A/N:
Hi everyone! I'm back from another small break :) This chapter has some RadioDust, some Val/Vox, and we see two other characters for the first time who are going to have an interesting role in things :33 Thank you for reading, and I hope you enjoy!
Partners
Chapter 95:
From Rags to (Eld)ritches
Normally, Alastor was loathe to appear in public without his full formal suited attire, but the hotel with its odd assortment of friends and acquaintances and dear guests didn't quite feel like 'public' anymore. If pressed, he probably would have admitted to himself that the place felt more like a home and the people here more akin to family, though he would have shyly avoided those exact words had anyone asked (except for Angel…and perhaps Charlie now too).
Regardless, with a radio show to benefit the hotel coming up and his new tower needing to be constructed quickly and the various personal tasks of everyone's lives still needing tending to, this place was bustling to say the least. So Alastor had soon decided that handling matters in his starched and pressed best would leave him a tad too encumbered. Barely an hour after breakfast, he removed his jacket and changed his monocle for his trusty reading glasses and even loosened his tie as he got down to business and made his rounds of the hotel and its many occupants.
At the moment, he was strolling down the hotel stairs, making notes on a clipboard, his glowing microphone tucked into the crook of his elbow.
"…You've doubled the guard assigned to the Cannibal Colony radio tower, yes, Rosie?" Alastor spoke into the microphone. "We'll have to patch the hotel show through to the Colony tower for full range so we reach the entire pentagram, and I don't want to risk interruptions to the broadcast." He bit his lip. "And please inform anyone agreeing to guard duty that their compensation will be generous. Oh, and make sure they are armed. I'll have shadows at their disposal to handle miscreants, but still…" His brow furrowed, and his voice lowered. "After all, the ones most likely to attack the tower are arguably the king and queen, provided they don't care for our program. And they are formidable."
"Not to worry, Alastor dear — guard duty has already been assigned, radios have been handed out for fast communication, and I'll be keeping an eye on the tower personally," Rosie assured in a comforting tone.
"And I'm making sure they all have weapons!" Mimzy piped up. "Niss knows some great gun dealers — he got us fully supplied over the last few days! It's all taken care of." She laughed. "Oh and I'm gonna alternate shifts with Rosie for keeping an eye on things."
"And we both assured everyone that they would be generously taken care of for their efforts," Rosie added. Her voice softened. "I know you're concerned, Alastor, but all the cannibals know what they're signing up for and are happy to help. They're just excited to see you so jazzed up over a project — especially a new show. And so am I."
Alastor sighed as he reached the bottom of the stairs. "Thank you. Both of you. And all of them, truly. I…am excited." Yet still he knit his brow knit in worry.
"Alastor, I know that tone…" Rosie chided softly, "You're anxious. Please don't worry yourself so much. Everything will go swimmingly, and we will handle any hiccups together. Just focus on how much of a splash you'll make by surprising the sinners and broadcasting from a new location!" she encouraged. Then her voice lowered. "And I'm sure the king and queen won't really attack us. You're doing this show for their daughter's sake, after all. They may be questionable parents, but they're not monsters. They seemed genuinely hurt and worried when they visited the hotel a few days ago."
"Yes, you're right." Alastor nodded. "I believe they'll leave us to our devices as long as we don't malign them directly on the air. Or at least, they won't take countermeasures until a later date. And even then, going against their daughter a second time in public would not look good for them." He tried to perk up his smile. "Thank you, Rosie — and you too, Mimzy. I do feel better." His tone was tender. "Do keep an eye out though for anything suspicious, and do keep yourselves safe. And let me know if anything comes up. Even if the king and queen aren't foolish or cruel enough to attack, you never know when it comes to other overlords. And you two…did not make it through the last attack on the tower unscathed. It was quite distressing to me, ha…"
"Aw Alastor," Mimzy cooed. "We were barely roughed up at all — you were the one who took the brunt of the fighting. But we were happy to defend you." She huffed. "And I hope you don't think those three terrible V demons would try anything against us again. I thought you all had a truce. Or at least a truce with Vox while Valentino is healing up and Velvet is off making her own kind of mischief. You're still meeting Vox at the hotel tomorrow, right?"
Alastor gritted his teeth but nodded. "Yes. However reluctant I am to go through with the plan, I think it's necessary and so does Angel. Besides, the television has been behaving himself, so I can certainly manage to be civil as well for an afternoon. I am the classy one of the two of us, after all." He held his head high.
Rosie chuckled. "Well, you boys have fun. And be safe. And I'm sure we won't hear from Vox and his friends during the radio broadcast. It sounds like they're all very preoccupied with other matters. And speaking of, you make sure to rest while you're in the middle of all this planning, Alastor."
"Yeah, take care of yourself! It'll make Angel happy…" Mimzy reminded him with a giggle.
Alastor smiled more and gave a small laugh. "Ha! Yes, yes, all right, I promise. But for now, at least, I need to keep going full steam ahead. I want as much of this radio show chaos as possible settled before Vox comes by tomorrow. He is to see a hotel running like perfect clockwork without a secret to spare!" He smirked and went back to marking things down on his clipboard. "I'm afraid I have to check in with the others now — have a pleasant day, ladies! Over and out!"
"Over and out, Alastor!" Rosie and Mimzy announced together.
Alastor made his microphone disappear — one less thing to worry about holding onto — and adjusted his glasses as he peeked into the ballroom now.
There he found Charlie and Vaggie. Vaggie was sitting on the stage, taking notes, while Charlie was holding out her arms, speaking excitedly .
Alastor cleared his throat as he strolled in. "Ladies, a pleasure! How go your preparations? Are you finding it easy to lay out a plan for what you'd like to discuss during our show?"
Vaggie grinned, her gaze warm. "Oh yeah — Charlie is full of ideas, some complete with musical numbers!"
"Do people sing on the air for radio shows?" Charlie asked, dark eyes beaming as she turned and dashed up to Alastor. She hesitated, touching her hair. "Unless you think singing would be distracting or make people not tune in. I-I could even limit it to one song… Or just a jingle or—"
"Ha, my dear!" Alastor chortled. "In these modern times, perhaps all the broadcasted music is from recordings, but back in my day you could only have music on the air if it was indeed live! So why not? I think it would be rather novel! But to conserve your powers of speech for the full show perhaps just sticking to one or two songs would be best — maybe a showstopper at the end, hmm? My shadow band would be happy to accompany you." He snapped his fingers, and shadows appeared behind him, all holding instruments and ready to play.
Charlie rubbed her cheeks, all the joy back in her features. "I'd love that! Thank you, Alastor!" She beamed up at him, hands clasped together like it was the only way she could keep from hugging the deer.
Alastor couldn't help feeling his chest swell in pride. He reached out and gave her hands a gentle pat with one of his own. "There, there, no need to thank me. It's my honor — you're gracing my show with your presence as a featured guest, after all. And I want you to be yourself, not whoever it is you've gotten convinced everyone expects you to be, okay? That's more than enough." He winked.
He pulled back his hand, ears flicking awkwardly, as Charlie's eyes suddenly glistened with tears and her lip wobbled. "Oh Alastor…" Tears of emotion were imminent.
"Whoa, hey, I got you, babe!" Vaggie came to the rescue — she dashed over and put her arms around Charlie, patting her on the back to soothe the emotional moment.
Charlie hugged her and sobbed and smiled all at once. "He's just so nice! Isn't it nice that he ended up being so nice?" Vaggie smiled and nodded. Charlie looked to Alastor. "Alastor, I'm sorry again that I slammed the door in your face a few times that first day you came here!"
Alastor couldn't help being a little touched. "Ha, water under the bridge! I'm merely happy that I decided to stop by and that you let me in eventually." He stepped closer, leaning in, voice lowered playfully. "But remember, no letting it get around that I'm nice — otherwise sheer pandemonium will certainly break out. If anyone asks, I'm as evil and selfish and wildly lethal as all the lore says." He made his eyes turn to radio dials and flashed his fangs. Charlie actually laughed as she wiped her eyes while Vaggie just snorted and shook her head with a grin.
"Evil as ever," Charlie assured. "I'll even emphasize that on the show."
"Ha! Much obliged!" Returning to his normal appearance, Alastor pulled back and gave a bow. "Well, I'll be checking on the others again — toodles, girls!" He marked some things down on his clipboard, gave a little wave, then snapped himself away.
He reappeared in the kitchen where Sir Pentious and Niss along with Niffty and Baxter were guiding a few dozen Egg Bois to help prepare a variety of food and drink. "Ah, how goes the food prep, fellows?" He beamed at the sight of the bustling assembly line. "We'll need plenty of ready-to-go nourishment set aside for the big show day and for leading up to it as well."
"It's going perfectly, Alastor!" Niffty assured. "Some Eggs are curing meats for jerky and some are making trail mix and some are preparing casseroles to freeze, and a whole batch of them are brewing sweet tea — they're so good at following instructions!"
"You're so good at GIVING instructions," Baxter offered to her with a shy smile as he helped lift an Egg Boi up to reach a pitcher on a counter.
Niffty blushed and giggled.
"Ah tremendous!" Alastor assured approvingly, marking things down on his clipboard. "Thank you so much for all the fine assistance." He turned to the other two main members of the party. "And the back up generators you mentioned, Sir Pentious, are they still—"
"Ready for use!" Sir Pentious assured as he carried some Egg Bois to the pantry to deposit the snacks they had finished making. "If power is cut to the hotel, either by accident or design, you'll have a direct hook-up to the airship to keep the show going!"
Niss nodded as he finished setting some biscotti onto platters. "Yeah, we just have to rig a long enough extension cord. Once that's done, I'll hop down with it and we'll be in business"
Alastor nodded, writing on his clipboard again. "Splendid, splendid, thank you for your help." He shrugged. "Well, off to check on things upstairs, ha!"
"Wait!" Niss darted through the busy kitchen with three platters of fresh biscotti in hand. "Please teleport one of these to the girls in the ballroom and take the other two upstairs — the big one's for everyone in Molly's room and smaller one's for you and Angel. And make sure you definitely do eat at least one of these cookies — I know ya don't like sweets much, but you've been running around at full speed for three days. And I saw ya barely touch your breakfast this morning. Ya need the sugar and comfort food." Just as Alastor was about to protest with a joke, Niss gave him a stern look. Despite his short stature, the dark spider definitely had a big brother air of authority about him that was undeniable.
Alastor thought for a moment about Charlie running herself ragged over a problem and how, in that situation, he too probably would have insisted she have a treat to keep up energy. He took one of the long cookies and bit it in half. It tasted sweet and earthy — like vanilla and cinnamon — and did make him feel good inside. "Of course. Thank you, Niss. Delicious." He finished the cookie and gave a bow of his head.
"Any time." Niss smiled and nodded back.
Alastor snapped one tray to the girls in the ballroom then snapped himself away with the other two.
He ended up upstairs on the second floor.
He found Molly's door open and a bunch of fabric samples and decor items strewn all over the hall leading into her room. When he poked his head inside, he saw that the space was covered with scattered decorations as well. Molly hovered above the floor, sitting in what Alastor could only describe as a floating seat made of spider webbing while Husk sat on the bed and the young Crymini tried to keep herself tucked into an arm chair.
He gave a little rap on the doorframe. "Hello! How goes choosing decor options for the new studio?"
Molly beamed when she saw him. "Oh, it's goin' swell, Alastor! Rosie and Mimzy sent over tons of fabric samples with Cherri — there's so many pretty patterns and shades of red! She's upstairs now takin' some measurements and snappin' pics of the blueprints so we have a reference for your plans for the space. I think we'll have things narrowed down soon to some options you'll really like."
"Molly's got a great eye for this, and I already let her know all about your tastes," Husk assured. "Trust me, it'll look like a radio demon palace."
"Ha! Wonderful!" Alastor jotted more on his clipboard…but couldn't help a feeling of tension going all through his body as he did so. Crymini was watching him — he could tell out of the corner of his eye. He knew she was no danger, no threat, but some part of himself still sensed 'dog' and immediately wanted to head for the hills. He cleared his throat, suddenly remembering the plates balanced on his arm. "Oh, Niss sent these up for nourishment, ha!" He bit his lip then made himself be brave and turned to face the young dog demon sinner. He bowed lower and offered her the larger platter.
Her eyes widened and she seemed to tense as well for a moment, like she had an equally unpleasant experience being near him. Finally, though, she took the plate and nodded. "Uh, thanks, Alastor."
He straightened up. "Ha, you're welcome, Crymini. Thank you for…assisting Husker and Molly and Cherri."
Crymini nodded, munching on the end of a cookie. "No problem. It's fun." She smiled a little.
Alastor felt good at her seeing her smile. He only liked people fearing him when he wanted to be feared, but right now he just wanted to check in with his hotel family. Crymini's sudden slight ease was a relief.
"Back with all the measurements and shots of the blueprints!" Cherri announced as she suddenly appeared in the doorway. She grinned. "Hey, Alastor!" Her eye widened at the site of the cookies. "Oh, fuck yes, more amazing baked stuff from Niss! Perfect timing, I'm starved." She grabbed two biscotti then leapt over the decor on the floor to crash into the bed beside Husk. "Molly, while you're up there can you show me those paint samples for the radio tower ceiling? I want to get the full effect of how they'd look."
Molly nodded and leaned over to rummage around on the floor for the requested item.
"Well, I'll leave you all to it then! Thank you for your help!" Alastor gave them all a bow and disappeared as they all waved to him (even Crymini, though her wave was brief and hesitant — but still a wave nonetheless).
He reappeared in his own room, sitting on the bed with a tired sigh. The secret door to Angel's room was wide open, almost making the space feel like shared living quarters. They had needed to compare notes and check in with other so much this week that it had just seemed easier to set things up this way for now during the day.
Alastor had to admit, though, that the idea of letting the door stay open permanently was starting to grow on him.
A notion came into his head of turning one of their rooms into a master bedroom for the both of them and keeping the other room as a large parlor for entertaining guests and themselves some nights with dancing and singing and playing with Nuggets and his Shadow…
Alastor quickly put the idea away, his face glowing warm. Too soon, too soon — he didn't mean to be so old-fashioned, but there was a very particular order in which he wanted to do things in their life. That part would come later… and yet, not too long from now if things kept going according to this plans.
"Smiles, that you?" Angel popped his head through the door. "How's everything going?"
"Everything is Aces!" Alastor gave a thumbs up and tried to keep his demeanor bright, yet he could feel tiredness seeping into his bones. And they hadn't even broken ground on constructing the actual tower based out of that room he had chosen upstairs… So much work to do.
"Great. And how are YOU exactly?" Angel strolled in, arms crossed, eyeing him with a knowing smile. "Cuz you seem like you could use a long break." He leaned down close, nose nearly touching Alastor's. "And don't try putting me off and pretending you're fine — you know I'll know if you're lying."
Alastor's heart raced. Indeed, Angel could see through any facade he tried to put on. The skill was alluring — there was something about never being able to conceal anything from his charming partner that made his heart race. The deer gave a sheepish shrug and gulped. "I'll admit, I'm rather tired indeed. A long break sounds lovely. But perhaps later? I don't know if—"
Angel shook his head. "Nah, come on, I know when my man's overworked. I've been preparing for this all morning, and I've got stuff all set up for you for a nice rest. Trust me." He straightened up, took the little platter of biscotti in one hand, then reached out another hand to the deer. Curious, Alastor took it and let Angel pull him to standing, then the spider guided him to the other room.
There Alastor found a chalkboard full of sweeping script and diagrams, several lovely outfits laid out over furniture, and…Angel's dancing pole set up in one corner.
Angel explained. "While you've been keeping everyone organized and checking in on them, I sorted out the format for the show, figured out the order for everyone to speak and the schedule for when you should take calls, pulled together the perfect playlist for music breaks, and came up with some great outfit ideas. I know, I know, no one will be able to see me or you since it's radio, but the perfect outfit can still really up a guy's confidence." He grinned and stretched. "Took a lot of time, but I think I got it nailed. Just needs any notes from you and your final approval."
Alastor felt tears burning at the edges of his eyes. "Angel this…saves me a full day's work at least. Thank you."
"A pleasure, Al." Angel winked. "And there's something else — turn around."
Alastor turned and sighed wistfully. Angel's bed was laden with fresh blankets and fluffy pillows, and on the nightstand sat a bottle of sarsaparilla and a plate of venison sandwiches along with the little pink radio Alastor had equipped the spider's room with so long ago, playing light, jazzy tunes. Nuggets was even cuddled on the bed, wagging his curly tail at the sight of Alastor.
"See, nice comfy place is ready and waiting for you," Angel explained. "Honestly, you showing up with cookies from Niss was perfect timing." He set the platter next to the sandwiches. "Take a load off, eat something good, pet Nuggets — it's therapeutic. And while you do that, we can talk about whatever's on your mind or nothing at all. Whatever you need." His eyes hazed. "And if you really do make sure to rest up, maybe I'll do a little practicing on the pole for you. I was off my feet for so many days cuz if my ankle, and I could really use a stretch." He winked.
Alastor's ears shot up straight. He immediately removed his shoes and tie and glasses, rolled up his sleeves, and slipped into the warm and waiting bed. He released himself fully against the pillows and smiled more as Nuggets cuddled up with him. "As you wish, mon ange."
Angel chuckled. "You're so cute when you take care of yourself, especially when you let me help. And you're just the best audience." He took off his jacket and pulled his pole over to the center of the room then elegantly climbed up it, smirking at Alastor the whole time as he then wrapped his legs high around the pole and hung upside down.
Alastor enjoyed this move in particular very much, and Angel knew so. The deer felt his eyes haze and his heart flutter and a giggle nearly leave his lips. "You really are all better now, aren't you, mon ange? The muscular strength in your legs is breathtaking."
Angel blushed and giggled. "I'm only back to full capacity thanks to you." He gracefully lifted up his torso and lowered his feet back to the floor, wiping his brow and taking a drink of water. "And this radio show we're cooking up — it's gonna be amazing, Al. I've got a real good feeling."
"I do too, darling, I do too," Alastor nearly cooed as he sat up a little more and grabbed his tray to being eating the food so lovingly prepared for him (and to ready himself for watching the movements on the pole of the spider who loved him so). The deer had so many good feelings these days, and he knew in his heart that there were even more to come.
Vark's leash in hand, Vox stood before the entrance to the Studio and took a deep breath. He knew there was no real reason he should be nervous about visiting here. He had simply promised Val that he would stop by with Vark this afternoon so the moth could see the baby shark and so Vox could check up on Val. And now Vox was here, at this building he had entered countless times before — going inside should be easy.
But still he hesitated…
Something was different. After their time together during Valentino's recovery, after Valentino's moment of vulnerability during that news broadcast followed by his sudden emotional withdrawal, Vox couldn't help but be concerned. He wanted their friendship to keep repairing itself and deepening, he wanted to be here for the moth, but maybe there was still something off between them. Vox didn't think the issue was Angel anymore or even Alastor though, which left him drawing a blank.
He just hoped, whatever the problem was, Valentino would open up about it soon so they could try to work through the issue and so Val wouldn't end up isolated again.
Vox took a deep breath again and looked down at Vark. "Ready to go in, boy?"
The little shark yipped and wagged his tail, nearly taking out a couple of demons passing on the sidewalk behind them.
Vox chuckled. "Okay. But remember, everyone here expects me to be a big, tough, powerful guy. So I'm gonna act like that til we get to Val — wanna join me?" He put on an intimidating smile and narrowed his eyes, electricity flickering around his head.
Vark's eyes widened, then he grinned and nodded. He puffed out his cheeks, narrowed his eyes, and pointed his nose forward like a hunting dog.
Vox almost burst into laughter — this 'scary Vark' look was simply adorable. He made a mental note to get Vark to do it again later so he could take some pictures.
They strolled in. A few strippers and dancers and bodyguards were scattered throughout the halls. They all eyed the little shark creature in curiosity but then quickly stepped aside and gave Vox a respectful nod. Vox knew it was good that he was letting his presence be seen around here again — people would think the trio was finally fully back together and in complete coordinated control of the studio. There would be fewer headaches and whispers for Val to deal with for now.
Vox entered the elevator at the end of the hall and pressed the button for the VIP suite. As the doors closed, he let out a breath and relaxed his features. He glanced at Vark. "Good job, Vark! You were terrifying!"
The little shark smiled and panted, wagging his whole body in excitement. Vox scratched his fin until finally the doors opened. He headed down the quiet hall to the heavy doors of the room and gave a knock.
There was a moment of quiet..followed by what sounded like some running around…and then he heard the moth's familiar voice (cracking at first but then smooth as usual — probably because he was still healing from the throat injury Henroin had given him). "Vox, that you? You can…come in or whatever."
At the sound of Val's voice, Vark started excitedly pawing at the door. "Whoa, Vark!" Vox laughed, pulling on the leash. "Okay, we're coming in, Val! Brace yourself — I think Vark missed you." Vox got the door open and barely kept from stumbling forward as Vark dashed into the room and right over to Valentino, who was thankfully seated in one of the armchairs.
The shark instantly jumped on him and started licking his face, sending his heart glasses flying.
Vox's jaw dropped and he winced, bracing for yelling and anger and maybe even Valentino pushing the shark puppy to the floor (not meaning to hurt him but just as a temperamental reflex). The moth did not like having his personal space invaded, and he did not like his look being messed up, and NO ONE fucked with his glasses.
"Vark, shit…" The words left Val's mouth, but they were said…almost fondly. And…was that a slight laugh Vox heard now. "Okay, okay, I missed you too, calm down. Oh!" There was a gasp, and Val winced and gently lifted the puppy up as best he could. "Okay, yeah, I usually don't let people hit my balls that hard unless one of us is paying good money." He cleared his throat then called out. "Uh, Vox can you grab him? I can't see too good in this light without the glasses and I don't want to risk dropping him if I try to put him down on the floor." His head was tilted down, avoiding any glances at the overhead lights.
A big beaming smile that Vox wished Valentino could see appeared on the television's screen. "Oh, of course!" He dashed forward and gently took Vark in his arms and set him on the floor then grabbed the heart glasses. "Sorry — about the glasses and, uh, the balls, heh. Here." He set the glasses carefully into Val's palm. The moth pretended to wear them for style alone, but Vox and Val both knew he was nearly blind in the light without them (and that sometimes without them he got a little transfixed on certain lights…often to a point of distraction. Lava lamps were banned around the studio, and with good reason).
Vox felt Valentino's hand stiffen against his own for a moment. "That's…fine. Whatever, Vark's cool. Been through worse, heh. Exhibit A — that mobster spider fucker and what he did to me." Val clasped the glasses then unfolded them and set them over his eyes. He rubbed his temple, giving his eyes a chance to adjust as he slowly lifted his head back up then finally stood tall, brushing off his jacket. "Anyway it's good to see Vark. And you."
Vox nodded, still smiling. "It's good to see you too. Are you…I mean, speaking of mobster spiders, how have you been feeling?"
Valentino shrugged, trying to play it cool as usual. "Still some aches, some pains, but fine. Getting back into the swing of things. Though this place practically runs itself with how well you sorted out all the bookkeeping and employees. Thanks again…" He looked down then quickly cleared his throat and added, "And people are motivated KEPP it running smoothly on their own as long as I act like a cranky bitch who doesn't want to be bothered by anyone right now, which is kind of true anyway. Heh…"
Vox nodded, trying not to laugh. "I'm happy it's not too stressful. I saw a lot of the old crew downstairs. You opening at full capacity again?" He asked, taking off Vark's leash and letting the shark roll around on the shag carpet.
"Almost," Valentino explained, glancing to the side, arms crossed. "Don't have a headliner anymore for now though, so…the doors are open, we just aren't filling all the seats."
Angel. Angel was the headliner. Vox braced himself for a rough reaction.
But Valentino just sighed, glancing out through the large windows looking down onto the dance floor. "I'll sort it out. We can make do for now. Hell, if I felt better, I might get out on that floor myself. I still got the moves." He grinned to himself then walked over to the bar.
Vox tilted his head in some wonder. This was…an improvement in attitude, to say the least. Maybe he had just been imagining that there was still some problem between them; maybe everything really was okay now and Val's weird reactions and lack of communication since last week had just been jitters from the news broadcast. He smiled.
"Drink?" Val asked. "I got coffee ready, or I can mix up something from the bar."
Valentino had actually brewed them coffee. He…really was taking care of himself. Vox's smile grew. "Coffee's good — maybe a little brandy in it? It's getting a little nippy out — almost fall, heh." He considered. "And, long shot, I know, but do you have any whipped cream and chocolate syrup? Vel kept making my coffee like that and I got used to it, but she hasn't been around for a few days…"
"Oh that's cuz she keeps coming by here," Valentino explained, rolling his eyes. "So, yeah, I got whipped cream and chocolate syrup. She took up a whole damn shelf in the fridge with her baking stuff. I told her I'm gonna start using it in pornos if she doesn't quit it." He poured them both coffee, added a bit of liquor and started to add the whipped cream.
"She's been here? Really?" Vox asked, curious. He bit his lip. "I know you said she stresses you out a bit. If you want, I can ask her to come by my place again instead."
"No!" Valentino blinked but then cleared his throat as he finished adding the chocolate sauce. "I mean, it's fine. Just let her get it out of her system. If anything, having her around keeps the staff extra in line. No one wants to get knifed, right? And I…could use the conversation or whatever." He shrugged, brow furrowed. "I think she's just worried about me in her own weird way. Whatever… She'll get over it soon."
Vox nodded, coming over to the bar. "Want me to order us something from downstairs to eat, or some take out?"
"Actually I…cooked." Valentino looked down with an almost shy pout as he reached for a lower shelf on the fridge and emerged with a tray filled with cold cuts and bread and cheese and mustard and mayo and slices of tomato and lettuce. "I mean, not really 'cooked' I guess, but I prepared something — what I could manage. If you want. Or we can order in. Whatever works."
Vox smiled so much and felt his eyes haze. Val really was doing alright. "Val, this is perfect." He came forward and took the tray. "You grab the coffees, and we can dig in."
Vox saw a proud smile come to Val's lips that the moth couldn't avoid and nearly chuckled to himself as he brought their food over to the coffee table. Valentino joined him a moment later with the sugary, boozy drinks. Vark sat on the floor between them in an instant, ready to be fed scraps and some sandwiches of his own.
Vox took a bite of his first sandwich. "This is great, Val! It's all fresh — you must have gone grocery shopping. And it looks like you've been cleaning up around here. And you really do look better too."
Valentino bit his sandwich and tried to shrug casually again. "I mean, I've been doing some of it just because of Vel. She's won't let me be 'boring' and just sulk in bed, and she's a hard ass but it makes me get stuff done. And I guess it's good or whatever. I'm glad you like the food." He swallowed hard then quickly focused on the shark. "You too, Vark." He slipped the shark some roast beef and smiled a little when Vark gobbled it down.
Vox chuckled. "Yeah, Vel is relentless in a good way when she has something she cares about. And I am enjoying this, Val, really. It's good to see you're okay." He watched the moth blink then focus on his sandwich again with an almost shy pout. He was probably just tired of being fussed over. And it didn't seem like he needed much fussing over anymore anyway. Vox sipped coffee and considered then decided Val seemed to be in a good enough mood for Vox to mention something. "Has Vel mentioned to you yet that I… I mean, about tomorrow?"
Valentino raised an eyebrow.
Vox sighed. Might as well get the last potential trigger out of the way to ensure they were really okay. "Tomorrow I'm visiting Alastor at the hotel to discuss…things between us and how we can make them stay okay. I'm going to make sure he nows we had nothing to do with that news broadcast. And I'm also gonna tell Angel about, you know…no more headliner."
Valentino sighed, pausing for a moment. He swallowed. "Are you going to be safe?"
Vox's eyes winded and he nodded. "Yeah. We agreed to a truce, and the princess will be around, and Vark's even going so he can have a playdate with Nuggets. Alastor gave me his word — no tricks. He's an ass but he's got enough pride to always full his contracts, even verbal ones." "Okay." Valentino gave a single nod. "Good luck then. And just…I don't know, call me when you're done or whatever. So I know it all went okay. Okay?"
His eyes met Vox's and Vox nodded, looking solemn for a moment. Val seemed so serious, but not in a controlling way. In a caring way. "I'll call. Promise."
They just kept looking at each other for a moment…a very long moment.
Vox had a sudden compulsion to reach other and touch Valentino's hand and give it a gentle pat of reassurance. He had a feeling the gesture would be received…a lot better than it would have been received a few months ago, back in their old toxic days.
Val kept staring back at him in the strangest way, like he was waiting for something or thinking of doing something himself.
And then the VIP room door burst open. "Val!" Velvet trotted in, a huge shopping bag in her arms that was blocking her view. "I bought ice cream — you know, in case you want extra dessert for later. I'm just gonna slip it into the freezer and then leave so you can be alone for when Vo—"
"VEL, fuck, do you not KNOCK!? We have company!" Val announced in near panic, standing up suddenly, flushed red and huffing.
Velvet set the bag on the counter and blinked as her surprised gaze found Vox. "Oh Voxy! I didn't think you'd be by just yet!" She grinned maniacally, eyes shifting with interest between him and Valentino. "What are you two up to?"
"Nothing…" Valentino grumbled.
"Just talking," Vox replied easily. "How's it going, Vel?"
"Oh fine! Just fine…." Velvet giggled then turned to Vark. "Ahh and Vark, my good baby!" She hugged the shark who immediately ran over to her, sniffing for treats. "Well, I didn't mean to interrupt you two. Hey, why don't I take Vark on a tour through the studio while you two finish catching up?" She shoved the bag into the freezer then grabbed Vark's leash and hooked it back onto his collar. "Come on, Vark! We'll go raid the kitchens — they have giant cakes for strippers!" Vark barked as she waved to the boys. "There'll probably be lots of detours, so we won't be back for a while! Have fun!" Then she left, skipping down the hall with Vark as the door closed behind her.
Vox tilted his head. "Hmm, you'd think she'd want to hang out — she likes the three of us being together and getting along."
"She's…just picked a new way to be erratic, I guess," Valentino quickly stammered, sitting back down.
Vox shrugged and sat back down too. "Well, maybe next week we could take Vark to the park for a walk ourselves? And Vel can come too if she feels like skipping around and playfully threatening people." He chuckled. "Or if not, it can just be you and me."
Valentino seemed to perk up considerably and nodded. "Sure! It's a…a plan." Then he quickly cleared his throat and put all of his attention back onto his sandwich.
"Great." Vox nodded, taking a deep sip of his coffee. "Hey, wanna put some ice cream in these? Vel always buys the best flavors…"
"Anything with chocolate, yes please," Valentino nodded, sighing and rubbing his temple. "Caffeine has been saving my head from pounding."
Vox headed over to the freezer to check things out. At one point he glanced over his shoulder and caught sight of Valentino smiling to himself brightly, in a way Vox had never seen. It made the television smile brightly too as he went back to getting the ice cream. Everything was going to be okay. Valentino seemed like he was learning to be happier somehow.
Vox headed back over to his friend to enjoy the rest of their afternoon of good food and conversation and progress.
Charlie stood on the lobby stairs for a moment as the afternoon grew late, just admiring the sight below her. So many of her guests were dashing around and talking to each other and coordinating for the radio show or for upcoming events in their lives or for dinner later. Vaggie and Cherrie were having an animated conversation with Husk and Molly, gesturing upstairs (probably toward the intended location of Alastor's radio tower) while Crymini looked on shyly but with interest, Niffty and Baxter had cookbooks in their arms and were chatting with Niss and Pen, and Abel and Louise had just picked up their printed wedding invitations and were looking them over with big smiles while Steve played on his saxophone in celebration. The happy couple had picked a date — early September, barely a month from now, just before fall could settle in. Any celebrations that happened during the year here were better off happening before fall ended anyway… The start of winter was always all about preparing for the extermination of sinners.
But maybe one day soon, no one would have to worry about that dangerous time of year any longer. Maybe one day soon everything would be better for everyone…even if some people didn't want to be part of that bright and shining future (just yet).
Charlie sniffed even though she smiled. A big part of her was still heartbroken from her parents — she honestly didn't know how long it would take for the wound to heal. But these people here kept her heart from descending into full darkness and despair. They loved her for who she was, and she loved them. And she would care for them despite any personal hardships.
"Hey, Charlie, what's up?"
She blinked, quickly wiping at her eyes as she turned to see Angel waving to her from the top of the steps. He strolled down with a yawning Alastor at his side (the deer buttoning up his jacket and making his microphone appear with a flick of his hand).
"Hi Angel, Alastor! Oh, nothing," Charlie replied. "Just excited to see everyone so excited about everything we have to look forward to." She turned her smile to Alastor. "Alastor, there you are — did you get a chance to rest?"
The deer nodded as he and Angel reached her on the stairs. "Oh yes, Angel made sure I wiled away a few peaceful hours in bed with good music, delightful food, and excellent entertainment, ha!" Making sure no one from downstairs was looking, he took Angel's hand and gave it a squeeze. "I feel quite refreshed."
Charlie beamed. "Good, I'm glad. I don't want you overworking yourself about this radio show, Alastor. Not like with the open house." She bit her lip in worry. "That night ended up taking so much out of you, and right around the time you were already injured — I don't want to put you in a vulnerable position like that ever again."
The deer's gaze softened. "Your concerns are duly noted and appreciated. But I assure you — if anything, a good radio show utterly revives me, even ones that don't involve swallowing corpses whole, ha!" He chuckled.
"And I'm gonna be right there the whole time making sure he doesn't overdo it," Angel assured with a wink.
Charlie's smile returned. "Okay. Thank you both so much again."
It was then that the handle of the hotel front door jiggled followed by a series of rather firm and fast knocks.
Not only did the full lobby freeze, but Charlie's legs suddenly gave out. Thankfully Angel caught her in his extra arms and righted her, pulling her close. "Charlie?"
"Charlie!" Vaggie called up in concern.
"Charlie, dear…" Alastor's ears went down.
Her breaths were shallow and she could feel her horns peeking out of her hair. She swallowed. "I'm…I'm okay. Sorry, I just…I think I had a flashback to…my parents' visit. Heh…" She wiped at her wet eyes and took hold of the banister. "They wouldn't really come back so soon though. Hopefully not at all for a while, right?"
Vaggie made her spear appear. "I'll get the door. It's weird that whoever it is tried to come in first anyway without knocking."
"No, I…I want to get the door. Please, Vaggie." Charlie smiled. "It'll help me feel better — breaking the pattern that's triggering me."
Vaggie bit her lip but finally nodded. She walked over to the edge of the stairs as Charlie slowly came down. She could feel Alastor and Angel approaching behind her, clearly at the ready to assist her if needed.
The knocking sounded again. So impatient and fast… Who did she know who was like that? She took a deep breath, straightened her hair then smiled. She opened the door half way. "Hello, how can I—"
"Ugh, finally! Took you long enough, Lottie!"
"Hey, wait for me! Uh, Char, hi! Heh… Sup?"
Past Charlie stormed a grey demon young woman with white hair and a fishy complexion, wearing an expensive pink and grey and green suit, followed by a greenish demon young man with dark hair and an equally fishy complexion wearing grey slacks and a green expensive shirt. The fellow stumbled along after the lady, and it was easy to see that they both bore a striking resemblance to each other.
Charlie stood, dumbfounded, as everyone in the lobby went on the defensive and Vaggie bristled with shock and indignation.
Angel was at Charlie's side in an instant, which was good because her legs had started getting wobbly again (though not in panic so much as in utter stupefaction). Alastor, meanwhile, swiftly descended the stairs and now had his microphone pointed right at the pair of new demons.
"Not so fast!" The Radio Demon announced. "Around here we have manners and believe in introducing ourselves before making ourselves at home, ha!" His eyes narrowed. "Now let's see, I don't keep track of every powerful political player because, quite frankly, they come and go so quickly, but I do think I know of you two…"
The girl demon scoffed. "You'd better — I pay to be the cover story on enough magazines." She sighed and glanced behind her at her companion. "Oh and…yeah, his pics usually end up in an article somewhere on the inside."
"That's where I've seen them before!" Angel announced, snapping his fingers in recognition. When Charlie groaned he smiled sheepishly. "Heh, sorry, Charlie… You okay?"
Charlie nodded, regaining her composure.
"Anywho!" Alastor announced loudly, gaze still focused on the pair of demons. "You have exactly three seconds to state your names and business before I get bored and make my own fun out of the two of you." He flashed his fangs.
The girl smiled proudly, clearly about to dive into a lengthy and proud introduction (maybe even a song) when a weary Charlie stepped forward and decided to save everyone some time (and to save herself some embarrassment and possibly a headache).
"Everyone," she gestured to the pair, keeping her eyes off of them. "This is Helsa Von Eldritch and Sev Von Eldritch — friends of my family." She grinned sheepishly. "And, um…"
"We dated, for a while. Me and Char. Hi!" Sev gave everyone a little wave with an awkward grin.
Charlie brought a palm to her face and suddenly felt very tired.
Vaggie finally found the power of speech again. She walked up to the pair, focusing on Helsa. "If you two are here to give Charlie a hard time about ANYTHING related to her parents, so help me…"
Helsa yawned. "Relax, tall, grey and angry…. That's the opposite of why we came."
"Meaning?" Alastor pressed, eyes flickering to radio dials.
"We're here to help!" Helsa announced proudly.
"Promise, she means it! I mean, WE mean it!" Sev assured, giving a thumbs up to the room.
There was another moment of silence.
Then Charlie took Vaggie's hand. "Let's all…go talk in the kitchen." She did her best to keep up a smile and tried to ignore her one eye starting to twitch. When she saw Alastor take a step forward she held up a hand. "Just the four of us, maybe?"
The deer held back and gave a small nod, and the others stepped aside to clear a path for them through the room.
Charlie gestured forward, trying to still be a graceful hostess. "After you."
Helsa strolled forward, head held high as she took in the room with some judgmental fascination. "Overlords, minions, randos…Oh boy, Lottie, this is gonna need a lot of work…" she mumbled to herself. She blinked as her eyes found Cherri Bomb. "Ugh, you! I know you! You keep blowing up my billboards!"
"So far it's just been an accident, but I'd be happy to do a few on purpose if you try anything in there," Cherri replied with a glare.
"Like I couldn't have ten more put up for every single one you destroy with just a phone call." Helsa glared right back at her with a smirk.
"Game on, snob…" Cherri replied, unfazed and now holding a couple unlit bombs in her hand.
"Oh, you wish, wannabe…" Helsa stammered, flushed and flexing her perfectly manicured claws.
"No fighting, please!" Vaggie quickly interrupted with a nervous twang to her voice. "Let's just go and do…whatever this is we're doing right now."
With a final lingering look, Helsa cleared her throat and resumed her elegant apathy as best she could. "Sev, come along!" She blinked when there was no response. "Sev?!"
Charlie turned, along with Helsa and Vaggie, to find Sev glancing around the hotel with a curious smile. "Wow, this building is cool. Hey, didn't we throw a rager here once when our folks were out of town? Like with a live band and everything…?" His eyes suddenly found Steve holding his saxophone, and he grinned. "Aw, you already got live music for this place? So cool!" He smiled at Steve. "I've got my harmonica in my pocket. We should totally—"
"Sev!" Helsa stomped her foot.
"Right, coming, sorry!" He gave Steve a sheepish wave, and Steve gave him a curious one back as the fish demon trotted after his sister.
As the group finally entered the kitchen and let the door shut behind them, Charlie let out a deep breath. She spoke before Helsa could get started (and not stop — the girl liked to hear herself talk). "Okay, Sev, Helsa…I'm very tired and very busy, so I'd appreciate if you could just get to the point about why you're here. Please." She looked to Helsa first and then her eyes lingered on Sev.
Sev frowned in concern. "We're here because we saw the news show. And we think it sucks."
"And our parents have been sucking a little lately too," Helsa added, rolling her eyes before slipping into a mocking tone of her mother. "Helsa, you should get more involved in politics! Helsa, this is your chance to become an overlord or a princess all on your own! Helsa, are you at least dating one of the powerful jerks I lined up for you?" Helsa rolled her eyes and sighed in immense frustration. "I'm sick of it. I don't want to be in charge of shit, I don't want to scheme for power, and I don't want to date some meat head who just wants my money. I just want to live my life and be myself and have fun." She pouted then gestured to Charlie. "And you clearly just want to avoid all the political drama too and lead hell by running this place. You're good at running things, they should all just leave you alone and let you do your thing, it would be amazing!" She held out her arms in exasperation then flushed when she saw Sev eyeing her. Helsa regained her composure by clearing her throat. "So, anyway, my point is — fuck 'em all. Sev and I decided we're not going along with all their hoity-toity bullshit and expectations. We wanna do what you're doing."
"Redemption?" Charlie and Vaggie asked in confusion at the same time.
"Close." Helsa smirked. "Rebellion." She sat at the table and crossed her legs. Sev nodded in agreement and quickly dashed over to sit beside her.
Charlie and Vaggie shared a curious look…then a nod of understanding. They approached the table to sit down with their guests and talk.
Maybe this hotel already had more demon allies than Charlie had realized. And maybe that news broadcast, however painful, would turn out to be the thing that would save her people and this hotel… It already seemed to have brought two old 'friends' back into her life.
Charlie held Vaggie's hand under the table to steady herself and listened carefully as the Von Eldritch siblings explained themselves and their intents.
A/N:
Yes, the Von Eldritch's are here! I hope you liked their intros and the role they end up playing in things. Next time we'll go into more details about their plans and have a bunch of RadioDust too. Thanks for your support!
Take care!
-Azure129