Chapter 7: Alastor's Day Out
Early morning. The sky had not yet begun to lighten over the happy hotel, but there is one man within who is wide awake, and already beginning his day. Alastor emerged from the small lavatory attached to his room having just completed his morning ablutions. He had settled into one of the staff rooms for now, but this was a temporary lodging, as he had made it quite clear he would be moving into one of the premium suites as soon as they were fit for habitation.
The scarlet deer walked up to the bed and donned the clothing he had laid out for himself before his shower, a simple pair of black trousers with a white shirt. He would properly attire himself after his morning meal, as was his routine. But for now he turned the handle to exit the room and began walking to the hotel kitchen to prepare his breakfast. Soon enough he walked into the spacious hotel kitchen and settled into the comfortable routine of meal prep.
He could have used magic to conjure his breakfast of choice in an instant, and sometimes did on particularly busy mornings, but the daily ritual of cooking was something Alastor genuinely enjoyed. After all, he couldn't expect magic to do all the work. Today's breakfast- unsweetened tea, toast, a hard boiled egg, and bacon. A most agreeable breakfast if he did say so himself. Once the egg was finally cooked to perfection he placed everything onto a tray to enjoy back in his room, after he washed his dishes of course. Niffty was a good little housekeeper so Alastor didn't mind doing her this small favor.
After placing the last dish in the sink-side drying rack he picked up his tray and began the trip back. Upon reaching his room the radio demon didn't even need to lift a finger for his shadow to know to get the door. As he stepped through into his private space he put the tray on a nearby table while seating himself in a large comfortable chair, that he conjured from his residence on his first night in the hotel. He then summoned the morning's paper as he adjusted himself for maximum comfort.
Hmm, more of the same. Minutes passed as the radio demon munched away on his breakfast and amused himself with the mornings word puzzle. A short while later he had finished both his physical and intellectual nourishment, and snapped his fingers to dispose of both tray and paper before dressing himself properly. Getting up, Alastor threw open his closet and donned his trademark red suit with white detailing, crimson slacks, and summoned his microphone headed staff to complete his look. A brief glance into a side mirror as his features took on their trademark grin, and he was ready to start his day in earnest.
The deer demon exited his living space and walked towards the front doors, catching sight of Charlie heading in the opposite direction on his way out.
"Hey Al! Good Morning."
"And a good morning to you, my dear."
"Heading out for your morning walk? I was just on my way to grab some breakfast, it's the most important meal of the day you know."
"Indeed. While I am indeed heading out for my morning constitutional, I also have several calls to make while I'm out. I likely won't be back until late, so any issues will have to wait until tomorrow I'm afraid."
"Oh, well, I did want to go over a few things today, but I guess they're not super important. I geuss it wouldn't hurt if they waited until tomorrow."
"Splendid! Well, as they say, time waits for no man. Tootles Charlie."
"Have a good day Al!"
Said the princess with a short wave, and with that the radio demon walked briskly to the doors and out into the morning air. As he was walking through the, slightly overgrown, path that led to the sidewalk he passed Tafford coming in from his nightly patrol of the grounds. The guard gave a nod and a 'sir' in acknowledgment before heading inside. But the radio demon barely knew he was there, his time was valuable, and some lowly knob polisher hardly rose to his attention.
As he reached the main sidewalk he turned east and began the jaunt to his first destination. A few minutes later as he was closing in on his first stop the scarlet deer noticed a group of demons loitering around the head of an alley. He produced a pocket watch from his front lapel, opened the latch and saw he had plenty of time, just as he planned. Of course, there was always time for an opportunity.
"Greetings and salutations my good malcontents, and how are we on this fine day?"
Those who saw the radio demon coming held up their hands and started to back away, two of the group breaking off and running for their lives. The less attentive demons jumped and scrabbled away to the other side of the alley as fast as they could. Only one had the courage to respond.
"Whoa. H-Hey there, Mr. Radio demon. We don't want trouble. Just out with a couple of buddies trying to kill time, we didn't mean to disturb you."
"No trouble at all my good man. I do believe you mistake my intention, I am not here to cause harm. Besides, if you and your associates had been disturbing me I would have dealt with you already."
Stated Alastor, the radio static in his voice growing louder at the end of his sentence.
"O-okay that makes sense. But if you don't want smear us across this alley, then what do you want?"
"A good question, you see my be-sodded fellow I come to you today to offer an arrangement that will profit us both."
"No way! That- that is to say Mr. radio demon, sir, everybody in hell knows about the kind of 'deals' an overlord makes. And someone would have to be pretty desperate or pretty stupid to shake on one of your bargains. Uh, no offense."
"None taken my good man! In fact, that you would be so cautious when hearing of one of my offers means that you aren't as foolish as you look. But no I am not here offering any deal, but simply to offer as they say, a 'fast buck' in exchange for a simple errand."
"What kind of 'errand'?"
Asked the Shabby man, his curiosity peaked.
"Are you aware of the princess's latest venture, the 'Happy Hotel' as she calls it?"
"Oh yeah, I don't think there's anyone down here that missed that little laugh riot by now."
"Yes quite, well the errand I have in mind is quite simple, as stated before. Merely go down to the Happy Hotel some time later in the day, oh say around five o' clock, and request a tour of the facilities. Do this and I'll pay you two hundred souls each."
"That's it? Take a tour of the princess's little halfway house?"
"What's the catch?"
Asked another of the alley demons, fear beginning to give way to curiosity.
"Why none at all. Just take a short tour of the facilities princess Charlotte has established, and you all shall receive a good sum. Greater demons than yourselves have been goaded into far more with the promise of less."
"No way man, I don't care how much your offering. I ain't staying at some shitty homeless shelter to learn 'love' or 'friendship' or whatever crap the princess is pushing!"
Said yet another of the alley demons
"Oh dear sir, I will not require you to stay at the hotel, no not at all. Just go in and take a tour, and our arrangement will be complete. I really don't think I'm asking too much, now am I?"
"Wait, if we don't have to actually stay there, why have us take a tour?"
A third of the alley gang spoke
"Dear boy, my reasons are my own. Now, do we have an agreement or not?"
"Can we get a minute talk this over?"
Asked the first demon
"But of course my fine fellow, but be quick, this is a limited time offer."
The remaining demons in the alley took a few steps away and formed into a sort of half huddle and conversed for several minutes. After they broke their formation they approached the radio demon and the first demon to speak, apparently acting as spokesman, said
"OK we're in. But we want half the money up front or no deal."
"But of course, one can never expect decent workers to begin a job without proper compensation."
Returned the radio demon as he waved his hand in a flourish. A fan of hundred soul bills appeared and he held it out to the gathered demons who each took one. But before they could begin to file out Alastor took a step in front of the group as a wall of shadow appeared behind them.
"Just bear in mind, I hate to be cheated, and if any of you fail to perform your agreed upon task I will find out. And when I find you it will not be a pleasant experience. For ANYONE involved. Well I have many other calls to make this morning, it was a pleasure doing business with you gentlemen. Good day!"
Said the radio demon walking away as the static and runes faded from the alley, leaving a gaggle of shaken near-do-wells behind to pull themselves together.
It wasn't long before Alastor reached his first destination,
Mitch's Wholesale Provedores
Although it wasn't part of the cannibal colony, this business still kept up the 1930's aesthetic that Alastor loved, and so this was one store that the radio demon frequented above many others in the area. The door swung wide as the tinkling of a small bell was herd, signaling the arrival of the days first customer.
"Hello Mitchell! I trust your doing well on this fine fiery day! How has the business world been treating you lately?"
"Mr. Alastor! It's been awhile, I was wondering when you'd be in again. Yes I am doing fairly well, appreciate the concern. As for business it's been slow but steady, just like last month. And the months before that, and just about every year before that. So, what brings my best customer in today?"
The demon named Mitch was a roughly humanoid demon, but had some obvious bat like features. Medium sized wings folded neatly across his back, a thin layer of fur across most of his body, pointed ears and claws on the ends of his hands to name a few. He had tired sunken eyes and most days had to put in effort to speak above a whisper. Overall he seemed like someone who was very beaten down but trying his best to hide it. He wore a period business suit that, while dated, was quite well maintained.
Alastor reached into his breast pocket and pulled out a list, handing it to the aged store clerk. As the man bat looked over it's contents Alastor glanced around the shop to see if anything had changed. There were the same sacks full of coffee and various seeds. Same racks of hardware for the demons who were inclined towards building and maintaining their own things. Same shelves lined with teas, baking supplies and sugar candy, the last of which Alastor detested. It all reminded him very much of those main street general stores he had been in throughout his life, if a bit less bright than those on earth. As he suspected, nothing had changed. Just the way he liked it.
"Alright, I can take care of this now."
Said the aged store clerk snapping Alastor out of his reverie.
"I have most of the items on this list, the teas, pens and ink, stationary, sheets and whatnot but there are a few things out of stock. As you know I've never stocked fresh meat much less venison, a few of these spices are a bit too exotic for me to turn a profit, and sorry to say I'm fresh out of the pickled beets. Sorry Mr. Alastor, but for some reason they've been real popular lately."
"Ah, unfortunate."
Replied Alastor with a slight glare in his eyes and flaring nostrils, but maintaining his grin the whole time.
"But no matter. Just start packing the items you do have, even with this little inconvenience this is still by far the best establishment in the district. All those other 'modern' establishments, all flash, no class and filled to the brim with worthless trinkets. No one needs any of those absurd things, music players, computer boxes, television. Utterly unnecessary the lot of it. You understand this as well as myself, I like that about you Mitchell."
"I know exactly what you mean. Now, shall I have this order delivered to your residence?"
"No, not this time. I trust by now you've herd of the princess's latest project. She calls it The Happy Hotel. I now hold the position of investor and partner of that fledgling endeavor. I'd like my order delivered there thank you."
"Heh, heh heh, yeah I heard about the princess. Redemption, nonsense! A demon getting into heaven, absurd! Ah Mr. Alastor I would think you of all people would know this best, don't tell me you're getting soft as the years drag on?"
"HA, no! No not at all my old acquaintance, quite the contrary. I merely wanted a front row seat to the spectacle of the hotel's inevitable failure. And given what I've learned the past few weeks of the princess herself, witnessing her reaction should be the most sumptuous display of all!"
"Mr. Alastor, far be it for me to question the actions of an overlord, but are you sure that's wise? I mean, this is lord Lucifer's daughter we're talking about here. If he should find out that you played a hand in crushing her dream well, I wouldn't want to be within ten miles of that."
"My good Mitchell, did I say I would play a hand in the hotel's downfall? It doesn't take a genius to see that the appeal of this idea of hers is less than zero. And as time goes by and no demons come in for her 'rehabilitation', she will eventually give in to despair and her hotel will fall flat all on it's own. You would do well to never make assumptions. Just as you would do well to keep your attentions on your own business my inquisitive acquaintance. Now, I do believe you have that order to send out before midday, best not dally."
Mitch knew as well as anyone that an overlord's patience was not infinite, and he knew that today he had pushed the radio demon's a little too far.
"R-Right, thank you Mr. Alastor. Will this be all?"
"Yes it will Mitchell. Now I have several more calls to make before the day is out, so I will take my leave."
"Thank you again Mr. Alastor. Have a good day."
"Oh I will, have no fear of that Mitchell. Ta ta."
And with that Alastor left the store and was on his way to his next stop. After a few minutes of walking his destination began to come into view. The tip of the largest, most powerful, radio antenna in the ring. Arguably the most powerful transmitter in all of hell and connected to the largest, best, and only radio station in pride. It could be owned by no one else. As Alastor came in view of the main building his grin faded as he saw many of his employees scrubbing a variety of blast marks, burns and graffiti from the outside wall.
Getting closer he could see the paint was the same shade of blue as his rival, the second Vee, the one and only Vox. On it's own the color of the paint normally wouldn't be a clue as to who committed the vandalism. Were it not for the fact that Vox had forbidden any other demon from using that shade of blue. Every hardware store regardless of size didn't carry it and refused to mix it for fear of arousing the technology demon's anger. Only demons who worked for the second Vee were allowed to mix and use this particular blue, which made it a dead give away.
"Mr. Alastor!"
Exclaimed the manager who was supervising the cleanup.
"Good day Rudy. My my, what has happened here?"
"It was Vox's boys sir, looks like they were out to give us a black eye. A few hours ago they blew in and hit us hard and fast, bombs, zappers, even a flamethrower. They threw everything they had at us, did some damage before we could rally. After we got our bearings though we beat em' back quick. The walls and some of the landscaping are kind of a mess, but they never got inside. We should have the damage cleaned up by close of business today."
"Ahh, will they ever learn?"
Sighed Alastor exasperatedly. He then took his hand and drew a complex pattern in the air, and concluded by firmly tapping his staff on the ground. The magic took effect immediately, as the spell twirled it's way through the air, and in a matter of seconds, effortlessly cleaned the walls of scorch marks, blast residue, gore and grime alike, while simultaneously repairing all damage.
"There, looking better already. Oh don't look so surprised Rudy, we can't have the finest radio station in the inferno appear in shambles now can we? Besides I am not above doing small favors for my staff. Consider this a thanks for showing those ill mannered miscreants what for! Now, I do believe your work is not done yet. I'll leave the landscaping to you and the staff, I never did have a green thumb. Good day Rudy."
"Y-Yes sir! Thank you sir, good day!"
Sputtered out the short and squat imp. Although he had worked for the radio demon for a few years he never failed to be impressed by the radio demons magic. He had only seen the scarlet deer cast spells a few times before, and never to help him or any of the other staff so directly. He stood there dumbstruck for a few seconds more before coming to and seeing his subordinates beginning to slack off.
"Hey, this is not a break! Grab a shovel and get back to work!"
Alastor entered the building through the ornate double doors that served as the front entrance passing by the front desk and it's midnight haired receptionist.
"Good morning Mr. Alastor! So good you could stop in today, can I get you some coffee, tea, anything?"
"And a good morning to you Ms. Richards. No I don't need refreshments, just be a dear and page Mr. Henderson for me. As you can see we have business to discuss."
"Yes sir, right away."
The receptionist quickly paged the manager while the radio demon surveyed his lobby. Rudy had been telling the truth, while the outside of the building was defaced and mildly damaged, the inside appeared untouched. Not two minutes later a gray skinned demon of medium height and wearing sharp 1930's style business casual wear walked quickly down the stairs. Having risen to the position of manager of the radio demon's main enterprise, Mr. Henderson knew better than anyone there not to keep the overlord waiting.
"Mr. Alastor, good day. I was just about to call you about the incident before you arrived. As usual, you have impeccable timing."
"And good day to you Mr. Henderson. You can fill me in on the details while we head to my office. I have some adjustments I want to make to the program schedule."
"Yes sir."
The subordinate began to give the overlord the full details on the attack as they walked through the large, and lavishly decorated, studio. Rich red carpeting and expensive rugs covered the floor, giving way to polished oak panels, rosewood molding, and the finest of wallpapers. Intricately wrought chandeliers made to look like antlers cast illumination throughout the hallways and common areas, while similarly made wall sconces brought light to individual rooms. Pristine white plaster made up the ceilings, with nary a crack or seam to diminish the atmosphere of opulence. As the two walked on they passed by many individual studios where demons broadcast music, news, and live radio programs on almost every conceivable frequency.
Various pieces of art and other decorations periodically adorned the halls and common areas. A portrait of city streets overlooking a port in the background, the taxidermied head of a demon with a look of terror permanently frozen on it's features, a pewter statue of a stag centered on a small ebony stand. All of these and more were displayed in select places within the large studio building.
Mr. Henderson finished his explanation just as they reached the door to the head office, Alastor was the first to enter as he possessed the only key.
You may expect the radio demon's private office within his very own studio to be large, spacious, and lavishly decorated, but no. In fact the radio demon's office was actually quite simple, even austere, compared to the other studios and no larger than any of the other rooms. It was very much a far cry from the rest of the building. Few demons had seen this office, but all who had found this to be quite strange. Though with the radio demon there was no scarcity of strangeness so they chalked it up to being just one eccentricity among many.
Alastor settled into the office chair behind the plain desk while his employee sat in one of the chairs on the opposite side.
"Unfortunate but not unexpected, that no account Vox can't seem to help himself from throwing away his men on such childish tantrums. I have no doubt you had this little annoyance well in hand Mr. Henderson, but when I spoke to Rudy he gave me the impression that you had been stretched to the limit."
"Mr. Rudy has the tenancy to exaggerate. Even if the attackers had broken passed our men, between the security measures and the wards in place throughout the studio there is no chance they could have inflicted any significant damage. Even so, would you like me to organize a party to retaliate?"
"No Mr. Henderson, whatever little threat those hooligans might have posed is over now. But don't worry, I'll be sure to catch them up personally before the day is out. Now, on to the next item of the day, there's going to be some changes to our advert lineup."
With a snap of his fingers a folder appeared in front of Henderson, which he promptly opened and read through.
…
"Is this a joke?"
"Not at all Mr. Henderson, I crafted these advertisements myself, see to it that they are put into regular circulation. And see that our narrators orate them exactly as written."
"Sir, when you announced your investment in the princess's hotel I knew we would be working with them at some point, but ads like this? I don't mean to discount your work but, redemption? Rehabilitation? People will think we've gone mad! Or worse, gone soft! At best the rabble will think this is some kind of bad joke!"
A few days after his explosive arrival at the hotel Alastor had revealed his new position to his employees, who were not at all surprised at the unexpected announcement. After all, this was the radio demon, and in the past he had gone down all kinds of avenues in pursuit of new forms of entertainment.
The vast majority of demons would never disparage Alastor's ideas so directly, with most acting as nothing more than yes men in the presence of an overlord. But Mr. Henderson had risen through the ranks of Alastor's operation starting from the bottom, and a man of such competence, skill, determination, and leadership had well earned his respect.
"Let the rabble think whatever they want. If they are so small minded that they dismiss these ideas out of hand then they are not the kind of people we want anyway."
"Are you quite sure these are the exact adverts you want to run?"
"Quite. Now you'd better get going, I want to hear the first of those ads run before days end."
"Yes sir."
Said Mr. Henderson, and wasted no time in leaving to distribute scripts to the under managers. Alastor briefly reclined in his chair and allowed his mind to drift. As he went over his morning in his head something Mr. Henderson had said caught on his attention. People would think he'd gone soft, Mitchell had said something similar during his visit, that made two who thought the same thing. But it was of little concern, there were plenty of demons in the past who had the same thought and got the idea to try and take him out. Many of which now adorned these walls. With this unpleasantness out of the way, he allowed his eyes to drift until they came to rest on his wall clock. 11:45, oh my! He had to hurry if he wanted to make his lunch date with Rosie! Snapping to action, it seemed to only take seconds for him to exit the room and be out of the building. He passed by the cleanup crew on his way out, filling holes and replanting shrubs, but paid them no mind as he didn't want to be late.
He wound his way through the maze of streets an alleys traveling paths he knew well. As he walked demons of all shapes and sizes avoided him like the plague, giving him a wide berth as he passed. The buildings gradually became of older, more dated designs, a sure sign he was drawing closer to his destination. Soon enough, his destination came into view. The antique cars, the classical architecture, the 1930's atmosphere that all came together to transport the viewer back to simpler times. There was no doubt that Alastor had entered the cannibal colony.
His pace slackened a bit as he never could help himself from taking a little extra time to take in the sights. He was in his element here, wherever he looked everything was from his own era, and that gave feelings of comfort and satisfaction that couldn't be replicated anywhere else. After a bit more walking, he finally saw his destination at the end of the block.
Pearly Whites
Stop on by for our Friday Flesh Fry!
A good little restaurant that was, in Alastor's opinion, the best lunch diner to be found anywhere in perdition. The scent of smoking meat met his nose as he walked the final stretch to greet his friend. The particular kind of meat being smoked gave off an unusual fragrance, that to an ordinary demon might cause severe nausea and revulsion, but to the radio demon was appetizing beyond belief. Finally coming up to the lovely porch seating area, a piercing voice let him know he'd been spotted.
"Ah, there you are! Being fashionably late I see."
"Good day Rosie! You know me too well."
Replied Alastor as he came up and took a seat beside his friend of many years. The seating area was quite nice, with white enameled metal chairs and tables overshadowed by colorful wide brimmed umbrellas. With Alastor having finally arrived she called over the waiter and the two made their orders.
"Ah Alastor, it's been too long. What ever have you been up too, it's been weeks since we've had a proper conversation."
"And I do apologize for that my elegant friend, I've just been so enamored with my latest venture of interest."
"Oh, and what might that be? Has the puissant radio demon finally taken a paramour?"
"HA! Not at all Rosy, but the idea is quite amusing. No I have been preoccupied with establishing a more long term form of entertainment. I trust you have heard of the princess's latest venture, her "happy hotel" as she calls it?"
"No, your helping the princess with that?! Ha ha ha, ha ha ha ha ha! Alastor I don't understand a great deal of what you do, but you never fail to have new surprises up your sleeve!"
"Yes yes, laugh all you want, but there is method to this madness if you bother to look just beneath the surface."
"Go on."
"As you are aware the appeal of the princess's plan is less than zero, am I correct?"
"Yes."
"Well the princess as you well know is a very naive young thing, but also very driven and perseverant. The fact that she actually went through with her foolish plan is evidence enough of that. But as time goes on and no demons come to seek redemption, that perseverance will be increasingly tested. Until her drive to continue begins to bend, then buckle, and finally break from the crushing weight of reality! Oh the spectacle that will unfold when she finally realizes her childish dreams were doomed from the start! Not only the death of hope, but the shattering of the last vestiges of innocence in such a sweet wide eyed creature. That is without a doubt be the most divine entertainment I will ever witness! And there should be plenty of debacles to revel in along the way. It just so happens that I may have greased the wheels just this morning."
"That may just be one of the most devious plans you've come up with in years! And the icing on the cake is it sounds like you'll hardly have to do a thing! Tell me, what exactly did you do before you arrived?"
"Just provided a little financial restitution in exchange for some false hope. Honestly influencing our dear princess is no more difficult than humiliating an imp!"
"Indeed."
At that moment the waiter returned with the two overlord's lunch and the conversation took an amicable pause while they ate. While the florentine was good for Rosie, there was something about that smoker that drew Alastor in every time. After around twenty minutes when their meals were mostly finished the red deer was the first to speak.
"Tell me, while I've been off securing my own entertainment what have you been up to lo' these recent weeks?"
"Well I've been having issues with that young upstart Velvet. My potion suppliers have come under repeated assault from her pack of ner-do-wells. She thinks that just because she is the largest potion vendor in the ring that she can force every last business to buy from her exclusively, and eat the cost of her enormous markups! She may have strong natural talent, but there are many who were making potions long before she was even conceived."
"Ah yes, I've been having similar issues with her compatriot. That no account Vox has been quite the nuisance himself lately. Just today he had the gall to throw his men at my studio."
"Yes, I hear those Vees have been making quite the pests of themselves throughout pentagram as of late. Frivolously sending demons to their deaths on petty assaults or attempts at expansion that have no hope of success. Oh well, their interference will die down again soon enough. And if it doesn't well, no demon of any accomplishment is a stranger to putting down opposition."
"Hear, hear!"
Rejoined the radio demon taking another sip of his drink.
"Even so, before the day is out I was thinking of paying Vox back for his little annoyance, would you like me to add Velvet to my schedule?"
"You are too kind Alastor, but you leave her to me. There are some things a lady must take care of herself."
"Alright. Still, do you have any suggestions for that know nothing screen head?"
"Well yesterday's paper had an article on a new antenna of his he was setting up to broadcast a new form of television. Something with a sharper image I believe? It hardly matters, no one with any kind of class partakes in that idiot box anyway."
"Yes, it hardly matters."
Said the radio demon with a dangerous look creeping into his eyes. A few minutes later they finished their meals and signaled the waiter for the check.
"This was an excellent visit we really must do this again soon."
Said the dark eyed lady
"Absolutely, how does this time next week sound to you?"
"I suppose that would be alright. Beatrice can handle the store again next week."
Shortly thereafter their checks arrived and they parted ways, Rosie returning to her shop and Alastor continuing further uptown. While he was in the cannibal colony the radio demon made a quick stop at his favorite butcher shop. He still needed to buy this week's supply of venison, as well as some other "specialty" meats only available in this small pocket of the pride ring. The butcher knew Alastor well so it didn't take long for him to place his order and be out the door again. Once this little errand was finished the scarlet deer began a much longer walk. A journey that would take him out of the cannibal colony, through the slums and poorer areas, and into the wealthier central districts of pentagram city.
Like many other cities of the inferno the wealthiest districts were located near the city center. Everywhere you looked it was clean, well maintained, and lavishly decorated. Pristine green parks crossed with winding paths and dotted by flower displays, with the least hellish trees to be found anywhere in the circle. Immaculately maintained streets were filled with limos, cars both new and antique, even some more unconventional vehicles such as ornate rickshaws pulled by powerful servants. Buildings great and small were constructed in an impressive mix of classical, neoclassical, art deco, modern, contemporary and more. Everything from hellscrapers, to stores, to the estates of the powerful were a playground for the imagination. A sharp contrast from the bauhaus, industrial, or flat out utilitarian structures of the poorer districts. But, as might be expected, this municipal mecca was not for everyone to enjoy.
While there were many individuals and families walking the streets of the central districts there were also a great number of police patrols out looking for anyone who was making any kind of disturbance, or even just not fitting in. Only members of hell's nobility as well as especially powerful, very important, or exceedingly wealthy demons lived in these districts. While the prices of most goods in hell were out of control, the wealthiest districts dialed this up to eleven. Everything from property, to food, to just about everything else was barbarically expensive. This was so bad that it made the worst hyperinflation on earth seem like a dollar store. If this wasn't enough reason to keep most demons away, there were also the residents themselves. One phone call to the local police was all it took for any demon they didn't like to be violently expelled from the city center, and lucifer help them if they were a repeat offender.
But the radio demon was no ordinary man to be sneered down at by rich elitists, or pushed around by thugs with badges. Even here, perhaps especially here, the radio demon commanded respect and caution from all around him. No one greeted or attempted conversation with Alastor as he continued his walk through this playground for the rich, although none displayed fear like the common people, confident that their own abilities or connections would protect them from the red suited powerhouse. He continued walking for some minutes until he came to one particular hellscraper and stepped through the decorative bronze and glass doors to the lobby.
"Good afternoon sir, may I help you?"
Came the voice of the receptionist from behind the modest desk.
"No, I don't think so. I'm just headed up to the lounge. But thank you anyway ma'am."
Was the polite reply. Alastor then walked over to the nearby elevators and pressed the button. Within a minute he stepped into the elevator car and was on his way. The journey to the penthouse took only a few minutes and passed by floors used for all different proposes. Finally the car slid into it's final stop with a ding and let out into a small reception area with a slender well dressed woman standing behind a lectern across from a burly uniformed man.
"Welcome, go right in sir."
Said the greeter, not even bothering to check the list as her companion opened the door for the overlord. Walking forward the radio demon emerged into a high class jazz club. Royal blue carpeting contrasted with gold diamond patterns covered the floor, complimented by a similar paint scheme on the walls. This, along with luxurious chairs, tables, other furniture, and dim lighting made the look of the club come together in a nice relaxing atmosphere. There was a large wrap around bar to Alastor's right and a live band playing center stage towards the back of the room. He took a moment to sit at the bar and appreciate the music as he ordered a drink. Good jazz was so hard to find, so he had to take a moment to appreciate it whenever he could. All too soon however, the band's set ended, and Alastor set down his empty glass and made his was to the balcony door with a sigh. It took a moment for his eyes to adjust, but once they did the radio demon was met by an impressive view. Every building in the elite district stretched before him like a box of precious jewels. So many different colors and building styles, and dotted with lush green parks, ringed by a network of busy streets that seemed as if they were protecting a great treasure from unworthy prowlers.
"Magnificent isn't it?"
Came a voice from behind
"As great a sight as I have ever seen."
Replied the well dressed deer. A man in a pristine leather jacket, dress pants, and fashionable sunglasses came up and stood beside the radio demon as they both took in the finest view that pentagram city had to offer.
"What do you say my good man, did you enjoy the show?"
"Eh, it was OK. I've never really been into jazz though."
"Oh you just need to take the time to appreciate it, like many of the finer things in life."
"Maybe. But I got a feeling your definition of 'the finer things' and mine are about as far apart as you can get."
"Heh, true enough my good fellow. Now, did you find it?"
"Yeah."
The man said as he withdrew a folder from his coat and passed it to Alastor.
"It's being held in this really old trust, that itself is owned by the royal family."
"Hmm, interesting."
Hummed the radio demon opening the file and going through it's contents.
"Very interesting. You've done well my capable compatriot. Now, you've undoubtedly deduced your next assignment already. You are free to use any means necessary to acquire the item, provided you make absolutely certain that your actions cannot be traced back to myself. Upon it's successful return your pay will be quadruple your usual rate."
"Heh, heh. A tempting offer, but no dice. Sorry Mr. Overlord but I don't meddle in any business involving the royals. I've seen too many of those jobs go sideways in a hurry, and what they did to the people after, eurgh! You'll have to do your own dirty work this time."
Said the grey man as a shiver ran down his spine. At this Alastor paused for a moment and a sound like a buzz from a radio could be herd before Alastor spoke up again.
"Very well then, I'm not one to tell a man how much risk he's comfortable with. If you are not willing to undertake this particular task for me, I'm sure there are others who would happily reap the rich rewards this endeavor pays."
"Speaking of rewards."
"Quite right."
The two conversed before a large stack of bills poofed into existence above Alastor's hand, which he then passed off to the anonymous man before him. After he shuffled the bills to make sure his entire fee was there, the grey man concluded,
"A pleasure doing business with you Mr. Alastor. When you have some less risky jobs down the line, you got my card."
"Quite, have an agreeable day my indistinct friend."
Said Alastor as his associate walked off. Well, this complicated matters. With that one unwilling to continue Alastor would have to find another way to acquire his prize. But that could wait for another day, as he turned his gaze back to the skyline and took in the sights for just a few minutes more. By the time he exited the building it was late afternoon, nearly evening, so he quickly looked around for one of the few news stands still open in the district.
Finding one, he purchased a copy of yesterday's paper and flipped trough it until he found the article he had been searching for. He quickly took off at a brisk pace leaving the elite district behind and heading for one specific area of pentagram. Passing through blocs of apartments, industrial areas, and finally an area that seemed to be filled with technology, he finally arrived at his destination.
A small complex stood before him dominated by a steel tower that lofted into the pride ring's red sky dwarfing many of the hellscrapers in the area. The tower was fitted with a vast array of dishes and antennas that seemed to be omnidirectional. There was no doubt that this was Vox's latest creation. If the radio demon had somehow missed the various signs stating 'Property of Vox media' the two guards pointing their guns at him in Vox uniforms were a dead giveaway.
"Get lost radio demon!"
"There's nothing here for you!"
Said a pair of young hot heads guarding the main gate. The first was one of the taller imps, while the other appeared to be a fish like demon.
"Don't worry yourselves gentlemen, I just have some business to take care of inside."
Said Alastor as two black tentacles appeared unnoticed behind the guards.
"Wha- WAAHHHHH!"
"AAAAHHHHHH!"
SPLAT!
R-R-R-R-R-RRR-CRUNCH
*Throw*
CRASH!
The tendrils briefly picked up the woefully outmatched guards before smashing them together in a sickening splat before ripping the chain link gate off it's hinges and trowing it into the compound.
A short distance away
Williams reclined in the office chair with his feet up on the console in front of him. He was currently 'amusing' himself with the latest issue of seductress, a porno magazine that was actually marketed to lesbians. Not that it mattered to him though. He and the lesbians had one thing in common, he didn't fuck guys either. Just as he was turning the page he heard a loud-
CRASH!
-from the other side of the station window.
"Son of a bitch! What did those louts break now- Oh shit - RED ALERT!"
Shouted the imp as he slammed his fist down on the large red button on the right side of the console. Alarms blared as he struggled to get his pants back up his legs and scramble to his position. At first he thought the fat asses that they hired to offload the new equipment had dropped another crate, but his heart dropped into his feet when he saw the radio demon of all people walking down the receiving lot. The imp fell flat on his face as he tried to rise, having put both legs in the same sleeve of his pants. A moment later he rectified this and rose to grab the shotgun from the nearby weapons cabinet. Slinging the weapon over his shoulder he fumbled with the handle of the nearby steel door.
Busting through to the catwalk beyond he was almost trampled by one of the responding squads of security demons. They, along with many like them, had been brought in to protect Vox's latest asset. Although, comparatively speaking, this site wasn't as big as Vox's other holdings the fact that it contained the next generation transmitter insured that this tiny lot had been fortified up to the yin-yang, and then some. Williams filed in behind the last passing guard until he reached a flight of stairs to his left, filing up to his observation post on the roof. He barely had time to reach the armored nest before-
"Williams report."
- came the voice of his superior through the screen of his tablet communicator. Said communicator being conveniently clipped to his belt. It was a well known fact that the radio demon could listen in on any kind of radio transmission in the ring, maybe all of hell, but it was also known video calls were outside of his influence. So that meant, in lieu of walkie-talkies, those with any kind of rank were issued a small reinforced tablet instead.
"It's the radio demon sir, he's breached the main gate and is walking into the receiving area."
"And on site security?"
"I just arrived at my station sir, the security teams are fanning out and moving to their positions."
"What is the radio demon's current location?"
"A little less than halfway down the drive sir."
"Alright, we're going with assault plan alpha. The rapid response teams will to get to their positions and open up with all the firepower they have. The rest of the squads are going to be spaced throughout the facility. This is the radio demon were talking about, but fortunately we have a few extra surprises Vox sent over just for him.The bad news isreinforcements will take some time to arrive, as much as an hour. Let me be clear,the men we have here must hold until they arrive. Make sure that red bastard bleeds for every inch, good luck."
Said the facility supervisor as the connection was terminated. Williams looked out at the scene before him, the scarlet menace was over halfway to the facility proper but the last of the rapid response teams was just falling into place. It took only a moment before they-
"Open Fire!"
Shouted one of the squad leaders. At that command an impressive array of rifles, shotguns, SMGs, and even a few light machine guns opened up on the scarlet deer simultaneously.
BOOM-BOOM-BOOM!
BANG-BANG-BANG-BANG-BANG-BANG!
BRRRRRRRRRRRRRRAH-BRRRRRRRRRRRRRAH!
BRRRRRRRRT-BRRRRRRRRRT!
However very few, if any, shots would connect, as the radio demon began to twirl his staff in front of him so fast it batted the rounds out of the air. The scant few shots that did connect were almost instantly healed by the overlord's magic.
"Really now, so much firepower focused on one single demon? So uncivilized."
Said Alastor as he began to weave a spell with his free hand. In short order the sounds of gunfire stopped, replaced by the screams of the assembled security demons. As the radio demon looked on the guns of the security force went limp like a cooked noodle. Not a second later however the weapons snapped into life, becoming snake like creatures of plastic and metal. Biting into and constricting their former wielders the entire rapid response team was dispatched within two minutes. Alastor grinned even wider as he approached the short flight of steps to the concourse before the main building.
*BANG!*- Thip!
But just before he could climb the first step he felt a heat and a sharp pain in his right shoulder. He turned his gaze up to the balcony where the shot had come from and started to prepare another spell when a high voltage current coursed through his body, completely breaking his concentration and stunning him for several seconds.
The marksman watched with gratification as his shot took the red menace below completely unawares. A split second later it erupted into sparks of electricity, exactly as they had been designed to. What was even more pleasing was watching the crimson deer seize up and fall to the ground, his body unable to follow commands for the few seconds it took for the shot's battery to die. Say what you want about his employer, unlike the radio demon, Vox did learn and evolve with time.
Unlike the stumbling fumbling old man below who had just begun to rise to his feet. Though a pang of fear began to weaken his nerve as he saw the radio demon stare directly at him with that look. That look he only gave when something had well and truly angered him. He seldom handed out that look to anyone, although Vox's men did see it more often than most other demons. The trickle of fear was rapidly devolving into a stream of panic before he saw the shot of his partner across the lot stick into his back with the same effectiveness of his own. A glimmer of hope crossed his psyche, if they could keep up this teamwork then maybe they could last until the rest of the crew got here.
The marksman sighted in his rifle, aiming to hit that damn dial face dead between the eyes as soon as he began to rise again. He waited for that forehead to present itself and squeezed the trigger just as it moved into his cross hair. But all his hope died the instant he saw a dome of black tentacles emerged out of the ground to shield him just before the shot connected.
*BANG!*-*BANG!*-*BANG!*-*BANG!*-*BANG!*-*BANG!*
Now frenzied by fear, both him and his partner began firing wildly into the mass of unnatural flesh. The dome sizzled and seized, but did not yield, as both sharpshooters emptied every round in their magazines into the tentacles.
A series of clicks told him his rifle was empty, and his hand quickly patted around his belt for another mag just as the mass of slick blackness began to sink back into the ground. Terror gripped him as he saw the radio demon standing tall with antlers like a trophy stag. And eyes that had been replaced with radio dials. Finally finding one, it was now the sniper's turn to fumble, desperate to fit in the new magazine as the menace resumed his dread march. Mercifully the box of bullets found the loading port after only a few moments of floundering, and slid home with a solid *click*. He slid back the bolt and rapidly took one, two, three, four quick shots and felt his knees buckle at the results.
Alastor batted the shots away with even greater ease than when he had first arrived, his off hand already beginning to make the motions for another spell. This time however a rune that had been etched into the weapon, one the marksman hadn't noticed before, began to glow a soft white and strobed as the spell went off. The flash made the sharpshooter blink a few times but otherwise had no effect. At that moment a streak of blue grazed the radio demon's torso, stopping his advance and showing that the other marksman had also managed to reload. The unholy stag seemed to snap his own neck as his head rotated nearly 180 degrees as he turned those terrible dials to the other marksman.
Thinking he had an opening, the first sniper took aim and tried to land a hit while the radio demon's attention was elsewhere, only for his waning hopes to crumble as the red suited menace blocked the shot just as easily as before. Resurgent panic took him with a vengeance, as both snipers desperately tried to make any of their shots land, only to be consumed with the realization that none of them would. Though the radio demon had backed off a little to effectively block shots from both angles, they only had so much time before all their magazines ran dry. And they knew when that happened they'd be mince meat.
Alastor was quickly running out of patience. While the radio demon relished a challenge, this particular puzzle was taking longer than he would've liked. If his schedule were free and he had no pressing engagements he would have loved to take his time with these two annoying rapscallions. And enjoy every moment of taking them apart.
Alas, it was late in the day and he did have a schedule to keep. So, while continuing to use his cane to swat away the attacks of those feeble annoyances, a more complex spell was taking shape in his off hand. While his first trans-mundane subversion had brought him delight and amusement in equal measure, his second attempt at that same tactic had proved less than successful. So another approach was necessary.
The red light of Alastor's magic was interspersed with streaks of purple and blue as a more intricate, much more potent arcane expression took form. Each and every sigil and gesture made by Alastor's appendage made his magic take shape, and brought his malicious will that much closer to reality. Although this would have gone much faster with both hands it was still quite manageable for one as skilled in the arcane arts as Alastor was. The scarlet deer's grin grew even wider as he made the final motions, and savored those final moments before his invocation was unleashed.
In a single moment his hand clenched into a fist and every shadow in the area came alive. Dozens upon dozens of creatures that appeared to be nothing more than silhouettes emerged from every shadow that could be seen and began to climb up to the sniper nests.
The two marksmen immediately turned and opened fire on the creatures with everything they had left. While they did succeed in blowing away a few of the creatures, there was no chance they could kill them all. The chittering tide of shadow was held back for half a minute before the last of the rifles special ammunition was spent.
The desperate sharpshooters then threw away their primary armaments and drew their pistols on the advancing horde. It only took a moment for all three to see that their sidearms were woefully less efficient at dispatching the oncoming wave of shadowy death.
The snipers couldn't hold out any longer, and this knowledge prompted two very different responses from the two demons. The sniper who had fired second retreated deeper into the facility, shooting back at the creatures all the while. The first however, seeing the situation as it was, decided to turn his remaining weapon on himself rather than suffer whatever torture the radio demon or his monsters would put him through.
As the elevated platforms were overtaken Alastor entered the facility at a leisurely pace, ascending up several flights of stairs. Before long he arrived at the impromptu nest of his defeated foe, the one who had first stuck him with that most annoying munition, and the one whose blood was beginning to stain the wall even as the body had dissolved to reform somewhere else. Alastor walked over and reached down, picking up the high powered rifle with both hands. What was so special about this weapon? Why had it not only managed to succeed in rendering him utterly helpless for a scant few seconds but, more importantly, utterly resisted his reality warping touch? It didn't seem any different than any other long rifle produced in the last few years, so it must be the ammunition that carried the paralyzing effect.
As he ran his eyes over the other side he saw it. Over the main body of the rifle, close to the stock there it was. A rune, small in size, but so well made it looked to be just another symbol stamped into the gun. Whoever made this rune was no amateur he had no doubt of that. This particular arcane symbol warded the weapon, but not the wielder, from magical manipulation. A simple bit of spellwork, but requiring far more effort to undo than the weapon was worth. It seemed Vox finally had an enchanter who knew what they were doing, he made a mental note of that.
Alastor released the weapon allowing it to fall to the ground, it was time to move on. The last shouts of defiance and cries of the dying now reached his ears. Ah, his associates were just finishing up the last pockets of resistance, good. Had he been possessed of more time he may have only had his "allies" overrun the posts of these two former annoyances, but he had a schedule to keep. So he had allowed them to have their fun.
As the last sounds of the former inhabitants died down, he turned his full attention to this facilities most prominent feature. The new antenna loomed large from the center of this small collection of buildings and catwalks, covered in various dishes and flashing lights. The spire of steel stretched out into the darkening red sky dominating most of the radio demon's vision. Secretly, even Alastor had to admit he was impressed with the structure, though of course he would never admit this to anyone else. An antenna of this size had to have a range and broadcasting power that rivaled his own, though not for much longer.
Alastor took just a moment more to ensure he was not interrupted, as his next move would require all of his focus. When he was certain he would not be disturbed, he closed his eyes and began to summon forth a much larger measure of his power. The ground shook and trembled as a substantial portion of the overlord's power was brought to bear. All around the structure, from the ground, in the middle of roads, and even from the rooftops of nearby buildings black tentacles of a gargantuan size began to emerge and seize the tower form all sides.
BRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR- ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZAAAP!
A massive current of electricity was released from the tower, forcing all the tentacles to retreat as it fried some outright. A wave of rage overtook Alastor as his tentacles fell back into the rifts they emerged from. Vox had managed one last display of defiance to spite his rival, and what had angered Alastor more was, it worked. Many parts of the tower smoked and sparked, but the structure was still intact. With Alastor having no doubt it would happen again if he went for another attempt, he had to find some way to shut down the power. Spinning on his heel the fuming stag race walked into the complex in earnest.
Locker room, no.
Break room, no.
Media room, not in this or any lifetime!
Utility room, getting closer but no.
Moving through many other rooms like this he gradually moved lower in the facility and it was in one of the underground sections that he at last came upon the generator room.
"Finally!"
Fumed the radio demon exasperatedly. He stepped into the middle of the space and took in it's layout. There was a small control console on the far side of the room with the generators themselves in some sort of cage to his left. He was about to summon more of his tendrils to demolish this room when a though occurred to him. Alastor narrowed his eyes as he summoned his staff and gently tapped the cage with the pointed end. A shower of sparks immediately bloomed from the point his staff had touched telling him these generators were protected in the same way as the tower.
"Oh, biscuits!"
Barked Alastor at his plans being complicated yet again. Using a measure of self discipline he backed off and calmed himself a bit as he began to think. He could cast another spell to remove this obstacle, but it was already going to take a considerable amount of effort to make a second attempt on the tower and he didn't want to expend any more effort than he had to. If he could find a survivor of his assault he could probably just force them to open the cage, but then he had left most of the legwork of this attack to his "associates" and they tended to be very…. thorough. He also had a limited time in which to complete his task here, as he did have other things to do. Not to mention the next wave of ruffians Vox would send to protect his venture, and they would only waste more time he didn't have so that left…
Alastor was loath to use any form of those blasted computers, but with time against him and seeing no other choice he went over to the console and tried his best to make sense of it. It took him a while to find the 'any' key the screen spoke of but after a minute of searching he had decided to hit 'enter' and that seemed to work just fine. But in overcoming one problem he metaphorically walked right into the next. 'Swipe key for access', what the devil was that supposed to mean?! He knew very well how to use keys, but this blasted machine clearly had no keyhole and he had never heard of any lock that was opened by swiping.
As he racked his brain for an answer he recollected that in the past few years he had seen more and more demons carrying cards that they refereed to as 'keys'. They used those to open certain kinds of doors, so maybe the principal was similar? It was worth a try so Alastor left the console for the time being and went in search of one of these new-fangled keys.
Remembering something from earlier he backtracked to the maintenance room and found a map of the complex. With this he made a beeline for the main control room, finding the door nearly torn from it's reinforced hinges. Unsurprisingly, a slaughter greeted his senses with pooling blood and mangled equipment everywhere. Well, it seemed that most of these demons had dematerialized with their uniforms. The radio demon hoped that their leader had at least left his equipment behind. Walking through the room of broken controls and screens he opened the door that led to the head office. A sight similar to what awaited outside greeted his vision, a large splatter of fresh blood behind a modern desk with a broken computer. However, all was not lost as the radio demon noticed a heap of equipment not far from an abandoned pistol.
He reached down to a utility belt of some kind, and plucked a distinct card from among the rest of the stained equipment.
"Many thanks my good man. Maybe you won't emerge too far from civilization."
Jested Alastor before quickly returning to the generator room. As he slid the card through what he, eventually, deduced to be the reader he was presented with a few options.
Join Shitter argument
Order Pizza Shack
Access porn archive
Toggle Power
Quickly scrolling down to the last option, he hit 'enter' and the lights immediately shut down, being replaced by red emergency lights a few seconds later.
"Finally"
He sighed as as the black tentacles once again emerged and destroyed the generators. New alarms began to sound throughout the facility as a message flashed across the nearby terminal.
[Warning: Backup Generators Offline]
[Radio Demon Fail-safe Disabled]
"Excellent"
Breathed Alastor, doing a decent impression of a rich yellow man with a beak like nose. Almost running back to the surface level, the radio demon found a good position and began to marshal his power.
"Now, let's try this again."
Massive black tentacles once again emerged from the area around the tower and began to tear it apart. The power in the neighboring buildings flickered and went out as the system pulled power from the grid, desperately trying to maintain the current in the tower. Alas, it was in vain. Without the extra kick from the backup generators, maintaining the extreme high voltage necessary to repel Alastor's attack was impossible.
R-R-R-R-R-R-R-R-R- CRACK! RRRR- SKREE CRUNCH!
The tower groaned, cracked, crunched, and squealed at it was simultaneously crushed and torn from it's foundations. Alastor observed this scene like a maestro observes his orchestra playing in perfect tune, with a grin so wide it threatened to tear his head in half. He thoroughly enjoyed himself in this way for several minutes before he turned his head and noticed an oncoming convoy of cars, all bearing the markings of his hated adversary. Turning back to the rapidly buckling superstructure, waves of excitement and morbid joy washed through him as he saw the perfect revenge for all the inconvenience he had suffered through. He waited just few minutes more, letting those ants get closer. Closer, closer, closer, There!
RRRRRRRRRRRRRR- CRASH!
"A HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA!"
Alastor laughed out loud as the entire structure of the antenna came down and crushed the approaching convoy, killing everyone inside. As well as most of the demons in the buildings within the path of destruction. He continued his laughter as he began his walk back to the hotel, waves of satisfaction running through him the entire way there.
Some time later
The crimson deer was making his way back down the hotel's driveway, still chuckling about how much damage he had done to his rival. The scarlet deer didn't get far however before he was blindsided by a mixed gang of demons. His eyes flashed red for a moment before he made out the faces of the demons he commissioned earlier that day.
"Hey Radio demon, remember us?"
"Ah yes, my unwashed acquaintance from this morning! And how are we this fine evening?"
"Don't give us that load of shit! We went in and took the tour like you asked, and we've been waiting on your ass for three hours now!"
Griped the shabby man with the rest of his group standing close by.
"Sincerest apologies my slovenly acquaintance, I was dealing with a bit of business downtown and regrettably the task took longer than anticipated."
"We don't care what excuse you got for dragging your ass so long as we get paid. And I think we deserve a little bonus for making us wait so long."
"Fine, fine. Whatever petty sum you want for doing nothing is of no concern to me. That is, so long as you've completed your task?"
Challenged the radio demon, not willing to put anything passed the common lowlifes of the pride ring.
"Yeah. Went in, took the tour, and got out, just like you said. Princess rainbows seemed pretty surprised to see anyone walking into her joint, especially before it even really opened. Looked pretty disappointed when nobody stayed though."
"Exactly as anticipated. You've certainly earned the rest of your fee, don't spend it all in one place!"
Spoke Alastor jovially as another fan of bills manifested in his hand. Most of the group were eager to take the money and be gone, and left without saying a word to the well dressed overlord. A few prideful idiots however hung back to try and push their luck.
"This feels light."
Foolishly jibed one of the stragglers. The radio demon could be a very patient man, but after the day he had, almost all his patience had been spent. At that the ears of the crimson deer perked up and his perpetual smile faded an almost imperceptible amount.
"You know what's light? Your air filled head after I sever it from your body."
Alastor's voice deepened as his eyes slowly turned into radio dials, fingers elongating into claws and antlers growing in proportion to the building static. While two of the three remaining dimwits had the presence of mind to sprint for their lives, the one who had made the threat was paralyzed by fear. The next moments were a scene of flesh warping, reality tearing mayhem that defies description. But suffice to say, by the end the former thug was nothing more than a splatter of red soaking into the pavement.
As the doors swung open a quiet scene greeted the eyes. The lobby was mostly deserted, the only ones in view being Husk, and the princess herself. The former was sleeping or possibly drunk at the counter and the latter jumped up from a couch upon sighting him.
"Oh Al! Welcome back, your never going to believe what happened today!"
"Good evening Charlie. Why your positively bubbling with enthusiasm, what has happened while I was out?"
Alastor's expression took on an air of knowing slyness as he said this, but Charlie was much to exited to notice.
"The hotel had visitors today! Eight guys came in and took a tour of the facilities, can you believe it, we're finally getting some attention!"
"That's wonderful news darling, why at this rate you'll be shooting souls up to that bright white marble before you know it! So, you said there were eight men who stopped by for a tour, how many of them stayed?"
Charlies face fell a little at that, and her voice likewise lost some of it's exuberant energy.
"Well, none, but that's no problem. We're not even really open yet, and once the renovations are done we should get plenty of guests coming in."
Spoke Charlie regaining some of her lost enthusiasm, but not quite getting to the level she had been before.
"So Al, you were gone all day, what did you do while you were out?"
"Ah dear princess, I do believe that is my personal business and I am not one to share my comings and goings with just anyone."
"Oh, I guess that's fair. Do you want to know what went on here when you were out?"
"I do believe you have already relayed the most interesting part of what took place today, and if there's anything else that would warrant my attention I'll take the initiative to find out on my own. Now, the hour has grown late and if I am to enjoy a full night's sleep I must be retiring soon. Good Evening Charlie."
"OK. Then, goodnight Al."
Said Charlie as her red suited compatriot stepped past her towards his room. Once the door was shut the radio demon took the time to put away his suit and don his nightly attire. After he finished with that he sat down in his chair, summoned a glass of brandy and began to think.
With his former agent out of the picture he would need a new one to see his plans to fruition. He picked up the file from it's place on the nearby table and thumbed through it's contents again. The connection to the royal family complicated matters, but it was far from unexpected. It was imperative he tread carefully, a single slip up could ruin much more than his entertainment. The royal family was astronomically far above the common rabble, but that also meant they didn't pay as close attention to their affairs as they should.
Still, the utmost care had to be taken in any dealings with the royals, as their power was something not even the princes of the six other circles could match, much less a single overlord. If the reaction of his former associate was any indication it was very unlikely he would find another willing sleuth within pentagram city. No, this time he would have to go in himself. He hated the thought of exposing himself to such direct risk but with the situation as it was he could see no other choice. Besides, the private investigation sphere was one thing, but perhaps the dull, dower, dreary world of bureaucracy would prove more fertile ground for his next envoy.
Stay Tuned.