Alastor was intrigued. There are not many things in Hell that have raised his curiosity lately. At the start it was fun, he got powers he could not wait to discover and experiment with. He was able to continue hunting and this time he was able to make everyone listen without the threat of those pesky police officers stopping his fun.
Then Alastor became an overlord, and he became even more powerful. His power grew and abilities evolved. Alastor could not wait to continue his experimentation. But with time Hell started to grow dull.
It was around that time that he heard about an upcoming overlord who was amassing power rapidly in not only souls, but riches and territory. So, of course, Alastor paid him a visit.
The Gambling Overlord Husker was a delight! A man controlled by his vices. He spent all his time in his casino, drinking and gambling. As if he was not in Hell. As if the rules that governed the rest of the sinners were an option to him.
He did not even know he was an overlord!
Alastor's spark rekindled in The Cat's Den, as sinners started calling Husker's Casino. The overlord could not be bothered to name his own establishment.
The Cat's Den became Alastor's favorite hunting ground. So many sinners' slaves to their sins, trying and failing to beat the gambling overlord until they lose their Souls. Sinners celebrating while beside them there are others crying and begging.
Yes, The Cat's Den had slowly become one of Alastor's favorite places in Hell. Especially, since the overlord could not care less about who Alastor was. As long as Alastor makes sure to keep all blood shedding outside of his casino, that is. Normally, Alastor would have hated the lack of fear, but with the grumpy cat he found it amusing.
Husker was a husk of the man he must have been while alive. He cared about nothing but drinking and gambling. Part of Alastor thought it was a waste. After all, Alastor could not stop but think what the sinner who had become an overlord without trying could achieve if he put his mind into it. However, the other part of Alastor reminded himself that the brightest stars that crash and burn are the most beautiful.
So, Alas for stayed back and enjoyed the show while it lasted. When Alastor started to see the signs here treated for a year. He stayed in his Radio Tower, did his radio show, and waited a little more. Alastor wanted his Husk desperate enough to bet his own soul.
However, Alastor was shocked to find out that Husk did hot crash and burn. No, he rose to the occasion. The Gambling Overlord went from. A small-time overlord, to become a real powerhouse. He tripled his territory, went from a few hundred souls to several thousands. Not to mention, he was one of the richest overlords in Hell now.
And in only a decade!
Alastor might have not gotten Husk's souls, but at least he got his answer to what Overlord Husker could achieve if he put his mind to it.
Which lead Alastor to confidently stroll into the grand lobby of The Cat's Den Casino & Resort. His aura radiated a chilling combination of charm and menace. The smile on his face remained unwavering, though he fought the urge to burst into laughter at the sight before him. Sinners, both employees and patrons, were scrambling out of his path, their faces painted with a mix of fear and reverence. The Radio Demon was still a force to be reckoned with in Pentagram City, and he relished every moment of it.
As he moved forward, the crowd parted like a sea, allowing him a clear path to the check-in desk. What had been a bustling line mere seconds ago had dissolved, leaving a straight shot for him to the front. Alastor's eyes sparkled with amusement at their reaction, but his smile never faltered.
He reached the desk where a rabbit-like concierge sinner stood, her fur a soft gray, her large ears twitching slightly. Her name tag read "Bianca." Unlike the others, Bianca met his gaze without a trace of fear. Her calm demeanor was a refreshing change, and Alastor's interest was piqued.
"Welcome to The Cat's Den Casino & Resort, Lord Alastor," Bianca said with a polite nod. Her voice was steady, almost melodic, a stark contrast to the nervous murmurs of the other sinners. "How long will you be staying with us?"
Alastor's grin widened, his crimson eyes gleaming with a sinister delight. "I will be staying for the weekend, my dear. A suite room with a view and balcony, of course."
Bianca nodded efficiently, her fingers moving swiftly over the keyboard. "Certainly, Lord Alastor. We have the perfect suite for you. Enjoying the view from the balcony at sunrise is quite the experience." She handed him a sleek keycard, her composure never wavering.
"Thank you, Bianca," Alastor replied, his voice dripping with charm. "I look forward to it."
Bianca guided Alastor down the luxurious corridor, her steps confident and measured. The lobby was still eerily silent, all eyes fixed on him as he walked away. Alastor reveled in their terror, feeding off it like a fine wine. Alastor followed, his eyes drinking in every detail of The Cat's Den Casino & Resort. Back then this building used to be less than a third of what it is now, a dingy dark and noisy building. However, now the place exuded wealth and sophistication, which delighted Alastor. Alastor has always been someone who appreciated the good things in life… or in this case, in death.
The décor followed a striking black, gold, and red palette, each color meticulously chosen to enhance the overall ambiance. The marble floors gleamed under the soft lighting, reflecting the gold accents that adorned the walls. Large glass windows were intricately detailed with motifs of poker cards, dice, and cats, a nod to the casino's theme and it's overlord.
As they walked, Alastor noticed that they were passing through various stores and food establishments. Bianca seemed to be giving him an impromptu tour. She pointed out each place, her voice steady and informative.
"Over here is Blackjack Bijoux, our jewelry store," Bianca said, gesturing to a lavishly decorated storefront filled with sparkling gems and elegant pieces. "They have a wonderful selection of custom-made jewelry."
Next, they passed All-In Attire, a clothing store with mannequins dressed in the latest fashions, the display windows glittering with high-end apparel. "If you need any attire for your stay or a special occasion, this is the place to go," Bianca continued.
They moved on to the Royal Flush Bistro, a cozy café perfect for a quick breakfast or a cup of coffee. The scent of freshly brewed coffee wafted out, mingling with the rich aroma of baked goods. "A popular spot for our guests," Bianca said with a smile.
Double Down Deli was next, a sandwich shop that Bianca assured him was fantastic. "They make the best sandwiches in the city," she told him, her eyes lighting up and ear twitching at the mention of the food.
Alastor noticed how each establishment was named after gambling slang, their décor in perfect harmony with the theme. The overlord had placed a lot of thought and effort put into the resort's design. Or he simply got lucky and won a talented soul in interior design.
As they continued, Bianca pointed out the various amenities available to guests. "We have a pool, a jacuzzi, a sauna, a gym, and a salon," she said, her tone proud. "Everything you need for a relaxing and enjoyable stay."
Alastor observed the staff as they passed. Everyone wore a golden uniform, but each member wore a distinctive pin beside their nametag, making it easy to identify their roles. Those who worked for the resort as concierges, cleaning staff, and other similar positions wore a red vest with a black clubs pins beside their nametags. The staff in the food establishments sported a black vest with a red hearts pin. Those involved in entertainment wore a black vest with a red diamond pin beside their nametags, and Alastor deduced that the ones working directly in the casino wore a red vest with a black spades pins.
Bianca led him through the main casino floor, the heart of the resort. The sound of clinking chips, the whirl of slot machines, and the murmur of voices created a lively symphony of gambling. Alastor's grin widened at the sight, feeling the electric atmosphere seep into his bones. This was the den of sin he was familiar with.
Finally, they reached the elevator that would take them to his suite. Bianca pressed the button, and they waited in a comfortable silence. Alastor took this moment to observe her more closely. She was composed and confident, her demeanor professional yet approachable. Her calmness intrigued him, a stark contrast to the usual fear he inspired in others. Alastor wondered if Overlord Husker trained all his people right, or if Bianca was a special case.
The elevator doors slid open, and they stepped inside. As the elevator ascended, Bianca continued to explain more about the resort. "Your suite is on the thirteenth floor, offering one of the best views of the city," she said, her eyes meeting his briefly before returning to the panel of buttons. "I'm sure you'll find it to your liking."
The elevator dinged softly, and the doors opened to reveal a lavish hallway. Bianca led him to his suite, Room 1301, with a polite smile. "If you need anything during your stay, please don't hesitate to call the concierge. We are here to ensure your visit is perfect."
Alastor took the keycard, his fingers brushing against hers momentarily. "Thank you, my dear," he said, his voice smooth and charismatic. "You've been most helpful."
She nodded, her expression warm but still professional. "Enjoy your stay, Lord Alastor."
With that, she turned and walked away, her steps echoing softly down the hallway. Alastor watched her go, his mind already buzzing with plans. He swiped the keycard and entered his suite, the door closing softly behind him.
The room was a masterpiece of luxury. Plush furnishings, elegant decor, and a balcony that offered a breathtaking view of Pentagram City. Alastor walked to the balcony doors, opening them to let in the cool evening breeze. He stepped outside, leaning against the railing as he gazed out at the city below. The lights of Pentagram City sparkled like a sea of stars, Alastor felt a surge of satisfaction, his smile widening as he took it all in. This was his domain, his playground, and he intended to enjoy every moment of it.
The weekend promised excitement, and Alastor was ready. The Cat's Den Casino & Resort was the perfect stage for his next act, and he couldn't wait to see how the story would unfold.
After putting his suitcase away and taking a moment to admire the opulent suite, Alastor decided it was time for dinner. His stomach rumbled in agreement, and he knew exactly where he wanted to go. The main restaurant. Roulette Room.
He made his way down to the restaurant, appreciating the elegance of the resort as he walked. The Roulette Room was a six-star establishment, almost as large as the main casino itself. Its reputation preceded it, and Alastor was intrigued to see if it lived up to the hype. The entrance was grand, with a shimmering chandelier that cast a warm glow over the polished floors and richly decorated walls.
A squirrel-like sinner greeted him at the entrance, her bright eyes and bushy tail giving her an air of jittery energy. Her nametag read "Hannah," and the red heart pin indicated she worked in the food establishment. She smiled warmly at Alastor, showing no signs of the usual fear or awe. Another well trained sinner underneath Overlord Husker's ownership.
"Good evening, Lord Alastor," she said, her voice cheerful and welcoming. "We've reserved a table for you in our VIP area. Right this way, please."
Alastor followed her through the restaurant, noting the impressive attention to detail. Overlord Husker had clearly spared no expense in decorating the Roulette Room. The entire space was designed to resemble a roulette table, with the same striking red, gold, and black color scheme that flowed throughout the casino and resort. The atmosphere was both luxurious and lively, the soft murmur of conversation blending with the gentle clink of cutlery and glasses.
The centerpiece of the restaurant was the buffet, ingeniously set on a large table crafted as roulette that spun slowly. It was a feast for the senses, with an array of dishes catering to every kind of sinner. There were options for everyone, from gourmet delicacies to more sinister offerings for the cannibals and hell-born patrons. The display was both extravagant and slightly macabre, a perfect fit for the setting.
Hannah led Alastor to a window table in the VIP area, offering a stunning view of the city's nightscape. "Please enjoy your meal," she said with a polite nod before leaving him to his own devices.
Alastor settled into his seat, taking a moment to soak in the ambiance. The Roulette Room was buzzing with energy, yet his VIP section offered a sense of privacy and exclusivity. A waiter approached promptly, handing him a menu and taking his drink order. Alastor opted for a glass of the finest red wine, something robust to match the richness of the evening.
Browsing the menu, Alastor's eyes landed on a dish that piqued his interest: Venison with Blackberry Wine Sauce. He made his selection and handed the menu back to the waiter, who disappeared with a courteous bow.
As he waited for his meal, Alastor observed the other diners. The variety of sinners was vast, each one engrossed in their own indulgences. The atmosphere was thick with the scent of exquisite food and the hum of conversation.
His wine arrived, and he took a sip, savoring the rich, full-bodied flavor. It was excellent, a perfect prelude to the meal he anticipated. When his plate finally arrived, Alastor's eyes gleamed with delight. The presentation was impeccable, the venison perfectly cooked and draped in a luscious blackberry wine sauce.
He took his first bite, and a wave of satisfaction washed over him. The meat was tender and flavorful, the sauce adding a sweet yet tart contrast that elevated the dish to new heights. Alastor closed his eyes, savoring the explosion of flavors on his palate. It was immediately clear why the Roulette Room had earned its six-star rating in just a decade.
Each bite was a delight, and Alastor found himself lost in the experience. The restaurant's ambiance, the exceptional service, and the divine food all combined to create a dining experience unlike any other. For a moment, he allowed himself to simply enjoy the luxury, his usual scheming mind quieted by the sheer pleasure of the meal.
As he finished his dinner, Alastor leaned back in his chair, a satisfied smile playing on his lips. Feeling content, Alastor sipped the last of his wine, glancing around the room once more. The Roulette Room had not only met his expectations but surpassed them. But the night was still young, and there was much more to explore and experience. For now, though, he was perfectly content to enjoy this moment of indulgence.
Eventually, he signaled for the check, and Hannah returned with a gracious smile. "I hope everything was to your satisfaction, Lord Alastor," she said as she handed him the bill.
"It was more than satisfactory, my dear," Alastor replied, his grin wide and genuine. "It was exquisite."
Hannah's smile widened, pleased with his praise. "We hope to see you again soon. Enjoy the rest of your evening."
With a nod and a generous tip left for the impeccable service, Alastor stood and made his way out of the restaurant. Deciding to save the casino floors for another night, Alastor opted to end his evening with a drink at The Lucky Draw. The lounge and bar had a reputation for always having a show. He made his way through the lavish corridors, appreciating the consistent elegance of the decor.
The Lucky Draw was everything he'd imagined and more. The entrance was marked by a grand archway adorned with glittering gold accents. As he stepped inside, he was greeted by Stevan, a bear-like sinner with a warm, professional demeanor. Stevan's nametag gleamed beside a red diamond pin, identifying him as part of the entertainment staff.
"Good evening, Lord Alastor," Stevan said, his voice deep and smooth. "Welcome to The Lucky Draw. I have a table reserved for you with an excellent view of the stage."
Alastor nodded in acknowledgment, his ever-present smile tensing as he followed Stevan through the lounge. This was the third time that it happened. First there was a luxurious suite waiting for him, curious as Alastor knew that the resort is always packed with visitors from all over the seven rings. Then one of the most exclusive restaurants in Pentagram City, which normally had sinners and overlords alike booking a table with at least weeks beforehand, had a VIP spot just for him. And now he was being given a table with an excellent view of the stage?
Once is an accident, twice is a coincidence, thrice is a pattern. What is Husky playing at?
Shelving this for another time, Alastor focused on his environment. The lounge exuded luxury. The walls were a deep, rich black, contrasting beautifully with the plush red velvet armchairs and sofas scattered throughout. Every corner of the room seemed to glitter with gold decorations, creating an atmosphere of opulence and indulgence, while also showing off the wealth of the overlord that owns it all.
The lounge was expansive, with multiple floors and bars strategically placed to serve the guests no matter where they sat. The stage, the centerpiece of the room, was visible from every angle, ensuring that everyone had a perfect view of the night's performance. The crowd was diverse, a mix of sinners and hellborn from all over the seven rings. Alastor spotted Possessors, Succubi, Baphomets, and even a few Ars Goetia mingling amongst the patrons.
Stevan led Alastor to a table that offered an impeccable view of the stage. Alastor settled into the plush chair, he felt a sense of satisfaction.
"What can I get you to drink, sir?" Stevan asked, his notepad at the ready.
"I'll have a Martini," Alastor replied, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "But not just any Martini. I'd like The Obituary."
Stevan nodded with a knowing smile. "An excellent choice. I'll have that right out for you."
As he waited, Alastor took in the ambiance. The Lucky Draw was alive with chatter and laughter, the clinking of glasses and the hum of conversation blending into the anticipation in the air. Everyone eager for the night's entertainment to begin.
When Stevan returned with his drink, Alastor took the glass, swirling it gently before taking a sip. He was pleasantly surprised. The Obituary was a cocktail that required finesse to perfect, and it was rare to find one made to his satisfaction, especially in Hell. But this—this was exceptional.
The gin was smooth, the absinthe adding just the right amount of complexity without overpowering the drink. It was a perfect balance, a taste of home that made him nostalgic for New Orleans. Alastor's smile widened in genuine pleasure. Clearly, Overlord Husk has evolved from the alley cat that would drink anything that was placed in front of him. It seems that now only the finest bottles made their way into his bars.
As he savored his drink, the lights dimmed, and the chatter of the crowd quieted. The show was about to begin. A jazz band took the stage, their instruments gleaming under the spotlight. The first notes were smooth and sultry, drawing the audience in. Then, the singer stepped forward, her voice a velvety alto that sent shivers down Alastor's spine.
He closed his eyes, letting the music wash over him. The singer's voice was mesmerizing, filled with emotion and soul. Her siren-like physique fits perfectly with her gift. As the Radio Demon, he knew a beautiful voice when he heard one. It was the kind of voice that could transport you to another time and place, and Alastor, with his keen ear for sound, could appreciate the talent and skill behind it.
For the next hour, Alastor lost himself in the music. The band played a mix of classic jazz and original compositions, each piece more captivating than the last. When the final notes faded and the applause erupted, Alastor opened his eyes. He finished his Obituary, savoring the last sip, and leaned back in his chair, a satisfied smile on his face.
Stevan approached the table once more. "Did you enjoy the show, Lord Alastor?"
"It was quite something," Alastor replied. "The singer has a remarkable talent. And the drink—perfection."
Stevan beamed at the praise. "I'm glad to hear that. We strive to offer only the best here at The Lucky Draw."
"You've certainly succeeded," Alastor said with a nod. "Thank you for a wonderful evening."
As he stood to leave, Alastor made his way back to his suite, his mind already buzzing with the possibilities of tomorrow. The next day, as the morning light filtered through the curtains, Alastor stirred from his slumber, greeted by the soft embrace of a king-sized bed. He stretched, feeling the luxurious red doublet against his skin. With a contented hum, he rose from the bed and made his way to the balcony.
The view from his suite was just as breathtaking as it had been during the night, the city spread out below him like a canvas painted with sin and indulgence. Alastor took a moment to savor the sight, the cool breeze brushing against his face as he breathed in the scent of morning in Pentagram City.
Feeling refreshed, he made his way to the kitchenette and prepared himself a cup of tea. The familiar aroma filled the air, Alastor took a sip, relishing the rich, earthy flavor as it danced on his tongue. With his tea in hand, he settled onto the balcony, letting the morning sun wash over him as he enjoyed the quiet solitude.
Eventually, he finished his tea and made his way to the luxurious bathroom for a shower. The hot water cascaded over him, washing away the remnants of sleep and leaving him feeling invigorated and ready for the day ahead. Dressed in his finest attire, Alastor made his way down to the Royal Flush Bistro for breakfast. The atmosphere was lively, the scent of freshly brewed coffee mingling with the tantalizing aroma of baked goods.
Davina, a lamb-like sinner with a warm smile, greeted him at the entrance. "Good morning, Lord Alastor." Her red heart pin gleamed beside her nametag, as she spoke cheerfully. "Table for one?"
Alastor nodded, returning her smile. His mother had taught him to treat women politely. "Yes, please."
He perused the menu, finally settling on a plate of beignets and a cup of coffee. The pastries arrived warm and fluffy, dusted with a generous coating of powdered sugar. With a delicate touch, he picked one up and took a bite, the sugary sweetness melting on his tongue. The coffee was a revelation, rich and full-bodied with just the right amount of bitterness. It reminded him of the small bakery back home in New Orleans, where he would start his mornings with a cup of freshly brewed coffee and a warm pastry.
With a satisfied hum, he finished his meal and thanked Davina for her impeccable service. As he left the bistro, Alastor decided to venture into Blackjack Bijoux. Stepping into the store, he was immediately met by the dazzling display of gems and precious metals.
Pearls from the Envy Ring shimmered with an iridescent glow, while emeralds from the Greed Ring sparkled with an otherworldly allure. Alastor couldn't help but feel a surge of surprise at the array of gems before him. After all, it was common knowledge that no sinner, not even overlords like himself, could leave the confines of the Pride Ring.
Approaching the counter, he was greeted by Castor, a sinuous snake-like sinner with a sly smile. The red diamond pin beside his nametag indicated his role as a member of the entertainment staff. "Good day, Lord Alastor," Castor greeted him, his voice smooth as silk. "What brings you to Blackjack Bijoux today?"
Alastor's curiosity piqued, he couldn't help but inquire about the origin of the gems. Alastor gestured to the array of gems on display. "I must admit, I'm intrigued by the selection. But forgive me for asking, how is it that these gems have found their way here, given the restrictions of the Pride Ring?"
Castor's smile widened, revealing a hint of mischief in his eyes. "Ah, a keen observation, sir. Overlord Husker has a way of bending the rules, you see. He gathers these gems from the many hell-born patrons who come to gamble here, ensuring that our collection remains as exquisite as ever. It's said that no gemstone is too precious, no treasure too rare for his discerning eye."
Alastor nodded, realizing that the alley cat he knew had grown cunning during the last decade. As he perused the selection, one piece in particular caught Alastor's eye—a brooch adorned with a huge ruby from the Wrath Ring. The gem glowed with an intense crimson hue, radiating an aura of raw power.
"I'll take the brooch with the ruby from the Wrath Ring," Alastor declared.
Castor's eyes gleamed with approval as he retrieved the brooch from its display case. The ruby glinted in the light, as Castor carefully wrapped the brooch in black velvet. Leaving Blackjack Bijoux with his new acquisition in hand, Alastor made his way through the bustling corridors of The Cat's Den, making his way to his next destination.
All-In Attire.
As he perused the racks, Alastor couldn't help but notice that many of the dresses bore a striking resemblance to the ones worn by the performers at The Lucky Draw the previous night. As he debated this thought, he was approached by a flamboyant peacock-like sinner with a flair for fashion. His nametag read "Artie", beside the red diamond pin on his black vest.
"Good afternoon, Lord Alastor," Artie greeted him with a flourish of his feathers. "What can I assist you with today?"
Alastor gestured to the dresses on display. "I couldn't help but notice that many of these outfits resemble the ones worn by the performers at The Lucky Draw. How is it that they come to be here?"
Artie's eyes sparkled with excitement as he explained, "Ah, a keen eye indeed! You see, instead of discarding all of the outfits after each season, Overlord Husker allows the performers to choose a few to keep for themselves. The rest are then sold to fans and patrons of The Cat's Den, ensuring that every piece finds a home."
Alastor nodded, rapidly making the connection of the true reasons behind Overlord Husker's actions. It was a clever way to capitalize on the popularity of the performance, it was yet another example of Husk's new cunning and foresight in managing his empire.
Alastor began to browse through the various pieces of clothing, from elegant gowns to daring ensembles, there was something for every taste and style. After much deliberation, Alastor finally settled on a black suit with a two-tailed long coat, paired with a vibrant red dress shirt. The ensemble was both timeless and striking, the perfect complement to his newly acquired ruby brooch.
Artie carefully wrapped the suit in tissue paper, after Alastor paid for his new outfit. With his purchase complete, Alastor left All-In Attire with a spring in his step, he now had the perfect ensemble for when he made his first official visit to the casino.
Later that night, Alastor finally decided to immerse himself in the pulsating heart of The Cat's Den—the casino. Stepping onto the bustling floor, with his new suit and ruby brooch, he couldn't help but notice the sight of dealers adorned with red vests and black spades pins, confirming his deductions.
Inside, the casino was a cacophony of sights and sounds, a swirling vortex of sin and debauchery that enveloped him in its embrace. The throngs of patrons lost in their own pursuits of fortune and pleasure. The scale of the casino was larger than any other building or establishment in The Cat's Den. This was truly the gem of Overlord Husker.
And it was just the same as it had once been. It might be bigger now, but the sinners that came and left the main doors of the casino are the same as the ones that used to come to the second-rate casino Alastor was used to. Desperate, moronic, and cocky, just ripe for the picking.
Making his way through the crowds, Alastor was soon approached by one of Husker's staff, who extended an invitation to the overlord's private room. Alastor's smile only widened; it was finally time. The Radio Demon followed the sinner, twirling his staff and humming creepily. Alastor almost chuckled when he realized he was unnerving the sinner, who all but ran away when they reached the office and heard the "Come in!" from his overlord.
Entering the room, Alastor quickly noticed that Overlord Husker was no longer the disheveled drunkard he remembered, but a vision of power and elegance. His fur was trimmed to perfection, his gaze sharp and calculating. Overlord Husker wore a sleek black top hat adorned with a golden band, the ace of spades and king of spades gleaming in the dim light. His attire exuded opulence, from the golden bow-tie to the ruby pocket watch tucked in his lapel. Even his staff, crafted from gold with a diamond-headed dice, spoke of his wealth and influence.
Taking a seat opposite Husker, Alastor accepted the Obituary that Husker offered him, Alastor took a sip, savoring the exquisite flavor that danced on his tongue. It was even better than last night's concoction.
"You've been expecting me," Alastor remarked, his tone tinged with a hint of danger. "Should I be worried that you're trying to court me with all the best tables and this luxurious room? It almost feels as though you've been anticipating my arrival."
As much as he enjoyed his time at The Cat's Den, Alastor couldn't shake the feeling of being played. There was a tension in the air, a sense that beneath the surface, there were hidden agendas and ulterior motives at play. He did not appreciate that. But Alastor was no stranger to the game of manipulation and intrigue. He would play along for now, but he wouldn't let his guard down—not for a moment.
Husker shrugged, his easy demeanor unchanged despite the grandeur that surrounded him now. Alastor couldn't help but feel a sense of familiarity at the sight— Husker was still the same alley-cat, even with all the trappings of luxury. Some might mistake Husker's openness for weakness, but Alastor knew better. It was a subtle weapon, one that could lull even the wariest prey into complacency. After all, who suspects a fluffy cat of leading them into a trap?
Husker finally addressed Alastor's accusation, his words carrying a weight that belied their casual tone. "You know, Al, I've been waiting for you to come back. Not to woo you or lure you into anything, mind you. I just had a feeling you'd return eventually."
Alastor's interest piqued at Husker's admission. "And why's that, Husky? What made you think I'd come back to this second-rate casino?"
"It is no longer a second-rate casino, now?" Husker wore a playful smirk. "But to answer your question, it took me a while to figure you out, Al."
Alastor's tense posture eased slightly at Husk's nonchalant response. "Well, can't say I make it easy for you, Husk. But you've always been one to see through the smoke and mirrors."
Husker nodded, eyes twinkling with mischief. "You could say I've had some practice. But even with all this"—he gestured to the opulence surrounding them—"I'm still the same alley-cat you knew back then."
Alastor's lips quirked into a grin. "Wouldn't expect anything less, Husk. After all, a cat's gotta keep its claws sharp."
Husker chuckled, a knowing glint in his eye. "After a while it hit me. You weren't interested in the gamblers, were you? You were after me, Alastor. You were hunting me."
Alastor's radio crackled to life with pre-recorded cheering, mocking Husker for his belated realization. "Took you long enough, Husky," Alastor quipped, a smirk playing on his lips. "I was starting to think you'd never catch on."
Husker laughed, not insulted at all at Alastor's behavior. "I'll admit, it took me a while to piece it together. But once I realized what you were up to, it all made sense."
Alastor's continued to mock his fellow overlord, unnerved and feeling wrong footed. "Looks like someone finally cracked the code. Took you a decade, Husky. Not bad for a feline."
Husker's laughter filled the air, genuine and unguarded. "Hey, better late than never, right? Besides, it's all part of the game. Took me a while to get the hang of this overlord etiquette, but now I know what I'm doing, that second-rate casino became the richest casino in the Pride Ring."
Alastor tilted his head, his smile morphing into one of genuine curiosity. There was a shift in the air, a moment of vulnerability as he posed his question. His curiosity being too much to control. "What had changed Husk?"
Husker's laughter faded, replaced by a contemplative gaze that sent a shiver down Alastor's spine. The poker face he wore was impenetrable, leaving Alastor to wonder what thoughts were swirling behind those unreadable eyes. It was a game of risk, a gamble with no clear outcome. But then, like a crack in the facade, Husker's lips curled into a soft smile tinged with disbelief. It was a rare expression, one that spoke volumes without uttering a word.
"One month after you stopped coming around, Extermination Day happened," Husker began, his words carrying a weight that hung heavy in the air. "I got so drunk that I wandered the streets of Pentagram City."
Alastor's smile faltered, before he fixed it back on place. Though, he could not hide the look of genuine surprise. Husker continued, his voice tinged with a hint of nostalgia. "Seeing the angels come down from the sky to exterminate the sinners…it opened my eyes, Al. Made me realize that there was a world outside my casino, a life that continued to thrive even after I had fallen to Hell."
Alastor listened in silence, his gaze fixed on Husker as he recounted the events of that fateful day. "When I returned to my casino, I was met with worried sinners," Husker continued, his voice tinged with regret. "They were on the verge of tears, Al, afraid that I wouldn't come back."
Alastor's mind raced, trying to make sense of Husker's revelation. Owned sinners were not known for their loyalty or devotion to their overlords—such emotions were reserved for the rarest of occasions. And yet, here was Husker, recounting a tale of unwavering loyalty from those who served him.
Husker's laughter broke the tension, a sound that echoed through the room. "I know, right? I thought they were all mad," he chuckled, his eyes sparkling with amusement.
But then, with a solemn expression, Husker continued, his voice filled with a newfound sense of purpose. "It was then that I realized what being an overlord truly meant, Al. I was responsible for the lives of so many souls, and it was my duty to be worthy of their loyalty and respect."
Alastor felt the urge to ridicule Husker for his sentimentality, for what he perceived as a weakness of caring in the heart of Hell. But as he looked through the window, which gave him the perfect view of the gambling floor, the heart of The Cat's Den Casino & Resort, something gave him pause. It made him realize that it had not just been the opulence or the decadence that had caught his attention—it was the unmistakable air of contentment that hung in the air.
Every sinner that bustled about the casino seemed healthy and happy, their faces aglow with a sense of pride in their work. It was a stark contrast to the misery and despair that permeated the rest of Hell. Alastor's curiosity was piqued. How had Husker managed to create such an oasis of pleasure and indulgence in a place as desolate as Hell?
The casino continued to operate as if the rules of Hell did not apply to it, as if it were a utopia where every desire was met and indulged. It was madness, pure and simple. Yet, despite the depravity that lurked beneath the surface, there was an undeniable allure to The Cat's Den. It was an escape from reality, a sanctuary where sinners could forget their torments and lose themselves in the thrill of the game.
Alastor couldn't help but laugh at the absurdity of it all. It was madness, sheer madness, and yet, there was a strange beauty to it—a beauty that Husker seemed to understand all too well. The playful smirk that danced across Husker's lips spoke volumes, a silent acknowledgment of the truth that Alastor had uncovered.
"You, my dear Husk, are one surprise after another," Alastor chuckled, his eyes alight with amusement. "For now, I'll remain an observer, but be sure to keep me entertained."
Husker's smirk widened into a grin, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Have you not heard, Al? They're calling me the King of Entertainment these days. Though, I must admit, I prefer the title of King of Spades."
The two overlords continued chatting and enjoying their drinks, until the sun rose and the two of them had to tuck in for the night. Husker stretched his wings, allowing them to fully unruffle the moment he entered his penthouse.
"Had a good night?" An expressionless demoness inquired, stepping into the penthouse behind him.
Husker turned around and smiled at the tall young woman. She had short black hair that framed her delicate porcelain pale face and golden eyes that glowed in the dark of the room. She wore a black pantsuit with a golden bowtie. Her nametag read "Melora" and unlike any other staff member, she wore all four pins above it. It showed her unique position as the personal assistant of the Gambling Overlord. But the most eye-catching piece of her uniform was the headband she wore, it was made of pure gold and the two small golden horns spurting from it.
"Everything went according to the plan," Husker sighed, taking a seat on the dining table, gesturing for Melora to sit as well. "How did the casino do? Sorry to leave you in charge on your own."
Melora kept her expressionless façade, as she handed him a tablet. "It was hectic as always, but we noted an increase of a 15% in the earning of the night. It seems that Overlord Alastor brought with him some of his fans."
"Or they followed like the stalkers they are," Husker chuckled, looking through the spreadsheet Melora had prepared for him. "I will never understand why people get involved in the entertainment industry. The stalkers alone are enough to make me shudder."
"You do know that you are The King of Entertainment?" Melora replied, keeping her expression and tone bland, though Husker could note the amusement beneath her facade. She has come a long way from the days her poker face gave her away, but she was still decades from being able to fool the King of Spades. "Anyhow the staff will be glad to know that they do not need to fear any retaliation from Lord Alastor." She tilted her head to the side and hummed thoughtfully. "If the Radio Demon becomes an ally of ours, then we can count on his image to increase our revenue. After his presence was noticed by the other guests, the sales of the Blackjack Bijoux and All-In Attire have almost doubled. Plus, The Lucky Draw and Roulette Room have had all the tables booked for the remaining of the social season."
"All in a day's work," Husker hummed, smirking like a cat that got the crème. Husker put down the tablet and raised an eyebrow at Melora. "By the way, the penthouse is as magically protected as it can be. There's no need for you to keep your disguise… Your Highness."
Melora's blank expression broke as a wide beaming smile spread through her face. In one swift movement she took off the golden headband and the illusion was broken. Long golden curls remained in place of the black-haired demoness, she had red eyes instead of golden, and her black suit was replaced by a red pantsuit.
"Uff! That felt good!" Crown Princess Charlotte 'Charlie' Magne of Hell's wide smile showed off her sharp fangs, being both charming and unsettling. "Keeping up appearances for a whole weekend it's harder than I thought!"