Chapter Text
Gotham, a city that might as well challenge hell itself, that thought was shared by many who called Gotham home and those who heard of it every other day in the news. Bruce had a different thought of the city, it was not the city to blame but the people within it. That included magic users- while a few were alright and he worked with them most were either out of control and causing mayhem- or just causing mayhem in general.
The one he had been investigating with his kids the other bats was part of the just causing mayhem group, he had also called in John Constantine to help- which should’ve been quick and easy.
Unfortunately, now he and the other bats were in some random hotel with beings of different levels of monstrousness to put it simply.
Bruce sometimes hated his job even if he knew he had to do it.
“OH. MY. GOD. HI!! We’re so happy to have you here! Welcome to the Hazbin Hotel! What's your name? I’m Charlie, this is Vaggie!” An overly excited blonde girl with red cheeks says, pulling another woman over, whose hair covered her eye, a floating X hovering in front. The girl with the X, allegedly named Vaggie, also had large wings that could only be described as an angels. She speaks up. “Charlie, I don't think these guys are sinners.”
“Where are we?! What are you creatures!? Are you the one that's been killing those men?!?” Robin yelled out holding his kattana as he glared at them, Bruce just picked him up by his cape so Robin couldn't attack them. “I’ll handle the interrogation." Bruce said with a sigh as he looked at Robin before turning back to Charlie, his eyes glaring under the cowl.
“Oh! Goodness uh… well… Like I said, I’m Charlie, and this is my hotel to rehabilitate sinners. I would never hurt ANYONE so I uh…” Charlie trails off, nervous, Vaggie putting her hand on Charlie's shoulder. “Want me to handle this?” She asks. “Nooo pfft I got this! I can’t let you step up for me EVERY time, y'know?" Charlie turns back to the strangers. “Are you guys not sinners? How did you get here? NOT that I don’t want you here, I’ve just never seen humans get into Hell… hehe..”
“Constantine, it's his fault, he works with demons all the time. He probably sent us to be some kind of sacrifice! When I get my hands on him-” Robin yelled out trying to get out of the batman’s grasp- unfortunately it didn't work for him. “Robin that's enough” Bruce said as he looked down at the young boy again, “It’s clear something in the teleportation spell he casted didn’t work- though why it ended up bringing us here instead to the spell caster is unclear.”
“Maybe he died and ended up in hell” Red hood said with a simple shrug sticking to the back of the group.
“Uh… well… WELCOME regardless! Oh I can’t WAIT for you to meet the others! They’re around here somewhere, probably really happy and put together because NOTHING is wrong.” Charlie says with a huge, slightly forced smile and two thumbs ups.
“Something's wrong.” Nightwing whispered to Red Hood who didn't reply. Bruce meanwhile focused more on accessing the situation, quickly noting the comms, while still able to connect with the others here didn't connect with those outside- it would make sense though still annoying.
“Yeah… well… just don’t let my DAD see you guys. He might freak out just a little bit-” Before Charlie can finish, in a poof of smoke, a short man who greatly resembles Charlie, shows up. “Tada! Did someone call for me?” He asks, grinning and looking at Charlie, who just cringes slightly, while Vaggie facepalms, muttering “Oh boy…”
“Pretty sure that was the opposite of calling for” Red Hood whispered to Nightwing now with a small scoff, it was clear he didn't want to be there any longer than he needed to- even more than the others, at the same time Robin was glaring at the stranger making mental notes about the man who was apparently Charlie's father and how strong he’d be and how to beat him in a fight.
“Are these new guests? Nice to meet you, I’m Lucifer, Charlie's father.” The short man says with the flourish of his cane with an apple on the top, holding out his hand for anyone to shake if they were so inclined. “You guys don't look like any sinners I’ve seen. What are you supposed to be exactly?”
“That one is an ugly bat.” Red hood stated pointing at Batman, “that's an uglier robin, that is an even uglier somehow restaurant, and that one is a… whatever a nightwing is.” he said pointing towards the others, “and I'm the best one here.”
“We aren't sinners- well he probably will be when he dies, again, but still” Red Robin stated pointing towards Red Hood before he crossed his arms.
“You’re.. Not sinners… HAH good one. Well, you definitely aren't angels, and humans can't get to hell. Funny joke though, you almost got me there!” Lucifer laughs, pointing his finger at Red Robin playfully.
“Constantine has mentioned going into hell several times to make deals with other demons, which means humans very well can enter hell.” Bruce stated as he looked down at the much shorter man- it was hard to believe that Lucifer, the man described as the king of demons and creator of sin, was short and not like the stereotypes, though Bruce knew there were more important things at hand, like getting home.
“Uh huh… right… okay uh… well… tell him to take you guys back. As much as I would LOVE for you to stay, if Heaven finds out–... look, after last time, we don't accept humans down here.” Lucifer says vaguely, waving his hand in a circular motion before making a slight shooing hand motion. “So sorry you can't stay, hope you enjoyed the trip, so long, au revoir!” “WAIT! Dad, we can't just kick them out!’ Charlie tries to reason, with Vaggie stepping in. “I think they would have gone back by now if they could.”
“We would've, unfortunately Constantine probably doesn't know we’re here either and with no way of contacting him we’re basically stuck” Red Robin stated with a shrug.
“I see…” Lucifer says softly, tapping his chin with his cane. “Well then… I suppose they can stay ONLY until we figure something out.”
“I think that would be best for all of us.” Red Hood stated as he walked over to a window and looked out through it, seeing all that hell had to offer- mainly just crime and violence, as well as Heaven floating above mocking all the sinners who wished for a better life.
“I cant WAIT to show you around” Charlie squeals “OH! Let me give you the grand TOUR!!”
The Bats gave skeptical looks though Dick was the first to speak up, “Sure, I mean might as well since we’re probably going to be here for at least a night or two” Dick said with a shrug and smile as he walked up over to Charlie.
Charlie claps her hands gleefully. “YAY Come on, come on!” She grabs him by the wrist and tugs him around. “This is the bar! Say hi Husk!” She says to some odd cat-bird thing, with symbols along his features that would imply he was a gambler. “No.” The creature named Husk says grumpily, taking a swig directly out of the bottle. As if sensing there were new people, a tiny, almost gremlin-y creature with one eye skitters out, chasing after a bug, yelling “STAB STAB Hehehehe!” Charlie smiles. “That’s Niffty. She’s basically housekeeping.”
Robin- who had been let go by Bruce at this point stared at Husk with wide eyes- somehow the calmest he’s been and that was mainly because he wasn't threatening anyone at that moment. “Isn’t this supposed to be a hotel? Not to be rude or anything but-” Nightwing was cut off by Red Hood, “Shouldn’t there be more actual guests around?”
“OH YES! Guests! Vaggie, have you seen Angel around?” Charlie asks. Vaggie simply gestures to the front door, where a fluffy pink and white spider demon comes in, accompanied by a familiar face, a demon with one horn and a tail, but otherwise a very humanoid appearance all things considered.
“At least there’s two good things here, cat-man, and Ace” Robin said as he looked over to the door, seeing Ace, and giving a judgmental look to the spider demon, before looking back at Husk in awe.
“Holy shit! Hey, why are you guys here? How are you?” Ace asks, walking over, the spider demon Charlie had called ‘Angel’ following. “This is Angel Dust.” Ace gestures to the spider, who waves. “Hey! Good to meetcha. Just so ya know, there ain’t ever gonna be a dull moment with me around. Just hope you can handle me.” Angel Dust says with a wink. Husk calls out in response, grumpily. “Nobody can handle you. Just watch yourself around the kid, at least.” “Will do, Husky!” Angel says in response, offering four finger guns.
“Ew.” Robin said glaring at Angel before looking back at Husk before a realization hit him, “Is this what it’s like to be poor, father? To stay at a slightly better than crappy hotel with weird guests and workers?” Robin asked Bruce as he looked up at him. Red hood let out a scoff, “I should throw you out on the streets for a month to show you what being poor really is like."
“Well this place is free… so technically..?” Charlie says, trailing off. Angel laughs. “I like this kid. He’s got guts. Keep an eye on him, big guy, it’s not exactly safe out here.”
“I used to be treated like royalty, I had multiple servants, the finest foods and finest silks, now I’m stuck in a place like this.” Damian hissed out with a glare, before looking back up at Husk staring at him. “We get it, you were spoiled as a little baby assassin” Red Robin said with an eyeroll.
“I think this place is lovely.” Ace says. Husk rolls his eyes, and Charlie looks proud.
“See Robie this place is nice, plus everyone’s probably already nicer than those assassins.” Nightwing said with a smile ruffling Robin’s hair. “Do not call me that, and do not talk about them that way, you’d be the same if not worse if the court got to you.” Robin said, glaring at Nightwing.
“Who haven't I introduced yet…” Charlie thinks, turning around. Directly behind her stands a sinister looking man, with a permanent smile, dressed in reds and blacks, resembling a deer vaguely. “Hello my dear! It seems we have new guests. Greetings! I am Alastor.” The man bows slightly, almost mockingly. Lucifer grumbles something under his breath.
“How long must you not brush your teeth for them to become that yellow” Robin said as he gave a glare towards Alastor, Red Hood had to hold back a laugh.
Alastors grin widens, but there is no amusement or warmth, he leans down to the child's height. “And who might this disrespectful little wretch be?” Alastor mockingly pinches Robin's cheek.
“Do not touch me, you demon, or I will kill you- and unlike my father I am not afraid to do so!” Robin yelled out going to try and attack Alastor only for Batman to once again hold him by the cape to prevent him from actually attacking.
“Hmm.” Alastor stands up straight, glaring. Angel Dust speaks up. “As for the others you haven’t met, Cherri is out blowing up some guys' buildings for fun. I dunno where that weird new guy is.” Angel shrugs.
“Thought Hell would be more stereotypical demons with pitch forks, actually torturing people type things, not cat boys and hotels” Red Hood said with a shrug as he looked around, his hand closed into a tight fist.
Angel Dust laughs. “Tell me about it, babe. It's a shock to everyone.”
“The only shock is how people can live like this” Robin said with a scoff as he glared at Niffty running around chasing a bug, “and how my grandfather can be compared to that” he stated as he gestured towards Lucifer.
Lucifer perks up at being gestured to. He decides he's gonna make a good impression, and offers Robin rubber duck, crouching down before him.
“The head of the league of assassins being compared to a tiny man giving a child a rubber duck” Robin said as if that only added to the comparison of his grandfather and Lucifer, still he took the duck from Lucifer inspecting it as he held it.
“I thought you didn’t like being called a child.” Ace hums, quirking an eyebrow up.
“Does not mean that he knew of that beforehand and so the statement is still valid” Robin said as he gave a glare towards Ace. “Whatever you say, child” Red Robin remarked with a smirk- only to get threats yelled out at him from Damian for calling him a child.
“Well anyway, if you’re staying at the hotel they need to set up rooms for you guys… so if you want I can show you guys around Hell in the meantime. I have to go see a friend soon enough anyway.” Ace offers. Charlie seems hesitant about this idea, but Vaggie puts her hand on her shoulder and nods reassuringly.
“I’ll stay back here with Robin, though tell me how it is-... actually if it's that bad, maybe don't" Nightwing said with a smile as he held Robin’s wrist- who threw insults on how he didn't need to be watched over all the time and he was old enough to see what hell had in store.
“So who's all coming? Raise your hand.“ Ace says playfully.
“What is this, school? I’m not raising my hand like I need to go to the bathroom.” Red Hood said with a scoff, Bruce and Red Robin both raised their hands as Robin tried to raise his own.
“Okie dokie. And for the record I was joking. ALSO, you don't need to hide your identities here. Not like anyone knows who you are.” Ace says, hands on her hips as she shoots Robin a look that says ‘put that hand down before I tape it to your side.’
Damian glared at her as he kept his hand up- even trying to bite Nightwing’s arm who just holds him by both arms after that as he laughs it off. Everyone seemed hesitant to take their masks off and reveal their identities, though after a moment both Red Robin and Red Hood took off their masks, Bruce keeping his cowl on along with Robin keeping his domino mask on as well- Nightwing would remove his but was more focused on keeping Robin where he could see him.
“Okie dokie let's go!” Ace says. Charlie calls after them “Stay safe!”
“I hate this place.” Robin mumbled under his breath as he watched the others leave.
Red Hood kept his hands in his pockets as he looked around, well the place was definitely red that was for sure.
“Hello, my name is Ace and I will be your tour guide today. If you’ll just follow me this way you’ll see a comically large building. This place belongs to the Vees. Don’t fuck with them… or fuck them. I’m kinda friends with them… and kinda a little itty bitty bit more with one of them. They’re overlords. All in favor of walking past this building and ignoring it, say aye.”
“I’m guessing you’re breaking your own rule of not fucking them?” Jason remarked with a smirk as he looked down at her.
“Nah we haven’t gone that far. BUT y’know maybe someday. Now am I entering the building or not?” Ace huffs, arms crossed.
“Well seeing how you said to not fuck with them I’d prefer just ignoring it dont want to deal with that kinda shit already.” Jason said with a shrug and crossing his arms.
“If you say so. Hang on, let's pass by that shop over there so you can see the huzz.” Ace trots over to a store selling TVs. Displayed on all the screens was a TV headed man dressed largely in blue, discussing his new ad-blocking tech. He had this big grin, and expression that SCREAMS ‘I'm manipulating you right now’. “Tada! Isn’t he fine?”
“THIS is who you like?” Jason looked down at her skeptically, Tim thought for a moment. “Would.” He finally said with a nod, Jason just looked at Tim judgingly.
“YES THANK YOU, you get the vision.” Ace cheers. “He was a cult leader in life. Super charming. REALLY good at what he does. The red guy, Alastor, has a lot of beef with him.”
“So be prepared for what either of them might do.” Bruce said glaring as he watched the tv, he knew those types- they will never be satisfied no matter how powerful they might become.
“Yep. While we’re here, let's discuss the other Vees. There's Valentino. I’m sure you can guess based on his name what his gimmick is?” Ace taps her chin.
“Sounds like a pimp name.” Jason said clearly getting annoyed at the thought, he was not a fan of pimps.
“Yea pretty much. He runs all the uh… NSFW stuff in Hell. He owns Angel Dust's soul. Anyway, then we have Velvette. She's the social media and fashion one.” Ace continues.
Jason just gave a small nod as he continued to listen, while Bruce and Tim both made mental notes, seemed like they controlled basically everything online, which made it much easier to control the masses.
“And then there’s a newer member, I think their name is like… Vixen? Met them once or twice, they’re in a relationship with Val I’m pretty sure.” Ace shrugs.
“Seems like a troublesome bunch, especially with that much control of the media” Bruce stated as he glared down at the tv, glaring at the smirk Vox had, as if Vox himself was mocking Bruce.
“Yup! They take advantage of vulnerable people too. Horrible people, but honestly, Vox got it going on.” Ace shrugs.
Bruce gave a glare towards Ace, “Keep a watch on them, no one with that much power will just settle, they’ll try to climb higher let it be in a day or a year.”
“Ugh… fair enough… but I should probably mention, don’t let yourself get caught alone with Vox… or Val… but especially not Vox.” Ace taps the glass where the TV inadvertently showed Vox brainwashing the crowd listening to his discussion. “Like I said, he was a cult leader. Some of his powers come back to that.”
Bruce gave a nod, making a mental note to only travel in groups to try and remain safe, “Let me guess also has ways of spying on people?” Bruce said though it was more like a statement than a question as he glared up at a camera, a camera with the same logo as the tvs.
“Oh absolutely. He’s watching us right now.” Ace points to the security cameras that were aimed at them.
Bruce grabbed a batarang and threw them at the cameras, destroying them all quickly.
“Uh… you do realize that so long as I have a phone and devices are nearby that he can still watch us.” Ace rolls her eyes.
“The point is still gotten across, as long as I’m here whatever he’s planning won't happen.” Bruce said as he glared at the tv before turning away.
“Oh, I should probably mention he can teleport so long as there's a device nearby.” Ace taps her phone.
“Because of course he can” Bruce said annoyed, This, this is why he didnt deal with metas…
“Also, he's not gonna like that you destroyed his cameras so…” Ace winces.
“He’s probably going to teleport here? Good I’d like to have a discussion with him” Bruce said his voice gruff as he glared at her phone then at the tvs. “Most period man learning he cant trust any devices this will go well” Jason said with an eyeroll and scoff.
“Do you want me to… call him?” Ace asks, blinking.
Bruce gives a nod as he walks into a nearby alleyway clearly on guard.
Ace calls out to Vox. “Heyyyy… we know you’re watching. Wanna like.. Show yourself…?”
A second goes by, before a blue zap of electricity comes out of the TVs they had just been watching. In front of them stood a mildly irked vox, hands folded behind his back as he stood up straight. “You wanna tell me WHY THE FUCK your friend here is destroying my property?” Vox snarls, glaring at Ace. She shrugs. “Ask him.”
“It was clear you were spying, if not in use then in general- though the fact you knew so quickly does seem to add to the spying on us” Bruce said as he glared at him through his cowl, his cape blowing in the wind slightly.
“Oh okay, because that gives you so much FUCKING authority that youre allowed to break MY CAMERAS?” Vox scoffs, before taking a deep breath, forcing himself to calm down and smiling. “Right… What's your name?”
“Batman” Bruce said as he glared at Vox, “Let me give you some advice, whatever you’re planning won't succeed as long as I’m here.”
Vox actually laughs at that. “Sure. Whatever you say. I doubt it though.” Vox grins, mockingly putting his arm around Ace's shoulder. “But please, do try. I insist.” He says in a satirically formal tone. Ace looks up at him, before turning to Bruce with a shrug.
“Hey Bats, sorry for bursting your ‘oh I found a new villain, time to make sure they know I’m the fucking Batman!’ bubble, but we could very well be here for like a day maybe two not smart making threats to someone you might not see again” Jason said sarcastically rolling his eyes- sure he could probably shoot the twink like the riddler but Bruce wouldn't that was the big difference.
Ace cringes internally, realizing that if she’s close with Bruce's new enemy, it could be trouble for her. She sighs. “Batman, maybe loosen up and stand down. You don’t even know for sure if or what he's planning.”
“Either way it will not succeed” Batman states as he glares at Vox before giving a nod to Tim and Jason with him grappling up onto one of the roofs, vanishing from sight, Tim and Jason both watching as he does so.
“Uh… okay… bye then.” Ace mumbles,waving to him. Vox immediately grabs Ace by the shoulders and beckons Jason and Tim to follow. “No hard feelings. Come, I'll show you the tower. No, you don’t get a say in this.” Vox says with false pleasantness.
“Wowww so nice of you thank you sooo much” Jason said sarcastically with a roll of his eyes as he followed. “Could try to learn more” Tim whispers to Jason as he stuck a little behind Vox. If Bruce taught him anything it's that he should always be on the lookout for clues, let it be from two face and two things, to joker and clowns, to even being invited into the strange tower by the strange man.
Vox opens the front doors, dragging Ace along, looking back to ensure the others are still following. “You people looking for a job, by chance?” Vox asks jokingly, sneering at them.
“Depends on what you got open” Jason said as he crossed his arms- of course he wouldn't actually take the job, though good to make note of what more things they could potentially control.
As if on cue, a tall, pimp-looking, moth figure walks over, leaning down. He takes in the boy's faces before turning to Vox. “Have you brought me some new playthings? Yay! Thank you, Voxxy.” The moth leans over, kissing Vox on the cheek. Vox rolls his eyes. “Not quite. Besides, they’re not nearly pretty enough for you.” He gestures to Jason and Tim. The moth nods, finger pressed to his chin. “Good point. That’s why I love you.” He boops Vox’s screen.
Jason’s hands are curled into even tighter fists as he glares at the moth man- who he assumed was Valentino by the way he was acting, still Jason lets out a small breath of air reminding himself to stay calm. Still, he couldn't help but think about the women he met living on the streets as a kid, and the type of men that would… Jason shook his head, not the time, he’d have to wait till later, see how bad he really was… though he could already tell this moth wasn't good.
Soon enough, another figure emerges. A woman, her hair styled into two buns, the white in her hair perfectly swirling. The demon vaguely resembled a doll, her outfit revealing the kind of joints one would see on a Barbie. The demon scoffs, giving them a once over. “These the kids that had you so pissy before you ditched us?” she hissed,snarkily.
“Hey, he's the only kid.” Jason said, pointing towards Tim who just shot him a glare, before Jason shrugged, “So what, we meeting the whole little group thingie or something?” Jason remarked with a raised eyebrow- at least they’d get an idea of how they all act, Bruce would probably use that, make some kind of plan, and bat around everywhere or some shit.
Vox chuckles, albeit forced. “Velvette, Val, meet… these… things.” he gestured vaguely to the two, arm still around Ace. “Where is Vix?” He asks, pinching his screen where the bridge of his nose would have been, grumbling something inaudible.
“Right here” Vix said as they walked in, their appearance was similar to a bat’s with large ears and wings , they looked at Jason and Tim with a raised eyebrow, “Aww man ya’ll got new playthings without me?”
Vox groans. “No. These little shit’s were with that asshole who broke my cameras. We’re here to… send a message. That's all.” Valentino sulks slightly.
“That’s not threatening at all, and why exactly are you planning on giving that message to two people not involved instead of the man who actually destroyed them?” Jason remarked as he crossed his arms and raised his eyebrow glaring at them.
“Because you matter to him. He cares about you.” Vox says calmly, hands folded in front of him now, releasing Ace. “It would be really easy to just–” Ace cuts him off. “Didn’t Batman say not to split off and go alone? Why did he run off?” She desperately tries to change the subject.
“Probably knew we’d be busy with these idiots” Jason said with a sigh, “So how exactly do you guys plan on sending this message? Torture, maybe holding us hostage, oh maybe try that hypnosis- be fun to see some do that besides that alice in wonderland freak.” Jason said with a mocking smirk taunting the vees.
Ace looks Jason dead in the eyes. “Don’t. Go back to the hotel. Just walk out while he still lets you.”
“I hear you loud and clear” Jason said with a smirk putting his hands up as he walked away, Tim following close behind.
Ace sighs in relief. Vox side eyes her. “You’re lucky that I am even remotely fond of you.” He snarled at her. She shrugs. “I’d rather you not hypnotize my friend.” She sighs and then starts to walk away, following them. Vox just stares, eyes narrow. He slowly grins, turning and walking further into the building, calling out a simple “See you soon.”
Jason stuffed his hands into his pockets as he walked, damn any gotham rouge given a chance here in hell would be having a field day, though luckily they weren't here, and Bruce was. Damn it might be even worse, Bruce’s probably having both a field day and panic attack with how much crime there is- but it's hell, Jason would be surprised if anything was illegal here unlike in heaven for the short time he was there.
Ace runs after him, catching up and putting her hand on his shoulder. “What the hell were you thinking, taunting him? That guy would have absoLUTELY gone through with it if I wasn't there.” Ace hissed.
“I’ve dealt with worse, Timmy I don't know, but I could’ve handled it.” Jason said with a shrug as if it was another Tuesday for him. Tim just gave him an annoyed look.
“This is Hell Jason, not Gotham. Things aren't the same here. The Vees aren’t friendly. You can’t egg them on. They don’t like anyone but eachother… and like…. y’know…. me… but shhhh.” Ace grumbles.
“Obviously it’s not Gotham, but I ain't going to just let them think they can threaten me, besides so what if they’d actually react I be able to handle it like I said. I mean, worst of TV guy we’ve seen is him making some sinners into ipad kids.” Jason said, waving his hand around.
“Don’t underestimate him. Trust me.” Ace says.
“I wont, just wont overhype him either” Jason said as he put his arms behind his head.
“If you say so…” Ace mumbles, looking away.
“And I do.” Jason said with a smirk booping her nose.
“Next time you do that, I’m biting your finger.” Ace warns playfully, swatting his hand away.
“You sound just like the demon spawn when you say shit like that” Jason remarked, patting her head now.
“What can I say? I spend lots of time with the ‘demon spawn’.” Ace grins, ducking lower to avoid his hand. She looks back at Tim. “Don’t walk so far back, you’ll worry me.”
“Yeah, yeah, I’m not” Tim said with a roll of his eyes though a smile on his face- till a sinner crushed another sinner’s face in with a baseball bat, he lost that smile quick. It wouldn't be that much longer till they returned to the hotel.
“Yeah you’ll see a lot of that stuff here. Sorry.” Ace shrugs, walking slower so she was back by Tim.
“Funnnn” Tim said sarcastically, grimacing as some of the blood got onto his suit.
Ace gently pets his shoulder, before attempting to get the blood off. “My apologies. Hell is… not pleasant.” She reached up to ruffle his hair.
“Couldnt tell- at least it's not boring” Jason said with a shrug as he kept walking, even while he said that though he knew the sooner they got back to Earth the better.
Ace sighs, opening the door to the hotel as they arrive. “Ladies first.” She grins at them, albeit weary.
“She said ladies first” Jason joked as he pushed Tim ahead- at this point Tim was done with everything, though didn't fight back and instead just mumbled not so nice things under his breath.
“You next, princess.” Ace gestures for Jason to enter.
“Bitch, I’m a queen.” Jason said with a smirk as he walked in.
“Damn right you are.” Ace grins, following him.
“How many dead bodies did you see?” Damian- who no longer had his robin mask on- asked them almost instantly when they stepped inside- he hadn't even been there before the doors opened.
“Uh… a few…?” Ace cocks her head.
Damian just gave a nod before glaring at the others in the hotel and whispering to Ace, “I do not like them- they are unsophisticated to say the least."
“Oh c'mon they’ll grow on you. You seem to like Husk, go befriend him!” Ace smiles, gesturing for him to follow her as she walks towards the bar.
“You are a cat, cats are good” Damian said as he looked up at Husk- his face in the same permanent frown as always.
“Uh… thanks I guess?” Husk muttered gruffly, taking a drink from a bottle of unlabeled booze.
“You are the best one here, because you are a cat” Damian stated with a nod of approval- he never got the whole making friends thing, people should be the ones asking him to be their friend- not like he needed it, he was better than every other kid his age.
“Uh huh.” Husk says in a very blank emotionless tone, as if he couldn’t care less. Charlie walks over hesitantly. “Hey Husk… could you maybe… try to be friendlier? He is a kid.” “Not worth my time. I don’t owe ‘em anything.” Husk mumbles simply with a shrug.
Damian didn't say anything as he just continued to stare up at Husk- he didn't care if he was not friendly, he was not annoying and he was a cat, that was perfect in Damian’s eyes.
“Ya need something kid?” Husk sighs, leaning over the bar slightly, making eye contact with him.
“If I needed something I would have Grayson handle it” Damian said as he continued to just look up and stare at Husk.
“...Right…” Husk huffs. He remains silent for a moment before deciding to attempt small talk. “How’ve the others been treating you? Not too annoying I assume? Not that I really CARE but you seem like the kind of person to try and kill people you don't like.”
Damian gave a simple nod, “They are all annoying, though with my fathers rule… they should consider themselves lucky.” Damian said as he gave a small glare to the others, Dick got up and walked to Damian, ruffling his hair. “He doesn't mean that.” Dick said with a laugh. “I do.”
Husk rolls his eyes. “I wasn’t talking to you, pretty boy, go sit back down. Anyways, I get that. These assholes piss me off too. But… some of them aren’t so bad I guess.” Husk crosses his arms, glancing at Angel Dust, who was busy yapping to Cherri Bomb, who had just recently returned from her exploding escapade.
Damian raised an eyebrow as he looks over to where Angel was after Husk glanced at him, “He seems like he’s the most annoying- besides for that thing who kept yelling stab” Damian states, his eyes narrowing at Angel for a moment before looking back up at Husk.
Husk chuckles. “Yeah, he is. But he's not too bad once you get to know him. Hes…. getting better. The REAL worst one here is that fucking radio demon.” Husk’s tone turns from slightly playful to a snarl at the mention of Alastor. Of course, Alastor, being the asshole he is, makes his way over at the mention of his name… which entails basically coming out of the shadows on the ground, grin everpresent. “Hello, Husker. Lovely day, is it not?” “Oh fuck off.” Husk grumbles, rolling his eyes, before turning to Damian. “Ignore him.”
“Hard to, when even his voice is annoying, but I’ll try.” Damian mumbles, giving an everpresent glare towards Alastor, though returns his gaze back to Husk.
Alastor’s grin widens in a strained, forced, way. “Well aren’t you just a charming little fellow…? I think we’ll get along just fine, don’t you?” He leans down once more to Damian's height. Husk glares at the radio demon. “Leave the kid alone.”
“Tsk, at least you seem like the type of demon my grandfather’s title would be named after- even with that dumb voice.” Damian stated as he glared at Alastor.
“Well young man, I should have you know my voice is one of a once beloved radio host! You, my dear, are in the vast minority alongside that mediocre flatscreened video star.” Alastor says, narrowing his eyes at Damian.
“You sure all those people who were listening weren't just deaf?” Damian remarked sarcastically as he raised an eyebrow looking Alastor up and down, he could beat this weird ass dear up in a fight any day of the week.
Charlie steps in before anyone can start a fight. “Oooookayyy… uh.. Al, why don’t you go help uh… Niffty!” “Whatever you say, my dear.” Alastor says, grin still plastered across his face as he descends into the shadows to go find the little gremlin. Charlie and Husk sigh in relief.
“He had a very annoying voice.” Damian mumbles as he glares at where Alastor descended into the shadows, before looking up at Husk again.
Husk nods. “Agreed.”
Damian climbed onto one of the bar seats instead of just standing there at the bar looking at Husk before he took a look at the fireplace, noticing a giant painting of some… snake guy in a military like uniform, “Who’s that?” Damian questioned pointing towards the painting.
The room seems to go quiet at that. Even Angel and Cherri stopped talking. Everyone seems to avoid eye contact with each other, before Charlie speaks up, voice cracking very dramatically, eyes comical amounts of teary. “The greatest soldier and friend any of us could have asked for.”
Damian kept his eyebrow raised- because that told him so much- but he shrugged it off, he knew his father would probably figure out more and tell him then, so he remained quiet, just looking back at Husk.
Husk clears his throat, changing the subject. “So uh… you like animals I’m guessing? Based on your reaction to…” He gestures to himself. Charlie speaks up, suddenly cheerful once again, but it's kinda forced. “Me too! OH! Has dad given you a rubber duck yet? Do you like ducks? Do you like snakes? I.. like snakes.” She sniffles again, turning to stare at the painting again. Husk just sighs, pinching the bridge of his nose.
“I like all animals, they are vastly superior to most people.” Damian said with a huff.
“Does that apply to demons too then?” Angel Dust asks playfully, standing up from his place on the couch and walking over to join them. “‘Cuz I don't think we count as uh… people, y’know?” He clicks his tongue, winking and doing finger guns with his bottom set of arms, the top set resting on his hips.
“You act like a human even with a somewhat animal-like look… it is a middle ground- though that does not mean I do not already find you annoying” Damian said with a glare directed at Angel Dust as he looked him up and down with a scoff- most of the demons here looked like twinks, Damian was sure he could beat them all in a fight if needed easily.
“Aww ya don’t like spiders then? Got some kinda arachnophobia or somethin’ kid?” Angel quirks an eyebrow, sitting on the bar counter itself. Husk sighs. “If you don't get your ass off the counter, you’re cleaning it.” He warns Angel, who just shrugs. “Meh, shouldn't be too hard… unlike-” “Not in front of the child.” Husk huffs, interrupting Angel. The spider demon simply sulks.
“I like spiders, I just don't like you” Damian said with a glare directed towards Angel, he was confused on how Angel was apparently one of the ‘not as bad’ ones or whatever in this hotel.
Angel feigns hurt. “Ouch! Careful now, ya don't wanna hurt my feelings do ya? Anyways kid, you said you like ALL animals, right?” Angel grins. “If so, lemme introduce ya to my best friend.” This earns a groan from Cherri in the background but he ignores it.
Damian raises an eyebrow as he looks at Angel skeptically.
Angel holds up a finger as if to say ‘one moment’, walking away to grab something. When he returns, he has a small demon pig in his arms. “This is Fat Nuggets.”
Damian has to try to keep his expression from one of going to pure awe- he knows he fails somewhat though, but if anyone said anything he could just threaten them- as he sees the small demon pig… maybe this stupid fluffy spider wasn't the WORST here… not the best either though.
Angel holds out the pig to Damian. “I trust ya to be careful with him. Don't let me down, kid.” He says with a wink.
“I suppose you are not the worst here…” Damian says with a small huff as he gently holds the pig, making sure to not hold him too tightly or too loosely as he looks down at the small pig, stars in his eyes- he would deny them, even as he knew Grayson was probably taking pictures.
Angel grins at this, Husk letting out a little hum of approval. Angel very gently ruffled the kid’s hair.
“Do not touch me” Damian says- though instead of glaring at Angel like he would’ve normally done, his attention is still on Fat Nuggets in his arms.
“Hear ya loud n clear.” Angel chuckles, observing affectionately.
It was then when Batman reentered the hotel, his suit slightly damaged and him holding a few remains of some of Vox’s cameras he had broken- noticeably not the same ones he had broken with Ace, as by the fact the wires were cut while the rest of the camera was intact.
Ace groans, burying her face in her hands. “Stop making enemies with Vox!!” She walks over, taking the camera from him forcefully. She sighs. “Where did you get this from?”
“I am already prepared to stop whatever he’s planning, it does not matter if he thinks of us as enemies” Bruce said as he looked down at Ace, “it does not matter either where I got them, I need to analyze them to see just what kind of technology he is using and see if there’s any flaws in his designs.”
“Absolutely not! I'm gonna return this. He hasn't done anything yet! Leave him alone.” Ace huffs, walking past him to leave with the camera in hand.
Bruce watches as she leaves, waiting ‘til she left the building, before pulling out another camera he managed to take from his utility belt.
Ace makes her way to the Vee’s tower, using the authorization gifted to her to enter, since she visits frequently. She calls out “Hey Vox! I’m returning a camera that Bats stole.”
Just like before, he teleports in, a blue stream of electricity signifying his arrival. He holds his arms out like he is both happy to see her, and expected her. “Ace! I knew you'd be back soon. Good to see you again. How are you this fine evening?” He grins, walking over, arms crossed behind his back.
“I’m fine. I’m just here to return this.” Ace huffs bluntly, shoving the camera into his hands, not happy about the events from earlier still. Vox grins wider, noticing the slight discomfort in her expression. “Well aren't you just getting right to the point for once. I taught you well. So why come back to return this? You’re on the ‘good guys’ side, aren't you?” He asked mockingly. Ace scoffs. “I don’t want you targeting them.” “Aww you think so little of me? Kinda rude.” Vox wraps his arm around her shoulder once again. “Look, your little friends are causing me a lot of trouble. Are you sure they’re not the bad people?” He jokes. Ace sighs, removing his arm gently. “See you around, Vox. I’m not staying this time.”
And with that, she turns on her heel, and walks out.
—-------------------------------------------------------
Bruce, back at the hotel held the camera he hid from Ace in his hands, before spotting Jason and Tim and walked over to the two of them, “I gave the two of you orders to follow” Bruce stated as he looked at the two of them, instinctively looking down- before looking back up at Jason. “A head nod isnt a fucking order” Jason spat out as he crossed his arms.
“You gave a head nod, and expected them to know what it meant?” Vaggie asks, walking over to them, looking mildly amused. “You would not be of any help in an army, that’s for sure.”
“I don't need an army, I work alone.” Bruce said as he started to walk away. “Yeah besides for Robin, and Nightwing, and Red Hood, and Red Robin, and Batgirl, and Spoiler, and Orphan, and Oracle, and the entire justice league to just name a few. But sure you work alone” Jason said with a smirk and eyeroll.
Vaggie chuckles. “Where do you get your sass from? Doesn’t seem like he has much.” She gestured to Bruce, amused. She seems fond of him already.
“Bit of everywhere but from him, some on the street, some from Alfred- the butler he has, some from sunshine and rainbows during his angst arc.” Jason said with a smirk pointing towards Dick who just had the brightest smile on his face.
“Nice. You’ll fit in well here. Just be careful not to get into too much trouble.” Vaggie gently and affectionately punched his shoulder, like one would do with a sibling.
“Cant be worse than when I was 15” Jason said with a laugh, Dick’s smile instantly turned into a frown, as Bruce stopped in his tracks.
“Can… I ask what happened? It's cool if you don't wanna tell me, I’ll back off if you want.” Vaggie holds her hands up placatingly.
“... Maybe some other time, just met you. No offense, but don't really tell the story to people I just met.” Jason said with a small sigh, still keeping a smile- though it was obvious whatever he talked about still affected him, it affected all of them it seemed.
“Hey don't worry, I get it. Maybe not to your extent, but I still get not wanting to talk about it.” Vaggie reaches out, intending to put her hand on his shoulder to pat it, but stops. “Can I touch you? Is that like… cool with you?” She raised an eyebrow.
Jason just gave a simple nod, his hands in his pockets.
Vaggie pats him on the shoulder. “But just know I’m here to talk when, and if, you're ready.”
Jason gives a small nod before raising an eyebrow as Bruce kept walking away, “Wonder how long till he realizes that he doesn't know where the room he’s staying in is.”
At that, Charlie perks up from across the room. “OOH OOH I can show him! Pick me, pick me! Me me me!” She practically jumps up and down, hand raised.
Jason raised an eyebrow as he looked at her but shrugged, not his circus not his monkeys.
Charlie chased after Bruce, excited to show him his room. Vaggie sighs fondly, shaking her head.
Bruce remains quiet as he inspects the camera as he walks, sure Vox had not done anything yet, but he was at minimum spying on people- and probably committing several other crimes… he still needed to learn information, figure out his weaknesses, figure out his goal.
Meanwhile, Ace bursts back in. “Guess who’s home, bitches!” She grins, walking over to Jason.
“Yo, was that TV guy just as evil as before?” Jason asked with an eyebrow raise as he looked over her with a smile.
“Meh I think he TRIED something but I left too quickly.” Ace shrugs.
“Good to know Bruce has at least some reason to be paranoid even if just a bit” Jason said with his own shrug.
“I guess.” Ace shrugs, reaching up to ruffle his hair.
Jason rolls his eyes with a smirk as she does so before playfully shoving her away.
“Whatcha been up to while I was out on my very important quest?” Ace asked, arms crossed, eyebrow raised.
“Mainly just talking,” Jason said with a shrug, “and joking about trauma.”
“Oh..! That's uh… yikes.” Ace mumbles, looking at Jason. “You good?”
“Yeah, like I said joked, not cried about or something” Jason said with a laugh and hand wave like it was a typical Tuesday.
Ace nods, putting her hand on his shoulder. “You’re lucky I know you. Any stranger would probably be extremely concerned.” She teases.
“Makes their reaction funnier” Jason said with a shrug and smile as he crossed his arms.
Ace just rolls her eyes. “Has Charlie shown you your room yet? You gonna share with someone or be a lone wolf?” She taunts, poking his shoulder.
“Come on, you already know I’m gonna be a lone wolf.” Jason said with a laugh, “She went ahead and is showing Bruce his room.”
“Guess that means I gotta take it upon my wonderful self to show you. Follow me, trauma magnet.” Ace starts walking.
Jason gave a nod as he followed behind her, whistling as he did so.
“Why are you whistling? Fuckin’ weirdo.” Ace teases, looking at him over her shoulder.
“Can’t a guy whistle?” Jason said with an eyeroll as he looked around the hotel as they walked.
“No.” Ace says, before gesturing to a door. “Here’s your room, good sir.”
“Thank you, now I can whistle in peace” Jason said sarcastically with a smirk opening the door.
“See you around handsome, don't like… set your room on fire in the name of fun.” Ace waves, turning to leave him. “Have fun whistling!”
“Dont worry if I set my room on fire, it’ll be for something other than fun” Jason remarked as he waved to Ace before closing the door.
Ace walks back down to the lobby, sitting on the couch. “Hasn’t even been five hours, and Bruce is already causing issues. Damn.” Ace sighs to herself.
“Classic Bruce, I wouldn't be surprised if he went to interrogate this Vox guy later, knowing him” Dick said with a small shrug, he’s the person who has known Bruce for the longest when it came to this fucked up family.
“Heyyyy Dick! Haven’t heard you speak much since you got here. How is this treating you?” Ace grins at him.
“Eh had to make sure Damian wouldn't run away while you and the others were out, though overall I’m just hoping this be a decent break from vigilante work in Gotham- love it but after a while you get tired of all the riddles and having to watch out for any moving plants” Dick stated with a small laugh.
“I feel like you’re the only person EVER to view Hell as a vacation.” Ace snickers, nudging him with her elbow.
“What, it's a hotel, which means vacation time” Dick said as he nudged her back.
“I think you’d like Charlie. One sec. HEY CHARLE C’MERE!” Ace cups her mouth and calls out. Charlie, always excited to help, rushed over. “HI! Yes, how can I help?” Charlie is basically bouncing with joy.
Tim raised an eyebrow taking a sip of coffee- coffee no one saw him getting, "Don't let her get any coffee” Tim mumbled into his cup.
“More like don’t let YOU get coffee, where did you FIND THAT?!” Ace blinks. Charlie, oblivious to that, sits next to Dick, grinning widely. “Hi! I know we already met technically but this is a new conversation so it doesn't count. I’m Charlie! Charlie Morningstar!” She holds a hand out to him.
“Dick Grayson,” Dick said with a smile as he shook her hand.
Angel laughs loudly from where he sat across the lobby. “HA! Dick! You know, cutie, you can-” “Nope” Husk cuts him off. Charlie cringes slightly, smile still on her face. “Ooookay…. Um… Nice to meet you!”
Dick let out a small sigh and chuckle at Angel’s words before bringing his attention back to Charlie, “It’s nice to meet you as well.”
Ace smiles at him and pats his head. Charlie smiles brightly at him. “You seem super nice! You should totally help me help people in the hotel! If you want to, I mean.” Charlie says, almost sheepishly.
“Oh yeah, I’d be more than happy to help around!” Dick said with a smile on his face.
Charlie claps her hands excitedly “Ohmygosh YAY! Thank you thank you thank you!” Charlie takes his hands, locking eyes with him, her own eyes sparkling.
A few feet away, Lucifer could be seen watching them, smiling fondly. He always loves to see Charlie happy, and he hasn’t seen her THIS happy in a while. Especially not since… he… died. Lucifer clears his throat and walks over. “Heeeey! Couldn't help but uh… notice you two were talking. Thank you for being so helpful, we appreciate it. You're better than SOME of the residents here, at least.” He says the last bit through gritted teeth, as he summons a rubber duck out of thin air, offering it to Dick with a grin. “I uh… have a passion for these little guys. Got a lot more than I know what to do with. Want one?”
“I didn't realize the Lucifer would be so nice, thank you.” Dick said, starry eyed, accepting the duck offered to him.
Lucifer just grins widely, clearly proud and VERY joyful.
—-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Meanwhile, in Bruce’s room, Alastor emerges out of the shadows, twirling his microphone. “Hello there, my friend. Fancy meeting you here! A little birdy told me that you’re not so fond of a certain television-headed overlord. Seems we have a… common interest.” Alastor’s constant grin widens, eyes narrowing.
Bruce’s eyes looked over towards him and gave a simple nod before continuing to work and disassembling the camera he took, using different tools he had stored in his utility belt.
“I could help, you know. I’m not particularly fond of that cunning man-child either. That is… for a price. You don’t seem the foolish type, I'm sure you know better than most that we demons don't act for free.” Alastor leans in, hands resting atop his microphone.
“Let me guess, my soul for a half done job?” Bruce asked as he continued to work, giving a small glare in Alastor’s direction.
“How blunt. Yes, of course, so glad you don't waste any time. Half done however? No no no. I don’t do half done jobs. That’s more in line with Vox. But, let me tell you something, something that I'm certain you already know well enough. He’s definitely plotting something. I can help, if you’ll let me. Yet, I get the impression that you don’t think such a thing is worth it. Oh well.” Alastor rolls his eyes, sighing, before continuing. “I guess it can't be helped. Do not be afraid to reach out, however, if you do change your mind. I'm always here.”
Bruce gave a simple nod as he continued to work- even if this demon claimed not to do a half done job he still knew enough from Constantine, don’t make deals with demons, that’s the easiest way for hell to become even worse, to be tortured ‘til the day hell itself fell, and while Bruce was willing to risk his life even to help hell, he would not just sell his soul away for something that he could do himself.
Alastor turns to walk away. “Very well. Oh, but one last thing.” He turns his head, looking over his shoulder at Bruce, grinning wider. “Keep an eye on your kids. The Vees often prey on the vulnerable.”
And with that, Alastor walks out.
Bruce let out a huff as he turns back to the half disassembled camera, a screwdriver in hand, though he couldn't help thinking of the demon’s words. He would make sure none of his kids are alone outside of the hotel from now on, and he’d be more clear on his instructions, he won't let anything happen, especially not a repeat of… no he was here again, and this time Bruce won’t let anything happen to him- to any of them