Previously: Micha's expression darkened, but before she could respond, Alastor turned on his heel and strode away, leaving her seething with frustration and suspicion. As he disappeared into the crowd, Alastor couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction at having rattled her cage. But beneath the bravado, beneath the facade of confidence and control, there was something else—a nagging doubt, a flicker of uncertainty that refused to be girl was doing things to him, stirring feelings he had long thought buried. And as much as he tried to resist, he couldn't help but be drawn to her light, even if it meant stepping into unfamiliar and unsettling territory.
Chapter 11: A Lovely Day in Hell!
A few days had passed since the after-party, and the rivalry between Micha and Alastor continued, with Alastor emerging victorious in each small battle of wits and power. Micha's frustration grew, but she couldn't shake Alastor's hold over the situation, and Lumina remained blissfully unaware of the full extent of the conflict.
Meanwhile, Lumina's curiosity about Alastor had only deepened. Who exactly was he? She wasn't ready to confront him with questions just yet, but her growing curiosity about Hell was something she couldn't ignore. After all, she was bound to end up there, so she figured she might as well be prepared.
One evening, as they sat in her apartment, Alastor noticed the contemplative look on her face as she read a book. "You seem lost in thought, my dear Fawn," he remarked, breaking the silence.
Lumina glanced up at him, a mix of curiosity and apprehension in her eyes. "I've been thinking...about Hell, is there anything more you can tell me about it?" She admitted. "I mean, I'm going there anyway, so I just want to be prepared."
Alastor's eyes twinkled with mischief, placing down his teacup and gave her an unexpected proposal. "Lumina, how would you like to take a trip to Hell?" He asked casually, as if he was suggesting a stroll in the park.
Lumina's eyes widened in shock. "To Hell?" She repeated, her voice tinged with disbelief. "But...isn't that dangerous? I'm not a demon."
Alastor chuckled, shaking his head. "Relax, my dear. I'll make sure you're safe. Besides, it's not every day you get the chance to visit the underworld."
Lumina hesitated, unsure of what to say. The idea of visiting Hell was both terrifying and intriguing. "I...I don't know," She finally admitted.
Alastor's grin widened. "Come on, Lumina. It'll be an adventure. I'll even give you a disguise so you blend in."
Despite her reservations, Lumina couldn't resist the lure of the unknown. "Alright, fine." She said, trying to sound brave.
She stood up and braced herself for whatever magic Alastor was going to use on her, a bit worried it might've been a trap of sorts to finally take her soul.
With a snap of his fingers, Alastor enveloped Lumina in a swirl of dark energy. When the energy dissipated, Lumina found herself transformed. "Whoa," She whispered, touching her horns in awe. "This is... wow." Feeling something wag behind her she looks to see a pink heart end tail. "Oh wow, a tail!" She exclaimed, her voice filled with delight trying to control it properly. "I've always wanted one of these!"
"It fits you well, my Dear." Alastor said with a satisfied grin. "Now, shall we?"
He extended his hand, and Lumina took it, feeling a mix of excitement and trepidation. In an instant, they were transported to Hell. Lumina gasped as she took in the sight around her. It was both familiar and alien—chaotic, bloody, and yet strangely reminiscent of a huge city.
They stood on a bustling street, demons of all shapes and sizes moving about their business. The buildings towered above them, dark and ominous, and the air was thick with the smell of sulfur and smoke. Lumina took it all in, her senses overwhelmed.
"It's...different," She admitted, her voice barely a whisper.
Alastor chuckled. "Indeed it is. Welcome to Hell, Lumina."
They began to walk, Alastor pointing out various landmarks and explaining their significance. Lumina listened intently, fascinated despite herself. There were markets selling bizarre goods, towering skyscrapers that seemed to pulse with a sinister energy, and alleys that glowed with an eerie, otherworldly light.
As they strolled, they passed a park where a group of demons were having a rather violent game of what appeared to be soccer, using a flaming skull as the ball. Lumina couldn't help but laugh. "It's like a twisted version of New York," She said.
Alastor grinned. "That's one way to look at it. Hell has its own charm, wouldn't you say?"
They continued their tour, Alastor showing her various sights and explaining the rules and customs of Hell. Lumina was surprised by how much she was enjoying herself. Despite the blood and chaos, there was an odd sense of familiarity and even comfort.
Maybe she was too used to New York chaos..
At one point, they stopped at a café, where Alastor ordered a drink for Lumina. She hesitated before taking a sip, but to her surprise, it was quite good. It was a latte, the whipped cream on top was screaming. She willfully ignored the sentient topping. "This is...actually nice." She admitted.
Alastor leaned back in his chair, watching her with a curious expression. "You know, Lumina, you're handling this far better than I expected."
"Guess I'm used to chaotic environments, I came from one and I currently live in one. And because of you I'm threatened by one." She says the last part bitterly, and though Alastor would usually have a snappy retort he only nods and hums.
As Lumina and Alastor made their way through the bustling streets of Hell, they eventually arrived at the Hazbin Hotel. Lumina marveled at the grand building before them, her curiosity piqued.
"What's this place?" She asked, eyeing the hotel with interest.
Alastor grinned. "This, my dear, is the Hazbin Hotel—a place for sinners to seek redemption."
Lumina raised an eyebrow. "Redemption in Hell? That's...unexpected."
"Indeed." Alastor replied flatly.
"Are you sure about this?" Lumina asked, glancing nervously at Alastor.
He chuckled. "Don't worry, my dear Fawn. You'll be perfectly safe."
With that reassurance, Lumina followed Alastor inside. The lobby of the Hazbin Hotel was bustling with activity, and Lumina couldn't help but marvel at the eclectic decor and the colorful characters milling about.
Alastor led her through the lobby, introducing her as an old friend who was interested in seeing the hotel. He was careful to keep up the ruse, knowing that no one must know Lumina's true identity as a human from the Living Realm.
They made their way to the main lounge, where Lumina was introduced to the workers of the hotel—Angel Dust, Charlie, Vaggie, Nifty, and Husk.
"Nice to meet ya, I'm Lumina, Lumina Beaumont!" Lumina said with a polite smile, trying to ignore the nagging feeling of guilt for deceiving them.
Angel Dust immediately took a liking to Lumina (FRIENDLY WAY MIND YOU), after hearing that unmistakable New York accent, flashing her a charming grin. "How's it going, Toots? Welcome to the Hazbin Hotel."
Lumina chuckled a bit upon seeing him, she was immediately liking him as well. But really because he looked adorable and had a friendly warmth. "Pretty good! This place 'Minds me of The Plaza Hotel!"
Angel Dust grins, a bit of nostalgia flowing through him. "I haven't heard of that place in a looong time! Are you from New York? I used to live there too!" He rests his second set of hands on his hips. As his others rise up in disbelief.
Lumina's tail wags a bit, she was happy to know that. "You bet, right in Times Square!" She exclaims, and as the two continue to talk the Princess of Hell, the bubbly blonde girl, bounded over. "Hi! I'm Charlie, and this is Vaggie," She said, gesturing to a serious-looking woman standing next to her. "Welcome to the Hazbin Hotel!"
"Nice to meet you, Lumina," Vaggie said, her tone more reserved but friendly.
Charlie, always the optimist, beamed at Lumina. "We're so glad you could visit! We're always happy to welcome new guests."
Lumina was taken aback by Charlie's warmth and sincerity. "Thank you, Charlie. Your hotel is truly remarkable."
Husk, the grumpy, alcoholic cat demon, was the last to approach, eyeing Lumina with suspicion. "Husk," He grumbled. He narrowed his eyes, clearly seeing through the disguise but keeping his thoughts to himself for now.
Lumina found herself getting along surprisingly well with Lucifer, much to Alastor's dismay. She discovered they shared a love of ducks, and they bonded over their shared fascination with the waterfowl. "I never knew Hell could be so...quacky," Lumina jokes, earning a hearty laugh from Lucifer.
Nifty, the excitable cleaner, was immediately drawn to Lumina, bouncing around her with endless energy. "I'm guessing you're Niffty, you're rather spunky and adorable." She had scuttled up to Lumina's face to squish her face adoringly, making her laugh a bit. "Oh my gosh, you're the one Alastor talks about all the time! It's so nice to finally meet you!"
Lumina gave Alastor a coy look, raising an eyebrow. "Oh, does he now?"
Alastor coughed, clearly not expecting Nifty's outburst. "Yes, well, I may have mentioned you once or twice. Nifty, why don't you show Lumina around the hotel?"
While Nifty eagerly led Lumina on a tour of the hotel, Husk approached Alastor with a skeptical look. "Bringing a human here? That's too far, Al. What's the game?"
Alastor's smile faltered for a moment, replaced by a steely glare. "Mind your own business, Husk. It's just a simple trip"
Husk snorted, clearly unimpressed. It was definitely against some rules to have an alive human down here, Alastor of course wouldn't care about them anyway, sure. "I hope you know what you're doing. If anyone finds out, it could mean trouble."
"Relax," Alastor said, his tone confident. "I always know what I'm doing
It was risky to bring her to Hell for a bit, but ballsy to bring her to the place LUCIFER is staying at.
The residents of the Hazbin Hotel, while eccentric and sometimes terrifying, were also oddly endearing. And despite the chaos, there was a sense of camaraderie that Lumina couldn't help but appreciate.
Lumina wandered the halls of the Hazbin Hotel, she found herself increasingly fascinated by the intricate details of the place. Each room seemed to hold its own story, its own secrets. She passed by various doors, each one more curious than the last, until she heard a low grumble coming from the bar area.
Curiosity piqued, she approached the bar and saw Husk, the grumpy cat demon, sitting alone with a half-empty glass in front of him. He looked particularly troubled, his usual gruff exterior replaced by a deeper, more somber mood. She knows about Husk, just not deeper details. Alastor was careful not to say anything about the stipulations of his deal. She was drawn to him just from that, and now after seeing him she was more intrigued.
Mostly because he was a cat, she desperately wanted to pet his ears.
"Husk?" She called softly, making her way over to him. "Are you alright?"
Husk glanced up, his eyes narrowing slightly before he sighed. "What're you doing here, kid? Shouldn't you be sticking close to Alastor?"
Lumina shook her head. "I've always had a habit of wandering off. Besides, I wanted to get to know the residents here. Without him breathing over my shoulder." She paused, then added, "And I wanted to talk to you."
"Talk to me?" Husk scoffed, though there was a hint of curiosity in his eyes. "What for?"
Lumina took a seat next to him, her expression serious. "I know you have a deal with Alastor too. I was hoping you could tell me about it. About him."
Husk visibly tensed at the mention of Alastor. "I don't know if that's a good idea. Al's not someone you want to piss off."
Lumina nodded in understanding. "I get it. He's terrifying. I... I just want to understand him... I don't…I don't want to die because some remorseless asshole got bored of watching my life get progressively worse.."
If anything Lumina was hoping he'd take her to Hell, he's told her about his contacts. Not in deep detail of course. She was not a happy camper about it. In fact she was worried about them more than her own wellbeing. She wanted to talk to them and see what Alastor is putting them through, she doesn't know much about Husk. If anything he's an alcoholic yet Alastor had him running a bar in a place ment for redemption.
Her time in rehab was not fun at all, especially the while she had to spend getting over her addictions..this was awful.
There was a long pause as Husk considered her words. Finally, he let out a deep sigh and took a swig from his glass. "I was a gambler. A damn good one, or so I thought. But I made some bad bets, got into deep shit. Alastor showed up, offered me a way out. Said he could make all my problems disappear if I agreed to his terms."
Lumina listened intently, her eyes filled with empathy. "And you accepted?"
Husk nodded grimly. "Yeah, I did. Didn't see any other way out. Thought I was clever, that I could outsmart him. But Al... he's got a way of twisting things. Now I'm stuck here, working for him."
Lumina reached out, placing a gentle hand on his arm. "I'm so sorry, Husk. I can't imagine how hard that must be."
Husk looked at her, genuinely surprised by her sincerity. "Why do you care?"
"Because I just do, I feel bad. I know it's not my fault, but I feel guilty nonetheless…I feel trapped with him, and it gets worse with every waking hour. But I'm trying to make the best of it.. To find some semblance of happiness, even if it's fleeting."
There was a moment of silence between them, filled with a shared understanding of their dire circumstances. Husk felt a pang of genuine compassion for her.
"Kid," Husk said, his voice softer now. "You've got guts, I'll give you that. Just... be careful. Alastor's not one to mess around with."
She'd question him on calling her kid, she's 27 for goodness sakes, but she feels he's way older than she was. Like if being alive still in Hell means you don't age as a Sinner then he's probably as old as her great grandparents.
Lumina gave him a sad smile. "I know. But thank you for sharing your story with me, Husk. It means a lot."
"Can I pet your ears?"
"No."
Alastor finally found them. He approached with a mix of irritation and relief. "There you are, my dear Fawn. I've been looking for you." He saw her wonder off chasing after Fat Nuggets and Keke who were playing with her, along with Razzle. Who seemed a little more upbeat with her around. He would've followed her but he was pulled into a conversation with Charlie about letting Lumina stay there, so he had to talk her out of it.
For now at least.
Lumina stood up, giving Husk a reassuring nod before turning to Alastor. "Just getting to know your friends, Alastor."
Alastor's eyes flicked to Husk, who gave him a wary look. "Indeed. Come, let's get you back to your tour. There's still so much more to see."
Her tail lay low, curving around her leg a bit after sensing his apprehension and Alastor's admonishing stare.
As they walked away, Husk watched them go, feeling a strange sense of hope. Maybe, just maybe, Lumina could find a way to break free from Alastor's grip. And if she could, perhaps there was hope for him as well.
As Lumina and Alastor went to exit the Hotel, they turned a corner and bumped into a figure with black-tipped ears and paws. The collision was abrupt, and both Lumina and the stranger stumbled back, quickly apologizing to each other.
"I'm so sorry!" Lumina exclaimed, regaining her balance.
"It's alright," The fox-like demon replied, his voice smooth and calm. He looked at Lumina with a blank expression that quickly turned into a gasp of recognition. "Lumina?"
Before Lumina could respond, Alastor's eyes widened in alarm. "Damien," He muttered under his breath, cursing his bad luck. He had been sure Damien would be out for the day. Not wanting Lumina to recognize him, he quickly intervened.
Stepping between them and pushing Lumina away like she was a stone statue. "We should get going. Lots more to see!" Alastor interjected.
Lumina looked puzzled but allowed herself to be led away. "But, Alastor, who was that—"
"No time for introductions," Alastor said hurriedly, ushering her towards the exit. "We have an appointment with someone very special."
As they left the hotel, Damien watched them go, his expression a mix of shock and curiosity. He knew he needed to speak with Lumina, but it would have to wait.
Outside, Lumina glanced back at Alastor. "Who was that? He seemed to know me."
"Just a minor inconvenience," Alastor replied dismissively, though his eyes betrayed a hint of worry. "Now, how about we visit Cannibal Town? My friend Rosie would love to meet you."
"Cannibal Town?" Lumina repeated, her eyes widening in alarm. "That sounds...dangerous."
"It is, it's a town of Cannibals of course it's dangerous, …for you at least." Alastor admitted. "But that's why you must stay by my side at all times. Do you understand?"
Lumina nodded, feeling a mix of excitement and trepidation. "Alright, I'll stay close."
Alastor led her through the chaotic streets of Hell, keeping a protective arm around her. The landscape grew more residential as they approached Cannibal Town, a place infamous even among demons for its savagery. Yet it looked like a neighborhood from the 50s, the Gazebo in the middle of it really set it off.
The short brunette in disguise unconsciously moved in closer to Alastor as they passed by a group of Cannibals feasting on a past-tense demon. They all waved to him and called out his name in greeting and Alastor waved back cheerily, Lumina furrowed her brows..how is he so well known in this place?
They arrived at a grand, gothic building adorned with elaborate decorations and eerie lighting. Alastor knocked on the door, and it swung open to reveal a tall, elegant demoness with a wide, unsettling smile.
"Alastor, darling! What a surprise," Rosie said, her eyes lighting up as she noticed Lumina. "And who is this lovely creature?"
"This is Lumina," Alastor introduced her. "I thought you two might get along."
Rosie's eyes sparkled with recognition, and she immediately took Lumina's hands, pulling her into a warm embrace. "Oh, she's simply delightful! Come, dear, let's have a chat."
Before Lumina knew it, Rosie had whisked her away to a cozy seating area in the shop. They began to chat like old friends, Rosie's warmth and charm quickly putting Lumina at ease.
"So, Lumina," Rosie said, her voice melodic, "Tell me, how did you end up in our little corner of Hell?"
Lumina hesitated, glancing at Alastor for guidance. He nodded slightly, encouraging her to speak.
"Well, it's a long story," She began. "But Alastor thought it would be good for me to see what Hell is like. I'm... learning a lot."
Alastor's eyes narrowed as he sensed an ominous presence watching them from the shadows. He leaned closer to Rosie and whispered, "Keep an eye on Lumina for a moment. I have some... business to attend to."
Rosie nodded, her smile unwavering. "Of course, Alastor. I'll take good care of her."
With that, Alastor slipped out of the emporium, his movements swift and silent. He spotted the guilty demon skulking nearby, and as soon as their eyes met, the demon turned and bolted, a string of curses trailing behind him. Alastor gave chase, his predatory instincts kicking in.
The demon's fear only fueled Alastor's determination, and he quickly caught up to him in a dark alley. The demon, cornered and trembling, fell to his knees, begging for mercy.
"Please, Alastor, I was just following orders! I swear, I didn't mean any harm!"
Alastor's eyes glinted with malice as he loomed over the demon. "Vox, you say? Well, I'll be sure to send him your regards."
Before the demon could protest further, Alastor ended his life with a swift motion, leaving the remains for the cannibals to devour. He watched with a satisfied smirk as the cannibals descended on their meal.
But how long has he been following them? Whatever cloak they were using stopped working, it was definitely timed and not only is he pissed off he's fucking livid.
Lumina found herself genuinely intrigued by Rosie's tales, despite their horrific nature. Rosie had a way of making even the darkest stories fascinating. Eventually, the conversation shifted to relationships.
For no reason other than plot convenience.
"So, Lumina," Rosie said with a mischievous glint in her eye. "What about you? Any special someone?"
Lumina hesitated, feeling a bit out of her depth. "Oh..no. I've never really had a relationship that lasted. I... I think there's something wrong with me...I have a hard time finding someone sexually attractive, and a lot of them thought I was calling them ugly. I mean I do still have…feelings for them, just on a more emotional level I guess.. I dunno."
"It's like.. everyone wants coke or pepsi but I'm pretty fine with tea."
Lumina's face reddened slightly and she scratched her cheek in a nervous gesture. "Sorry, Rosie. I didn't mean to dump all that on you."
Rosie gives a pleasant chuckle and waves her off dismissively. "Oh it's okay, my Dear! More than okay, it seemed like you really wanted to tell someone about that anyway." Lumina smiles softly, looking around the shop a bit, still feeling embarrassed.
"Though I know exactly what you may be." Rosie stated, and Lumina tilted her head, her curiosity piqued. "You're asexual. A lovely ace in the hole as they say!"
"...Asexual?" Lumina repeated, the term unfamiliar to her.
"Yes, it means little to no sexual attraction," Rosie explained gently. "It's perfectly normal. There's nothing wrong with you, Dear." She said while holding her gloved hand and patting it gently in a comforting manner.
Lumina felt a wave of relief wash over her. "I... I didn't know that. Thank you, Rosie."
Rosie smiled warmly. "Anytime, darling."
Lumina felt at ease, both because of a revelation and because Rosie was kind and gentle to her. It was rather motherly and it made her want to tear up. That longing for a motherly figure in her life that actually loved her and respected her…it hit hard.
'There's nothing wrong with me?'
"There's something wrong with her. It's to spite me, I'm trying to get in good with these famous blowhards and my darling little squeaky fawn over there won't do anything with them!" Her mother's voice echoed in her head.
When Alastor returned, he found Lumina wandering around the emporium, completely unfazed by the gruesome sights and sounds around her. She was captivated by a small, pink, baby carnivorous plant with heart patterns on it. The plant snapped at her, but she scolded it firmly, and after a moment, it allowed her to pet it, emitting happy growls.
"Do you want it?" Alastor asked, a curious smile playing on his lips.
Lumina's eyes lit up with excitement. "Yes, absolutely! It's almost like a flytrap plant from the Living Realm, but much more interesting." "Look at those big chompers! Could take an arm off when it's bigger I bet!" "It's got such a cute head, pink with hearts on it, long curly leaves and vines!" She scratched its chin like it was a regular old pet and cooed at it. "You'd love the sun dappled window in my Living Room huh? Just don't eat my cat!"
Alastor watched her with a mixture of amusement and confusion. Her indifference to the horrors of Hell and her ability to blend in so seamlessly intrigued him. She was unlike anyone he had ever encountered.
Also…when did she get a cat? He was at her place for half the morning and there was no sign of one.
Rosie observed the interaction with an admiring look, her hand cupping her cheek as she awe'd. Enthused by the excitement she held for the carnivorous plant, even when it tried to bite her. "She's quite the little peach there, Al. "
Alastor's smile widened, a touch of genuine warmth in his expression. "She's... unique, I'll give her that."
As Lumina continued to chat animatedly about the plant, her new tail wagging happily behind her, Alastor couldn't shake the feeling that there was something special about her. And despite himself, he found that he didn't mind it one bit.
As the day came to an end, Lumina said her goodbyes to Rosie and the others at the Emporium. Alastor escorted her back to the Living Realm, and she was immediately eager to set up a cozy spot for her new carnivorous plant, which she named Audrey the 3rd.
Alastor raised an eyebrow at the name. "Audrey the 3rd? Any particular reason for that?"
Lumina hums, patting the head of the plant gently. "No particular reason. I just like it."
Alastor the light tone she usually has when talking with him wasn't apparent, in fact it sounded cold,watching as she was arranging a perfect spot for Audrey. He was a bit bothered by the cold shoulder she was giving him. It's been 30 minutes since they got here.
Why did it bother him so much?
The deer demon gives a gruff Just as he was about to head back to Hell, something caught his eye. It was Lumina's cat, the one that bore an uncanny resemblance to him. The creature, with its red fur, black-tipped tail and paws, and fluffy ears, lounged on the couch, looking utterly content.
Lumina noticed the direction of Alastor's gaze and immediately rushed over to coddle the cat. The cat purred and nuzzled her affectionately. "You had a fun day exploring, Calastor?" she cooed at the cat.
Alastor's ears perked up at the name. "Calastor? Really?"
"Yeah," Lumina replied, still lavishing attention on the cat. "I named him that because he looks like you. It's weird, right? Why does he look like you, actually?"
She turned to glare at Alastor, her eyes narrowing in suspicion. Alastor shifted uncomfortably. He had indeed created the creature long ago, but he had no idea how it ended up in the Living Realm and in Lumina's care.
"Well, I might have... forgotten about him," Alastor admitted, scratching the back of his head. "But it seems he's taken quite a liking to you."
Calastor the cat purred louder, glaring at Alastor as if to stake its claim on Lumina. Alastor glared back, a silent rivalry brewing between them.
"Figures," Lumina muttered, rolling her eyes. "Just like you to create something and forget about it."
Alastor huffed. "For your information, my dear Fawn, Calastor was created for a purpose. I just... lost track of him."
Lumina laughed, a sound that was both exasperated and amused. He used the name she called him and it made her laugh despite her inner feelings. "Well, he's mine now, and he's a perfect fit."
Alastor watched her with a mixture of frustration and affection. She had a way of making even his most unexpected creations feel welcome. As Lumina continued to fuss over Calastor, Alastor felt a strange pang of possessiveness. Even his minions.
"Just remember," Alastor said, his tone playful yet serious, "I'm still the one keeping an eye on you."
Lumina looked up, her eyes meeting his with an unfeeling look. Which threw him off for a bit. "I know"
As he descended back into Hell, he couldn't help but feel a strange sense of satisfaction. Lumina's world was becoming more entangled with his, and despite the complications, he found himself increasingly captivated by her resilience and charm.
Lumina learned something about herself, something she couldn't understand or even grasp.
Damien will be questioning Alastor about Lumina.
Lumina is still thinking about who that fox guy was, and is trying to distance herself from Alastor. After what she seen Husk goes through she's not exactly mentally well.
Next chapter is kind of angsty.