Charlie woke up at Vaggie's side, as she did every morning. Since the Hotel had started and the extermination had been postponed indefinitely, she no longer had the slight sense of unease that she had to hide under layers of positivity in search of a solution for her mission.
It had been months since she and her friends rebuilt the Hotel, with increasing happiness she saw it filling up, between those seeking to improve and those seeking protection. The general atmosphere had improved, and this was affecting people. It was always a joy to see downhearted and hopeless people improving in spirit and behavior.
Stretching herself, she got out of the blankets trying not to wake up her girlfriend and headed to the bathroom to start the day.
After a shower and a brief skincare, she put on her usual red suit. Coming out of the bathroom, she saw Vaggie stretching out her arms, newly awakened.
«Good morning, Charlie.» she said, her voice still sleepy.
«Good morning!» replied Charlie with her usual enthusiasm. She took a list from the dresser next to the bed and began scrolling through the items with her finger: «We have a full schedule! Trust exercises, civic and emotional education, all the support groups...it's going to be a great day!» her usual enthusiasm was infectious, but also exhausting.
Vaggie huffed: «Yes, like the day before, and the day before, and the day before...»
«EXACTLY!» exclaimed Charlie, pulling her girlfriend out of the blankets.
So the two finished getting ready. As they left their room, they were greeted by an already bustling hallway. Hotel guests, those who had already eaten breakfast, were either engaged in their personal activities or on their way to their various scheduled tasks. The feeling of community was palpable, and Charlie felt grateful for every small step forward she saw.
They crossed the main hallway, greeting guests and receiving warm smiles and greetings. The hotel was becoming a true refuge, a place where redemption seemed possible even in the heart of hell.
Taking the elevator, the two women headed for the lowest floor: the cafeteria was still full of people. Charlie was again grateful to Alastor and his shadows; although he did not believe in her mission, the Radio Demon was doing his best to improve the lives of her and everyone in the Hotel to maximize their focus on their journey.
As she served herself with food, she greeted those present by calling them by name, «Good morning, Gloria, did you sleep better? Hey, Frederick, did you find your hat? Gunther, I hope there are clothes under the jacket! Lucas, for the last time, you can't take a whole pan of eggs just for yourself! You have to share with the others!»
These last two, Lucas and Gunther, had proven to be pains in Charlie's ass, demanding constant attention. With a snort and a smile, she reached the table at which the staff was seated, those friends who had rebuilt the Hotel with her. Angel Dust and Husk were seated on one side, Cherry was on the other along with Nifty. Nifty alternated a bite with an obsessive cleaning session in the places where she made a mess, and then also cleaned where the others made a mess as well.
Charlie sat down next to Angel Dust, with Vaggie in front of her. The spider-demon, sitting with a relaxed posture and a teasing smile, addressed her with a joke, «Already tired early in the morning?»
«Nah, it's Lucas and Gunther. They're a bit of a relapsers, and I've run out of ideas to help them.»
Cherry Bomb, sitting next to them, made a proposal, her mouth half full: «Um, ever thought of getting them to cooperate? Maybe they can find some common ground and help each other.»
Charlie was a little uncertain about the proposal: «Are you sure it's a good idea?»
Swallowing, Cherry shrugged with a mischievous smile. «It worked with these two fuckers!» she said, pointing to Angel Dust and Husk.
The two friends looked at each other. Thinking about their journey together, they had to agree with Cherry. Angel Dust and Husk had found an unusual but effective balance, and perhaps a similar dynamic could have helped Lucas and Gunter as well.
Angel Dust nodded with a thoughtful look. «Cherry might be right. Lucas and Gunther are both stubborn, but maybe that's exactly why they could understand each other better than anyone else.»
Husk, who had been sipping his coffee in silence until then, glanced up and added: « At least, it is worth a try. They can't do worse than this.»
Charlie pondered for a moment, then smiled. «All right, I'll give it a try. I'll put them together for some activities and see how it goes.»
As they finished breakfast and planned for the day, Charlie felt a little more optimistic. Maybe the solution to Lucas and Gunther's problems was simpler than she had imagined.
Absorbed in her thoughts, she didn't notice a little girl she knew well trying to get her attention. Kitty, that was the name she knew, wanted to join them again for breakfast.
The others stiffened: Kitty was sweet and pretty, but she could be logorrheic when she wanted to be. It had been a week since she had moved in and she still hadn't finished her stream of information heard first on TV, next on online forums.
Angel Dust whispered, trying not to be noticed: «Charlie, please make something up. We can't take another morning of endless chatter.»
Charlie hesitated, struggling between her desire to not hurt Kitty's feelings and the need to keep calm among her staff. In the end, she smiled kindly at Kitty and invited her to sit with them. «Hello, Kitty! Come, sit with us. How are you today?»
Kitty, her eyes shining with excitement, sat down next to Charlie and immediately began to talk. «Oh, Charlie, I have so much to tell you! Yesterday I found an old book in the library and it had some amazing stories about a strange presence called Roo, or Root of All Evil. In my curiosity, I looked for a forum. I found one that is full of hellish conspiracy theories, and it is so interesting! It seems that after the fall she retreated...»
As Kitty continued to talk, Charlie listened patiently, nodding from time to time. The other staff members tried to hide their sighs and exasperated looks, except for Niffty who lightly banged her head on the tabletop.
Exasperated, Angel Dust tried to interrupt Kitty's incessant chattering: «KITTY! Dearest-shouldn't your brother be here already?»
«I am, indeed!» replied Headshot, appearing behind his sister's back and surprising everyone present. Fresh from working out, he was wearing close-fitting gray pants and his green, white, and blue striped tank top that showed off his muscular back. Right out of the sleeves, his shoulders were puffy and contracted, making the young sniper look bigger than usual; his hair was still wet and smelled of shampoo, while the rest of his body exuded a fresh aroma of shower gel and deodorant. With one hand he held a plate filled with foodstuffs, in particular several sweets and two juices, showing a perfect balance between strength and finesse.
«I've already told this little one to give you a break, at least in the morning, but she never listens to me.» he said, tousling his sister's hair affectionately. Kitty stuck her tongue out at him in response, but there was a smirk in her eyes.
«Oh, don't worry, Headshot, we all love our little fan.» commented Charlie, patting the little girl's shoulder «Anyway, you fell right in, one of the things we should be doing today is "finding a role for Headshot"» she added, pulling out the list and scrolling through the dots with a finger.
Headshot, visibly confused, asked: «Oh, really? What do you mean?» He sat down at the table next to his sister, curious to know more.
It was Husk who intervened, as he finished his coffee: «The asshole in red may have said it with a veiled threat, but he's right about one thing: you are good at fighting. You would serve us well.»
Headshot, flattered, tried to maintain a modest tone: «Oh, come on, you're all good at fighting.»
«Yes, but you, in one week, managed to break up a fight and two attacks without damaging the Hotel.» Vaggie commented, emphasizing the last words.
«Unlike this bitch.» added Angel Dust, teasing her friend playfully. Cherry, embarrassed, hid her eye with one hand. «Expert with explosives, but bad with clean jobs.» concluded the spider-demon with a mischievous smile. In response, Cherry threw a crumpled napkin at him, playful.
It was Charlie who spoke up: «We need someone who can restore order without taking drastic measures. I was thinking you could, I don't know, be a security guard. Being able to rely on you when Alastor is away or busy with something would make life easier for us.»
Headshot, drinking one of his juices, was doubtful: «I would be delighted to help you, after all, I am an expert in finding and neutralizing dangerous people and situations, but I wonder, is there any real need? I mean, you have Alastor, plus I know that your father is now actively present in the hotel...»
«Don't worry, there is never too much help.» Charlie reassured him «Besides, my father is not always available. I don't tell people this so often, but he...he's pretty down and when he's like that, he locks himself in his room making rubber ducks, so...»
Kitty was astonished: «No, no, no, excuse me, just a moment: your father, Lucifer, the devil himself ... is depressed and making rubber ducks?»
Charlie shrugged with a wistful smile «It's his hobby. It helps him get better.»
Headshot nodded, understanding the situation. «I understand. Well, in that case, I'll be happy to help. I will do my best not to let you down.»
«Thank you, Headshot!» replied Charlie, sincerely grateful.
A sound of keystrokes caught the attention of the two speakers: Kitty, still in shock from the news she had learned, had started typing on her phone. Knowing full well what was happening, Headshot took the device out of her hands, to the younger one's screams of protest.
«This is not something to write on your personal blog, Kitty!» scolded her Headshot.
Kitty, pouting, crossed her arms: «But that was too weird not to share!»
Headshot sighed, trying to keep calm. «There are some things that must remain private, Kitty. And this is one of them. Do you understand?»
Kitty understood, but still pouted.
Headshot placed the phone back on the table, ready to return it as soon as breakfast was over. «Now eat and relax. We don't want your breakfast to get cold.»
Charlie, with his usual enthusiasm, called the others' attention to take stock of the day: «As anticipated earlier, we have a full day. We have to finish trust exercises, civics and emotional education classes. There's the support group, and then there's Gunther who needs an extra lesson on...»
«On not showing his privates around.» concluded Vaggie in an exasperated tone.
«That's right.» replied Charlie with a laugh. «Headshot, you weren't here a while ago, but we were talking about having Gunther do some exercises together with Lucas. Our hope is that they will cooperate and that this will push them to improve each other. But in case things go wrong, would you be able to separate them?»
«No problem, you can count on me.» replied Headshot, confidently.
«Perfect!» exclaimed the princess, clapping her hands twice «So, Vaggie and I will take care of the civics education, Husk and Headshot to the support group. Remember about Lucas and Gunther. Angel and Cherry, you guys do the trust exercises and Nifty… do you feel like helping Headshot and making sure Gunther keeps his clothes on?»
With a sadistic smile, Nifty pulled a butcher's knife almost bigger than herself from somewhere, exclaiming «If he shows it up, I'll cut his sausage off!» she laughed, making the group, especially the male members, break out in a cold sweat.
«The threat will be enough.» Charlie commented, giggling nervously. «Does anyone have any questions, any complaints to make?»
Angel Dust raised a hand, with a mischievous smirk. «Yes, a question. Is there any way I can get the new one? I wouldn't mind doing some trust exercise with him-a very private one.»
Surprised by the spider-demon's boldness, Headshot raised an eyebrow. A cannoli was sticking out of his mouth and Angel took advantage of the casual innuendo, with a winking look: «Yeah, something like that.». Unable to respond due to his mouth being full, Vaggie was the one who replied, highly annoyed: «Are you serious? He's been in her for a week and you've been tormenting him since then! Are you capable of keeping your pants up?!»
Angel Dust shrugged, flirtatious. «What can I tell you? I can't pretend he's not cute!»
Headshot could only chuckle to hide his embarrassment. «Silly.» he said quietly to himself, shaking his head slightly.
Kitty, smelling gossip, tried to secretly retrieve her cell phone, but her brother blocked her hand before she could do anything. «Don't even think about it, Kitty» he whispered, staring at her with a stern look.
Kitty grimaced and withdrew with an exaggerated sigh, crossing her arms over her chest. «All right, all right. But you're wasting valuable blog material, you know that?»
Meanwhile, the table became animated: on one side were Angel and Cherry downplaying the porn star's behavior; on the other side were Husk and Vaggie thinking he was exaggerating.
«Seriously, Angel.» Husk said in a weary tone. «You should give him a break.»
Vaggie nodded vigorously. «Not everyone likes your insistent advances like that, you know.»
Angel Dust huffed, waving a hand carelessly. «Oh, come on, I'm not doing anything wrong. It's just for fun!»
Cherry giggled. «Well, it could be worse. It could be serious.»
Angel Dust made a playful grimace, but then raised her hands in surrender. «All right, all right. I'll just do the trust exercises, then.»
Charlie nodded, satisfied. «Well, if there are no more questions, I guess we can start. But first, let's eat!»
Pleased, Charlie put a mouthful of scrambled eggs in her mouth, but a look of strong discontent was painted on her face. Swallowing, she commented, grimly «Damn, they got cold!»
Angel Dust, trying to lighten the mood, approached with a mischievous smile. «Well, Charlie, maybe it's a sign that we need to start the day with something a little spicier.» He winked at Headshot, eliciting a general laugh. The young sniper rolled his eyes.
Despite Charlie's cold eggs, the group finished their breakfast, ready to face the day.
–
Heading toward the room that would host the support group, Headshot found himself alone with Husk, the bartender. There was an awkward silence between them, but no one dared to break the ice.
It was Husk who finally spoke first: «So, Headshot. How are you finding yourself in the Hotel?»
Headshot shrugged «It's not bad at all. I like the atmosphere.»
Husk raised an eyebrow «Are you sure? Even with Angel's attentions?»
Headshot held back a laugh: «He's a ... persona, but that's okay.»
Husk scrutinized Headshot's face, trying to read past the words. «Are you sure? I'll tell him to stop if you want...»
Headshot shook his head with a smile «Nah, it's okay. I kind of like it.»
«Really?»
«Really. It's nice to feel wanted after decades of ... nothing. Besides, I love the way he smells.»
Husk looked confused «The way he...smells?»
Headshot nodded, a little embarrassed. «It sounds strange when you say it like that, but the truth is that I have a very keen sense of smell, I can detect smells that others can't. And his is... delightful.»
Husk shrugged his shoulders «To each their own.»
The bartender took a big breath, his gaze more serious than usual: «Maybe it's none of my business, but... the other night I heard you screaming, in your room. Did something happen?»
Headshot stiffened, his smile disappearing instantly: «No, I'm... I'm fine.»
Husk was undeterred, maintaining a gentle but firm tone «Are you sure? It's not healthy to keep your own demons. I do fine with people's problems, you can tell me in confiden-»
Headshot turned his head toward Husk, his eyes cold and voice harsh: «I told you I'm fine!» The words were charged with a pent-up rage, a fury struggling not to explode.
Not at all frightened by the young man's reaction, Husk replied curtly «No need to attack me!»
Headshot fell silent, feeling his heart beat faster in his chest. His hands visibly trembled, his knuckles white with tension as his fingers closed into a fist. He bit his tongue to hold back the sharp words that were threatening to come out, slurs he wished he could hurl at Husk for touching a nerve. Inside him, anger grew like an untamable fire, a primal rage he usually unleashed against anyone who dared to threaten him or his sister. Every fiber of his being screamed at him to hit something, to vent that fury in some physical way.
The urge to throw a punch at the wall was so intense that he could almost feel the impact under his fingers, the pain he would welcome as temporary relief. But instead, with a superhuman effort, he shoved his hands into his pockets, trying to anchor himself in reality. He breathed deeply, trying to calm the inner turmoil.
Recovering some control, his eyes still cold but less hostile, he decided to speak. His voice came out lower and hoarser than usual, charged with an emotion he was desperately trying to contain. «I'm sorry, Husk. I didn't mean to be so violent. But it's not something I want to deal with.»
Husk, being both a gambler and a bartender, was very good at reading people. At that moment, the rookie at his side was like an open book: the trembling of his hands, the tension in his shoulders, the rigid jaw line. He had seen that same struggle many times before, in the faces of those who carried invisible scars within them. The former Overlord found himself wondering what this boy so young might have been going through, to snap back in defense at the slightest inquiry.
Husk sighed «You could use the support group, too.»
Headshot did not have the courage to answer, staring at the floor like the answer to all his problems was trapped there. Inside, he knew Husk was right, but the idea of sharing his nightmares and fears was too frightening.
Husk patted him on the shoulder, a gesture meant to be comforting. «You don't have to go through this alone, you know?»
Headshot could only turn a weak smile on him.
–
The lobby that housed the support group was one of the most elegant lounges in the hotel. Plum purple dominated the décor: it covered the upholstered chairs and sofas, colored the walls, and each table had a centerpiece in the same color. Even the floor was covered with plum colored patterned soft carpeting, creating a cozy and evocative atmosphere.
Seated at the tables, about 30 people looked toward the stage, where Husk was standing, with some curiosity and skepticism. They wondered how a bartender could help them overcome their addictions, traumas or bad habits.
Headshot was sitting between Lucas and Gunther, watching the odd couple closely. Next to Gunther, Nifty kept reminding him, in a tone that radiated insanity and sadism, that if he tried to flash someone, he could kiss his genitals goodbye, pointing the big knife she had brought with her from the cafeteria at him. Her one eye glowed with an eerie look, as if she wanted to hurt Gunther and was just waiting for the right opportunity. Gunther was sweating cold: as long as he had Nifty on his neck he would certainly keep his jacket on.
"Will I have to save Gunther from Nifty?" thought the sniper, worried. He could not give himself an answer because Husk cleared his throat, drawing the attention of those present.
«Welcome to the support group. I already know what you're thinking, how can this poor schmuck who played his soul at cards help us? Well, I don't know that either. But here's the thing: playing cards and serving alcohol has taught me two or three small facts about people. And I'm ready to use this experience of mine to help Charlie in his mission, no matter how crazy it sounds. And I know for a fact that you too, at least partially, believe to have a chance, otherwise you wouldn't be here. So let's come together, and maybe we'll get some results. Now, how many of you are here because you drink, use substances, gamble or have other debilitating habits?»
A third of those present raised their hands.
«Well, I should join you, then.» Husk joked, causing laughter among those present. After waiting for the laughter to subside, he continued «Back to being serious, no one will judge you here. And I certainly won't be the one to judge you, after all, I'm the last one who can. Being in hell sober sucks, anyone would try to escape from reality. It would be strange the other way around.» Husk turned a glance to Headshot. Headshot felt scrutinized, unsure if it was an invitation to open up or a form of disapproval.
Husk continued «Later whoever feels like it can share their experiences. But I would like to ask those who did not raise their hands why they are here.»
The group continued for the next few hours. It turned out that Lucas was eating excessively because he was depressed and Gunther was doing what he did because of a deep sense of inadequacy.
Headshot remained silent the entire time, still unable to open up.
The room, bathed in the plum purple color that dominated the environment, seemed to offer a temporary refuge for those, like them, seeking a way out of their internal battles.
–
The civics class was a success: the participants were diligent and followed Charlie enthusiastically. The Princess of Hell had prepared an engaging program, turning each lesson into an interactive game. She used quizzes, team competitions and role-playing scenarios to teach the concepts of mutual respect, cooperation and civic responsibility. Charlie moved among the participants with infectious energy, her radiant smile and eyes sparkling with passion. Whenever one of the "students" responded correctly or displayed positive behavior, Charlie didn't spare in praise and encouragement. The participants, who were used to an existence of suffering and damnation, seemed reborn thanks to the constant positive reinforcement from Lucifer's daughter.
Vaggie watched the scene from a corner of the room, her heart swelling with admiration and affection. Every word of praise Charlie spoke, every smile she gave her students, made Vaggie's love for her grow. The steely-hearted warrior melted in those moments, losing herself in the vision of Charlie shining like a beacon of hope in that dark world.
Leaving one of the lounges for lunch, Charlie continued to sing the praises of the participants, with Vaggie listening to her patiently and dreamily.
«Did you see how involved they were today?» said Charlie «I'm so proud of them. They're really trying to improve.»
Vaggie nodded, her smile light and her eyes filled with tenderness. «You are amazing, Charlie. You always know what to say and bring out the best in everyone.»
Charlie blushed slightly, shaking her head. «Don't make too much of it, Vaggie. I just found a way to make learning fun.»
«And it works» Vaggie replied, taking her hand. «You make it work.»
Charlie, moved, could only smile at her with shining eyes.
The beautiful moment was interrupted by a great commotion coming from the hall. Awakened as if from the romantic torpor that was forming between them, Charlie and Vaggie hurried to see what was going on, fearing yet another attack by a jealous partner or an Overlord trying to retrieve one of their slaves.
Arriving at the entrance, the scene that presented was chaotic: several guests all seemed to be huddling in one spot trying to beat up something or someone, others were shouting and some were hissing insults. Making room in the crowd, Charlie tried to reach the group in the center that was beating up, and as she moved closer, she saw with horror what she feared: a lot of angry people were lashing out at one person.
She tried several ways to calm the situation, shouting to stop them, but no one seemed to listen to her. Her voice, usually capable of instilling calm and hope, was being drowned out by the cacophony of angry rumors and the tumultuous energy of the crowd.
It was Vaggie who had to intervene. With fierce determination, she unfolded her angel wings and slipped into the center of the violent group. Wielding her spear expertly, she struck with precision but without inflicting lethal damage, pushing the aggressive demons away and creating a safe space around the victim of their collective rage.
The demon lay on the ground, bruised and bleeding, its face turned to the floor, but still alive. His body was covered with bruises and cuts, his breathing labored and irregular. Charlie knelt beside him, quickly checking his condition.
Meanwhile, Vaggie was scolding the others «Are you fucking kidding me? This place was created for redemption, not to bring in here the hell that's out there! Why the hell did you all turn against one person?!»
Distracted by the scolding she was giving the other guests, Vaggie did not see Charlie turning the lynch victim around and winced, shocked. «Vaggie...» she called to her girlfriend.
Vaggie, hearing herself called, turned to check on her and to her great dismay, she saw that there, lying on the ground, bruised and in pain, was Adam himself, in hellish form.
Like many of the sinners, he had two large curved red horns on his head, bat wings and a thin tail with a hook at the bottom. His eyes had black sclera and red irises, and he wore a cape similar to the one he had as an exorcist, but it was red and black instead of blue and white.
«It can't be...» muttered Vaggie, approaching Charlie and the wounded demon. «Is it really him?»
Charlie nodded, his face pale with shock. «Yes, it is him. Adam. But how is that possible?»
Adam lifted his head weakly, recognizing the two. «Charlie... Vaggie...» he managed to say in a whisper. «I'm...back...bitches.»
Vaggie looked at Adam, then at the other guests, who were giving her a sardonic look. The reason they had all turned on him was now clear.
«He had the nerve to come in here, like nothing happened!» said one of the demons, a woman with scarlet skin and fiery eyes «And when we reminded him of all the loved ones he took from us, he even laughed at us! He killed my sister and laughed!» the other guests, incited by the woman's words, joined the chorus of protest and anger. Their voices rose, creating a cacophony of resentment and hatred. Charlie raised his hands, trying to calm the crowd.
«I understand your anger, I really do. Adam has done terrible things, but we cannot allow violence to be repeated in here. This place is for redemption, for everyone. Even for those who hurt us.»
A demon with pointed horns and scaly skin advanced, pointing an accusing finger at Adam. «Redemption? For him? He deserves no redemption! He only deserves to suffer for what he has done!»
There was another chorus of protest. Charlie did not know how to handle the situation and feared that another lynching would begin.
A sound of thick heels spread through the hotel lobby. One that was hard to confuse. Slowly, those present fell silent, pervaded by a deep terror that overpowered the anger and desire for revenge that had been devouring them until recently: the Radio Demon decided to show up.
Alastor approached with a light but determined step, ignoring the scrutinizing glances and whispers that rose among those present. He stopped in front of the crowd, observing silently for a moment before breaking the silence with his resonant voice.
«What an interesting sight we have here.» said Alastor in a tone that oscillated between amusement and indifference. His smile widened further, showing sharp teeth that gleamed eerily in the light.
Some shifted back nervously, while others stared at him with a mixture of respect and awe.
Alastor watched Adam lying on the ground with a coldness that sent chills down the spine of anyone who looked at him. His gaze was piercing, as if he was assessing the situation with a calmness that contrasted sharply with the agitation that had dominated the room up to that moment.
The Radio Demon took a few steps forward, his sinister smile undiminished. «Adam, Adam...» he murmured, almost as if he were reflecting on something profound. «I remembered you being much more powerful, Adam. Has death made you weaker?»
Adam, still aching and debilitated, barely looked up at Alastor. «I simply ended up in the wrong place at the wrong time...»
«Yes, of course.» replied the demon, checking his fingernails. «Well, let's see what we can do to resolve this ... impediment.» he said in a tone that exuded an aura of power and control.
Shadows rose from the floor, surrounding Adam. A stretcher appeared under the injured former angel, the shadows tied him tightly to it, lifted him up and waited for an order from their master.
Alastor turned to Charlie: «Charlie, dear, this man has broken into your house without a warning and created turmoil. What do you wanna do with him?»
All eyes turned to the hotel manager, waiting for an answer.
Although she didn't like the idea, Charlie had to stick to her mission: to give everyone a second chance.
«Take him to the first aid room. I'll...I'll ask my father to create a maximum security room and lock him there as soon as it's ready. I'll ask Headshot to make sure he doesn't do anything stupid, then I'll question him about why he's here.»
The guests whispered among themselves: they still wanted him dead, but at least keeping him imprisoned was a good compromise.
«There will be no need to bother the rookie. My shadows will do everything.« commented Alastor as the shadows carried Adam away. The demon disappeared in a shadow and reappeared behind Charlie's back, giving her a gentle shoulder massage. «You just keep up your impeccable work, I'll keep Headshot for myself.»
«Thank you, Alastor.» replied Charlie in a hushed voice, still upset.
Alastor continued to smile, his light touch on Charlie's shoulders showing a rare kindness in his gesture. «Don't worry, dear. Adam is in very good hands now.» he said in a tone that hinted a veiled threat toward the former exorcist.
With a nod, Alastor walked away, disappearing into the shadows as quickly as he had appeared. The other guests looked at Charlie with a mixture of respect and pity as they all slowly walked away.
Charlie stood in the middle of the room, looking down, unsure of what to do. Vaggie approached her, concerned. «Are you okay?» she asked, touching her shoulder. Charlie let herself fall into her girlfriend's arms, hiding her face on her shoulder, and sobbed slightly. «I don't know what to do, Vaggie.» she said, disheartened.
Vaggie tried to calm her down «Calm down, love. Let's find out why he's here first, then we'll decide what to do.»
Charlie wiped away her tears, wore a weak smile and looked Vaggie in the eye: «You're right. No use worrying about it now. Let's have some lunch first.»
–
Due to the recent event, the cafeteria was quieter than usual. The atmosphere had grown heavy, guests whispered among themselves as they glanced furtively at the staff table. One did not need Headshot's superior sense of smell to know that everyone was tense: no one felt safe anymore now that Adam was among them.
Charlie, on the other hand, was stirring her mixed salad without really eating it. With her eyes fixed on the plate, she was thinking about what had happened just moments earlier. How was it possible that Adam returned to life? She had witnessed dozens of exterminations take place every year, and none of the sinners had ever came back to life after being wounded by an angelic weapon. If he managed to return, what was stopping the other exterminating angels, which they had stopped some moths ago, from doing the same? And why were they yet to appear? The princess had no answers, and the idea of having their old enemies again ready to do who knows what to the Hotel worried her.
The flow of her thoughts was interrupted by her fellow adventurers approaching the table.
Angel and Cherry looked around a little curious and a little uneasy, Headshot sensed the tense air with his keen sense of smell, carrying Nifty, who seemed apprehensive, on his shoulder. Husk, seemingly unconcerned, kept his ears straight to catch a few scraps of information from the whispers around him. Slowly and with her head down, Kitty joined her brother, her usual enthusiasm completely absent.
"Brr, what a chilly atmosphere. And I'm not talking about the temperature!" commented Angel Dust, simulating shivers.
"Seriously, what happened? Did someone die?" added Headshot, sitting down in his seat.
"'If only he stayed dead!" commented Vaggie bitterly.
"It's Adam." replied Charlie, once her friends were seated "I don't know how he did it, but he's back and he's here in the Hotel!"
There was a second of silence to process the information, then the group erupted into several exclamations of anger, surprise, and disbelief. Headshot looked at his sister with a questioning look. Kitty nodded, keeping her arms crossed over her chest, almost as if she was trying to protect herself.
Cherry tried to cut off all the chatter at the table: «Okay, okay, SILENCE!» she shouted, silencing everyone: «… Where is he now?»
«In the first aid room, watched over by Alastor's shadows. The other guests wanted to lynch him, we barely saved him» Vaggie replied, serious
Standing up, Cherry declared: «Fine, I'm going to kill him!»
«I'll come with you!» Nifty added happily «I don't like to leave a job unfinished.»
Husk and Angel physically stopped them as Charlie said: «NO! We can't do this. He's not a direct threat to the Hotel!»
«HE'S NOT A THREAT?!» Cherry replied, incredulous and furious: «Do I have to remind you what he did a few months ago? What he did to Pentious?!» Remembering her friend who fell in battle, Cherry covered her only eye, holding back tears. «I wish I had given myself to him, that night.» she added, her voice slightly cracked by tears.
Not knowing what they were talking about, Kitty, curious, turned to her brother: «Give herself to him? What do she mean?»
Embarrassed, her brother shook his hand, like chasing away an insect: «So she could... share her ideas with him about... weapons.» he lied.
Charlie frowned again: the death of Sir Pentious was still a hot-button topic for everyone present except those new to the group. After a long silence, she spoke up: «I know. I know he's a huge bastard, that he caused harm, that he killed one of our friends... I already know how much that man sucks. Damn, he sucks so much that my mother left him! But I also have a responsibility, one that sometimes weighs heavily: to give everyone a second chance. And that means I have to give him the benefit of the doubt. I don't know if he's here to redeem himself or it's a cover-up for something, but if I don't ask him first, if we kill him now ... we might get ambushed by something terrible.»
«And what do you propose, then?» asked Husk, his tone surly. «To keep him here and wait for him to do something?»
«Do you have a better idea?» intervened Vaggie, defending Charlie. «As much as I hate to admit it, we need him alive.»
Headshot nodded, trying to ease the tension. «Vaggie is right. As a dead man he will be of no use to us. We need to interrogate him and find out if he is alone, how he came back, and what he's doing in here. Once we get the answers, we will act accordingly.»
Cherry eventually gave up, sitting back down in her seat: «Fine, but if you opt to kill him, I want to be the one to do it.»
Charlie sighed: drama was avoided so far. «We will consider all possibilities. Every decision must be made carefully.»
The group stared at each other, the weight of the situation clearly visible on their faces. The cafeteria remained silent, each demon immersed in their own thoughts as the tension slowly dissipated.
Angel Dust broke the silence, trying to lighten the mood. «Well, since we're all in this together, how about something strong to drink? After all this mess, we need it.»
Husk mumbled something inaudible but got up anyway to get a bottle. Headshot got up too «I'll go help Husk. We are not all drinking alcohol here» he commented, stroking his little sister's head.
Angel Dust, ever the flirt, made the most of the moment, following Headshot with his gaze and giving a mischievous smirk. «Why don't you think of me too, Headshot? I might need something special.»
Headshot rolled his eyes, but this time he decided to respond softly «Oh, don't worry, dearest: I have only the best for the great star!»
For the first time in a long time, Angel felt taken aback, but he maintained his usual aplomb, limiting himself to a more restrained smirk.
Husk returned with a bottle of whiskey and glasses, while Headshot brought trays of non-alcoholic drinks for himself, his sister, and Nifty. «Here you go, some liquid comfort» Husk said, pouring whiskey into the glasses.
Angel Dust raised his glass, clinking the ice. «Here's to us, and to the madness we call home.»
The others followed his example, raising their glasses. «To our home.» repeated Charlie, feeling some hope awaken within her.
They toasted together, finding a moment of peace in the middle of chaos. The cafeteria filled with laughter and light chatter, a brief but much needed relief before they returned to face the challenges ahead.
–
Charlie found herself forced to wake her father from his stupor. It was never easy to interrupt him, especially now that she knew why he withdrew, but she had no other choice: she needed that maximum-security room.
Charlie was forced to wake her father from his torpor. It was never easy to interrupt him, especially now that she knew why he was retreating, but she had no choice: she needed that maximum-security room.
She knocked on the door to his room, hoping not to find him in a delicate situation. «It's open!» answered her father inside.
She gently opened the door: the room was large and beautifully decorated. A big bed towered beside the window, with the pillow facing the outer wall, allowing one to enjoy the view as soon as they woke up. A soft, furry rug lent a cozy touch to the room, while the walls were adorned with numerous family photos, witnesses of happy times and precious memories. Scattered around the room were various rubber duckies in a variety of shapes and colors, adding a quirky and personal touch.
In front of the bed, an imposing closet occupied most of the wall, with a side door leading to a private bathroom. Next to the entrance, a spiral staircase plunged into the floor, leading to a lower floor. Not seeing her father in the room, Charlie guessed that he had to be in his workshop at the bottom of the staircase.
«Dad, are you down there?» she called to be sure.
«Charlie!» welcomed her Lucifer «Yes, I'm here, come on in!»
Charlie went downstairs: the lab was shrouded in a suggestive half-light, with heavy curtains obscuring the large windows. The only source of light came from a workbench, where Lucifer, the king of hell, was immersed in building one of his countless rubber duckies, a pastime that helped the fallen angel keep his mind occupied.
The workshop, while functional, retained a certain charm. Tools were neatly arranged on the shelves, and every nook and cranny reflected Lucifer's complex personality: a mixture of creative genius and quiet melancholy.
Charlie approached him, greeting: «Hi, Dad!»
«You're just in time, Char Char! I just finished my latest creation!» Like he was the host of a show, Lucifer presented yet another rubber duck: «Let me introduce you to... the self-moving automatic duck with artificial intelligence!»
The little duckling was a masterpiece of engineering: equipped with sensors, colorful LED lights, and small gears visible through a transparent shell, it almost seemed to come to life as it moved in Lucifer's hands. The duck's eyes flashed with a lively glow, and a faint humming sound accompanied its fluid movements.
Charlie watched the creation with admiration, a sincere smile lighting up her face. «It's amazing, Dad! You've really outdone yourself this time.»
Lucifer smiled, pleased with the compliment. »Thank you, my dear. I might start creating more complex ones. But tell me, what brings you here?»
Charlie sighed, searching for the right words: «There's no delicate way to say this, so I'll be direct: Adam is alive and he's in the infirmary here at the Hotel.»
In shock, the fallen angel let his latest creation fall onto the table. The little duckling landed with a thud and then stood up on its own. «Ooooooh, shit!» exclaimed Lucifer. «But what... how...?!»
«We don't know. He arrived before lunch, the other guests were about to kill him, we brought him to safety. Now he's under guard in the first aid room, I plan to interrogate him as soon as he feels better. And I need you to create a room that is also...» she swallowed, struggling to finish the sentence «...a maximum-security cell.»
Rising from his workbench, Lucifer grabbed his cane, ready for action: «You don't have to ask me twice. Let's go, Char Char!»
Together they left the workshop, determined and ready for what needed to be done. As long as they stood, no one would endanger their Hotel.
–
Lucifer was welcomed by the other guests like a celebrity: everyone loved the king who was supporting his daughter in her crazy mission of salvation.
The fallen angel suddenly found himself awkward and embarrassed in the face of such affection and admiration.
Despite this, he did his best to return the enthusiasm of those present, offering smiles and kind words. Guests approached to shake his hand, thank him, or simply have a moment with him. It was clear that Lucifer's presence not only brought hope but also a sense of security among the Hotel's residents. Ironic, given his role.
Charlie watched the scene with a mix of pride and tenderness. Seeing her father, usually so distant, connect with others in such a genuine way gave her new hope. Eventually, Lucifer and Charlie found themselves in a small meeting room, ready to discuss the plan for building the maximum-security cell. Around them, the remaining staff members awaited.
"Okay, Charlie, where were you planning to put this maximum-security room?" he asked his daughter, looking at the Hotel blueprint.
«Under the ground, that's for sure. Low enough that it can't be seen or heard.»
Headshot, armed with his experience as a hitman, added: «And with only one way to reach it, so that if he managed to escape, he would have no choice but to go through the main entrance. It also needs to be surrounded by heavy walls, made up of layers of concrete and steel, so that he won't dig his way out himself, or have someone help him from the outside. And each layer needs to be enchanted. We also need security guards to watch over him 24/7, at least eight or nine who take turns every three hours and have orders not to...»
«Hold up, hold up, hold up for a moment!» interrupted Lucifer. He still hadn't met the newcomer and wondered who was this stranger that was giving instructions. «Who is this? Why am I never informed? Who the hell are you?»
«Headshot, sir, nice to meet you. I'm the new security guard.»
With gritted teeth, Charlie spoke to his father: «I sent you a text message with pictures something like five days ago!»
Embarrassed, Lucifer picked up the phone to check: he was so busy creating the self-moving automatic duck with artificial intelligence that he had completely forgotten to check on new messages. He cleared his throat and tried to mask his embarrassment with a 64-tooth smile. «Ah, yes, I remember now. I apologize for the lapse in memory. Well, Headshot, nice to meet you.»
Headshot continued where he had left off: «Could Alastor create security guards?»
Lucifer huffed, visibly disappointed. «Alastor? We don't need that creepy deer. We can handle security without his tricks.»
Charlie intervened, trying to mediate. «Dad, I know you don't like Alastor, but his magic could really help us get Adam under control. We need all the resources we can get.»
"But if he barely escaped being killed by a hair last time he..." Lucifer froze and sighed, reluctantly giving in. «All right, but I want everything supervised. I don't want any surprises.»
«In any case, it's better to use people who have made a deal with Alastor, not his shadows.» commented Husk «I don't like the idea, but if we have to disturb him, it's more useful if he summons people under contract with him. Shadows are more useful for small tasks.»
«As an alternative, couldn't some of the guests do it on a voluntary basis?» Charlie suggested, trying to avoid involving Alastor's enslaved souls.
Cherry shook her head. «I thought wanted him alive. I remind you that people in here want his head; they would volunteer just to be alone with him and tear him to pieces.»
«The people who made a pact with Alastor would be under strict orders not to harm him.» added Angel «Unless he runs away, of course.» there was some bitterness in his voice; he knew what it was like to be forced.
«So it's decided? We ask Alastor to involve some of the souls belonging to him?» asked Headshot.
Charlie hid her face with one hand: «The idea is terrible, but we don't have much choice. Like when I was struggling to get the Hotel started.»
«Very well, then.» said Lucifer. With a wave of his hand, a new piece was added to the Hotel project, and with a snap of his fingers, the paper appeared in Headshot's hand. «You who seem to be the experienced one, do you think this is an ideal location for the cell?»
Headshot looked at the paper: the cell was very deep compared to the Hotel, it could only be reached one way, and the walls were very thick, as he proposed. He didn't know much about blueprints, but he had a feeling that neither Adam nor anyone else could easily escape from there.
«Looks perfect to me.» he commented, giving his approval.
«Great.» Lucifer used his magic again to retrieve the blueprint «I'll go create the room, you guys take care of communicating to Mr. I'm-Stealing-Your-Daughter that his servants are needed.»
The group exchanged nervous but determined glances. As Lucifer walked away, Charlie took a deep breath. «Okay, let's go talk to Alastor. We need to get everything ready as soon as possible.»
–
Alastor surprisingly responded well to Charlie's request. With an enigmatic smile, he immediately made himself available to summon ten people to enlist as security guards, ready to watch over Adam as soon as he was moved to his new room.
Lucifer, with his magic, added an elevator that led several feet underground, creating a small corridor that ended in a large maximum-security cell. This cell, while impenetrable, offered some extra comforts: it was locked by a wall of large bars, with no windows, and an exposed shower and toilet. However, the bed was comfortable, the floor was wooden parquet, and several shelves full of books were attached to the walls for the prisoner to pass the time. Several plants decorated the room, and motivational posters inviting him to be a better person were hung on the walls.
As he observed his creation, Lucifer commented to himself «Charlie is far too kind.»
Charlie arrived shortly after accompanied by Alastor. Looking closely at the cell, a smile formed on her face: «It's perfect, Dad. Let's just hope it's enough to contain him.»
«Don't worry, Char Char. I've taken every precaution possible. Now we have to make sure the guards are ready and everything is working.»
Alastor joined them, with his usual smile. «My guards are ready and waiting. They're disciplined and will follow every order strictly to the letter, or they will meet a horrible fate.» To these words, a shadow darkened his face, the smile became even more chilling, and deer antlers sprouted behind his ears for a few seconds, then disappeared as he returned to his usual appearance.
Charlie turned to him, serious. «Thank you, Alastor. We know it's not easy, but it's necessary.»
Alastor gave a theatrical bow. «Anything for our dear princess.»
Lucifer glowered at Alastor again, but did not comment for Charlie's sake.
With the guards ready and the cell completed, the group prepared to relocate Adam.
–
Alastor's shadows, still in charge of Adam's care, carried the prisoner to his cell, strapped to the gurney. Charlie watched them from afar as they entered the new elevator accompanied by the guard who would be working the first shift: a tall, muscle-bound, shark-headed brute.
Alastor had already told all the summoned guards to inform her of Adam's health status; once he recovered his strength, Charlie planned to interrogate him. Feeling a weight lift from her shoulders, but also a deep fatigue from the day's emotions, she slumped down on a small sofa in the entrance hall. She allowed herself to close her eyes for a few minutes, being cheered by the buzz of other guests' activities.
«Charlie?» the moment of relaxation was interrupted by a familiar voice. The princess of hell reopened her eyes and saw Kitty in front of her, dressed in a gorgeous blue dress and her loyal phone in hand.
«Hey, Kitty.» greeted Charlie, tired but curious. «It's been a terrible day. Do you need anything?»
Very shyly, Kitty spoke up: «I didn't want to bother you, but I wanted to ask you something...»
«Go ahead.»
«You are going to interrogate Adam, right?»
«Yes, what are you getting at?»
Kitty took a deep breath before answering: «I'd like to be present during the interrogation.»
Charlie looked at her, puzzled. «And why is that, Kitty?»
«I want to shoot the whole thing and put the video on my blog.» Kitty admitted, looking at her with pleading eyes.
Charlie, getting upset, was about to give the nosy young girl a piece of her mind, but Kitty interrupted her before she could: «Before you say anything, please listen to me. I think letting people know that Adam is still alive is a good idea. Think about it, until now we were convinced that after we died a second time it was over, end of the line, kaputt. But now there is Adam to prove otherwise. And plus, I had an epiphany today: if Adam died and found himself here, couldn't Sir Pentious be in heaven?»
Kitty's idea hit her like a bolt of lightning, and Charlie felt as if a dam had just been opened. It was so obvious! If an angel could be reborn as a demon, why couldn't the opposite also happen? She didn't know for sure yet, but maybe Sir Pentious really could have ended up in heaven for his act of extreme courage. Who knows, maybe...
«... maybe you're right...» exclaimed Charlie with her heart filling with growing hope.
«Exactly!» replied Kitty «That could be the proof we're looking for!»
«However...putting everything online could create panic or attract unwanted attention.»
Kitty nodded, showing that she had considered it. «I know, Charlie, but we can handle it. We could filter the information and share only what is necessary. People need to know that there is hope, that all is not lost. And maybe, that might even help us find answers.»
Charlie sighed, feeling the weight of the decision. «All right, Kitty. You can be present during the interrogation, but I want everything you film to go through me before it's published. We can't afford any mistakes.»
Kitty smiled, relieved. «Thank you, Charlie. I promise to be discreet and respectful. This could really make a difference for all of us.»
Charlie nodded, allowing a small smile. «Let's hope so, Kitty. Let's really hope so.»
