Why you chose him—Sir Pentious of all people—to redeem? Of all the souls to intervene with, why him? Everyone that know you know what was the real reason behind sending him to heaven. You say it's redemption, but I don't believe for a second that you did it out of mercy, like your child claimes."

"You’re right, Sera, I don’t do anything without purpose. Charlie's friend? He was a lost soul, yes, but capable of much more than anyone thought. And redemption, in my hands, is not about saving them for the sake of themselves—it’s about giving them a chance to help build something better." subtle smile appeared on his lips.

"You... you’re willing to risk everything we already have—the safety, the illusion—for project doomed to failure? You’ll destroy everything we’ve built, Lucifer. This afterlife system we’ve created, it’s too fragile. If human souls discover the truth, this place will fall apart." Sera was almost speechless with disbelief "This is suicidal, you know that we wouldn't stand a chance..."

A soft chuckle escapes from king of hell, his gaze almost affectionate as he watches Sera.
"Ah, always so quick to assume. It’s not as much about destruction as it’s about progress, it’s about unity. We have been divided for ages, but the world’s changing. I plan to bring us together, to show them that heaven and hell, the fall and the redemption, can coexist."

"Unity? You think everyone will accept that? We won’t bend to your will, Lucifer. They’ll never accept what you’re trying to do." high seraphim's voice shakes with frustration.

"My real agenda, Sera, is not just about heaven and hell, not just about human souls. You should know that. It’s about my daughter. She deserves more than this, she deserves what we wanted from the very begining. We’ll rebuild everything. Human souls are ready for change. They just don’t realize it yet. If I can show them what limits us, to see beyond their narrow view of their lifes, they will come to understand."

"Even better!" said Sera in sarcastic tone that didn't fit her to be honest "You're not only want to satisfy your selfish desires, but you also want to still pamper your adult daughter, that acts like preschooler. Quit with that nonsense, you doing it all over again! You won't fool anybody that know you! You put self-satisfaction and self-righteous of few individuals above all the rest, but you won't get it!"

Her voice became serious again "We don't want to our world to be invaded by criminals."

"So what if few winners won't like it? You and I both know that labels like ‘criminal’ are mere human constructs. We know that winners in there also are not innocent. They've made their own choices, twisted and dark as they may be. No one is as pure as they claim."
Calmness came off his face "This place is full of people who think they’re better than the rest because they’ve followed some stupid standard, more or less it depends on how they liked some parts of it. That is what you’re supporting?"

His eyes flash with a mixture of anger and passion, the air thickening with an electric tension. Sera stands firm but visibly rattled by the intensity of his words.

"It’s not a war, Sera. It’s a chance to break down the walls, to merge heaven and hell—not in chaos, but in understanding of our nature. In evolution." everyone listening could hear desperation in his voice.
"We need to be finally free from those stiff rules. You already lowered your standards you can do it again for the case." Lucifer finished, after letting it out he became calm again.

The tension between these two powerful figures is palpable. It’s a moment of uneasy peace after a violent emotional clash, and though no physical conflict is taking place, the lingering uncertainty and unresolved emotions hang like an impending storm.

--------------------------------------------------

Charlie held her breath, peeking cautiosly around the corner.
She didn't wanted to eavesdrop, but she didn't wanted to interupt them either.

When she followed two seraphims she hoped to to smooth things over, so she sneaked into the building just behind them.

Then she hoped that dad would calm down Sera (her voice still caused headache, princess prefered to wait it ouf a bit). But even when she started to speak normally again, the intensity of their words loomed heavy. That whole dialogue felt as it was full of implications, but she couldn't decode them, because she had no key (full context) to it.

But as she heard more she began to understand, her dad revealed that he wanted to use her plan to make it even more wonderful plan. He wanted to unite both worlds.

But that's not what Sera saw. Maybe she shouldn't interfere or even try to apologize, for now. She should leave it for her dad.

Hellborn woman came out of the building and she headed towards place her friends were supposed to be.

Suddenly, a voice cut through the silence, dripping with mocking amusement. From the shadows of the night emerged an angel with a smirk on her face, her arms crossed (one of them looked unnatural, it was probably a prosthesis).

"By looking at your face I can tell you didn't understand a shit, you demon bitch. I'm not suprised after all you never were taught how to think independently, critically or realistically." Lute insulted her "Guess your daddy’s plans are just a little bit more complicated than you thought."

Charlie stood in combat position. It was Lute the second in command of exorcists. The disdain in Lute’s eyes made Charlie’s heart skip a beat. She had never trusted Lute, not once. But even if that rotten angel attacked her home, Charlie probably shouldn't get into fight. She has serious problems already, she doesn't need another.

"Are you spying on me or something?!" Charlie stammered trying to keep her composure.

Lute didn’t seem phased, she only rolled her eyes "I don't spy on you. I live here - in heaven, you just happened to be there and cause trouble again."

Lute smirked, his eyes glinting with cruelty. "So while I have my hands tied and couldn't take you out, I still can watch your worldview fall apart as you try to understand what is happening around you."

"Yeah, right. I don't believe you, we're not exactly in the epicenter of events."

"Pfft. I heard Sera screaming like a banshee about how your dear old dad is going all-out war because of a bombastic snake with delusions of grandeur."

Lute was grinning now, clearly enjoying Charlie’s confusion, but she didn't do any sudden, aggressive movements "Oh, come on. You’ve been playing the ‘I’m saving souls’ game for so long, you don’t even realize you’re just another puppet in Lucifer’s little charade. You heard him, right? He's using you. Your delusions are convenient for him, for his plan..." she added after a moment of pretended contemplation.

"Well, yes. We-" Charlie was interrupted in the middle of a sentence.

"You really don’t get it, do you, Charlie? I'll give you a hint." angel mocked her innocence "You think your redemption preschooler's dream will change anything even if you'd succeed? If you can count that cobra fuck as succes, you think Heaven wants people like him? You’re a fool, dumb bitch. You’re just playing along with Lucifer’s game. For you he may be a father, bad shitty one but a father nonetheless. But for entire humanity, everyone else he's the evil one, the cause of their rotten, fallen nature."

Charlie's worries disappeared, now there was only anger caused by insult directed to her dad. Princess adopted her royal attitude and spoke calmly but without hiding her disgust.
"I shal not listen to you, I have more faith in those close to me and not to person that killed my people and surely wants bring more problems to me. To sabotage my cooperation with heaven." and then she fastly left with her head held high.

After the while Charlie found her comrades she got small lecture from her girlfriend.
They waited a while, but before the morning came king of hell took them all (excluding Sir Pentious) to Hazbin Hotel. Before going to bed everyone took a quick shower to get rid off sweat and ash from fire.

But as young Morningstar was laying in bed next to sleeping Vaggie, a small part of her couldn’t ignore the nagging feeling in her chest.
Was she really helping souls, or was everything she worked for was in vain because of that one mistake?
The doubts lingered, but Charlie pushed them aside. She had to stay focused. She had to keep trying.

But as she was staring at the ceiling, for some reason the weight of what she had overheard—and what Lute had said—hung heavily on her, a shadow she couldn’t shake.

--------------------------------------------------

Lute smiled coldly when hellspawn left. She didn't know if she was heard by a demon, but she mumbled "Sure, sure. Keep believing that what you accepted as your truth."
Destroying angel really wanted to kill her, do everyone a favor and get rid off that bimbo, but then that crossover of Voldemort and Pennywise would tear her soul to pieces before finale.

He already showed how he likes to be seen as a 'hero' that comes in the 'time of need' with dramatic entrance and all that bullshit...

Golden eyed angel had a lot of time to think for last few months, she finally came to the conclusion that doesn't have to try to stop hell's trash or stop the decay of that excuse of Heaven (it's not like they did anything for them - exorcists). It will happen anyway. She might as well enjoy the show. She might enjoy watching the despair of those who took everything from her.

Oh, she will delight in it.

Chapter Text

It was a quiet morning at the Hazbin Hotel, the usual clinks of glass and murmurs of conversations settling into the comforting backdrop of the dimly lit bar. Charlie had been up earlier than the rest of those who came back last night from visit in heaven, but still she woke up quite late just before noon. She just came down the stairs when she noticed a familiar face hunched over the bar—a pale, disheveled Angel Dust, swirling an untouched glass of gin.

Charlie, fresh from her recent trip, couldn't help but notice the unusual atmosphere that surrounded him. He had trouble with sleeping too. The worry had crept up on her while she’d been dealing with her own thoughts. Honestly she could decide which thing was more unsettling, fire and it's consequences or that scenery out of horror when...

Charlie shook her head as if to remove that horrible image of Sera from her mind...

As she stepped closer, her footsteps soft and almost hesitant, Alastor and Husk exchanged glances across the room. The air seemed to shift. Husk, as always, nursing his own drink, tilted his head toward Charlie, his furrowed brow clearly asking if she had any answers. Alastor, his usual cheerful demeanor subdued, leaned in closer, watching Angel Dust with an almost predatory curiosity.

“Oh Charlie” Alastor's voice was smooth, though there was a slight edge to it. “Do tell us, dear. How did things go in heaven? Was it all you hoped for? Or perhaps...” He smiled, though there was no real emotions in his eyes, just curiosity. “Did it go... awry?”

Charlie hesitated, standing there for a moment, taking in the situation. She'd always been the hopeful one, the one who wanted to see the best in everything, but even she couldn't deny the aftermath of what had happened in heaven. Sir Pentious’ invention—something that supposed to be a glitter rocked—had exploded. A catastrophic failure that had caused fire to spread in the peaceful realms, shattering the delicate agreement to cooperation.

“First meeting went good, then we went for a trip to see heaven and the rest went... well, not as planned.” Charlie started, her voice thoughtful, though strained. She knew it would be hard to explain, but she couldn’t lie to them. “It was a disaster, to be honest. Sir Pentious... his invention backfired, and there was fire everywhere."

Angel Dust, was mostly focused on his drink, however he had been quietly listening to the conversation, his posture slumping even further as he stared into his glass. When he spoke, his voice was flat, void of its usual sharpness. “It wasn't even the worst... thing... So, what now?”

Charlie looked at him, her eyes softening. “What do you mean, Angel?”

“I mean...” Angel dust ran a hand through his messy hair, his voice was more steady now. “Pent's redemption was the only thing that made them interested in that whole idea. Now I doubt we can even use that as a argument. And on top of that hell is getting more and more crowded...”

Charlie moved to sit next to him, her tone firm but caring. “Angel, Sir Pentious, he made a mistake, it doesn’t mean the whole plan is ruined.”

Alastor, still watching the two, finally stepped in, his face unreadable “What you fail to understand, my dear, is that this is the natural order of things. Heaven has always been—unfortunately—less inclined toward change. And it seems we have a rather... unfortunate relationship with them.”

Charlie turned to him, her eyes now more determined. “We can’t just let one mistake undo everything. Sir Pentious has changed. The plan’s still worth trying. We just need to work harder to show heaven that.”

Husk gave a snort of disbelief. “Heaven’s may not buy that after such setback. Some of them might just have waited for us to screw up so they can turn their backs and go back to their perfect little world. All this effort, and for what?”

The conversation hung in the air like a thick fog. A long silence passed before Angel Dust managed a weak smile, though it didn’t reach his eyes. “Yeah... yeah, I guess so.”

--------------------------------------------------

The air in the Hazbin Hotel felt heavier as Vaggie walked through the hallways, her mind focused on one thing: the fire in heaven, the explosion caused by Sir Pentious’ failed invention, and the abrupt end to what had been an important diplomatic mission. This is why fallen angel had been quietly stewing over the events of the previous day, her mind running over everything that had happened the chaos, and the shattering realization that the redemption plan was hanging by the thinnest of threads.

Charlie had hoped that this was just a bump in the road, but Vaggie knew better. If they didn’t figure out what went wrong—and fast—the whole plan could come crumbling down. They needed clarity, they needed answers. The only way to get those answers was to have everyone who had been present at the meeting share their perspective, to find out exactly what happened, what went wrong.

It was time to call a interrogation meeting with everyone who had been involved in the event. No more vagueness or half-answers. They needed to figure out exactly what had happened.

In time when they always eated dinner all of residents of the Hazbin Hotel gathered in the living room (including those who weren't in heaven, they wanted to hear more about that infamous day). Well almoust everyone, exept for Blazeth.

"Ugh, that's how it is with teenagers. They just complain about everything, when you ask them to do somthing they go like 'yeah, ok' but they will never do it if you don't kick them." said irritated Vaggie "Screw this, I'll go fetch him!" she stood up and flew to his room.

She however came back alone, apparently he wasn't in his room which was odd he spent most of his time in there. His disappearance made everyone start creating their own theories in their heads, Blazeth was not so far during the explosion.

Everyone started to look for him.
"Well we all can see that in this situation the absence of our melancholic fellow doesn't put him in the best light." said Radio Demon as he teleported back to living room later after his fruitless search.

"Where he can be? The only place that comes to my mind is his room, other than that I have no idea." Charlie wondered, more and more anxious about that one of her friends could do damage in heaven. And this is the reason why he run away.

"Focus, when and where was the last time when we saw him?" Vaggie on the other hand also started getting worried, but for other reason than her girlfriend.
Even if he did it and they would find out about it, Charlie would forgive him (she was too good for this world...).
He may have done it on purpose. Why would he have sneak out if that wasn't the case?

Angel Dust said "That night, I went to bathroom after he finished. I saw him go back to his room."

"Ok, but I meant today during day" one-eyed angel groaned in frustration. No one answered. "Great! So no one saw that walking match for hours... great..."

"Oh, Nifty saw him" cyclops cackled out when she left her own little world in her head "this morning during killing bugs."

"And of course you would tell us just now..." Husk deadpanned.

"He was sitting on couch still searching for something in this phone. He's growing up to be such a bad boy..." maid giggled, when others tried to get more information she continued "he was watching that old killer imps commercial..."

--------------------------------------------------

Blitzø was in difficult situation. Not for the first time but still.

Everything was more or less ok for a while, he led a killing company I.M.P. (first with the help of an ancient book, then with crystal), he went with Millie and Moxxie to a living world to kill humans for money. But too many things went wrong along the way, until finally Blitzø was then brought before Satan with his crew. Then they are accused of stealing the grimoire to conduct illegal business on Earth.

However, he managed to avoid punishment and despite the many problems that have arisen he still could keep that business going.
It didn't last. This whole trial drew so much attention that someone finally took interest about if knowledge about hell's existence didn't came to the surface in the living world and well spoiler alert: it did. More than they all thought.

After a tense deliberation, the rulers decides that they had to take some action. Blitzø and Stolas are formally reprimanded (again) for their actions, but the real punishment lies in the effect it has on the entire workforce of hell.
Hell's big shots decided to suspend all travel to Earth, as not to worsen the crisis. Those who break this ban will not escape the consequences.

Blitzø, Millie, Moxxie, and a lot other demons in hell were immediately left jobless. The imp-run assassination company was destroyed overnight. As hell closes its doors to Earth, they have no more contracts to fulfill, no more lives to snuff out.

Those who worked in any shape or form in world of humans blame them for their misfortune, accusing them of being careless. Some are open about it, some whisper behind his back that it’s because of him they can’t return to Earth, they all are angry. Others, like M&M were silent, trying to get back on their feet after losing their income.

This is why Blitzø sits in a dingy, rundown office—papers scattered everywhere, the once-lively headquarters now a barren, empty shell. He should continue packing the things that he needs to take before leaving this place which is supposed to happen by the end of this week. Now however he's occupying his mind looking for a quick job that he could take before he figures out what he should do next for serious. His hands tap anxiously on the desk, phone in hand, scrolling through job listings for anything that might pay. "Office assistant? No thanks. Dishwasher at Hell's Café? Ugh."

Imp sighs in frustration, his chaotic nature making it nearly impossible to focus on anything normal. He’s been looking for days, with no luck.

Suddenly the office door suddenly slams open. Unknown to him sinner steps in, his hands balled into fists. He’s visibly furious. "I need you to do something! Now!" he shouted while the door’s momentum rattles the office’s cracked glass window.

Blitzø, already fed up with the mess around him, raises an eyebrow "Hey, fuck, calm down, alright? What’s with the yelling? This is a professional establishment... kinda. What the fuck do you want?"

"I saw your damn commercial. You’re Blitz, right? The guy who kills for money? Well, guess what? I need someone dead. I’m not going anywhere until you take care of it." said fire themed sinner.

Imp’s face tightens. He rubs his temples in frustration. Not another one of these. He stands up, walks over to the sinner, and gestures to the empty office around them "Look, pal, whole business is out of commission. We’ve got no access to Earth! You think I’m gonna help you? I can’t even help myself right now."

Then Blitzø came back to his desk, stared at the phone and continued his search while sinner unnecessarily gives him his backstory (guess that kid didn't get the memo). Don't get him wrong, some of those are like taken out of some tv show (and actually amusing), but now he wasn't in the mood.

Then again there could be heard slam of the same door as again someone entered into room, but this time he didn't look up from his phone "Blazeth! I've finally found you. What are you doing? First you run away and now you're in hitmen office? Why?!" screamed woman's voice.

Before his not-customer could answer to whoever that was imp said casually still looking at his phone.
"Ah that whacko apparently wants me to go living world to kill his old man, because he tried to set him on fire, but he fucked up. Instead, he himself became BBQ and now wants me to finish what he started, even if I already told him that no one can go to human world. Well maybe except for those that don't need body to go over there, which only the most powerful fuckers of hell can do."

When he finished both of them were quiet for few seconds, but then that angry sinner was dragged out of the room and again you could hear the door slamming. Finally Blitzø looked up from his research.

He was alone again. He sighed as he looked around his old office.
Maybe he should take a break from work offers. He did should start packing...

--------------------------------------------------

Hazbin hotel group split up for search for teenager when they found location of organization from the old commercial.
They started to search every room of an almost completely abandoned building.

Charlie finally found him. It turned out that Blazeth did went to old office of killing company even if it was declared as closed.

"You disappeared without a word. Do you know how worried we were?" Charlie looked at sinner her voice firm but with concern.

Honestly she forgot about all her problems and suspicions that he may have been responsible for the fire, first because the youngest of her friends disappeared and then because she found out that he wanted to kill someone - his own dad (indirectly but still).

Blazeth gritting his teeth, voice filled with frustration said "I didn’t ask anyone to worry about me." He storms forward, his hands clenched into fists "I found out something about my father. He’s still alive."

Charlie was furious now "You can’t just kill him! What the hell are you thinking? After everything we’ve been working on here—everything I’ve been trying to teach you—you’re just going to give in to this darkness? This anger? It’s not the answer!"

"You don’t get it! You don’t understand. You know what, at first I thought that your hotel could fix my problems, but it turned out to be just like during my life-... I don’t need your redemption nonsense! Your help is nothing! I have enough of trying and being controled!" he growled at her.

"I won’t let you ruin your chance. You’re better than this." princess tried talk to him "I don’t want to be the one to tell you how to feel or to control you, but you're wasting your life with this rage. There’s more to life than carrying that burden around, and I won’t let you spiral further into this. You’ve been here for months and I thought you were making progress. But now you’re just going to throw all of that away?"

"Oh, stop pretending that you care that much about me or how I feel. You care about your dream and I'm just a means to achieve this." teen pauses, his expression faltering for a moment, but then hardening again.
"The reason why you made such a big deal out of me not being in my room is because you all think that I set fire in that pastel playground!"

"No, we just were about to determine the course of events-" Charlie didn't wanted him to think that they accused him of something they didn't know if he had done.

"Well I did it." that made princess stop in her tracks "When others were busy with their stupid lamps I used winged-snake's rocket to teach my mom a lesson. Apparently last one wasn't enough. Dad should get what's comming to him long ago too!"

Charlie was too shocked to talk.

"Actually I think me leaving today made my intentions clear. I'm done with that stupid hotel!" Blazeth shouted.

The sinner stands in silence for a moment. He looks at Charlie, his face a storm of conflicting emotions—anger, frustration, and perhaps a hint of doubt (disappeared as quickly as it appeared). Finally, he turns and storms out, leaving Charlie standing in the middle of the street.

--------------------------------------------------

The fire of anger that had been inside her when he stormed off began to burn down, and instead, she was left with the aching hollow of defeat.

As princess was on her way home she could still hear his words echoing in her head, the venom he spat at her before he stormed out. "Your help is nothing." He'd called her attempts to help pathetic and claimed that she was just trying to control him. The sharpness in his voice felt like a knife in her chest. He was so close… she had seen it. But the results weren’t fast enough. The idea of redemption wasn’t an instant fix, and that was something he hadn’t understood.

And he did sabotaged her efforts and set festival on flames...
When she came back to hotel and she told them everything most of her friends wanted to talk to Blazeth personally (and teach him a lesson).
But princess dissuaded them from this.
Even if maybe she shouldn't.

The rest of the afternoon was spent drearily resting after those exhausting days, even if some people were overthingking those events instead.

In the evening princess finally saw her dad first time since they have came back from heaven, she now could rant. Her dad heard her out and said that heaven may thinks it was planned by him, than he wants to bring chaos to their realm. So now his help may just make everything worse.

Mentioning of heaven brought back some disturbing memories "Dad, what kind of things you talked about with high rank angels? Is there any chance to placate them?"

He however didn't responded, immersed in thought.

Again that feeling of unease.

"Dad... do you want to tell me something...?" Charlie said in a barely audible whisper.

But the only answer she got was a smile and encouragement not to give up, that he will be here for her.

Chapter Text

In hell Charlie and her friends gained some fame after won battle against exorcists. Hazbin Hotel gained on popularity for two reasons. First one was redesign of that trash bin, second is the fact that apparently one of suckers from there made it into heaven.

She was bragging so much about it.
She promoted that in all of hell.

Most people wanted to know more juicy information about heaven. But some people even thought about trying out redemption, like cannibals for example... But some other suckers decided to try it for serious.

Princess was absolutely vocal about the new agreement with heaven. Her optimism echoed in every corner of hell, her voice carrying with a certain childlike enthusiasm.

There was an undeniable buzz around it. Sinners wanted to stay up-to-date with the princess' passion project. It was the latest gossip, the hottest topic of conversation. The air was thick with curiosity, and every whisper seemed to amplify her words.
So of course Vox's employes would cover that story too.

However, problem of overpopulation still exist. More sinners come to hell than usual...
Hell was starting to feel even more claustrophobic. There is much more violence and crime everywhere... I mean more than usual.
And one sinner that went up stairs won't fix anything.

The violence wasn’t new, but it was definitely worse and yet, no one seemed to care. The balance had been tipped, but everyone was still too distracted by their own lifes and the latest drama to notice. Yeah, the exorcists handled things better—sort of. But who had time to care about that when there was new gossip to chase?

Few days ago princess went again with that sickly optimistic talk how she and some guest will go to heaven. To promote that redemption to heaven's citizens.

Now she was quiet... Something went wrong.

Heh.

"Haha someone fucked up." Vox mused, his voice smooth, almost too calm as he leaned back in his chair. He flicked the remains of his cigarette into the ashtray with a lazy flick of his fingers "or maybe princess couldn't sell those holy bastards her altruistic shit."

Valentino returned from the balcony, still holding his unfinished cigarette "Ha! Yeah~ I'm not suprised. After all exorcists were a murdereous bitches, surley they have some more up there."

TV sinner's smirk deepened. "Yeah, there's probably a bunch of self-righteous, holier-than-thou types. They won’t want to get their hands dirty with us. They don't want to get our dirt to their perfect little world."

The two of them chuckled, a dark and mocking laugh, as if they were relishing in the idea of Heaven's so-called purity being challenged.

"Heh. Guess we all do stay the same in afterlife as we were during life. We all look out for ourselves." Valentino took another drag of his cigarette, the tip glowing brighter as he exhaled, his words laced with an almost fond cynicism. He leaned back in his chair, stretching lazily as though he didn’t have a care in the world.

Then, Vox stopped mid-laugh, his eyes narrowing. Valentino, still finishing off his cigarette, didn’t notice at first. But then the static in the room intensifying before Vox vanished in a quick burst of electric energy.

He comes back to the room after a while.
His laughter was even louder now, more intense.

"I may have an idea what exactly happened in heaven. You won't believe what I just saw by one of my drones~" Vox said, his smile wide, almost manic. His eyes gleamed with excitement, the same one that accompanied him in situations where he could make money of situation.

Valentino raised an eyebrow, his interest piqued. He gave a small, almost nonchalant nod, signaling for Vox to continue.

And just like that everyone knew about that there was some kind of fire in heaven caused by sinner.

There was mocking just like in the begining, during first tv promotion of Hotel.
There were a lot of theories how it went down.

But in the end, it didn’t really matter. Soon enough everyone will forget.
And start to search for another story. Which could again satisfy their eternal hunger, even if just for a moment...

--------------------------------------------------

In heaven, a constant tension hung in the air, thick with the remnants of the burned festival and the smoldering cafeteria nearby.
Sir Pentious was kinda nervous even before fire, everyone knew he used to be a sinner. The angels’ wary glances followed him wherever he went, their eyes flicking to him with suspicion and unease. Their stares weren’t the welcoming gaze one might expect in a place of serenity, but rather laced with insecurity, fear, and for some, open disgust. Sir Pentious tried to remain invisible, his body tense as he shrank from their hostile gazes. The only one he could stand near was Emily—her kindness was a brief respite in the cold, unwelcoming atmosphere.

However after that accident things got worse.
The accusations came like a tidal wave. The angels pointed fingers, their voices rising in chorus, accusing him and the sinners from Charlie’s hotel of the destruction. Though the rulers of heaven clarified that Sir Pentious was not the cause of the fire, the damage had already been done.

He couldn't even speak up and defend himself and his close friends. He tried to be nice during that, but it didn't help in any way. Everytime he tried they were able to silience him. It got only worse by day...

Honestly he started to worry for his safety, after all if anything happens he can't bite back...
If he did it would make things even worse...

Even Emily (his only friend in there) lost her trust to him. Don't get him wrong, she was still nice and all, but he could see it in her eyes.
After weeks of being alienated, the thought of living in a place where he was unwelcome gnawed at his every waking moment. So, he left.

With a mix of determination and bitterness, he made his way back to the place where he had always felt a semblance of control—hell. The Hazbin Hotel’s looming presence greeted him as he slithered through the familiar driveway, his tail flicking in frustration. As he walked to the hotel’s doors, it felt more like a necessary but still cowardly escape than anything else. He wasn’t wanted in heaven even if they didn't kicked him out, he returned to hell—voluntarily.

Husk opened the door for him "Oh. It's you, hey." snake soul only nodded and walked in.
"You didn't called that you'll visit that hellhole in near time." said hesitantly cat-like sinner as he was closing the door, he sensed that something was wrong.

Exept for Husk there was no one in hotel. They had to wait till Charlie and Vaggie finish damage control attempt (apparently there was a leak to hell's media about fire in heaven), Angel Dust come back from work and Alastor finish his visit in cannibal town.
Girls were the last to come back home.

Charlie stood at the door, her eyes wide with shock as Sir Pentious swas sitting getting drunk at the bar with Husk and Angel. "Sir Pentious…?" she asked, clearly caught off guard that he was there without unannounced "What are you—"

"I left heaven." inventor spoke for the first time since he got there, without beating around the bush as he finished his shot.

Alastor, ever the observer, spoke up, his voice as pleasant and cheerful as ever, though tinged with curiosity. “Oh? I assumed that you finally you remembered your old companions in those hard times, taking into account your still heavenly appearance. So, our first ex-sinner has been cast out of heaven."

"What? Why?!" princess asked as desperation creept into her voice, as she ran from the door towards her friends. Things keept getting worse and worse...

But before he could reply one-eyed angel joined them "Well they probably see this fire as his fault. Which was deviation from the norm and breaking the rules so they kicked him out." Vaggie said while thinking about her fall all over again. The resentment could be heard in her voice.

Charlie gasped, she knew that situation was bad, but Sir Pentious didn't do it. He shouldn't be kicked out.
She was about to comfort him but then he spoke out "No, I didn't fall, I wasssn't kicked out. I sssaid I left - on my own free will." while starting a new cup of alcohol.

No one spoke.
It was as if the world froze for a moment and the only Sir Pentious was the only one unaffected.
This revelation caused all of them to try figure out why then their friend is back in hell if he isn't fallen. But all of them waited patiently to him finish his shot.

Ex-sinner was already drunk and he kinda started to struggling with speach, but he still spoke with sense "It wasss bad... The worssst were winnersss... They sssaw me, a demon and they only sssaw the worssst partsss of me—the sssinss, the damage I causssed. They didn’t believe I could change." he reached out for another glass, but instead of alcohol Husk gave him water. He didn't even noticed... or just didn't cared.

"Thing got worssse even though heaven'sss rulersss sssaid that-that blowing up wasssn't my fault. Ssso I left..."

"Wait, so normal everyday halos were aggressive even when they were told that you didn't caused the fire? And big bosses of paradise was ok with it?" questioned Husk while taking away his empty glass.

Sir Pentious didn't even tried to get the glass back "Well...yeah... but winnerss were angry with me before accident, they j-just lossst their the desssire to hide it..."
"But I wouldn't be sssuprisssed if sssome of those heavenly overlordsss contributed or essscalated that reaction. Even i-if not they didn't ssseemed to mind it..." now he tried to avoid the eyecontact with everyone in the room.

"That’s not fair…" princess muttered, more to herself than to him, while patting him on the back "You tried. You really tried, Sir Pentious. And they rejected you just because of who you used to be?"

'That's not fair that Pen gets backlash because of something Blazeth did.' Charlie frowned as she thought.

"Yeah..." he looked so sad "Look, can-can we drop it? I jussst want to ssstop thinking about it an-and ssspent nice time with you, fellasss..."
Everyone took pity on him and dropped that topic.

"Well, we could make some sort of movie night like the last time. But toots there-... had plans for the evening..." Angel pointed his thumb at Charlie and Vaggie, but cut himself out. Both girls planned to put up plan what to say to heaven and what to do to try fix relationship with them.

"Yeah, but we may need a break." Vaggie mumbled while massaging the forehead.

But unlike their last friendly bonding time in hotel, which was to celebrate their reunion and hope for their dreams, that one had in goal to take their mind off their worriess.

Sir Pentious had always seen himself as a lost cause deep down. But for a short moment it seemed as he got better. That brief flicker of hope now felt more like a cruel illusion—just another layer of wishful thinking he had wrapped himself in, desperately clinging to something that never existed. The problem wasn't just heavenly residents' judgment or another wave of hell's mocking. It wasn’t about their cruel words or the condemning stares. It was something much more insidious, something he couldn’t escape even in his moments of silence.

The only real change in him had been the shift in his appearance—the bright, garish colors that now adorned his form. Those were the only things that had altered. As if someone had tried to reinvent him outwardly, dressing him in hues of false brightness, but the core of who he was had stayed the same. It was just an outward show, nothing more.

This is why he decided to keep those thoughts to himself. Miss Charlie would surely tell him that he changed for better.
But he sees the truth. He had never truly changed—not in the way that mattered.

He’d spent his entire life and afterlife chasing power, trying to gain respect and admiration through any means necessary, but running away when things went south. At first he tried to do it by himself (with help of his minions), then through Vees, then through Charlie... He had always chosen the best options available—no matter if he hurt or use anyone. And that was just one of his problems.

He had only ever used others to help him achieve his desires. The truth was undeniable: his actions were no different from what they had always been. His mind was still cluttered with the same tactics and justifications. He had come back to his own filth.

But... don't we all do that?

Chapter Text

Charlie sat by the window in her private chambers, her elbows resting on the cool stone of the windowsill, her fingers gently tapping an uncertain rhythm. Below, the streets of hell twisted in chaotic disarray, a cacophony of suffering rising from the depths, the sharp screams and anguished cries floating on the air like a constant reminder of the realm’s cruelty.

Yet, her gaze was distant, unfocused. The sight of hell’s unrest barely registering in her mind as her thoughts churned in an endless, turbulent storm. Her brow furrowed in concentration as she stared out at the horizon, her ruby eyes clouded with worry. Charlie's mind raced, whirling between the recent failures and the crushing uncertainties ahead.

Despite the comforting presence of her girlfriend, Vaggie, who slept soundly in the nearby bed, Charlie felt a profound loneliness settle around her. It was as though the universe had conspired to remind her that no matter how many people stood by her side, she was ultimately alone in shouldering the monumental task of her dreams.

Vaggie shifted in her sleep, turning toward the blanket, a peaceful expression softening her features. It was hard month, which they both wondered how to conduct the conversation with heaven rulers. She deserved at least that good sleep.

Charlie, however, couldn't escape the unease that had anchored itself in her heart. She appreciated the support she had—her father’s occasional guidance, Vaggie’s unwavering love, and the encouragement of her friends—but it felt... insufficient.

It was as though she was standing at the edge of a precipice, surrounded by voices offering help, but none could truly do anything.

Her hands clenched into fists at her sides, a fleeting surge of frustration rising in her chest. She had once thought that with their support, she could reach for the stars. She had imagined that with them, the heavens were within her grasp, that she could heal hell’s broken souls and make better lifes for her people.

But now, that vision felt like a distant dream, slipping further away with each passing day.

Her father’s help had been invaluable at times, yes. But it was clear that he, too, was limited. After their last conversation he went to his manor. Charlie was already wondering whether she was going back to neglect her in favor of duck craft, but then he reminded her that he still has his entire kingdom to manadge and his own projects (like Lulu World for example).

He said that they needed to wait now to everything calm down, then they will try again together...

But will inaction smooth things over?

Her thoughts turned to her mother—Queen Lilith. She is the the most wonderful example of resourceful, intelligent and independent woman. She could be one of the first inspirations to today's feminism for all women, including Charlie. But she's not here...

Charlie’s lip quivered slightly, and her eyes clouded with the sting of tears she refused to shed.

She missed her mom. Even though she hadn't thought about her much lately—too absorbed in rebuilding bridges with her father, too focused on the task of redemption and reconciliation—her absence felt like a gaping wound in her soul. Her mother would have known what to do.

The thought that she probably wouldn't pick up her phone if she called her mom again, made Charlie's heart ache in a way that no one, not even Vaggie, could soothe.

Mom would give Charlie some good advice... But she never calls back.

She sighed, sitting back on the plush chair next to the window, rubbing her forehead in frustration. "I can't break down," she whispered to herself, the words almost a mantra. "Not now." She took a long, steadying breath and closed her eyes, her chest rising and falling as she tried to steady the storm inside her.

She had to be the one to hold it all together.

Despite the doubts, despite the crushing weight of uncertainty, she had to remain strong. Her father, Vaggie, and her friends had shown her what it meant to have support, but the reality was that she had to rise above the noise.

It had been a month since everything seem to be on right tracks before all was in ruins. The doubts, the arguments—it had all left a mark on the princess. She had hoped that things would calm down.

But deep down Charlie knows it isn’t that simple. The bitterness was still there, like poison in the veins of heaven. Even if the angels had calmed down, their fear, their hatred, would not fade so easily.

They need to fix what was broken, even if it may take a lot of time. Then they need to do something with winners and heavenborn persecutors. So Sir Pentious and future redeemed sinners would feel comfortable in heaven.

Charlie stood, her posture straightening with determination.

Today is the day!
She couldn’t afford to show weakness. Not now. Not when everything was on the line.

--------------------------------------------------

After princess got ready, she tiptoed through the grand halls of the hotel, careful not to wake anyone. At least they can get some more sleep. Everyone in hotel knew that meeting was today, so there is no need to wake them up or leave the note.

She reached the front lobby. And then froze.

Sir Pentious stood by the door, dressed in the way that specifically was meant to hide his heavenly look. He had a duffel bag over one shoulder, one hand was on the doorknob.

Charlie’s heart jumped “...Sir Pentious?”

He turned sharply, startled — then paused when he saw her. “Ah. Misss Charlie. Good morning.”

“Are you… Are you leaving?”

“Well, yesss? I mean—”

Charlie’s breath caught for a second. She doesn't want to another hotel guest to leave... because of disappointment. “Not forever, right?”

He tilted his head, then he caught the worry in her face “Oh—oh! No, no, not at all. I’m not leaving the hotel or anything like that.” he said quickly, straightening up. “I’m jussst going out for a bit. That’sss all.”

Charlie exhaled, visibly relieved. “Oh, thank you satan… I thought—well, after how things went in heaven, and how down you seemed—I thought maybe...”

Charlie looked at him more carefully — the slight lift in his voice, the lack of tension in his shoulders. He seemed… lighter.

“So… where are you going, then?”

He hesitated, then cleared his throat and glanced away. “I’m, uh... I’m meeting up with Cherri. Ssshe invited me to ssspend the day with her.”

Charlie blinked, surprised — then smiled.

“...Don’t read too much into it. Ssshe sssaid sssomething about explosivesss and terrible food trucksss, but—well, I thought i would be good to go out have sssome fun.”

But that was only part of the truth. What Sir Pentious didn't wanted Charlie to know that the main reason he agreed to go was his need to vent—a release of his resentment, not only that he felt towards himself, but also towards most people in heaven.

Their anger, their judgment, it all felt like an unfair weight on his shoulders as if he were the one being punished for something that wasn’t entirely his fault.

Yes, he failed to keep an eye on his sinners friends as he promised Miss Emily and apply some safety measures...
But that teen was who caused that whole chaos. And they all knew it!

Charlie looked at him again. The sadness she’d seen on him just a few days ago had faded. His eyes were brighter. The usual tension around his mouth was gone. He seemed happy.

“You look better,” she said quietly.

He raised a brow. “Do I?”

"Yeah."

There was a brief, comfortable pause before he nodded toward her folder. “And you? Off to heaven?”

She groaned softly. “Yep. Going to embassy, they prepared a portal there. Then I will meet with Emily.”

“Angelsss.” he muttered. “I’ll take chaosss and Cherri over that any day. But sssay hello to her from me.”

Charlie laughed “Well, have fun with your explosives.” she said with a playful smile.

“And good luck up there.”

They both pushed through the front doors together — and then, with one last wave, split off each heading toward their own kind of madness.

Charlie is full of hope that she will bring a good news...

'I will do it for them.' Her thoughts churn as she moves through streets soaked in blood and moral ruin.

--------------------------------------------------

Yeah, but what Sir Pentious implied was quite problematic, angels may not be happy that someone from hell is there again. This whole mess is the reason why Charlie went this time alone to heaven (hidden from citizens, only important angels know that she's back).

It may be hard to please angels, but she has Emily to help her with that. She's the one she has the meeting with.
Yeah, no matter how hard things are, everything will be fine.

Even if no song welcomed her this time (which was fine—she didn’t need the distraction), the pleasant scent greeted her as she took calming breath when she passed golden gate. Just as it had on her previous two visits.

Clean, but not sterile—like the smell of dew on grass just before the sun fully rises, and something green and quietly thriving beneath it all, wild with life. That pleasant smell was all over the place even in the city brucked with gold. No smoke, no rot, no harshness—only a freshness so pure it felt practiced, as if the world had rehearsed this moment too many times and always arrived at the same, perfect scent.

Everything smelled exactly as it had last time. Not a note out of place. It was… nice. Reassuring, even.

After hellborn took that calming breath she checked that disguise was in place and then headed to the place where their presentation took place a month ago, to meet with Emily and pick up her things she left behind that one unlucky day.

As she came into the room, where first successful presentation took place month ago. Joybringer she was sitting alone in an empty room.

"Emily?" Charlie called softly, stepping forward.

Emily turned to face her, a forced smile plastered across her face, but it didn’t reach her eyes. She looked different—tired, more burdened than Charlie had ever seen her. Charlie gave a smile of her own and greetings, moved closer her voice gentle "Emily, we need to talk. There’s been so much going on, and I—"

"I know, Charlie" Emily cut her off, her voice tight. "I’ve been hearing everything. The fire, the arguments, the accusations. It’s... overwhelming."

Charlie inhaled sharply through her teeth. She sat beside her, close enough that their shoulders nearly touched, but still, an invisible chasm seemed to lie between them.

"Yes... it’s been a month, but I still feel like everything’s slipping away." she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.

Her fingers drummed nervously against her leg as she spoke, betraying her unease. But then she suddenly stopped as if she just noticed that and tried to still them. Her small smile came back.

"But we must talk about it and figure new plan and slowly start anew."

Emily’s expression darkened, her gaze dropping to the floor as her lips pressed into a thin line. She took a slow, steadying breath before speaking again. "I thought about it too, Charlie. But lately, I’ve been talking to people. To victims, those who were hurt..."

"Did someone got hurt during this fire?"

Emily shook her head, but there was no comfort in the gesture. Her hands twisted together in her lap, her fingers tightly interlaced as if holding on to something she couldn’t express. "No, everyone's fine... at least physically. But that's not what I meant. I’m sorry, Charlie."

She paused, as though gathering her thoughts. Charlie watched as Emily’s shoulders slumped, the weight of the conversation making her appear smaller, more fragile "Maybe... I just need more time before we come back to even thinking about this project. But I don’t know if I can be the person you need right now."

Charlie’s chest tightened. Her heart skipped a beat, and she leaned forward, her expression a mixture of disbelief and concern. But she shouldn't jump to conclusions. "What do you mean?"

"I know what you’re trying to do, Charlie. And I want to believe in you—I do. But these last few weeks, I’ve been talking to some of the souls here, and..." Emily trailed off, her eyes not meeting Charlie’s. Her hands shook as they rested in her lap, betraying the inner conflict she was trying so hard to hide. "I don’t know how to say this, but I don’t think what you’re offering is what you think it is."

Charlie’s stomach twisted in confusion. "What are you talking about?"

Emily took a deep breath "I’ve talked to people here who’ve suffered. I mean, really suffered. Souls who’ve been hurt by the people who you've told that they could change..."

"What... but Sir Pentious... He did changed. He—he got into heaven—" hellborn's voice came out shaky "He made it, into heaven. That fire wasn't his fault."

Then Charlie told whole story how they discovered the culprit.

Emily’s gaze softened for a moment, but her expression remained firm, resolute.

"Sir Pentious or Blazeth aren’t the problem, Charlie. They are a part of the problem." Emily gave a small shake of her head "Invention accident… that explosion—it only proved how little control we have over this whole thing. We should set higher standards... so bad people won't use our kindness against us. How people supposed to trust you with redemption if you brought here someone who did something like that?"

None of the girls said anything for a while.

Charlie’s heart hammered in her chest as she stood up, her eyes wide with desperation. "We will make things better. But Emily, we can’t just give up! I want to help my people. I want to believe that they can change. They don’t deserve to just be condemned for their past forever."

"I wish I could believe that too, Charlie. But the fire wasn’t the first sign of something being wrong. It was just the loudest. Before we continue, you must take care of existing problems."

"We will take care of that. We just need to work together-"

Red eyed demon tried her best to set the negative thoughts aside and muster the remains of her positive attitude. Even if words of her friend stung, still, she forced a smile—brittle, faltering.

But apparently Emily was getting tired of this conversation.

"As I said, winners shared with me stories about... various tragedies unfolding on Earth... I still want sinners to be redemed, but that to happen we have to remove that disguisting parts of them, before that we shouldn't let them in." Now, seraphim looked visibly unwell, her face pale and drawn, as if she was about to vomit at any moment, her body trembling slightly.

Even her closest ally in heaven—the one who had stood by her through the her first visit in heaven during the trial—was losing faith in her plan.
Emily may not lost it entirely yet, but for Charlie she could have already done it.

Her words did raised some new issues, which hellborn tried to ignore and to push into the background. She tried to do that, but seraphim didn't let her. Nothing was going her way, all her planning turned out to be worthless and her tries to help sinners in hotel gave little to no results. She was holding on Sir Pentious' redemption, but it wasn't enough and that one little win was only followed by more problems.

What Emily said left Charlie frozen for a moment, her body stiff, her mind reeling from the words she had just heard. She shook her head slowly, almost as if in disbelief, her eyes clouded with frustration and an overwhelming sense of helplessness. Her heart ached with a deep, gnawing sadness as she stood there, the weight of her own failure pressing down on her chest.

She moved mechanically, a numbness settling over her as she packed up her belongings, her fingers stiff and uncoordinated.

And then she left.

She could feel the weight of her own failure pressing down on her shoulders, and her thoughts clouded with uncertainty. She had failed the souls she promised to save. She had failed herself. She thought she was doing the right thing, but now she couldn’t shake the feeling that the world around her was slipping through her fingers like sand.

Unfortunately, in her emotional fog, Charlie had completely forgotten why she came incognito in the first place. Her visit to Heaven should be a secret, hidden from the citizens, known only to a few higher ups.

Princess forgot to hide her demonic features. Her mind was so consumed with the overwhelming sense of failure, that she didn’t even acknowledged the another mistake that she just made.

But she did noticed the whispers and the eyes following her until she heard their conversations.

“What’s she doing here?” one angel whispered, glancing at her with disdain.

“Shouldn’t she be back in hell with the rest of her kind? She’s the one who allowed that fire to happen.”

Another angel shook his head. “I heard she was letting criminals into heaven. It’s all part of her little ‘redemption plan’ but look what it’s costing us.”

"Someone should show her that her kind is not welcome here."

"Let's not be so harsh. You remember what she said in that meeting—she wants to help people. This fire might not be her fault."

"How blind can you be? Who's fault is it then? Whether directly or not, it is her fault."

Charlie’s breath caught in her throat. The words hit her like a tidal wave—sharp, accusatory, venomous. They were talking about her like she was some sort of villain, someone who couldn’t be trusted, someone who was ruining everything they had worked for. Her hands trembled at her sides as their voices continued to rise.

"She believes dismantling the entire system is justified if it means giving comfort to those who’ve done nothing to deserve it—even at the expense of everyone else. All so the worst of the worst can have a cozy redemption arc."

"Oh sure, poor them—like they didn’t bring it all on themselves."

"Yeah, because clearly they're innocent and all that suffering just magically found them. They act like they’re victims, but they earned every second of it."

"Nobody ever told this privileged brat 'no' in her live. And when finally someone did, then she decided that they should be dead."

"A lot of those false 'peace and love' bastards are like that."

"I’m telling you—if heaven won't act, this is only the beginning."

"Maybe we should knock that idea out of her head..."

After all that hardships hotel's residents endured, the princess had learned to stand up for herself, to be more assertive—this was the kind of moment that should have sparked her anger.

However after over a month of stress and rejection from Emily, she struggled to truly embody that newfound confidence now. The anger was there, somewhere, but she couldn’t reach it.

Charlie wanted to speak, to defend herself, to explain that she only wanted to make things better for everyone—that she wanted to save her people, but it's not like she wish harm upon any of heaven's residents. However the words caught in her throat, each one heavy with the crushing weight of guilt and uncertainty.

She wanted to tell them that she had only ever wanted to bring light to hell, to give even the most wretched souls a chance at redemption, but the looks they gave her—the way they judged her so harshly—it felt like the world was closing in around her.

There could be hear more of those accusation from all around her.

She could feel all their eyes on her.

She already understood why Sir Pentious left.

But now…

If he had been dealing with something like that from the very beginning, she is surprised he hadn’t come back sooner.

The whispers didn’t stop. If anything, they grew louder—sharper—as if the very walls of heaven were echoing with scorn. No one approached her, no one dared to confront her outright, but it didn't made things better.

So she quickened her pace.

Charlie kept her head down, her eyes stinging with unshed tears, the golden streets blurring beneath her. She didn’t want them to see her cry, she didn’t want to give them the satisfaction.

Her hurried footsteps echoed softly against the gleaming pathways as the murmurs behind her faded. She didn’t look back. She didn't wanted to face anyone now. If anyone followed behind her, she didn’t want to know.

She just wanted to go back to the only place that she would feel safe now. Her hotel.

But at this point, her throat was too tight to breathe and her tears blocked view on the world around her. They clung to her lashes, spilled silently down her cheeks, blurring the path ahead towards heavenly gates. If she kept going like this, she was going to run straight into someone, the last thing she needed was another set of eyes on her.

She turned down a narrow side street without thinking much. It was empty—quiet in a way the rest of the world refused to be.

After she moved deeper into the alley, she finally leaned against the wall—and her legs gave out beneath her.

There was a sense of isolation here, though not in a menacing way. It was as though the alley had been designed for moments of retreat, for those who wished to hide or seek solace in a place that felt both gentle and detached.

The angelic hustle and bustle of heaven was far away, and in this hidden corner, Charlie could finally breathe without being weighed down.

For Charlie, the alley gave the perfect refuge.

Yet, even in its quiet beauty, there was a lingering feeling of abandonment.

Chapter Text

Hell is known by most only for its torment, violence and relentless agony.

Each corner seems to harbor another form of torment, whether physical or psychological, and no soul is left untouched. The very air is thick with despair, suffocating any glimmer of hope, leaving only the shadow of relentless torment to endure. It is a place where humanity is stripped away.

But what exactly did these souls do to earn such a fate? What kind of life could possibly lead them to such a dreadful end?

Could it be that every one of them done something so horrendous that made them truly worthy of that?

Or did some of them ended up in that place just because of their mistakes or things they had no control over?

What if some of its inhabitants didn’t belong there at all?

What if some were simply lost, caught in a world that failed to understand them?

Whatever the answer to these questions may be, hell is place of suffering—a domain owned by sin and anguish. A punishment.

Or at least, that's what it supposed to be.

Look at Pentagram City for example.

Is hell really so much different from the life humans have on Earth?

Both realms have moments of pleasure amongst times of despair.
Some people are fortunate and have more bearable life, others aren't so lucky.

...You know, in that place the rules seem to bend or dissolve entirely. Sinners can do whatever they want, if they possess what is needed—power, desire, or perhaps just the absence of moral restraint. For all hell's chaos and despair, nobody truly cares. Feeling similar to guilt or true regret are rare there and quickly pushed aside.

Maybe this is their paradise...

Could it be that hell is nothing more than a twisted mirror of human existence? A reflection of our passions, regrets, and temptations amplified in an environment where rules, moralities—which is seen just as another obstacle to getting what we want—are optional, selective or just ignored? Maybe, in some perverse way, this is the fallen human's paradise.

A place where the boundaries blur. This is the kingdom where sinners succeed to completely reject them.

So they can follow their heart's desires.

If so then why would anyone want to get out of there?
Well, we can guess that they did realized how wrong they were and now they desire to make amends—to seek a path toward something better.

If that's the case then they should get option to do that, just like humans on Earth, they deserve another chance for redemption. There is so many humans that managed to rise from the very bottom and get back on track.

The question is whether their desire to change their ways is sincere if they expect something in return.

An award? For bare minimum?

Or maybe the only reason why they 'want redemption' is that they simply cannot bear when other people enjoy peaceful life, while they can not. Maybe they desire to sow more misery in the fertile soil. Driven by this dark impulse, they spread suffering. More is what sinners are living for.

They don't stop until they satisfy themselves, however the mouth of their desire is a bottomless pit. Even if that fact is acknowledged, they are not going to stop, they will continue that destruction within their capabilities.

Why?

Hell's residents descended far beyond mere callousness, corrupting themselves until they became grotesque parodies of what they once were. In their disfigurement—both inward and outward—humans began to nurture a deep resentment for anything pure, beautiful or unbroken.

They hate anything that reminds them about their own hideousness. And so, they lash out, seeking to destroy anything that reflects what they can no longer bear to see: a world untouched by their own decay.

Perhaps the only thing that prevents that hellhole to be their bliss is a fact that they are not at the top of the hierarchy. Most of the sinners are powerless, insignificant in the grand scheme and eyes of others. Not everyone has the predisposition to be an Overlord. That helplessness and realization of their situation fuels their suffering.

If they can't advance this lawless place, perhaps their only option is to seek opportunities elsewhere hoping to find a place where they can assert control or rewrite their fate. It appears that the obvious solution would be for underdogs to try to seize the opportunities presented to them, in one way or another.

It was proven it is possible to leave the land of the damned. Then... why don't all those sinners rush to Hazbin Hotel even if they know redemption is possible now? No matter how much some can laugh at this idea, as much as impossible or fruitless it appears to be for some, there will be some people willing to try search for better life for sure.

And the truth is—sinners do want to try the Princess's program, this is why many of them are hang around this place from time to time (even if they don't move in). But recent events—the accident in heaven—shattered the short lived illusion that the road to redemption is simple or easy. One person is not enough. They just want to follow the beaten path.

The path to heaven, the land of opportunities.

Heaven...

That beautiful town among the clouds is a place where the good souls find peace and solace after life have ended. It is a realm crafted with the sole purpose of offering rest to those who have lived good lives, where every corner is designed to soothe and uplift.

The air is warm and gentle, the skies forever bathed in a soft, golden light. Every blade of grass, every fluttering leaf, exists to cradle the weary souls that enter, offering them the comfort of eternal tranquility. In heaven, even the winds carry a quiet, reassuring whisper—a reminder that the burdens of the world are now far behind, and all that remains is serenity.

Despite living in a place that seemed untouched by darkness—where every street shimmered in the glow of the sun and the air was forever fragrant with blossoms—its residents could harbor emotions that can't be considered 'good'.

But can you blame them, though? A lot of those souls suffered a lot during their lives, often from the hands of others. It was comforting to think that all those who wronged you are now in hell, that they get what they deserve while you were here in heaven.

Simply enjoying their afterlife.
It was their heaven after all.

However, is that even possible now? Even if people like Emily may slowly start to realize why they shouldn't let them into their safe heaven, they still want to help those wolves that wants to take on sheep's clothing.

Why someone would want to help them? Don't they understand how much pain they have already caused and still can? That alone is enough of a reason to not bother 'helping' those of hell.

It seems like they so called empathetic people want to show more mercy to those who shouldn't receive it. Maybe they want others to come to an agreement according to their discretion.

What for?

To keep their peace of mind?

To make themselves look more virtuous?

Apparently those that never tasted the cruelty don't feel that the desire for its source to be thrown into the depths of oblivion. The same people surely would demand punishment for the degenerates if they were their victims.

Isn't sympathy towards the wicked a cruelty towards the victims?

...But in the same time, isn't altruism a virtue?

It is understandable that many wish that all people were innocent, that all their problems are cause by not being treated unfairly. There's comfort in believing that people are only victims of their circumstances, that cruelty and malice are just the byproducts of pain, not choice. Unfortunately, we are not living in flawless world where everyone is good.

In pursuit of creating the faultless world they envisioned in their dreams, they’ve crafted that reality for some. But for others, it feels more like a dystopia. It’s not the first time this has happened—humans often repeat this pattern. If they try fix one thing, it’s usually at the cost of another.

It always ends badly.
And this is how story goes.

Yes, beneath the perfection, a quiet unease simmered. There were whispers of bitterness, of fears that clawed at the edges of their peaceful lives. And some, in the deepest corners of their minds, entertained darker thoughts—fleeting, twisted fragments that they quickly buried. But they always returned.

Can winners be blamed for having those emotions?
Being in this paradise did not solve all the problems and did not prevent new ones from appearing.
But that place, the people from here—they weren't source of that negativity.

It was her.

The Princess of hell.

Or at least it was the danger which she unwittingly dragged along to their world.

--------------------------------------------------

Isn't it strange... how our place in the world—this our little corner—shapes our thoughts?

How it shapes us?

We cling to what we see, what we have, believing it to be truth.

After all, don't we usually reach for what feels closest?

What comforts us or asks the least of us?

We call it true because it fits neatly into shape of our worldviews—because it's easier that way.

However, it is our free will whether we choose to accept it.

But... what is the truth?

Is a truth just a concept that changes every time depending on who sees it?

Why do we, fallible and fleeting as we are, believed ourselves fit to divide the real from the false? With that limited vision? What gave us the right to label illusions or our delusions as facts?

Ah...

It is no simple task to recognize and accept the limitations of our own minds, to abandon the expectation and deceptive desires.

Never fall into illusion that you see it all.

And be careful not to fall for sweet lies.