Summary: Charlie discovers she's got family in the human world and summons her down to Hell hoping to get some new support in her life. Her family isn't totally what Charlie expected. She is helpful in warning Charlie that, "Our Actions have Consequences". Plus, this new family member falls in love with the worst possible candidate- Alastor. At least Angel is profiting from everyone's rollercoaster experience.

Characters: OC, Alastor, Charlie, Angel Dust

Rated: M for gruesome content, language, adult themes

Crossover: HelluvaBoss in later chapters- cuz I wanted to

TRIGGER WARNING: Some topics in the story are mentioned in detail that may result in distress/ discomfort. Examples of these topics are suicide, catabolism, abuse, or possible rape/ sexual harassment type situations. Please read at your own discretion.

Author's note: I own Nothing. All respective owners reserve the right to their materials and content. Bear in mind there are some changes regarding the story that differentiate from the T.V. show/ original content. It's also slightly bizarre since I am still learning the personalities of each character and how to portray them. Feel free to check out some of my other stories. No overly rude comments tolerated. Enjoy.

A Deal with No Strings

Chapter One: We are Family! Welcome to Hell!

It was a hot day in November. The nights would be freezing but the days were always burning. According to the news broadcast, this would come to an end when a storm expecting to bring at least a full foot of snow would pass through next week. Aby tiredly walked on the sidewalk as she headed towards the school she currently attended in New Mexico. Noticing some of the remaining Halloween decorations that were displayed in the yards of a couple neighborhood houses. She gave an approving smile as she continued on. Halloween was her favorite. Some of the rowdier students heading the same way were zooming past her. Between yelling profanities, girls' skirts blowing up behind them, and the boys wresting each other as they ran, Aby finally caved. Letting out a large sigh from deep in her body. Using one hand to rub at the opposite shoulder tiredly. She was soooo over this. This- this-…

Then it happened.

She noticed it immediately. Time had suddenly frozen around her. No sound. No movement. Nothing but silence existed for this moment of time-space. She stopped walking, bringing her heels together with the 'clack' of her heels, her feet pointed outward as she stood holding her bag in both hands behind her back. She waited. Looking from side to side, without moving her head. Scanning for a specific figure or sign to let her know of what had happened. She thought she knew who had done such a thing. Only one of her siblings had this power. But- nothing happened. Just when her lips parted to call out, a loud ripping sound erupted from behind her. The sound roared loud as a bright light engulfed the scenery in back of her. It reached towards her, overwhelming her surroundings in its grasp. Just before her vision was blinded completely, an unknown force started pulling on her. She was able to fight it as first, pulling against it until she could get some distance. As if it was sentient, its pull became harsher.

Aby was trying even harder to break free until she slipped on a pebble on the ground. Having lost her footing, Aby fell to the ground losing a lot of leverage. In desperation, she clawed at the ground beneath her body. She tried to grab anything she could to keep from being pulled. Even after her nails were worn down to the skin of her fingers, she tried. Not realizing that had it been anyone else, their nails would have been torn off from the pressure. The final pull was all it took to unhook her from her grip entirely. Aby was sent flying through the air as she was swallowed in a portal of spiraling light colored in red, white, and black. The last thing she remembered was a burning sting filling her nose pouring down her throat and ending in her chest. She saw nothing. Her fingers tingled as the sensation creeped up her arms and through her legs. When her body could no longer handle to inability to breath, she passed out. The last thing she heard was her own last gasp for air.

#*#*#

"Ooooooooh. Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh!" A high-pitched chipper voice started chanting. The sound of a light body jumping up and down on a solid stone floor could be made out alongside the speech.

"Hun? Are you sure about this?" Another feminine voice questioned. This one was deeper in tone and had some kind of accent to it.

"It's her! It's her! It's really her! How exciting it this?!" The owner of the hyperactive voice didn't seem to hear the other at all.

For one reason or another, Aby forced herself to start to awaken even though she had been drained of all her energy. The back of her mind kept telling her to play dead a little longer. But the sense she needed to find out what had happened got her ambition going. If curiosity killed the cat- what would it do to someone who couldn't truly die? When she could feel her body gain back its full perception, she was able to feel again. First, she felt the cool temperature of the stone floor. It stood out against her hot body. That brought her attention to the drumming in her ears, as she felt her heart beating steadily. Next, she could tell the position her body currently held. She was lying flat on her back, a pillow under her head.

At least they were concerned for the possibility of a concussion, Aby pointed out to herself. That or they're just stupid. She argued against the idea.

Coming to the realization that she was pissed. Funny how she actually had to think about it this go around. That was certainly rare. If what they are saying is to be any type of hint, then they brought me here on purpose. Just what the fuck do they want with me anyway?

"So…this is- her?" The other voice asked in a suspicious and underwhelmed tone.

"Come ooooon Vaggie," the hyper one shuffle across the floor closer to Aby as a bumping sound could be heard while she passed the other one in the room. This told Aby she had playfully pushed or hit her. The voice continued with, "Be nice to her. She's family."

The hell I am?! Aby cried in her mind. She wanted to get up, but she didn't have the strength. Currently, she didn't even have the strength to open her eyes. Who is this bitch?

"Are you sure this is her? She looks so- ya, know-."br /

"Huuuuuumaaaaaaaan?" The hyper one seemed more confused than impressed. How she was able to do that while maintaining that damn in-your-face positive attitude was anyone's guess.

"Well- yeah."

"Maybe, that's- just- a thing?"

Oh God, why? Aby didn't know she was so mortified but there it was.

"Well, what now?" The other one was now just completely monotone.

"I'm- not…sure." The hyper one seemed to finally get what was going on.

Fucking amateur. If she could, Aby would have rolled her eyes. Instead, a single thought entered her mind. This is gonna be a long day. Aby felt her index finger twitch as she continued to gain back her strength.

*#*

It wasn't long before Aby lost track of time. Figuring it had been a whole two hours before she was able to bring herself to try to move. Which meant two hours of listening to the perky up-tone voice trying to sing for her to "make her feel better". Aby didn't recognize the song, but was told it was a lullaby. Drifting in and out of conciseness. The hyper girl would eventually leave to go eat a meal with the other girl from before. With not much information to go off of, Aby did gain the insight that she was somehow important to this cheerleader pep bitch. While she was gone, Aby gained enough strength to move her head from side to side. But, had no luck getting her eyes to open. Her body felt so stiff. Heavy. It was frustrating. After that, it was back to the waiting game. Then another nap.

By the time Aby could finally open her eyes, her stamina had returned to full. She sat up off the floor, looking around to get a better feel of her location. It appeared to be some kind of wine cellar, but the scent of the room didn't fit with that conclusion. Not that she could see much around her. It was almost pitch black. She was able to make out a small frame of light that outlined a door above her head. Recalling all the times the dork left. A tapping of her heels against stone getting high and higher. Stairs. It had to be stairs. Aby wasted no time making her way to it and trying to open it. Her body not listening to her the way she wanted it to. Damning the other two for not rotting her as she slept. Feeling the areas where sores would have formed if not for her body's durability. Somehow, getting up to the door. Now came the hard part. Needless to say she was surprised when she was able to turn the knob with no issues. When she saw that it wasn't locked, Aby charged right through the opening it left once it had swung wide open. Not stopping until she had found a decent place of cover. Quick to get away from the door so she couldn't get pushed back down or unable to defend against an attack.

She waited for a moment before coming out from her hiding place. A spot between some random pillars and a drape hanging off the wall. Aby searched around the strange place as she took mental notes of where she was. Relying on her photographic memory if things came down to a chase sequence. That was when her expression dropped.

It was a large building that had detailed wallpaper, old-styled furniture, and complimentary rugs. The door led her into a long, wide hall that had only two ways to go. One led to an elevator that gave her serious horror flick vibes. The other seemed to lead to a much larger room. She decided to go that way. As she walked, she continued to be observant of what the location had to offer. The ceiling was so high, she couldn't touch it even if she wanted to. Cobwebs decorated each corner of the room. Plus, there was such dim lighting, the shadows could practically breath. Soon enough, she made it to the main room. It was a lobby with a fireplace on one end. Aby felt her face twitch as her other senses caught up on her all at once. The first thing, was the scent of the place. It smelled of something stale and potpourri.

"When will people learn that that shit doesn't make things better," she asked aloud to no one in annoyance.

She knew she was alone; she could sense it. Even more so now that she was moving about. In the meantime, she looked everywhere. Just to be sure there was no cameras or auditory bugs. What she was looking for aside from that, was beyond her. She just had a feeling swelling inside her she didn't recognize.

Eventually deciding that she wasn't in a home of any kind. No one could live in a place like this and feel cozy. It was too dank. No sign of love to be found anywhere. It was a waste. It had potential but something was missing- something vital. And Aby being stuck thinking about it was not how she had planned to start her day. This day was just pissing her off more and more. Finally, she had to do something to get this elephant in the room tanked!

"I don't know a fucking thing about what's going on! And I reallllllly hate not knowing shiiiiiit!" Aby clenched her fists, screaming at nothing in particular.

Mainly, she just needed to get the frustration out of her system. She took a deep breath, re-examining the place. The ache in her body slowly, but surely subsiding.

The next thing that stood out to her was the colors. Reds, pinks, and black. The way everything blended or corresponded with the shadows, made her feel like she was in a dark room. When the light shifted along the walls from outside, it made her feel like she was in a dark room floating in a fishbowl. The lighting from outside didn't help things much, making her need even more clarification. Suspicious of the way it oozed from every direction, she made her way to a window. Looking around the velvet curtain, she saw the world beyond the walls was blessed with the same colors.

Out on the street she saw multiple monster-like creatures of various feature, heights, and colors. Some were tall and lengthy, some were fanged, hairy or scaly; some even carried weapons freely out in the open. She couldn't recall a time she saw such beings so clearly. Even so, they did ring a bell with her. She scanned the view obsessively as she witnessed the world in which they dwelled. Along the sidewalks, were multiple corpses, ripped apart, blood bathed with such terror painted on some of their faces; those that still had faces anyway. Buildings had large amounts of damage to them, shattered glass laid sprawled out like glitter against the streets. Destruction had made friends with this place she found herself in. As if to taunt her, she saw the living creatures rip apart the dead even more, some took the meat, some took the furs, stealing things from them before just continuing on their way. Meanwhile, onlookers just went about their business not batting an eye unless they wanted to take what one of the others had. Then it became a simple matter of fight, steal, kill.

"Brutal", was all she said as she wanted something else to focus on.

Being in the human world has defiantly softened me. She told herself. Mentally stabbing herself for the weakness. I'm better than this, she scolded over and over. The words were not her own, yet she used them anyway.

It was evident that this was just another way of life. It wasn't like she didn't know it excised. Hell, she lived it when she was in a certain place at a certain time or another. What made Aby concerned was that she had no clue what could have caused so much carnage. At last, her attention turned to the sky. A bad habit she had built in her youth. But, a helpful one- on more than one occasion- it turned out. The sky of the world held a massive pentagram. In its embrace was a blood red sun presenting the same symbol. Aby squinted hard at it. She had a feeling she knew where she was but didn't entertain the thought long enough to say it. It wasn't possible. No, no, no, no, no. She couldn't be where she thought she was. It was forbidden. Not by her choice- but still.

She focused outside for a long while pushing question after question from her mind. She brought her visual focus back into the lobby as she started away from the window. Mindlessly glancing at the sill of the window. From the corner of her eye, she noticed a similar break in the light from the larger windows on the far side of the walkway. Turning to face it, was all it took to know her initial instinct was right. A large double door. It was made of solid wood, stained with red over its natural brown.

She contemplated leaving but felt she didn't have enough information to last long in this new place. Instead she pulled out her phone from her bra. Normally she kept it in her skirt pocket but that morning she had been unable to move her hands too far away from her shoulder level as she helped an old lady carrying some stuff to her car earlier that morning. Turned out to work in her favor since that portal earlier had stripped her pockets of all her shit. She moved towards the fireplace across the room. She took a minute to appreciate the architecture, admiring the art of the style. It was original and cute. While maintaining some remnants of the world above. After feeling at her pockets to double check their containment, she sighed as she took a seat on the couch next to the giant deliberate hole in the wall. Not stopping to care that it currently sat on its side, leaning against the longest wall of the corner it sat in. The angle held her in a leaned back position with her legs bent at the knees, elevated in line with her chest. She was perfectly comfortable, snuggling into the cushions.

"House keys are overrated anyway." She pouted as she remembered the incident.

She shifted her finger to unlock the screen, stopping long enough to look at the photo of the brainy gremlin dressed as Frank Sinatra from the sequel before she continued. The character never failed to bring a wide smile to her face. Under the circumstances, it even helped to relieve her anxiety. Since the phone allowed her to have two picture screen settings, the home screen was blessed with a picture of her latest anime boy crush. She felt the heat rush to her cheeks as she stared at the aged-up red haired king. She always went over all the qualities of the boy when she saw him. Always replaying the story of the show to analyze the bits and pieces she was so fascinated by. This time being no different.

The story seemed simple enough when explained, but had such great speed and foreshadowing. A secretly corrupt wealthy man who gained support through being on the front lines as a low ranked soldier wanted revenge for his weakness. The youngest in line for the throne, he assassinated his sibling and friends to build a story of sympathy for himself. It didn't help it was a village in the middle of a desert. The isolation only made those who never left more susceptible to the propaganda and rumors that he was the best option for the people to thrive. Aby felt disappointed she was going to miss the latest episode. She then brought herself back into reality with a shake of her head. Knowing there was something wrong with her deep down inside, she smiled happily at the character photo anyway.

The mystery, the thrill, even the charming ways he manipulated each character based on their personality; it all intrigued her to no end. Only God knows where it emanated from; or why. Once the device was unlocked again after timing out, she went straight to the wifi setup. Aby mainly did so as a joke, not expecting it to go anywhere. So, when the screen showed a two wifi options she laughed out so loud she felt it morphing into a weird animalistic noise. One of the options was an open line the other was locked. She knew well enough to select the locked option.

The screen loaded the password entry pad, a vertical line blinking in the fill-in box. She thought for a moment, not certain how many chances she would have. She slumped further into the couch, smiling to herself as she took the time to think. She went carefully through idea to idea before deciding on the one she knew must have been the choice. Her fingers moved at a decent pace, not that she could compete with the Asian girls on the viral videos who typed so fast with one hand while not looking at the phone, you could barely see their fingers. Not even close. One letter at a time, she typed the phrase.

F-U-C-K_Y-O-U_D-A-D_8.

Once she was satisfied with the entry, she nodded at her work before pressing the enter button. It took a couple seconds to load, but eventually, a delightful 'PASSWORD ACCEPTED' graced her screen. The logon automatically opened the internet app on her phone where a terms and conditions screen popped up with the rules being listed:

1: You're in Hell

2: Welcome to Hell

3: If you are my wife…Get off! You have your own shit to do

4: If you are my daughter…You and I will have words later young lady

5: If you are neither my wife nor my daughter, congrats this means one thing…

6: We are family!

7: No sending spam or unwanted advertisements. This may be Hell but there are limits.

Aby smiled as she was about to click the 'AGREE' button. Just then, she saw another note typed below it. It was in much smaller typing, as she read it, she felt her eyes widen at the shock.

"Welcome Home, Dear".

Aby frowned at the note, pressing the agreement just to move on. Seeing a loading icon, Aby took a moment to close her eyes. She hadn't expected that. She also knew it wasn't meant for her. Of course, knowing that, she still found it difficult to fight the feeling of disappointment. Cursing herself again. When had she become so weak? Or had she always been this way? The screen refreshed to bring her to what Aby could only assume was Hell's version of an internet homepage. The thing that caught her attention above all other clips and links was a video. It had begun playing without sound as Aby saw a headline over it stating Station 666: Morning Report, the two figures in the video giving a certain impression.

She saw a very smiley face with blonde hair and long claws. Aby's face became squished on itself as she made one of her faces that was a combination of disappointed and disgusted. You know, for those moments words just don't make it strong enough. The woman's partner was a short male with darker blonde hair and a gas mask on his face. Aby brought the phone closer to her face. Squinting at her screen as she did so.

Why does he look so familiar? She thought to herself. Only dwelling on it for a second. Resolving the feeling of Déjà vu by shrugging it off with a quick arch of her right eyebrow.

The video seemed to be a news report. Aby figured it would be a great way to get answers as she clicked on the clip, flipping her phone to the side to activate the full screen…thing. Go figure as soon as she "entered the chat", it ends.

The reporter stating cheerfully, "Coming up next: We have an exclusive interview with the daughter of Hell's own head honcho. Who's here to discuss her new passion project. All that and more, after the break." She hissed the last bit through clenched teeth, her eyes radiating a large series of curses and emotions that, Aby reasoned, had no doubt played a part in her sentence.

The word was also emphasized with the reporter breaking her mug followed by slamming her fist on the table addressing her co-star. "Suck it up you little b-…" The feed cut off just before it could be finished.

"Comedic effect!" Aby exclaimed as she followed through with the inside joke, she had with a friend back in the human world long ago. She giggled as she enjoyed the comedy routine with herself.

The commercial ended just as she was refocusing on the screen of her phone. The reporter seemed even more pissed than when it had cut out. She had demanded that the guest give them the info for her "passion project" in such a vulgar, condescending, tone, she may as well have been saying 'Get the fuck out' instead. At least that would have been friendlier. The guest, who Aby could assume safely was the daughter of said "head honcho", began speaking.

She had a much sweeter voice. Aby listened as she talked about being born in Hell, caring for her people, and… hating violence? Aby felt her face becoming sore from how stiff it was from being stuck in an expression of confusion and uncertainty. Once the girl finished her big speech about how she had an idea to open a hotel to allow demons to work towards redemption. The response was as good as to be expected since, well- it was Hell. It was here, the sweet girl spoke again. She snapped her fingers as a spotlight shinned down on her.

Oh no. Aby tilted her head to the side as she arched a brow complimented by a nervous side smirk; worry was flushed with the fact her instincts were correct- again.

The performer began to sing. The song was fast, energetic, passionate and kinda too flashy in the wrong ways- at least, for Aby's taste. But hey, there was a reason she didn't get along with anyone in her school in the present time. Thespian or otherwise. After all, she rarely listened to songs older than the 60s. Her fashion style was a bit out of the times too. Making her stand out even more. Shifting her thoughts back to the judging of the show, she still found herself being somewhat amused. Some points were more enjoyable than others as she watched the performance. It was at this point, she picked up on the voice the girl owned. It was the same as before, wasn't it? She let the thought escape her as she smiled at the clear enjoyment the demon on the screen was having.

Must be the only thing that lets her be free in this prison. The thought left a familiar ping in Aby's heart. Resulting in her needing to take a deep breath to focus.

She pushed it down just as the other one was wrapping up. Once she had struck her final pose, she waited for the audience's response. It didn't end well. In fact, it ended worse than the last round. The anchor reporter had been a bitch before, but now, she was being just a flat out-. Aby wanted to shut down the phone before she could see what happened. She wanted to find this place and deal with it herself. Just then, the other snapped back about having a success story. Aby was glued to her phone now. Could this plan have truly been unveiling results? Positive ones, no less? Right when things were looking up, the story backfired. Turns out a turf war was going on in Hell. Aby nodded solemnly at the reveal. She had heard about such a thing long ago, which explained the merciless, boundless destruction outside earlier. Aby had been so young, she thought it was simply an exaggeration. But, life has taught her better. Whether she liked it or not.

Guess not. One side of her brain bluntly expressed. Too bad. The other half chimed in.

Things only went from bad to worse once the live feed showed the so-called "patriot" aiding in the fight. Aby watched silently. Studying his movements. He had skill. Unfortunately, the only part she heard was that he was a porn star. Which apparently was ammo for the blonde hussy with the attitude, who wasted no time to use it. She talked more shit before encouraging the others in the studio to laugh at the little dork with her. Aby meant that in an endearing. Waiting. Waiting. And waiting still. At last, her efforts were rewarded once an all-out brawl went underway after the dorky presenter called the anchor a "bitch". Aby smiled. Clearly, she wasn't completely innocent, but she wasn't the type to use words lightly either. How unpredictable. Not long into the squabble, the signal from the studio was lost. Aby let her phone lock as she got up from her spot on the couch.

She began pacing around the room, biting her finger as she considered her options. She could leave. She could stay. She could fight. She could run. Maybe fulfill other opportunities she hadn't thought of yet. Eventually, she came close to a pathetic fridge. On it was a note tapped to the door. Aby saw it was handwritten, so took it upon herself to check it out. She went down the letter, reading the note out loud.

"Hello! My name is Charlie.

If you're reading this, it means you came up- which is great.

I am going out for a minute to run a quick errand. Please make yourself at home, I shouldn't be gone long. I can't wait to meet you!

Love,

Your family

P.S. I am so excited I finally get to say it out loud! You have no idea how long I've waited to meet you!"

Aby was starting to feel rusty. How did she miss this stupid thing? What would have happened if she left? She crumpled up the paper, stuffing it in her pocket afterwards. She had burned through too much energy. She would need to rest soon. Already on the verge of getting trapped in her own mind again when she heard the front door unlock. That's when she noticed the lighting in the room had grown darker. More eerie.

Glancing back quickly before making a run for a space behind some crates near a wall. She ducked, practically diving head first, behind them, hoping to catch whoever it was off guard should they prove to be a threat. She could tell from the shadows sliding along the floor that there were three of them. Staying in place, waiting. A series of noises alerted her to their position in the room. Even allowing her to know what they were doing based on the types of sounds the strangers made. Two were sitting, one had gone to the fridge.

The scavenger spoke up, "Probably a good idea to get some actual food in here. You know, to feed all the wayward souls you got in here."

Aby peeked out to see the demon that had just spoken with a guilty look on his face, before he turned and walked away. Aby couldn't see the other one being addressed since the demon sat close to the crates Aby used for cover. But Aby was confident she knew who it was; wanting to be sure before making a move. She was tempted to come out, but the unknown pink figure moved away. A door was used followed by another open and close combo a couple minutes after. A knock came from the same direction not long after that. Forced to remain where she was, Aby heard a number of conversations ensue. The only thing catching her interest to listen in was the phrase, "Radio Demon". Aby felt her stomach flip. Her heart pounded fast. Her palms became sweaty. Her mouth went dry. A stinging sensation burned at her eyes. And. She. Had. No. Clue. Why.

Not this shit again, was all she could manage to think.

Not long after, yet another character entered the room. Aby listened harder than before. This time, really trying to get more Intel. His voice was deep but chipper with a charming politeness. It also sounded like he was speaking through an old vacuum tube microphone. Aby felt her head tilt at this. The voice made her calm. She didn't pay much attention to what he was saying, though. Defeating the purpose of the previous motivation. Instead, concentrating only on the way it would leave him, drifting along the air. It reminded her of flower petals caught in the wind in spring. The lingering fall. The scents mixing to create something new; something pleasant. The all-around scene of beauty and freedom it brought to those who admired nature's smallest moments of change. She was dazed as she shut her eyes, allowing her senses to absorb the feeling. Basking in it until she could hear the same two voices from down below in the cellar earlier.

The more aggressive one had said something like, "He's a dealmaker…whatever you do…DO NOT make a deal with him."

The words echoed in Aby's mind. They took shape. It was the shadow of a man. Aby could only make out the solid lines that made up the outline of the body. Doing all she could to look past the main details and find something- anything- that was more unique to that form alone. She would always see this silhouette when she dreamed. Until now, she had never put a voice with it. The one she heard now seemed to be a nice fit. Like the clothes a little girl would pick out for her favorite doll. Clearly made to be replaceable but without a reason, the child would just pretend no other clothes existed.

Aby concentrated hard. She knew, somewhere, there was a face behind the fog of the shadow. She wanted to touch it. To see it. She focused harder, harder, until her head began to ache. The intensity making her head spin. Making her dizzy. When she opened her eyes, she discovered she had tears built up in them. This kind of thing happened before, frequently, but this was the first time she had been so close to closure.

It's not fair, She thought. It's not fair that I can't find the truth. After all this time...

Her distraction had caused her to forget about where she was. By the time she rechecked the status of the room, the large front door had opened and shut once more. Multiple figures made their way in.

When had the other two arrived? She scolded her incompetence. Truly wanting to throw something across the room by this point.

Then it happened. The lapse in judgment that caused her demise. Being forced to witness the hyper dork make her way down the hall, only to come rushing back a couple seconds later yelling.

"She's gone! Vaggie! She's gone", she shrieked as she ran straight to the one who had been with her since the start of Aby's trip.

"Wait- What do you mean gone?" She was panicked. More so because of the other's anxieties being shown so plainly on her face.

"We have to find her! She's never been down here before! I mean- I don't think she has." Just like before, the paler one seemed too lost in her own little world to listen to what was being told to her.

"You mean you don't know?" The gray skinned one lifted her hands. Seeming to speak more with them than her emotions.

"W-well I- no," she struggled. It was getting louder as multiple voices started talking all at once. Three of them demanding to know what the other two were talking about as the dork started to get more distressed. Obviously suffocated by the situation. A bell dinged in the back of Aby's mind. That's all it took for her to take her cue.

Standing up from her space she called out, "Hey!"

All faces looked to her. The view gave Aby a small delight since the synchronization looked partially cartoonish. She gave a friendly smiled as a gesture of good faith as well as a reward for amusing her. The demons in the room were later identified as Charlie, Vaggie, Angel Dust, Husker, Niffty, and Alastor. When Aby caught their gazes she took the image to memory as she gathered her first impressions.

From the left, Husker was walking back to his bar, his back hunched over as he gave a quick glance at Aby before taking a swig of his drink. Trying to make it seem he wasn't looking, when in fact, he was staring just as intensely as the rest of the group. Nifty was the next one she noticed. A cute outfit wearing demon who was short but very fast. She was bouncing her body up and down by bending her knees as she looked at Aby before zooming all across the room, a trail of clean following her blur. Angel Dust was standing with his top set of arms crossed under his furry bust, his second set on his hips which cocked to one side. He looked Aby up and down, arching an eyebrow with a mischievous smirk plastered on his face. Next was Charlie with her hands squeezed in on themselves as she shook them in front of her torso. She had the most thrilled look on her face. Aby feeling foolish forever thinking this bat-shit insane bimbo was 'this' close to a panic attack. Meanwhile, Vaggie was next to her standing in an attack ready stance, holding a long black spear. Her face wasn't too inviting but Aby was willing to bet she was more bark than bite. Even if she wasn't, Aby knew he could take her. Not bothering to look at her too long as something else stood out more.

In between Charlie and Vaggie, in the far back on the group, she could make out movement. She looked to the area for investigative purposes only to be pleasantly surprised. The man stood tall, his arms secure behind his back. In them, he held a vintage microphone on a staff. Instantly, Aby was captivated as she took in his whole image. Red overtaking almost all of her vision. Her face was hot as her smile became a sweet, soft smile. Without thinking, she stepped over to the smaller fraction of the group. Aby wanted to talk to the mysterious man in red. She wanted to bathe in the color. To be covered in it forever. For no reason at all. Except to be. However, when she made it within range, Charlie threw her own arms around her, jumping up and down repeatedly with Aby trapped in her embrace. Aby unable to refuse, made an attempt to give the Hell princess comfort.

"I'm so glad you're still here! I still can't belieeeeve it!" She pulled away, clinging to Aby's shoulders. Taking the other's hands in her own.

Aby looked at her intently for a moment. She had blonde hair, dark makeup, yellow eyes all brought together with an over enthusiastic smile spreading from ear to ear. Introductions from the girl came with her hugging Aby in a vise-grip hold, again. Aby vaguely remembered the way it went since she had never fully taken her eyes off the well dressed, red clad Radio Demon. Secretly hoping she could talk to him soon. The inability of doing so causing a pain in her chest that was making it complicated to breathe. Oh, how she wished to approach him. A wish which was never answered as Charlie later dragged Aby upstairs to her room. Aby was then led to the balcony that looked over the city as Charlie was greeted by two smaller demons with hooves, tails and horns. Dressed to the nines in little half-body tuxes.

"Razzle. Dazzle. Get her whatever she wants," Charlie spoke as she leaned against the ridge. Looking at Aby expectantly.

Aby took the hint, "Something to drink, please. Preferably sweet."

The two disappeared from sight bringing Aby and Charlie to turn to each other for conversation once more. Something neither initiated immediately. Instead, Charlie patted her hand on the stone railing to signal Aby to come next to her. Aby starred from her place in the doorway. Eyeing the area with nothing specific in mind. Reluctantly, Aby did as requested of her. The two took the time to stare at each other. Each studying the other. Charlie finally letting her face fall enough to look normal as she instead smiled softly.

Aby bit her bottom lip gently. She wanted to get to the point fast, but it was obvious she was dealing with someone who was childishly naïve. The sparkle in the blondes eyes leaving a certain type of aura. Sicken-ly so. Aby needed now more than ever to have tact- not her strong suit. Just when she started thinking that maybe she should have ordered the alcohol, Charlie took over.

"You are so- well- I mean-…," Charlie kept stumbling over her words as her brain rushed too quickly for her mouth. Aby waited for her, not wanting to make her nervous. The dork took a deep breath then proceeded to start over.

"What I mean to say is…I'm just so grateful you're here. Listen you don't know me, but my dad is-."

"Lucifer." Aby finished it for her.

"Great! So, you already know that-?"

"You're my niece- yes."

"Cool beans!" Charlie squeezed her eyes tight, jumping up and down eagerly.

Aby felt her eye physically twitch. She hated modern slang. Recalling the nonstop use of the word in all her classes from everyone in the "in" crowd and from some teachers with no self-respect or boundaries to speak of. God she was too old for this shit. Strongly believing that while some products of modernity were fine to get behind, others just seemed unnecessary. She shook her head as Charlie giggled. Once she was done, she talked again.

"This is gonna be great. You are gonna love it here." Charlie said it with such a lighthearted tone, Aby almost forgot this was the same girl

"Yeah…about that- Why am I here?" Charlie froze.

"Ha ha, oh yeah. Well, um, the thing is-. I…need… your help." She reached up to grab her arm, rubbing it as she became stiff. Aby, once again, stood by.

"I want to run this hotel. A h-hotel that r-rehabilitates sinners." Charlie gave a wide, awkward smile as she pressed her two index fingers together.

"I knew that already", Aby stated in attempt to ease Charlie's mind. Continuing with the explanation, "I watched the news while you were gone."

Charlie dropped her jaw as she looked Aby head to toe without moving her head. Embarrassed no doubt by the previous farce. Having regained her composure, along with her confidence, Charlie stood proud. Since Aby was feeling herself falling more and more into a lagged state, she decided to take the lead. Trying her damnedest to stay present.

"Look, start from the beginning. Why do you need my help? How did you bring me here? And since when can demons rehabilitate? The last one I really wanna know in detail. That has got to be the best story ever."

Again, Charlie was fidgeting with her fingers. Her face had shown guilt as she carefully thought about how to answer. Aby wasn't sure how long she could keep up this long show of nothing being wrong. Her hand had begun shaking. Just then, Razzle and Dazzle came back near the girls with a powerful woosh of wind as they ran almost soundlessly across the floor. Though still visible when compared to Nifty. They each held up a separate silver server's tray with a single drink on it.

Aby picked up the steaming ceramic mug filled with hot chocolate topped with marshmallow and whipped cream. Aby examined it briefly, not certain it would be the same as what she was used to in the world above. She chugged it anyway since she didn't have the luxury of being picky. As if they could read her mind, the two small companions brought a chair to the balcony, placing it behind Aby as they held it steady until she was comfortably seated.

Charlie waved them away with a giggle and mouthed 'thank you' before she addressed Aby, "Well to start I brought you using a spell. It was from a very old book, and it involved many harsh and rare ingredients. It was also written in an unusual language that took me and Vaggie months to translate. It was super hard, but totally worth it!"

She clasped her hands together before she subconsciously paced along the railing, her own drink left forgotten. Aby let her be as she listened, feeling Charlie was more focused now.

"As for why I need your help- that's…somehow…more complicated than the spell. You see, my dad and I don't see eye to eye on a lot of things. He has a certain- shall we say- 'opinion' about me." Charlie used her fingers to make air quotes, her face scrunching in a nervous manner. It was all Aby needed to know. After all, people change... Not!

"Yeah, well anyway, my mom is always gone too. They just have so much work. I guess running Hell has never been an easy job", Charlie ended her pacing just a couple feet away from Aby's reach, leaning on her elbows against the stone.

"I just thought if I could have one family member here with me. T-then maybe I could know a little more about who I am. What I'm meant to do to make my dream come true. My parents don't get it, but according to my dad's old journals, you were always special. You were so kind, compassionate, and understanding. The way he wrote about you…I felt like I really knew you." Charlie's gaze shifted to the distant city around. She looked sad even though she still had that thin, small smile plastered to her face.

"I'm not that girl anymore." Aby said it so suddenly, it even shocked her when it was made audible. Charlie turned her head, wide eyed.

"What do you mean? Of course, you are. Dad wrote that-."

"Whatever he wrote was from long, loooooong ago. I can't help you. Besides if you can rehabilitate demons, you don't need me."

Charlie burned the image of the girl in front of her into her memory. Taking the time to meticulously chart everything she saw. The way her air-dried hair curled naturally as it cascaded down her back and in front of her shoulders. Falling, well past her breasts. How she leaned into the support of the chair, the mug leisurely rested in her lap held with both hands. Her hands were long but thin. They looked so soft. Charlie could make out some callouses on her palms and fingers when she had held them earlier. Her nails were long but well kept. She wore almost no makeup except for her red lipstick. It made Charlie curious to see what she would look like al doled out. The next thing the royal too in was Aby's eyes. They were closed loosely. Her lashes fluttering when she tried to open them, just to close them right away. Her eyebrows were shaped to fit her face well. Especially taking into account her small forehead. Her nose pointed out exactly the same way as Charlie's. Charlie smiled. As she knew she had her father's nose. The princess took a deep breath. Preparing herself mentally. She watched Aby as the next bit left her mouth.

"What happened to you?" The question had been an earnest one.

"Didn't your dad ever write about it?" Aby asked it in a way that was neither sarcastic nor sincere. She just- asked.

"He just wrote how you never stopped visiting him. Until one day he told you never to come back."

Aby opened her eyes, to look into Charlie's. She turned her head away, resting it once more against the chair's back. She contemplated. She almost remembered that. But, at the same time, she had almost forgotten it too. It was one of those times, where the memory wasn't there- but the emotions were. With her feelings conflicting with themselves, Aby changed the subject.

"That's a story for another day- maybe. Now I demand you tell me about this rehabilitation thing. In the meantime, prepare another portal to send me back. I think I've stayed long enough, thank you." She clenched the mug as she gave the order, her voice stern.

Charlie had been a bit taken back by this behavior. Still, she shook it off since it wasn't nearly as rude as what Hell had to offer. Also feeling it was to be expected of someone who had been at a higher rank all her life. This fact encouraged Charlie to stop beating around the bush.

"About that-", Charlie pointed upwards in a 'manner of speaking' motion. Confessing, "I don't actually have a successful track record. That's why I was hoping you could tell me more about what you know. I also need your help in the magic department since I also don't know how to send you back. I was actually kinda hoping I wouldn't have to since- you know, we're family?" Aby sat; stunned. There was no way she was hearing any of this correctly.

So that's what the reporter bitch had meant!

"What the fuck does that mean?" Aby pushed herself forward. Glaring at her niece.

Charlie didn't answer.

"Charlie. Please, Pleeeease tell me you didn't drag me all the way down here just to witness you struggle and fall flat on your ass."

Still no answer.

"I knew it! I knew it was too good to be true!" Aby leaped up from the chair. The force pushing it backwards, toppling it over. Charlie moved her hands in front of her defensively.

"You mean to tell me that you summoned me all the way to very deepest layer of Hell! Without my permission no less! Just for the inane, self-proclaimed, dunce conclusion that you would go through with this- this- this blasphemy!?" Charlie was on the verge of tears as Aby raised her voice. Seeing the tears, Aby backed off.

Reaching to rub her temple as she calmed herself. The emotions within her were still raging, but her sympathy was getting the better of her. She continued to rub at her face, stretching it a she pulled it down. Once she was satisfied with her new composure, she faced Charlie as she brought her hands together in a praying- like manner. Charlie said nothing. Aby confronted the issue before she permeated her appearance with the younger of the two.

"Look- I'm sorry. I shouldn't have lost my temper. It's just this is one of the most outrageous things that's ever happened to me. And that's saying something. I mean, all things considered." Aby offered her hands to Charlie not certain what it was she was trying to do. Charlie just exchanged looks from the hands to her aunt then back again.

Aby retracted them before she said, "I can understand your need for some kind of family stability. I can even forgive your haste in bringing me here without first considering the pros and cons." She looked at the dork, her face was less frightened and more that of a scolded child.

"But it doesn't excuse this advertisement for a false hope. This might sound cold…but its fact. Our actions have consequences. They lived a life and they fucked up. This is the eternity they were promised. No one told them to be assholes- they chose it." She gripped Charlie by the shoulders, lightly pulling her closer as she dropped the volume of her voice just above a whisper.

"Listen to me. The ONLY exception…is you. Plead with the heavens. Tell them your pain. Let them decide to take you from here. And you never have to return. Or- let me stay and help you find the spell. And when we do, you go in my place. I'll stay down here. I'll oversee the cleanse from now on. You can do whatever you want if you take this deal. I promise. There's so much for you if you just. Take. The. Deal." After starting it, Aby couldn't stop her rambling.

She felt tense and confused. True she and Charlie were legitimate family, but it's not like Aby knew her. Plus, she was in deep shit as it was when she didn't pick a side between God and Lucifer. It's been eons and she was finally able to build some decency of a life without having to abuse her powers. Why risk it all for one hopeless, dorky, little dreamer who couldn't hack it? Before she could get an answer to her offer, Aby saw the view around fade into blackness. Her body felt weightless as she went from looking into the pools of her niece's eyes to a sour dark pink sky. Then, everything went black. Just before the loss of consciousness took over, she heard a voice. A man's voice. She knew it. She knew she knew it. Wanting to call back. Wanting to reach the owner of that voice. But it was too late.

Who are you? She whispered to the depths of her mind. Some part of her must have known the answer. Surely somewhere. Anywhere.

She couldn't remember…

#*#*#

Aby sat propped up against multiple pillows. She was taking it easy since she had taken such a horrible fainting just hours before. Not that she had much a choice. Vaggie was livid at Aby's harsh words to Charlie, having no idea of the offer Aby made with her. Meanwhile, Charlie had shown to be more overbearing when she believed Aby's life to be in some sort of danger. Aby was able to put these worries to rest once she got a look at the spell used.

"No wonder you had to translate it. This is an old angelic language. Only the highest ranking of 'em use it. Which also explains why you were able to translate it." Charlie cocked her head to one side.

"What do you mean?" Charlie marked the use of the word "them", but didn't push it.

"Your father is the oldest of the siblings. He was also one of the Arches', having that much power, it makes sense he'd still have his old notes way down here- go figure."

The two girls spoke for a short time about the conditions of Aby's stay as well as one big, major rule.

"Call me your cousin. I'm older than you sure, but I'm far too young to be called auntie. I have my pride too, you know." After a short going back and forth joking on the topic, things were allowed to calm down.

Now, Aby sat in silence as she drew in the sketch pad she had Razzle and Dazzle provide her with when Charlie had finally granted her a moments peace. Having a focused inspiration supported by her one-track-mind, she had drawn the blood red radio demon over and over. It brought her a certain peace. Between drawings, she would close her eyes to see his face. Scolding herself every time for not having the talent to capture him on paper. What a pathetic attempt to bring such surreal charm to new life. She began to question using a different medium, such as watercolor, charcoal, or clay. Hating herself even more for even considering the idea of ruining him in every way possible. Her thoughts were interrupted by a playful knock at the door. Whoever it was had knocked in the tune of 'pop goes the weasel'. Aby looked up from her spot on the bed. Figuring it to be Charlie coming to over apologize some more for causing so much stress, she gave invitation without much skepticism.

"Come in!" She cried out. The door opened, the light from the hallway illuminating the room in new shades. Aby blushed.

A figure allowed himself in as he used his petite, long legs to practically glide across the floor. His shoes gently tapping against the hard floor surface with every step. He was tall, thin, but graceful. Every portion of his body emanating a presentation of dominance and confidence. Aby found herself staring at him as she took in the details of his appearance. His clothing was older, early to mid-20th century, worn from years of wear and tear. Different shades of red accented his ash-like skin tone. In one hand, he held his staff with the microphone, while the other held a cup of unknown contents.

He's simply gorgeous. She swallowed a lump in her throat. Staring, ashamed with herself, at the beautiful creature in front of her. He rested the cup on the nightstand next to her as he spoke.

"You haven't a clue who I am, do you?" He asked her in a much softer tone than he had been speaking in prior with the others. He brought the lids of his eyes down to a half close, while his eyebrows came closer together.

"I-I'm sorry. I really don't know much about what goes on here in Hell." She smiled politely at Alastor as she used her left hand to cover her mouth. Aby could feel her face heat up.

Why am I so embarrassed? She questioned herself. The sad reality is she didn't know what she was feeling. Maybe- shame? Regret? But- why? Despite what she felt, the desire to look at Alastor was stronger.

She wanted to see him. She wanted to keep him in her view forever. She looked over each curve of his face. Memorized each strand of hair, every twitch, and all the lines that made him up from tip to turn. She felt the tightness in her stomach growing ever more painful. Her breathing was growing rapid. Part of her said she wanted to throw up. Part of her cried to her to fall to her knees and quit trying. The loudest part of her erupted from the confines of her chest, ripping itself violently from her pounding heart, expressing a desperate plea to get closer- much closer. With it came a warning; don't stop smiling. It shouted louder and louder. It demanded to be heard. Demanded to be followed. Don't stop smiling! Don't let him see you do anything but smile your very best smile! Her instincts had never led her astray before. So, she did as she was told from within. She forced her hand down as she smiled wide and bright at the radio demon. He perked up at her expression, his own smile growing as his eyes widened in surprise.

"All the same." He surrendered as he shrugged energetically.

"Not surprising to me, at all." He bopped his head from side to side childishly before turning away from Aby.

Even though his back was to her, Aby thought she saw his shoulders drop. She marked it as her imagination playing tricks on her since it didn't seem to fit his character. He rapidly turned to face her again as he continued.

"Well, anyway, tell me something darling. What kind of music do you fancy most?"