I'm posting chapter 3 early because I'm due to have a technician come out to hopefully fix my intermediate internet issues that have been plaguing me for a month. On the off chance the issue is more serious and my net goes down for more than a day, at least this week's posting will be finished. This chapter has been greatly improved since the original, including adding in a detail that I JUST figured out I needed to add: Kevin's primary weapon is angelic in nature; and dealing with most issues in Hell does not require the outright destruction of a sinner's soul. So, a tease of a return of a classic weapon of his happens here, and will debut in a future story. I like these little details.

Finally, this chapter may read a little 'off' as I added new information yet tried not to change the whole of the story I wanted to tell. If anything seems really off, let me know - as is well known with me - revisionism is my jam.

Quick feet carried Kevin down the flight of steps to the suite level, and he turned towards Lucifer's corridor and scanned it as he walked to the large double doors of Lucifer's suite. Noting that the security camera was positioned correctly and the light was blinking, indicating it was recording, he rapped on the door with his knuckles and waited. After a moment, he knocked again, and still no sound of movement.

Must not be in his room at the moment. Kevin thought, making a note to talk to Lucifer later.

He turned away with a sense of frustration to head down the other hallway towards Alastor's suite. Before he'd taken more than two steps, he heard a click of the lock, and the door to Lucifer's suite swung open.

Lucifer Morningstar smiled while dabbing the corner of his lips with a napkin, "Kevin! So sorry! I just popped in from breakfast with Charlie. What's up?"

Kevin's lips lifted easily hearing his girlfriend's name. "Is Charlie still down there? I haven't had anything to eat yet."

"She was finishing up breakfast with Vaggie, then going to start work on some exercises for the group. She'll likely be in her office by the time you get downstairs. Please, come in." Lucifer moved aside to give Kevin room to pass by.

Stepping into the King of Hell's living quarters for the first time since the end of construction, Kevin took a quick glance at his quarters. He'd gone all out with duck-themed furniture, wallpaper, and paintings, and there were mounds of rubber ducks strewn about in the corners, some in boxes to be shipped, others just decorating spare space. The white, red, and yellow paint of the room matched Lucifer's circus-themed suit, and the brightness of the room matched his demeanor, which Kevin knew sometimes was a mask of it's own.

Pushing that aside for the time being, but noting that the hotel was certainly going to need a resident therapist at some point, he turned to address Lucifer. "I forgot all about breakfast. It's been an interesting morning."

With a flick of his fingers, the napkin burst into flame and burned away. "Well, Cherri said she was going to start on lunch for everyone, so there will be something for you when you get down there, I'm sure."

"Cherri? I thought she went home last night?"

"She did, but her place had been ransacked, so she came back here to crash."

"Ransacked?" Kevin shook his head. "I'm sorry that happened to her. I'll have a talk with her later; see if I can help recover her possessions."

"I don't know if she'll take you up on it. I've only known Cherri for a month, but I know the type. Proud and easily offended by offers of help."

"I know the type, as well." Kevin smirked. "And almost all of them need that help, sometimes. Proud or not. The least I can do is offer. It's up to her to accept. I'm guessing that looting is just one of the endless crimes that happen?"

"Yes, all crime is very common down here. Some are more serious than others, and knowing you, my boy, you will get no rest ever if you try to extend your moral code on Pentagram City. The fact is that some crimes are very serious and very violent, and you can't be saving every sinner that's attacked. Or Killed."

Kevin was silent for a moment. "I never even thought of that. My instinct is to charge in to save the innocent, but—"

"But down here, the innocent are very few. My daughter's a rare exception." Lucifer put a hand on Kevin's shoulder and gave it a squeeze. "The upside is that sinners generally regenerate after a time, if not killed by an exorcist blade, so the most pain they deal with is that of inconvenience. Easy to be stripped of your wallet when you're dead."

"An exorcist blade." Kevin paused, his eyes drifting up, and Lucifer followed his tracing gaze. "Shit. I didn't even think of my halo." Plucking it off his head, Angel twirled the glowing gold ring in his hands. "I can't very well go out into Hell with this as my only means of defense. Charlie would not be very pleased if I destroyed the very souls she's trying to save."

"Hmm." Lucifer eyed the halo in Kevin's hands. "May I see that, my boy?"

Nodding, Kevin held his hand out, and in doing so, the halo's glow dimmed, indicating that it would be safe for Lucifer to touch. He took it in his hands and twisted it around. "Strange. I feel a bit of an old soul in your halo?"

"Eryn gifted me a piece of her soul to empower my halo to form any weapon I can imagine, sir." Kevin offered the explanation.

"Eryn." Lucifer's eyes turned cold. "The heaven-born? You know her?"

"I do." Kevin understood he'd breached a very delicate subject. He'd talked to Eryn the day of the court hearing with Charlie, and at the time, he didn't know Lucifer as the being he truly was versus how he'd been written. Holding his hand up in penance, he gave the King of Hell a contrite look. "She's my friend, sir, and she was designed by God to do one thing, and she does it well. Very…very well."

The last words Kevin spoke, Lucifer knew he was referring to losing his stance in Heaven, now a fallen angel like Vaggie, and his eyes softened. "I know. Although I don't hold her solely responsible, it's something I don't care to think about." He huffed and finished with, "But I don't have to worry about her anymore, so that's a happy relief."

"I never thought I could relate to falling like you, sir. If it wouldn't be a problem, someday I'd like to talk to you more about your story in depth. I was taught human religion, and reality is nowhere near the writings of man."

"I would be honored to have that conversation with you, son." Lucifer handed the halo back, shaking his head sadly. "I was going to see if I could alter your halo in any way to give you control over the angelic power it holds, but if Eryn's soul is infused, I can't. Not without risking destroying the halo outright."

"It's okay, sir." Kevin shrugged, replacing the halo over his head. "On Earth, I had to rely on my training, weapons, and skills to survive in the armed forces, and when I hunted criminals, I took extra care as I was on my own for most of it. I'll just have to figure out what to do about that, here."

"In the story you shared with us, you mentioned a type of gun that knocked out your targets?" Lucifer hummed as his eyes brightened. "I think you called it a tranquilizer gun?"

"Yes, sir." Kevin nodded. "Even before the incident in Libya, I've never been fond of taking lives, but when I set out on my own, I needed a non-lethal way to take down those who I hunted." The truth is, Kevin had never wished to resort to killing. Joining the military to defend his country was an act of honor, but he knew most on the other side were doing the same for their own beliefs.

Lucifer turned and went to one of his work desks. There he opened a couple of drawers and fished around inside. A moment later, he turned around. "Tell ya what? It's been a while since I created something new and unusual. Give me the day, and I'll craft you a new weapon to add to your arsenal. It'll be similar to your old trank gun, and you'll be able to knock out sinners left and right if need be without destroying their souls."

"You can do tha—" Kevin cut himself off when he saw Lucifer raise an eyebrow at him. "No, of course you can." Bowing his head, Kevin thanked Lucifer. "I'd be very grateful."

A thought crossed his mind as Lucifer walked back over to join him. "So, if I don't use my sword and I have a trank gun, how safe am I out there in Pentagram City?" With the subject broached and his concerns through the morning, sparked by Alastor's not-so-veiled threat, Kevin needed to understand the mechanics of Hell, and what better teacher than Lucifer himself?

"I'll be honest, son, don't ever let your guard down or forget to watch your back. For one, most of Hell now knows what can kill an exorcist angel such as yourself: angelic steel, and Carmilla has been giving out such weapons free of charge since we successfully stood off Adam's attack on the hotel. Almost any demon, sinner, and overlord, especially who may see you as a threat, will have the means on them to harm you. If you're cornered by those intent on your death, don't hesitate to use your sword."

"Feels like home." Kevin let out a mirthless laugh. Until Charlie came along, then reuniting with my team, that is.

Kevin felt a sense of warmth thinking of them. Continuing aloud, he added, "The difference is there's magic and demonic forces to consider. I'm lucky to have at least equal footing in some of that, now." He tapped his head, indicating the halo. "And I appreciate your advice and offer, truly."

"Pentagram City is a rough place, but just heed my advice, and you'll be fine." Folding his arms, The King of Hell peered closely at Kevin, "But you didn't come here for any of that. What is it I can do for you, son?"

Kevin hummed, "It wasn't, but I'm grateful for the advice." He looked around the room. "Now that Charlie and Vaggie have assigned me as the new head of security for the hotel, I've been conducting a thorough walk-through of all the floors, inspecting the video cameras, and ensuring the proper security of occupied rooms. Though I helped with the rebuild, Vaggie set the security measures, and while I fully trust her skills, I need to see how everything works myself and double check weak areas."

"Very good, my boy!" Lucifer grinned. "But do you really think the King of Hell's room needs security and protection?"

Returning his gaze to the King, Kevin gave him a solid stare. "Yes."

One simple word, and Lucifer's eyebrows raised. His smile faded slightly, but his voice was mostly curious. "Explain?"

Folding his arms against his chest, Kevin pointedly asked, "Have you ever been challenged before? You, or your position?"

Lucifer paused to think, "No. At least, nothing serious. Sinners don't even think about trying, and hell borne are generally fine with their stations. Overlords? There's a few who tease an uprising on occasion, but the Sins rise up before I even have to lift a finger. Satan runs the courts, judges, and executes any that break demon law. I've not even been to the courts in centuries."

"Satan is a Sin?" Kevin blinked at the mention of his name.

"Oh, yes." Lucifer smirked, "I forgot some religions like to think we're one in the same up there."

"Christian theology definitely liked to consider you one in the same, but historically speaking, you were considered the light-bringer while Satan was classified as the fallen angel."

"Makes sense." Lucifer shrugged, "But Satan is one of the Sins, like myself and the other five. They're all extremely powerful, so the more you get on your side, the better."

"Insight on who I could approach and whom I should be wary of?"

"Easy. Asmodeus and Beelzebub will warm up to you with just a word from me. Asmodeus probably will offer you some free gifts since you're dating Charlie."

"Gifts?"

"He's the sin of lust, my boy." Lucifer winked.

"Ahhh." Cheeks warming up, Kevin quickly brought up the other, "Beelzebub?"

Lucifer chuckled, but wasn't going to tease him anymore. "She's gluttony. Queen of the party. But she never pushes on anyone. She's really sweetie. Used to babysit Charlie when she was a baby. Lilith and I trusted her without question."

"That's two. You're three. That leaves four."

Shrugging, Lucifer didn't seem to be thrilled with the rest. "Leviathan, Belphegor, and Mammon are a little less likely to be as accommodating, and Satan's in control of the Wrath Ring. Well, as in control as he can be. He's been running the courts and is very strict about the laws down here—what few we have. Charlie and I will be able to keep you off his radar, but I'd be careful about how far you push things."

"Sounds familiar. Amanda used to cover for me with the FBI." Kevin suddenly looked at Lucifer, "Shit! Amanda. I never saw her in Heaven! She's down here, isn't she?"

Averting his eyes, Lucifer didn't respond right away.

"How could I? How could…" Kevin turned and punched the wall. "I've had my memories back for two fucking months and only now do I think of her?"

"Son." Lucifer's tone was firm. "Look at me."

Kevin obliged, but his face showed a ton of regret.

"She's in Hell, yes." Lucifer admitted. "She's a sinner like most. She made mistakes and now pays for them, but she's found her place and she's thriving. You'd create a mess if you went looking for her. Not just for yourself, but for Charlie. Just trust me. She's okay."

"I—" Kevin sighed, "Yes, Sir. As you command."

"It's not a command, just a very informed suggestion."

"Okay." Breathing deeply, Kevin rubbed the corner of his eye. He wasn't quite sure if he was going to let this go, but for the moment, he needed to put her aside. "Let's move on. Tell me more about those other three sins?"

"They can wait." Lucifer suggested not wanting to keep him any longer than needed. "You have your duties to perform, correct, and a princess to go see?"

"Agreed." Kevin sighed, appreciating Lucifer's efforts. Gathering his emotions and putting them on the shelf, Kevin did what any good soldier does: focus on duty. Turning, he started to walk around the room, inspecting it, and nodded. "Now, the hotel is not as secure as your mansion, I'd wager, and has been targeted once already. Anyone who may have an interest in you or Charlie knows that. As head of security, I am going to make sure every room and every aspect of this hotel is as tightly protected as can be. This includes your quarters."

Lucifer spread his arms out to encompass the room. "Then, by all means, whatever you feel is necessary."

"Mostly, I'm worried about the location and your choice of installing large picture windows."

"My windows?"

"Easy access. I assume you know some spells to cast on them for protection?"

"I didn't even think of that." Lucifer admitted, impressed, "And you'd think as the King of Hell and centuries of living down here, I'd be on top of that kind of thing."

At this, both of them stopped and did a slow pan of the room, eyeing all the ducks that were not in rows but piled up left and right. Lucifer shrugged, "Or not."

"I didn't say a thing." But He did smile pointedly at Lucifer.

"I appreciate your vigilance about my safety, Kevin. I can whip something up right now, but a better spell takes preparation. I trust I have time to study the best choices?"

"Of course. The windows and the ceiling, as well." Kevin looked up. "The top floor is ripe for attacks from above, and I fear Heaven isn't out of the picture yet. Plus, I know for certain Lute isn't at all happy with me."

There was silence from Lucifer, and Kevin turned to see if he'd heard him. Lucifer fidgeted, "I wish I could tell Charlie why I agreed with Heaven to let the executions take place to begin with. "

"I'm sure you had your reasons," Kevin didn't want to press the King of Hell, someone he respected, but it did nag at Kevin that whatever the deal was could have led to Charlie's death, and there was a seed of anger Kevin hoped would never sprout. "But she does wonder. As do I."

Lucifer heard the tone. "I need to keep a few things under wraps for the time being, okay? When I can, I will sit you both down and discuss it." He paused, smiled, and bowed his head to Kevin. "But I never did thank you for breaking the contract and calling on me to come help that day."

"I wasn't sure I could." Kevin confessed. "But I was granted the status of High Angel, which afforded me some power, and I was going to use whatever I needed to see Charlie safe."

"And it's appreciated." Lucifer sighed. "It took all of that to make me see Charlie's dream for what it is. Now, I just want to be a good father to Charlie. I didn't get much time with her as a child. Lilith spent most of the time with her."

"Where is her mother?" It had been on his mind ever since Charlie lamented one time about wishing she was home.

"I wish I knew." Lucifer frowned. "I miss my ducky so much. I only know she is off doing something important." In fact, he knew exactly what she was up to, but it was yet another secret he had to keep from Charlie, as her absence and the contract with heaven were connected. The Prince of Lies was living up to his title, and he hated it. Changing the subject, he opted to talk more about Charlie instead. "But Lilith was—is a good mother to Charlie, always supporting her dreams. Even when she was growing up, exploring the world, and dating in school, Charlie had a weird teenage life. Even going goth for a while, did you know that?"

Chuckling, Kevin shook his head, "No. But then, we didn't get any time together to share anything about her life in Hell after she got her memories back. It was Bible, then back to New Orleans, and you showed up."

"Right." Lucifer blew air out between pursed lips. "And then I had to break the binding spell between Charlie and your sister. I am sorry."

"I know, and it's okay." Kevin nodded. "You did what was right by your rules and those of Hell. Charlie was not where she was supposed to be. But I missed her. So very deeply, and I never got over her. When I knew death was ready to claim me, my biggest fear was going to Heaven."

"A fear wiped away once you got there."

"Yeah. It was bliss to have no worries, no strife, and there are times I wish I could have that peace again. But when the spell broke and I remembered Charlie, I despised the fact I'd ever lost those feelings at all. It's a double-edged sword; Heaven is." Kevin's tone seemed to curse the word 'Heaven'.

"Yet in Hell, sinners remember their lives and what they did to earn damnation. It's part of the torture, and one rule I wish I could change, and let them not suffer so much."

"And Heaven could stand to allow those who ascend to remember why they did, and the lives they lived and the people they loved and loved them." Kevin turned his eyes up towards the ceiling, giving it and what lay beyond a glare.

Lucifer nodded. "When she called me up about wanting the meeting with Heaven, I was very worried about her. I had no idea what would happen, and I couldn't go with her. But if I hadn't set up the meeting, you would never have seen her or knew what was to happen. That's when my spell stored in the amulet activated. It's a lucky coincidence."

Kevin dropped his eyes onto the King. "I've come to realize that coincidence isn't a piece on our game board. When I found Charlie and discovered she was a demon, it reaffirmed my faith to know that Heaven and Hell existed. My faith had been restored, and I started to accept that maybe things happen for a reason. If you'd never made the deal with Heaven and allowed the executions, Charlie would never have had the idea to start this hotel, nor would she have gone to Heaven to fight for her ideas, and you're right; I never would have known."

Both men fall silent for a moment. Kevin shifted his feet, feeling uncomfortable and sad that it took these paths to connect just to get back to his princess. Lucifer tapped his fingers on his legs. To break the awkwardness, Lucifer let a small smile play on his lips, and he looked at Kevin, who looked back. "Maybe what you need is a large pile of—"

"Pancakes?" Kevin finished the thought, and both men burst out laughing.

"Is my cure all that predictable?" Lucifer gave a slightly pouted frown.

"And very much appreciated." Kevin took a breath. A couple things still bothered him, and he felt the need to express them: "I hate the loss of life so very much. I fought in a lot of wars, took many lives, all for my country, and I took no joy in any of it." He cleared his throat. "And I took no joy in sending the exorcists to their deaths last month, either, but I will not judge myself for any action I take that protects Charlie's life or my family here."

"And I am forever grateful, son, because you've been one of Charlie's true angels for a long time, and I am very happy to have you home."

"Everything feels so upside down. I did so much good, but I feel I am home here in Hell because I get to be with Charlie again, and that's my true reward." He paused, then gave Lucifer a look as something connected: "Is that why the a.m. and p.m. times are reversed? Because Hell is 'up-side-down' to Heaven?"

"That's the gist." Lucifer nodded. "Sort of the Yang to Heaven's Ying."

"I see." With a nod, Kevin turned towards the door. "Well, I've taken up more than enough of your time, sir. I have to finish this floor and move my way to the lobby, and I am not looking forward to my next inspection."

"Alastor?"

"Mmmhmm. We had a bit of a moment last night, and I need to put my foot down about our positions here."

"Watch your back, son. Of all the overlords in Hell, he's the most dangerous, and he lives under this roof. I don't trust him."

"Neither do I." Kevin opened the door and turned his head around. "But I can tell you right now, sir, that despite being on equal footing down here or even against the wall, I'm not gonna to take shit from any demons." Except maybe Niffty. I still gotta have that talk with her. He stepped through the door, and as he closed it, he gave Lucifer a wink, "Or self-inflated egotistical overlords."

The door shut, and Lucifer smiled, "Good man. Just as I taught my girl."