Chapter Nine: The Birds of Paradise Lounge

"I don't get why I can't go with you." Vaggie said as she sat on the bed behind Charlie, Razzle and Dazzle curled up on either side of her. She rubbed the area between their horns.

"I know... but Al said that she can be very condescending and obnoxious, two things that I know are really big pet peeves of yours. I don't want you to sit through all that and be uncomfortable." It was however, a lie. Alastor said Mimzy was quite the opposite, if maybe a little absent minded and pushy at times. "I'm doing this for the hotel. We could use another sponsor if we're going to try and implement all these programs. I'll be careful Vaggie, I promise."

Her girlfriend sighed, "I wouldn't be so worried if it wasn't the Birds of Paradise Lounge. It has a sex club in there." She frowned.

"Huh...?" Charlie blushed, staring at Vaggie through the mirror as she finished applying red lip stain over her black lips, creating a dark burgundy color like wine.

"That's what Bop is. It's a dance club as well as a speakeasy-esque sex club. Angel was telling me about it at lunch while you and Alastor had your afternoon meeting. Why does he have to take you to that one if she owns other clubs that don't have a god damn sex dungeon in its basement? Why can't you schedule a meeting here?"

Charlie turned to look at Vaggie directly. She wore light makeup on her face to brighten her eyes and tone down the red patches on her cheeks and black tipped nose. Hanging on the mirror beside her was a black with gold undertones open back fringed Gatsby style flapper gown that went down to her shins. She sat in her silken nightie with the tied straps. In her hair were giant curlers Vaggie had helped put on her. Mimzy, much like Alastor, preferred a particular aesthetic. Charlie didn't complain, she loved dressing up and it had been many, many decades since she last wore this dress.

"He's tried, but this Mimzy lady wants things done on her turf. I promise we'll just be in the dance club part. There's no reason for us to go to the dungeon area you mentioned. I thought you trusted me?"

Vaggie scooted off the bed to stand beside Charlie, the goat servants whimpering for a moment before cuddling one another and drifting off to sleep. The one eyed she demon was dressed in an over sized black hoodie and boy shorts as she had no plans to head down stairs once Charlie left. Her thick mane of hair was braided, tied off with a signature red bow.

She knelt in front of Charlie and held her hands, "I do, babe. I'm sorry, I'm just..."

"Worried?" Charlie smiled and kissed the top of her head, "I know, but Al isn't a bad guy as we pegged him to be. I've told you this. Sure, he's really eccentric, but aside from his reputation, he's been good to us and he needs my help this time. He said this Mimzy can be really generous, so... I'm going to trust him and I'm going to see what she's all about." She cupped Vaggie's face in her hands, "Remember, I love you and only you. He and I are business partners and... and just friends."

Vaggie thought back to the private conversation she had a while go with the Radio Demon. 'I just wish to know her and be... friends.' Echoed in her head. Maybe she was being over sensitive but she still couldn't shake the feeling of dread. She really wanted to give him a chance but his eyes... there was something about them that made her uneasy. Tonight was probably good as any though to see if he could be trusted.

She heaved a heavy sigh, "Okay. Call me if you need me to pick you up. I'd wish you'd at least let me drop you guys off but... have fun I guess." She pouted and leaned into Charlie's warm hands, "And please, please be careful Charlie. We don't know what kind of friends he has. I wouldn't judge them based on Niffty and Husk, they work for him so it's different." She stood and kissed her love's forehead before tapping her right knee to the side so she could turn back around. Vaggie helped her remove the curlers.

"I'll be careful. I promise. I'll text you when I get there, when we leave, and if it's so boring that I need saving." Both girls giggled. "Think of this as a business dinner. Not sure food will be involved, but this is strictly business." 'So we can finally play.' She shifted in her seat, feeling heat pool between her legs.

Vaggie removed the last few curlers and ran her fingers gently through the silky strands to loosen the hair, "I could make you something before you go."

"It's getting late. Al said to be ready by 9, which is in ten minutes. I'll have him swing by someplace if we're not eating there, ok? You don't need to worry. I know you promised to always protect me, but I'm capable of putting up a good fight and he's the Radio Demon. Doubt anyone would mess with us." She smiled at Vaggie through the mirror, "I love you."

"Love you too. Here, let me at least help you finish your hair. Pass me that head dress." Vaggie placed the black diamonds encrusted head piece with the golden apple sigil in the center on Charlie's head, tying it securely on the back but not tight enough to leave an indentation on her forehead and carefully wove her hair into the band for an updo.

She started on the right and section by section she looped the hair around until it collected on the left side. She fashioned a bun by twirling it up and with heavy duty Bobby pins, she pinned the hair in place just behind her ear. To finish the look, she carefully pulled some hair out on the sides to frame her face. Vaggie smiled proudly at herself, happy that the bun didn't look awkwardly large for the amount of hair and length Charlie had.

"I love having my own personal stylist." Charlie joked, making both girls giggle again. Vaggie snaked her arms around her neck and leaned down until their faces were side by side.

"I might have made you too beautiful. No funny business." She winked and kissed Charlie's temple. Vaggie straightened herself up.

Charlie gulped, "Ha, w-wouldn't dream of it."

They both heard knocking on main door to their unit. Razzle and Dazzle, startled by the noise, scurried to see who it was and bleated for one of the girls' attention. Vaggie sighed and rolled her eyes, knowing exactly who it was on the other side.

"We can add punctual to the list of good qualities he has, I guess." She closed their bedroom door to give Charlie privacy to put on her dress and shoes.

The moth opened the door and resisted groaning as Alastor stood in the doorway dressed in a red tuxedo, much like the one he wore during the hotel's reception nearly two months ago and a black and red top hat.

He did his best to smile warmly at Vaggie, "Hello, darlin', I've come to pick up Charlie. Is she ready?"

Vaggie crossed her arms, "She's just putting on her shoes. She should be out in about a minute."

"Splendid!"

"Hey, Al..."

"Yes, dear?" He leaned on the door frame with crossed arms, knowing full well Vaggie wouldn't let him in. No matter, Charlie would be his all night.

She shifted her weight between her heels, "Do me a favor. D-don't let Charlie out of your sight. When she gets excited, she lets her guard down and even if she might not be taken seriously most of the time, she's... she's still Hell's Princess and I don't want anyone to take advantage of her. She's too much of a pacifist to fight back if someone tries taking her for ransom. I know I'm being overly paranoid and over protective, but Charlie's just too good for this place. Hell, I mean." She rubbed her arms and turned her face away from the demon before her. "I saw on the news this morning that one of her cousins was murdered in a turf war. They're going after Dukes in the lower rings it seems, who knows when that shit ends up on our door steps."

'That was a bit faster than I anticipated. Duly noted.' Alastor chuckled, "I have no intentions of her leaving my sight. I know you are aware of what goes below this particular lounge, I overheard Angel telling you on my way to get some ice, but believe me, the crowd is much more savory than other clubs and I prefer the dance floor at this particular establishment. She'll be safe and have lots of fun. You have my word we'll be back well before morning."

The door to the bedroom opened and Alastor, for a split second, was in awe as he felt himself stop breathing. She was a vision, and had they both been back home in Louisiana during the time before he died, he was certain every bachelor from New Orleans to Baton Rouge would have been knocking on her doorstep. She was... beautiful, the very definition of elegance. Maybe he would need to ask Mimzy for a room later tonight after all. His hand twitched.

"Ho, ho, Charlie, my dear!" He stood up straight and opened his arms wide, as his radio audience clapped and hollered, "You look positively radiant, I almost didn't recognize you. You will most certainly be the demon belle tonight, not even your mother could hold a candle to you."

Vaggie rolled her eyes at his corny compliment and hugged her blushing girlfriend as she joined them in the foyer. She frowned, having caught flicker in Alastor's eyes that made her uneasy. She just couldn't figure out what it was.

"Remember, call me if you need me." She kissed Charlie's cheek.

"I will Vaggie. I'll be ok. Like I said, I have Al with me." She smiled up at her male partner, "Shall we?" She took hold of his offered arm, "You don't need to wait for me, ok? I promise, I'll be back before you wake up in the morning." Alastor chuckled, having said something along those lines.

Vaggie watched as they walked down the hall, whispering to one another and giggling, already lost in each other's company. A deep sadness washed over her. Charlie looked over her shoulder and blew Vaggie a kiss. Vaggie tried to smile, but her lips trembled instead. 'I don't think she realizes it... but I'm losing her to him.' She wanted to be angry, to cry out and stop her from going, but she knew it'd be no use to look like a possessive and controlling fool. The moth only hoped she was reading the situation wrong and Charlie kept her promise that there was nothing between them, it was all just business.

She looked down as Razzle, the pink haired goat, nuzzled into her leg and whined, sensing her worry. She smiled and patted his head, "You're right, I shouldn't worry. Charlie's never done anything wrong for me to not trust her. I'm just being paranoid and reading too much into it and it's been a long time since she's made friends, even if everyone here is goofy as shit in their own way." She turned to Dazzle who stood behind them, "Who wants some donuts?" Both servants cried out in happiness and scrambled to the kitchen. She laughed and closed the door to the apartment. She felt a little better.

Charlie bounced on the plush seat of Alastor's Bentley, excitement consuming her. She knew this wasn't a date, it was a business meeting, but being alone with the Radio Demon outside of the hotel was something she didn't think would be possible. Add in them both being dressed up and going to a swanky club, she just couldn't help it.

She liked his company, regardless of how hot and bothered he made her at times. Even if he had ulterior motives, like not wanting to truly help sinners that came to their door step and wanting to see them fail, Alastor was still rather fun to be around. He was interested in many of the same things as her, enjoyed theater, and hot damn could he cook. He even offered to teach her a thing or two for her future Mister or Missus. She frowned. She never really thought about settling down. Sure, she was heir to the throne, but her father and mother showed no sign of slowing down or passing the crown to her. Why would they though? Her father thought too little of her and incapable of ruling over the damned souls.

Alastor laughed, "If I didn't know better, I'd say you're bursting at the seams, darling. Excited to go to one of the best dance clubs in town?" Swing music played in the background of his voice.

Charlie leaned her head on his shoulder, but was mindful of his ability to shift gears when needed. "To be honest, I think I'm more excited to be going somewhere with you. Nothing wrong with the hotel, but I don't know, it's like... exhilarating to know that we have this secret no one knows about." Her thighs involuntarily began to rub against each other, "Or maybe it's because after this, you and I... we... we could... you know?" She gingerly touched his leg, hoping he'd get the message. Her face was burning. She wasn't used to being this forward with anyone but Vaggie.

Alastor shifted and placed a hand on her bare knee, making her shiver, "Impatient still, I see. Fear not, my lovely, I promise the wait will be worth it, though it's a tad hard to resist when you're like this. I didn't think you'd be so direct once you opened up."

Charlie rubbed his inner leg, "Is... is that bad?" She wanted to touch him more intimately, but with him concentrating on the road, she didn't want to distract him too much either. Charlie was curious though; was he hung or was he a grower, not a shower? Even though he wore fitted pants, they weren't tight enough to gauge it. When was the last she was with a guy, anyway? Charlie couldn't remember. Her and Vaggie had toys they played with on occasion, but they didn't fulfill Charlie in the way she wanted. Could Alastor?

He slid his hand up her inner thigh to tickle the skin, the coolness of his leather glove soothing the heated flesh for a moment. "Not in the slightest, my dear. Different than what I'm used to, yes, but I do enjoy this far more. Who knows, maybe if you assert yourself more, it may be I who becomes your play thing. The predator becomes the prey, so to speak. I do like where this may lead to, your highness. Command me." She knew he was teasing, Alastor liked being in control. However, Alastor felt an uncharacteristic thump in chest at the thought. It wasn't often he got this excited.

He let out jovial laugh as he glanced at her from the corner of his eye. She looked like a sun burnt deer caught in head lights. Her face was an impossible shade of scarlet and if her eyes were any wider, they might just fall out of her head. She was definitely the most fun he had had since his untimely death or the day he received his 'stage name'. Her dainty hand gave his thigh a gentle squeeze as he placed both hands on top of the steering wheel to make a left turn at the light ahead of them.

He turned a corner and pulled up to the valets waiting outside of a three story building with "Birds of Paradise" in giant neon pink lights that reflected on the black vinyl of the awning. On each pillar of the archways that supported the front side of the building had a band poster. The one closest to the valet stand was bigger than the others.

On it was a short, but incredibly voluptuous grey skinned short blonde haired demoness in a short red flapper dress standing on a stage with a mic, her eyes closed and mouth open as if in middle of a song, both hands around herself, embracing her figure. In fancy gold calligraphy on the top of the poster said "Mimzy". So this was her?

Charlie stepped out of the car and took one of the valet's hand. She stared at the poster, and suddenly felt inadequate in many departments. The woman's bosoms strained inside her dress that seemed a size too small, and her curves could lose any man for days. Despite her huskiness, the picture exploded with unmatched confidence. What was she like in person?

Alastor handed his keys off to the other cowering valet attendant and looped his slender arm around Charlie's thin waist to pull her close to him. He guided them through the front door, passing the lined up guests as they waited their turn to enter the fine establishment. They whispered, glancing between Charlie and Alastor, some snickering, but most in awe. At him? At her? Both of them together? What was the disappointing Princess of Hell doing with the infamous Radio Demon? Who knew they knew each other? Only the sponsors he reached out knew of his involvement with the Hazbin Hotel and only few knew he had moved in.

Charlie leaned into her companion, self consciousness getting the best of her as she remembered why she didn't get out much nowadays. Everyone always stared, judging her and waiting for her to mess up again. Alastor rubbed his thumb over her hip, trying to sooth her and bring her out of her self doubting as he sensed her growing discomfort. She looked up at him with a small thankful smile, though his attention was with the bouncer as he used his free hand to lift his hat off his head slightly and gave a curt nod in greeting. The bouncer, a massive gorilla like demon with boar like tusks, nodded back and motioned with his hand for the doors to open.

The two large golden doors were opened up by a pair of gargoyle like rock demons. The doors rumbled, and Charlie realizes it was four or five inches of reinforced steel.

She squinted as the bright light of the lobby blinded her briefly, bouncing off the marble floor flecked with gold. They stepped onto a plush red carpet that led up to another golden doorway in between two grand staircases with red carpet also going up the steps. Through the other doorway she saw tables and people moving. Music, perhaps Jazz, floated in the air, but the chatter of the lobby warped the melody that Charlie couldn't tell what it was. That must have been the dance floor, she figured.

To her right way a massive bar where several dozen demons of all shapes and sizes sat at. Several bartenders and bar backs scuttled behind the mahogany colored countertop, mixing and pouring drinks for the crowd behind their sitting patrons. To the left was the rest rooms. She looked up and awed at the massive gold and crystal chandelier that illuminated the room along with the lamp lights along the wall. Large ceiling to floor tapestries lined the walls, depicting various demons in their iconic battles that brought them to fame. Above the over look of the second floor, a grand portrait of Mimzy in a turquoise and silver sequence dress and fur coat stared down at her guests with a small, welcoming smile. Her large black eyes with red irises glowed in the light of the chandelier.

The place was breath taking, and with everyone dressed between the late 1910s to the early 1940s, it was almost like stepping into a time capsule. She looked up at again Alastor and smiled wider, her fangs slightly hanging over her lips. He had been watching her expression the entire time since they entered. He returned the toothy smile, his eyes softening as he took in her expression of childlike wonder.

"Lovely place, isn't it?" He said.

Before she could speak, the duel heard an excited squeal. Alastor's ears redirected itself toward it. They turned to face the source, along with several other guests who wondered why a banshee was let in, and saw a tall pupilless demoness walking toward them, dressed in early 1900s fashion. Her tailored burgundy skirt with black lace accents swished around her ankles, and her white blouse had billowing sleeves that tapered at the wrist with a cuff fit her form just nicely. A large brimmed hat with burgundy and black feathers and a skull ornament flopped with every step she took. A large, sharp toothy smile stretched her face. She extended one hand out to her side while the other held a tall glass of wine.

"Alastor, you made it!"

Charlie couldn't help but hide a little behind Alastor. The Radio Demon let her go and as the woman drew near, he greeted her, "Rosie, dearest. I didn't know you'd be here tonight as well." He took her hand and kissed her knuckles then proceeded to kiss both cheeks.

She sipped her glass, "Mimzy insisted that I was. She said she has a new set she wishes to preform tonight, specially for our honored guest." Her attention turned to Charlie, who stepped away from Alastor's backside. "Good evening, your highness." Malice dripped from her mouth as she said 'highness'. "A pleasure to finally meet you in person. It's not everyday we lowly sinners get to interact with the royal family, especially the princess who likes to hide in her tower of..." she paused for a moment, choosing her words carefully as Alastor gave her a stern look, "...Dreams."

Alastor cleared his throat, "Allow me to introduce you ladies. Charlie, ma chère, this is my good friend Rosie, owner of the finest emporium in all of Hell. Many of my suits come from her shop if you ever want to pick up something stylish and she is a sponsor of the hotel. I'm afraid the two of you didn't get a chance to meet at the reception. Rosie, as you know, this is our esteemed Princess, Miss Charlotte Magne."

"I go by Charlie. It's... it's nice to meet you and thank you so much for your generosity. On behalf of Hazbin Hotel, we hope to have your continuous support." The princess stuck her hand out for a handshake. Rosie took it and curtsied.

"The pleasure is mine, my dear. What's the point of having so much money I couldn't possibly spend on my own when we're to live for all eternity rotting in this realm? I needed a new pass time anyway, so I look forward to hearing about what nonsen- excuse me, breakthrough you come across to deliver a sinner. That is quite an ambitious dream. Shall we head upstairs to the private bar? Mimzy is currently backstage and is due to hit the stage any moment. Charlotte... I mean, Charlie, dear, you're in for a treat."

She led the duo up the left side of the stairs and through a red door pass another gorilla like bouncer that opened up to a private balcony with several tables and chairs. To the right of the space was a mini version of the bar below and a lone toady demon cleaning a glass. He nodded his acknowledgment. Charlie looked to the left and saw a large blood red sofa with black wood detailing, a loveseat and two matching oversized chairs surrounding a glass coffee table. The sheet of glass was held up by a frame carved to look like several ravens taking flight from a bush. Red rubies were set for eyes. On either side of the balcony were velvety burgundy colored drapes with black tassels. The floor itself as well as the bar were stained black. The walls were lined with several oil paints of black birds and owls, all staring at what Charlie believed was her.

The trio sat at the table closest to the edge. Charlie was in awe again as she stared at the massive dance floor in front of the equally large wall to wall stage on the other end of the room. Several levels separated the musical instruments and Charlie wondered if big bands also preformed with how much room there was for additional set up aside from the instruments already on stage. She hadn't heard or seen anything yet, but she already knew she wanted to be back. She could see why Alastor liked the place. It was breathtaking and completely out of place in Hell, but in a good way.

Alastor waved to the bartender without looking at him. His eyes were focused on a pocket watch Charlie didn't know he had. Aside from his favorite coat that was tattered at the bottom, he was usually spic and span with a clean look so seeing an old beat up and tarnished copper watch in his hand was a little odd. She didn't think he was the sentimental type but the way he closed it and rubbed his finger over the top told her otherwise.

"What would you like to drink, dear? Jacque makes the best drinks, which is why he's Mimzy's private barkeep. Lucky for you, she shares him with us." Rosie said as she leaned back in her chair to the right of Alastor who sat between them.

"I... I don't really drink unless it's a really special occasion. Have to discourage sin after all." She giggled nervously. She stared into the void that were Rosie's eyes and couldn't help but feel like the woman was dissecting her.

Rosie chortled, "Is this not such an occasion? I know why you and our dearest Alastor are here. I believe Mimzy will say yes, regardless of the fight she may put up at first." The left corner of her mouth curled as she grinned.

"Oh? What do you mean?"

Rosie placed a hand over her mouth to prevent herself from laughing harder. She was a lady after all, "Hasn't he told you? Mimzy is positively furious with him for living with you! She may even hate you for now, sweetheart."

Charlie winced, "W-why?"

"She is head over heels madly in love with him and has tried for... I don't even remember, but for years to at least get him to consider her. Yet here you are, such a gem, out on the town with the infamous Radio Demon. He went to you, when she's pined and almost begged for years for him to be with her, even offered him a stake in her empire. That in itself sent her into a fit because Alastor doesn't make friends as easily as he does servants, yet he's your partner for a hotel that wishes to rehabilitate sinners in hopes of getting into heaven! In two months no less! Haha, I'm sorry dear, but it's laughable, especially considering who he is!"

Charlie felt her eyes water and her bottom lip tremble. She wanted the floor to eat her and take her away, but she wasn't sure why she felt so upset. The way Rosie spoke cut deep into her, made her feel inferior as she chased a hopeless dream. She wanted to speak up, but the words escaped her mind. Plus know that this Mimzy was in love with him made her uncomfortable and dare she say... protective of what was supposed to be hers? She was about to excuse herself when Alastor placed a hand gently on hers, which was balled up into a fist on her lap.

"Forgive Rosie, she can be rather blunt. Rosie, darling, Charlie is rather sensitive, especially about the hotel. Do be a dear and watch your tongue. I will not tolerate a single tear marring her pretty little face tonight." Despite his toothy smile, his voice was thick with venom, warning her to back down. The radio static in his voice flared, as if someone was quickly twisting the dial with no clear channel in mind. "Apologize."

Her smile waned, "Y-yes, my sincerest apologies. Twas rather rude of me, I suppose. I had too much to drink, mayhaps." She finished her wine glass just as Jacque the barkeep set a new glass down for her and a bottle of bourbon for Alastor.

"It-it's ok, Al. I... I should be used to it by now and I should learn to defend myself and the hotel better." She placed a hand over his and squeezed, giving him a small smile. "I have to grow tougher skin at some point." His eyes softened as his smile relaxed.

Behind her wine glass, Rosie stared between the two and cocked a brow, 'This is rich.' She thought as her smile returned, 'You never defend anyone. Not even your mother.'


I absolutely loved writing this chapter, but the next was the best. I'm not a dancer so describing whats to come took a lot of careful planning and research. I can't until next week! I may even drop yet another chapter early. Hehehe... I was overly excited about this that I had to share!

Don't forget to drop a line!