Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It starts with sorry, that's your foot in the door

One simple sorry, spoken straight from your core

While the Princess of Hell was singing these encouraging words to the snake sinner, a discussion was going on in Heaven. A very important one that could change everything Charlie knew. It turns out Adam had taken her half-seriously, at least enough to mention her to Sera. Despite Adam's belief of Hell being forever, the Princess had left an impression on him. So sure he brought her up to Sera. If nothing the princess seemed to be decent and honestly too pure for Hell. For fuck's sake, the chick brought crayon drawings of rainbows to present her ideas. So yeah, he brought it up to Sera. If nothing else, he didn't buy for one second that Ms. Sunshine and Rainbows was gonna give up after being told no.

That being said, there he must've said something wrong, cause what Sera was considering was fucking ridiculous. Now contrary to what most would think, he didn't dislike the princess. He held no grudge against her for who her parents were, not like she could help that. Did he think the princess was idiotic, foolish, and naive? Fuck yes. But she seemed like a good kid, and maybe she'd do some good for Hell in the end. God knows that shithole needed some fixing up. But no matter how good she was, the kid was still a demon. Ok, she might have been half angel 'cause of her dad, but she was still a demon. She was born in Hell. And Sera was considering giving her a chance in Heaven? Sorry, but what the fuck? Ignoring the demon part, Lucifer was not gonna like his daughter being in Heaven. For good reasons albeit, it wouldn't surprise Adam if the guy had some PTSD from all the shit that went down back in Eden. Christ, was Sera looking to start a war with Hell? Fuck, he could just tell his girls to kill some hellborns next extermination if she wanted a war. That would still piss off Lucifer less than messing with his daughter.

And that's exactly what he was telling Lute after his talk with Sera. "Seriously, the fuck is Sera trying to do? Lucifer will raise literal Hell if she tries to take his daughter away from him."

"Perhaps she thinks the princess will wish to go to Heaven?"

"If she does she's fucking stupid. I'm sure Miss Rainbows will love to see what its like up here, but no way she'd want to live here permanently. You saw her, she actually gives a shit about her people." Had to say he was impressed with that one. Clearly didn't take after Lucifer, despite how much she looked like him.

Sera was conflicted. After Adam had made an offhand comment about the princess being pure it got her wondering. The child was half angel, a nephilim. Normally nephilim went to Heaven, on the rare occasion one was born. But the princess didn't have such a chance, she hadn't died and wouldn't for quite some time. But was it fair? Should such a good soul be condemned to the place she was born in? Sinners couldn't be redeemed, Sera was sure of it as they'd already had their chance on Earth. But the Princess hasn't sinned, she was born into such a place of damnation. Perhaps sinners couldn't be redeemed, but what about Charlie? Maybe she deserved a chance in Heaven, under close supervision of course, she was Lucifer's spawn after all. 

After some time, she made her decision. Her job was to protect the pure souls, and that extended to Charlie as well. A girl who as nephilim would've gone to Heaven anyway had circumstances been different. It was her job, and she'd been in this position too long to not do her hardest. She'd protect the girl from sin by moving her to Heaven, it was the only way. Of course she'd have to agree to it first, but Sera had no doubt that the princess would agree. Souls meant to be in Heaven yearn for it, and that sounded like it fit the princess.

Circus music started blaring, interrupting the morning meeting. Alastor's ears(?) twitched in annoyance, clearly showing his distaste for the sound. Which Charlie could understand, but it was how she knew her dad was calling. No one else had a ringtone similar, and it fit him perfectly. Although she was a little worried, her dad never called her this many times in a week. Heck, sometimes not even in a month. He only ever called her when he needs something... or on birthdays if he actually remembers. Well, better see what's up!

"I'm sooo sorry guys, just gotta take this!" She picks up and walks out of the room for a more private conversation. "Hey dad!"

"Uh, heeeyyy Char-Char!" Lucifer laughs nervously. "Uhm, uh, sweetie I have um... some news? From... Heaven... It's uh, kinda important and um... yeah..." He laughs nervously again. He always struggled to talk with Charlie but he seemed especially awkward today.

"Dad, is it bad news? Or good?"

"Uhm, I guess that depends on you sweetie. Um... y'know it uh... I got a call from the head Seraphim a little bit ago and uh... I don't know how I like what she said. But it's up to you! I'll support whatever you decide!" 'C'mon Lucifer, it's not that hard to talk to your daughter! Just tell her what Sera said. This isn't a bad thing, it's not, it's NOT. If Sera thinks your wonderful daughter belongs in Heaven, it's a good thing! It is! ...Right?' Lucifer thinks. 

"Dad, what? What do you mean 'whatever I decide'? Whatever it is just tell me, it can't be worse than the Exterminations getting moved up by 6 months... right?"

"Oh! Nonono! It's not about the Exterminations at all! Uh, well honey to put it simply... The head Seraphim thinks you should have a chance... in Heaven. To y'know, um... be an angel?"

"What!? Bu- Why? how?"

Oh fffuck, Lucifer had no idea what he was doing. Best bet would be to tell Charlie what Sera had said. But... he knew his daughter. Ok, not as well as he should, but still. She wouldn't hesitate to agree once she knew the reason and... Lucifer couldn't share this feeling Sera hadn't been completely truthful. "Ok sweetie um so Sera- the Head Seraphim- said she wanted you to have a chance in Heaven. Uh, apparently Adam did actually bring up your ideas to her. Big shocker on that one actually... Anyway! Sera was hoping maybe you'd stay in Heaven for a while? She said while you were there you could more extensively discuss the possibility of redemption." He knew Sera had said some other things but for the life of him he couldn't remember them. "You know my feelings on heaven but I won't stop you if you want to go. I just want you to be safe, no matter where you are."

"Wait... She thinks redemption has a chance!? And if I go I can convince her to approve it!?" 'Holy shit, holy shit, holy shit! This was a dream come true! Yes! She'll go and prove her dreams! She can stop the exterminations!'

"Uh... yes? That's um... what she made it sound like..."

"Yes! Of course I'll go! Dad! This is amazing! I can save them!" She squeals.

"Ok sweetie, I'll uh let Sera know! Just... please be careful while you're up there, ok hun? Heaven isn't all that humans make it out to be. There's a lot of rules. And I don't doubt they'll keep a close eye on you since you're, y'know my daughter."

Charlie nods, as though her dad could see through the phone. "I'll be fine dad! And thank you so much! I gotta go tell the others this! bye!" And with a squee of excitement she ends the call.

She runs back into the parlor with a grin almost as big as Alastor's. "VaggieVaggieVaggie! You'll never guess what my dad just told me-it's so amazing!"

Vaggie was extremely conflicted about this. She knew Heaven couldn't be trusted. They didn't practice what they preached, that was damn sure. And something about them inviting Charlie there seemed off. Maybe Vaggie was biased, quickly made uneasy because of her past. Or she was right to be weary. That second option is what scared her. Charlie saved her 3 years ago, and ever since she recovered from her injuries she'd vowed to protect her. She couldn't do that with Charlie in heaven though. And it didn't sound like Heaven was inviting anyone else besides Charlie. Not that Vaggie was particularly keen on seeing the pearly gates again, but if it meant protecting Charlie she'd do it. 

Still she was happy for her princess. Vaggie was a little unsure about redemption still, but she wholeheartedly believed in Charlie. If anyone could redeem sinners, it was her. Charlie was so kind, she deserved to have her dreams realized. And for that reason Vaggie hoped to whatever deity still cared about her to keep Charlie safe. 

Of course if Charlie was going to Heaven there would be business things to attend to before then as well. Such as the hotel. Charlie was the owner, but if she was away... well that essentially left Vaggie in charge. And Alastor. Which eugh, why did it have to be him? Although she supposed he would be better than someone like Angel. Still, neither of them would be good at running redemption activities, so really they'd just be keeping the residents in check, the fridge stocked, and the hotel standing. This wasn't going to be easy, but she'd do it for Charlie. Now she just hoped Charlie wouldn't somehow find out about her past while in Heaven

Chapter Text

Charlie double, triple, and quadruple checked she packed everything she might need. She didn't know exactly how long she'd be staying in Heaven, but it would be for a while. She was excited to see it, but she was sad she had to leave her friends behind. She left the hotel to Vaggie and Alastor, trusting them to keep it standing at least. She'd also made sure to give Vaggie some plans for redemption and bonding activities so their two guests would still stay on the track for redemption. With the portal to Heaven opening in a few minutes she was rushing around, giving last minute hugs and things.

"Babe, we've got everything handled. You've packed everything you need, I have your activity planner for the hotel, and me and Alastor will keep everything running while you're gone."

"I know, I know! I'm just double checking!"

"Well-" Vaggie gets cut off by the portal to Heaven opening.

"Oh gosh! I gotta go! But fiiirrrsssttt-" She goes over to Angel, and gives a tight hug. "Angel, I believe in you! Keep working towards redemption, I know you can do it!" Angel smiles at that.

Next she gives Sir Pentious a hug. "I believe in you too, Pen!" 

Finally she speaks to Alastor, forgoing a hug knowing his dislike for contact. "Alastor, I trust you to work with Vaggie, ok? I don't want to come back to the Hotel in shambles or all of you going at each other's throats."

"You have my word, my dear!"

Charlie gives Vaggie a quick hug and kiss, before grabbing her suitcases. "I love you Vaggie! I’ll call you later, and send you lots of pictures!" With that she goes through the portal and it closes behind her. 

"Anyone wanna take bets for how long this place stays standing without Charlie here?" Angel jokes.

The portal opens up to huge pearly gates and Charlie takes in the beautiful golden sights. It actually kinda reminds her of her dad a little, with all the gold. It makes sense she supposes, since he was once an angel.

Speaking of angels, A blond haired one with blue eyes, and yellow and blue wings pops up from behind a podium. "Hiya! Welcome to Heaven! Can I get your name please?"

"Oh! Uh, Charlie! Charlie Morningstar!" 

"Charlie Morningstar hmmmm... Charlie- Char- Chinese- Chariii- I'm not seeing you on my list here." He says nervously. "That's so odd..."

"Uh, umm, my dad kinda arranged this visit so maybe tryyyyy... Lucifer Morning...star..."

"Ooohhhh, FUCK! Oohh, yeaah, heehee, yikes! Am I right?" He starts flying down to her. "Are you sure you're in the right place cause I think you might be a little lost."

"Uh, no, uh I'm here to visit for a while and a meeting."

Two other angels with 6 wings appear, at first seeming to have more bird-like features before changing forms into a more human appearance. "St. Peter, we can take it from here." The taller angel says. 

"Greetings, daughter of the Morningstar. I am Sera, the high seraphim of heaven. You are gifted to be here." 

The shorter angel squeals and giggles in excitement, moving forward to greet Charlie. "Hi! I'm Emily, the other seraphim, though you can call me Em! Emmy, E, whatever you want, I go by whatever. Welcome to Heaven!" Emily giggles again. She reminds Charlie of someone but she can't place who. 

St. Pete flies overhead, opening the gates revealing a beautiful and clean paradise, very different to what Charlie was used to. " Welcome to Heaven, oooohh! Where the virtuous reside, 24/7 oooohh! People are happy that they died! Cause here we got no worries, got no burglaries, no strife, its the perfect afterliiifffeee! Welcome to Heaven! Ooooohh! Check out our sick decor, the spirits leavin! Oooooh! Please keep your brimstone off the floor. We've got the best and brightest, the politest of the looooot. And everyone is HOOOOOTTTTT!" He sings the last part in the arms of a buff angel. She knew she shouldn't be thinking it, but Charlie couldn't help but think how twinky St. Peter was. She'd heard the term used to refer to Angel before, and honestly, she was pretty sure Peter gave Angel a run for his money.

" Gosh I'm so pleased to show an outsider around! Once you see our realm you'll never wanna go back dooowwwn! " Emily grabs Charlie's hands while singing the last bit and Charlie smiles brightly back at her. She immediately liked the younger Seraphim.

Sera puts a hand on Charlie's shoulder. " Of course we'll see if it's not temporary, we hope you can stay! " Wait, whaaat? Okay, something to revisit later, cause Charlie had no intentions of staying here forever. She had friends, a girlfriend, and people to save back in Hell.

" Cause every single day in Heaven, is a happy daaaayyy! Welcome to Heaven !" Emily and Peter sing the last bit together, spinning as they fly through the air holding hands. Peter sounds very out of breath when they finish.

Charlie walks happily with Emily, not seeing the two familiar faces she walked past. "Holy fucking shitballs, am I seeing who I think I'm seeing?"

"What is she actually doing up here?"

I can't fucking believe Sera actually went through with that dumbass idea."

"shh!" Lute grabs Adam's shirt. "Sir, you can't go around saying things like that about the high Seraphim! Do you want to get yourself exterminated?"

"Yeah, yeah, don't disrespect the high Seraphim, I knoooow." He takes a sip from his drink. "Don't fucking shush me bitch." Lute rolls her eyes at Adam as Sera appears behind them.

"You should listen to your Lieutenant, Adam. You know I don't like any disrest among the souls here, and disrespect can cause disrest."

"High Seraphim, forgive me for saying this ma'am, but what is the Princess actually doing here?"

"She's here because this is where she belongs. And you two will be nice to her and make sure she's comfortable. Understood?"

"Sera, are fucking insane? That's Lucifer's daughter! You can't-"

"You can't tell me what I can and can't do Adam. You will follow my orders, am I understood?"

"Fiiiinnnneee."

Charlie flops onto the bed in her hotel rooms. Heaven is so amazing! There's so many places to see, and so many sweet and ice cream shops too! And everything's free! Emily said tomorrow they'd go to the zoo. Apparently it has koalas, real koalas! Everything's so beautiful and clean! She wonders if Niffty would love it up here, or be upset there was nothing to clean. Pulling out her phone she opens up her chat with Vaggie, and starts messaging her instead of calling, in case she was busy.

Charlie: Heaven's amazing Vaggie! I wish you could be here to see it too, but I guess I'll just have to send pictures instead! ~Files attached~

Charlie: See how pretty it is up here! It's super peaceful too!

Charlie: Anyway, I won't bore you with all the Heaven details right now! I'll call you later when I'm sure you’re not busy!

Charlie: Love you Vaggie, hope everything at the hotel is going fine!

Everything was in fact, not going great. Charlie had only been gone for a few hours and Vaggie was ready to tear her hair out already. She felt her phone buzz but she couldn't be bothered to check it at the moment. Alastor had left as soon as Charlie went through the portal, speaking of business to attend to. At least he brought the egg-things with him like she'd asked him to earlier in the day. Those things were way too destructive to keep them at the hotel, especially without Charlie here.

Charlie had trust falls planned for the day, so Vaggie had decided to still have them. That had been a disaster. Pentious would've face-planted had Vaggie not caught him. Angel flirted with Husk, causing him to actually drop him. Then Niffty said something so unhinged no one, not even Vaggie was willing to catch her. So she'd taken matters into her own hands to build trust amongst them. Which, her methods actually did work but... Vaggie felt like it wasn't how Charlie would've wanted things done. She did leave her in charge though... Well, in charge with Alastor, but it had already been decided Vaggie would handle redemption and bonding activities and Alastor would deal with attacks and cooking. (He was the only one who would willingly cook all the time, and whose cooking didn't lead to food poisoning.) 

Then Alastor came back, with the egg things still. Of fucking course. But Pentious had been good today, so she let him have them back- with the threat of harm should they cause property damage or harm one of the others. God, Vaggie was exhausted. She crashed onto the bed she and Charlie shared, already missing her girlfriend. 'Not in the way you should' a small piece of her whispered, but she brushed that thought aside.

Well, today has certainly been entertaining and productive! The egg creatures, while annoying, had proved to be quite useful in gathering information. He'd caught up with Zestial, whom he wouldn't quite call a friend, but certainly an ally. And one of the few he truly respected. Gotten to see Rosie as well, which was wonderful. He'd need to find the time to visit her soon. And finally he'd proven to all the other Overlords, he was, in fact, still alive.

And then that juicy reveal that exorcists could be killed! It seeming that Carmilla was the culprit. A useful piece of information to have, and he'd gotten to taste angel blood! It had been quite tasty. He wondered if his mistress knew angels could be killed. It wouldn't surprise him, as she knew a lot of things. If nothing else, she'd certainly enjoyed the meeting. She did so love the chaos; It was her own form of entertainment, in a sense. He enjoyed it just as much as her if he was being honest, it's why she'd approached him in his very early days as a sinner. She'd felt the so-called kindred spirit manifest instantly. 

He slips into a seat at the bar, knowing Husk would enjoy the newest Overlord shenanigans. He always did. 

"Ah Husker, my good friend! You'll be amused to hear what happened at the meeting today!"

Husk looks up, smiling softly. He didn't know exactly what he and Alastor had, but he was content with it no matter what. He enjoyed Alastor's company, ok? He didn't actually hate the guy, as it was Husk's own dumb, drunk ass who'd gambled his soul. Not like Alastor ever made Husk do anything he truly didn't want to do anyway. "Oh? What happened this time Al?"

Chapter Text

Two weeks. Two weeks where Charlie had been up in Heaven. The hotel wasn't the same without her energy. Vaggie really did miss Charlie, and worried about her being up in Heaven, but every time she called she sounded as peppy as ever. Charlie talked about spending a lot of time with the younger Seraphim Emily  and one would think Vaggie would feel at least a little jealous. Shocking even herself, she'd found she wasn't.

Despite the hotel not being the same, it was still standing, which was a plus. Vaggie had been doing her best, but she had to acknowledge she didn't really have any idea what she was doing. In all surprises, Alastor had been fairly helpful as of late, although he was noticeably absent at the moment. Not surprising as he usually made himself scarce if a bonding or redemption activity was going on. 

Speaking of making oneself scarce, Vaggie sure as fuck wished she didn't have to be here in this moment. Seriously? A porn movie? She was not going to lose her temper over this, but god did she have an urge to punch Angel. It seemed Husk and Pentious shared her sentiments, but scarily enough Niffty looked very invested in the film. Finally having had enough she quickly switches off the TV. 

"Enough of that!  First Angel, ew. Second, what the fuck!?"

"Look sugar tits, ya said it was 'Show and Tell' so I'm showing ya my best film and telling ya I got an award for it!"

Then Husk starts criticizing it, and Vaggie just tunes them out. She didn't have the energy to deal with this bullshit. Husk started pointing out everyone's issues, which thanks asshole. "And then this one judges everyone and everything because she hates herself."

Vaggie groans in response. It was surprisingly accurate if she thought about it, which just made her want to punch something even more. So what if she hated herself just a little? She slaughtered a ton of souls in the exterminations, she deserved whatever bad happened! 'And you know what?' Vaggie thinks. 'Fuck you Husk, not like you don't have issues too.' Husk goes on to say about not wanting to know what Niffty's issues are, which yeah, that checks. Finally he says about Angel being fake, which of course the spider takes offense to. Seriously Vaggie did not want to deal with this bullshit.

"Guess that's why I'm an actor, dumbass. And-" Angel's phone starts vibrating and he picks up nervously. Shit, is he ok? The spider hangs up the phone. "Well uh... Looks like Val needs me for a... uh emergency shoot!" Bullshit, Angel wouldn't sound so nervous if that was all. That being said, Husk didn't need to continue to antagonize him.

Making an executive decision to try and stop Angel from going since he almost sounded fearful on that phone call, Vaggie sprints after the spider. "Hey pendejo! We haven't finished the exercises for today!"

"Look sugar tits, unless ya can fix shit with my boss, ya ain't gonna be able to stop me from going ta' work. 'sides, ya can manage without me for a few hours." And with that he goes out the door, but Vaggie is left with an odd feeling. is that... concern? No, it can't be that... right? Whatever it is, she makes a decision.  

"I'm gonna go after him. Nobody destroy a wall or some shit while I'm gone, ok?"

"Hmmm." Alastor slips out the shadows behind her. Which, how long has he been there? And can't he just use stairs like a normal person instead of his creepy ass shadows? "I can assure you no walls will be destroyed dear Vagatha! But I have a word of advice if you insist on going after our effeminate fellow."

"And that is?"

"Well, to put it in terms. His boss, Valentino... Well let's just say had that moth died a few decades sooner he would've most certainly been a guest on my broadcast!" Oh great. If there's one thing Vaggie had learned about the Overlords that were 'guests' on Alastor's broadcasts, it was that they weren't good ones. Apparently he'd actually made Hell a little better with each new scream. 

"Uh... thanks I guess. I'll be careful then I suppose."

Vaggie enters the studio during a filming session which... ok not her best idea. Because just ew. She was not going to look at... that. Or that. She's not exactly sure what exactly to do, but luck seems to be on her side, as Angel appears with a robe on- thank fuck- and pulls her aside.

"What in the ever-loving fuck are you doing here?!"

"Fuck you, I do whatever and go wherever I want, Angel." She then speaks in a quieter voice. "I'm gonna get you more time to actually be a guest at the hotel. Fuck knows you'll need it to actually get redeemed. Now where's your boss?" Vaggie moves to look around. While she doesn't actually know what this 'Valentino' looks like, Alastor had said about him being a moth. 

Angel grabs her hand, surprisingly gently, and pulls her away. "Oh, fuck, no, no, no, no, no, no, no. You are not going anywhere near Val."

A voice Vaggie doesn't recognize calls out, "Angel! What is the fucking hold up?!"

"I'm coming!"

"Not off camera, you're not!" Oh. that has to be his boss. Yeah, she wasn't gonna like him, was she? 

Angel starts pushing her towards the door and talks fast, sounding kinda panicked. "Look, Vaggie, I promise we can talk about this later, but please just wait until I finish work, ok? But first ya gotta go-"

A tall moth guy in a red fur-lined coat appears behind Angel. This must be Valentino. "Aaah, the princesa's lover?"

She narrows her eyes. Readying herself to summon her spear if needed. "I'm Vaggie, sir." She so wants to stab him for calling her that, but she'd start out being respectful.

Valentino smirks. "Welcome to my humble sex dungeon, Vaggie. " He bends down and leans towards her. Oh she does not like this at all. "What can I do for such a... encantadora woman?" He grabs her arm and lecherously drags his icky pink tongue up it. She can feel whatever drug that's in his saliva(EW) burning against her skin. For once she's glad about her angelic origin, helping her system repel whatever the fuck is in that pink shit.

"Mm, lovely specimen! You don't want a role do you? Because I can make you a star. Make both of us richer than, well, your girlfriend's papito."

She takes several steps back, summoning her spear and pointing it at this disgusting moth. "Oh, fuck no! Keep me out of your creepy ass thoughts, cause I have no interest in being in any of your shitty porns. I'm only here to talk about getting Angel an actual fucking schedule. Cause it seems like you just call him in whenever you want for however long you want." Maybe she'd been paying attention to when Angel got called into work and how long he was away. She didn't care about him, just how many redemption activities he was missing. Totally.

The creepy moth stiffens more as she speaks, eyes narrowing with an eyebrow raised in suspicion. "Yes, well, you'll have to wait until we finish for today. We are on a tight schedule, you know."

She nods. "Fine."

"Angel, could I speak to you in your dressing room for a moment?" He clearly only asks for Vaggie's benefit, she can tell. It's definitely an order, not a question. 

She can hear thumps coming from the dressing room. And what sounded like Angel pleading. Oh, this moth man is getting a piece of her mind when they come out of there. Angel may not be her favorite person in Hell, but he sure didn't deserve this abuse. 

The spider and moth come out of the dressing room, Valentino roughly holding onto Angel's arm. He throws the spider forward against the bed on set, who just barely manages to catch himself, right in front of Vaggie. This just further angers the fallen exorcist,her fury clearly shown on her face.

 "Alright! Get your asses back on set, and we're taking this from the top!" Val shouts.

Vaggie's eyes glow with pure fury, fitting for an- albeit fallen- soldier of Heaven. She points her spear at Valentino, debating how mad Charlie would be about permanently killing one soul. "What makes you think you can treat him, or anyone for that matter, like that!?" she roars. Oh how she wishes she still had her wings to puff out behind her, to make her more menacing, and wipe that smug grin off his face. 

She takes a few steps closer to Val, before Angel calls out to her. "Vaggie! Just stop!

" Angel, what the fuck? How can yo-"

"Vaggie, just leave! I didn't want you or ask you to come here! I already asked you to leave and ya didn't listen! You just made things worse."

Oh no, she'd fucked up. Again. She'd gone about this the wrong way. Crap! "Angel I- I'm sorry." she says faintly. 

He sighs. "Look, just leave? ok? And let me finish my work. I'll be back at the hotel when I'm done with my shift.

Vaggie nods, putting her spear aback away in the pocket dimension it was usually kept in. And walks out the door, but not before hearing Valentino say " Good boy." to Angel. She'd try to fix this when Angel got back. If she could fix this.

Vaggie sees a very worn out Angel walk in and plop down onto a bar stool. She keeps away, not sure how to go about apologizing for earlier in the day. As she waits for an opening, she watches Husk needle at Angel. They start out arguing about alcohol it seems, but then Angel starts viciously flirting at Husk. She feels like maybe she should interfere, but she already fucked up once today. She doesn't want to mess up again. Then Angel gets pretty angry and starts storming off. On his way towards the door he bumps into Vaggie. "Wait Angel, where are you going?"

"Out!" and with that he slams the door.

That didn't look good. "Husk, what did you do!?"

The cat shrugs. "Just made him a drink."

"Well he looked really upset."

Husk just waves her off. "Eh, it's Angel, he'll be fine."

"I dunno, it sounds like someone should go after him." She stares pointedly at Husk, which he returns with a blank stare. "Someone named Husk."

"Oh, you gotta be fucking kidding me. Why don't you go if you're so worried?" Vaggie sighs at that. Husk was right actually, she should go. But she'd already messed up with Angel today... Maybe she could fix it by going after him now though.

"You know what? Fine, I will go, cause some grumpy sourpuss can't get off his lazy ass and go after him!" Make it seem like she doesn't care. She doesn't anyway, not really at least. Maybe just a little, but not that much. And she really would prefer Husk to go, but whatever.

~-~-~-~ 

Vaggie follows Angel into a bar. She makes her way over to the bar top, briefly glaring at someone who bumped into her. Ordering a drink she silently watches Angel hanging with some shark demons. She hears Angel ask one of them to grab him another drink. She watches the demon suspiciously as he takes the seat next to her. Her eyes widen as she sees the shark pull a vial of something pink out of his coat and pour it into Angel's drink. It looks a lot like the crap Valentino had- ugh- licked onto her arm a few hours earlier. Setting her drink down, she mutters "Son of a-"

The demon almost hands Angel the drugged drink, but Vaggie appears behind him, grabbing the back of his suit and lifts him off the ground. "Nice try, ya fucker." She proceeds to throw the demon across the room, right into the jukebox. Despite her size, Vaggie was strong. She always had been, even before becoming an exorcist. The other sharks draw out their guns in response.

The fallen exorcist grabs Angel's arm and pulls him behind her. "Let's go." Using her other hand she summons her spear and slashes, cutting off the ends of their guns as well as cutting loose a net from the ceiling, causing it to land on them.

"Wha-? hey!" Angel yells as Vaggie drags him out of the bar. "Vaggie, the fuck are ya doin' here!?"

"I'm taking you back to the hotel!"

"Get off!"

"That asshole put something in your drink!" 

"Ya think I didn' know that? I do this shit all the fuckin' time!"

"You just let people drug you? What the fuck!!" Actually, what the fuck? She could understand his situation with Valentino a little, he was stuck in a contract there. But she couldn't understand this.

"I don' ask for it! I don' ask for any of this shit! I didn't ask for you or Charlie ta' save me. I can handle myself ya know."

Vaggie raises an eyebrow at that. "Really? Cause what I saw there was someone self-destructing. It seems like... maybe you need someone to talk to." She sighs. She's not the best person for this, but she'll try.

Angel laughs at that. "Oh please, Vaggs. Like you really care. The only person ya actually care about is your precious princess. Ya never liked me, an' ya never will Even earlier ya only came cause I was messing up ya redemption activities. And you somehow think I'll just open up to you?"

That... actually hurt a little. It wasn't true. She realized maybe she hadn't really done anything to show otherwise, but she did care about the others at the hotel, at least a little. She just had trouble trusting others after what had happened to her in the past. And Angel's 'porn star' persona annoyed the crap out of her. But she liked the person she saw underneath that, when it showed through. Sighing she begins to speak. "Look Angel... I realize I haven't always treated you the best. I know I'm bad at being kind to others a lot of the time. And some of that is the front you put up pisses me off to no end. But the person I sometimes see underneath I like. I don't get why you always have this flirty slut act up all the time. It's not like anyone at the hotel likes or cares about it."

Angel turns to look at Vaggie, tears forming in his eyes. "It's not an act!" he shouts in despair. She flinches and stares at Angel a little surprised. She wasn't expecting that. "It's who I need to be. This is my escape, where I can just forget it all! Forget about how much I hate.. everything. I can just get high and ignore how much it hurts. And maybe... if I end up broken in the process, I won't be his favorite toy anymore..." He sits down onto the sidewalk, curling into a ball other his head buried into his knees. "... And maybe he'll let me go."

God, Vaggie feels so bad about how she's been to Angel now. She's not been in the same situation as him, but she does know what to say to him. She understands one thing at least. She sits down next to him, taking a similar position, although a more relaxed version of it. "Look... I- I've made some bad choices in my life. Before I found myself in Hell I was a soldier. I fought blindly for a cause I thought was good. And for the longest time I didn't question what I was doing, didn't see how wrong it was. I can never clean the blood off my hands, they're forever stained now." She recalls flying down the streets of Hell on extermination days, feeling the thrill of the hunt. Grinning as she spilt demon blood. "So I... I know what it's like. To make choices and spend the rest of your existence regretting them. Knowing you can never take them back."

They sit in silence for a few moments, before Vaggie gets an idea. A way to show Angel that this wasn't a dead end, but a new beginning. Just like herself, he just needed someone to give him a chance. To show him the light. She stands up, summoning every bit of Charlie-ness she's picked up in the time she's known her, and just starts singing. " So things look bad, and your back's against the wall. Your whole existence seems fuckin' hopeless " Just like her bleeding back was pushed against the wall of that alley all those years ago. " You've lost your way, you think your life is wrecked " She'd lost her way too, until Charlie'd shown her the path forward. "Well let me just say you're incorreeeect!"

"Wait what?" Angel looks up surprised.

Vaggie grins and keeps singing. " You're a sinner, baby. A sinner, goddamn baby. You're a fucked up little whiney asshole."

"Hey!"

" You're a sinner just like me !"

"Thanks Vagatha ." Despite the clear insult, she can tell she's cheering Angel up, so she continues singing. Showing Angel he's not alone in this, at least he doesn't have to be.

" But lettin' walls down, it can sometimes set you straight! " She let Charlie in, and she would never regret it. Vaggie just hoped Angel would do the same and let her in.

Angel starts singing with her, annoyed at first but starts to grin with her. She takes her hand helping him up, and starts dancing with him. " We're both sinners, baby. We're sinners, it's okay to be a-"

" Coked-up, dick-suckin' ho ?"

" Baby, just be who you are !"

Vaggie starts spinning the spider around, moving to the background music that always seemed to play in Hell whenever someone started singing. Actually... come to think of it, it played in Heaven too. "I t's time to lose your self-loathin' Excuse yourself, let hope in, baby. Play your card, be who you are-  A sinner, just like- " They get cut off by the shark demons bursting out the bar door, apparently they'd freed themselves. 

"There he is! They're fucking singing!?" Yes, they were fucking singing. It was fun, so Vaggie didn't care. She kinda got why Charlie liked to do it so much now.  

"Shit, stay down and I'll take care of this." She summons her non-angelic spear. (Yes she has a normal one too) 

"You're fucking dead!" One of the demons calls. Vaggie responds by slicing one of them's head off, and stabbing another's heart out. One of the sharks grabs her from behind, and she struggles to shake him off, but then a bullet hits him straight through the head.

"Eat lead, suckaaaaa!" Angel calls, and proceeds to continuously fire from one of his machine guns into the demon while laughing. He gives a bend to help Vaggie up. "Told ya I could handle myself!" With that Angel takes guns into all of 6 of his arms and opens fire, obliterating the group of demons in seconds. 

"This... did not... go well..." Damn right it didn't go well. That's what you get for attacking her and Angel.

"Well I didn't expect that, but that was impressive."

"Eh." Angel brushes his hair back with his hands. "Ya just don' know me yet. Sex ain't the only thing I'm good at."

"And I look forward to getting to know you more, Angel." Vaggie smiles at him, truly meaning her words.

They get back to the hotel, laughing and joking. Mostly Vaggie laughing as Angel shit-talks Val. "His eyes are so shit ." 

Suddenly Vaggie's phone starts blaring some pop song. "Oh crap, sorry one sec, it's Charlie." She quickly picks up the phone. "Hey ba-" 

Charlie interrupts Vaggie, tone harsh and serious. "Vaggie, we need to talk."

Chapter Text

Charlie was having so much fun in Heaven! It had only been a few days, so she was still exploring. Everyone was super nice in Heaven, and the ice cream actually tasted good! Emily had been amazing, and showing her around She enjoyed spending time with the younger Seraphim. They matched personalities perfectly, making it so fun to spend time together. They were basically becoming best friends, and she was perfectly fine with that. Of course Charlie still missed her friends in Hell, but she knew in the end she'd be helping them by being up here. If being in Heaven got her a meeting with the higher ups, she could convince them to approve redemption! She would do this. she'd make mom proud, and prove dad wrong. Sinners could change. They could be redeemed. She just knew it.

"Ok dad, thanks for explaining that. I was a little confused when I got up this morning."

"Of course CharChar! It's uh... kinda my fault anyway. I should've told you about that years ago..."

Charlie lets out a little laugh. "It's fine dad. Talk to you later." With sigh she hangs up the phone. That had definitely been the strangest of calls with her dad. When she'd woken up this morning, she'd found that 2 pairs of wings had sprouted from her back while she slept. According to her dad, it was because she was a Nephilim. Apparently she'd always had them, it had just taken spending time in somewhere angelic- Heaven- for them to sprout. Or they would've come out naturally as she trained her powers, which she'd never done... 

She really liked them once she'd taken a bit to adjust. They looked a lot like dad's, except they were gold and pink instead of white and red. She thought they fit her perfectly, and it was neat to not be grounded anymore. Taking a pic of herself, she sends it to show Vaggie. 

Charlie: Guess what Vaggie! It turns out I have wings- which I didn't know- and they look so cool! ~Image attached~

Vaggie: They're beautiful! I can't wait to see them in person Charlie!

Smiling to herself, she puts her phone in her pocket. Taking a breath Charlie wills her wings away, like her dad had walked her through doing over the phone. She wanted to surprise Emily with them later. Her dad had told her to either work with Emily, or wait until she got back to Hell to figure out her other angelic powers. She wanted to learn about that part of her now, so she hoped Emily would want to help her train her powers.

Ok, Charlie was getting tired of Lute and Adam lurking around her. They seemed like they wanted to talk to her, but never did. She'd been in Heaven for a week now, and they'd been following her around for that long.She finally just decided to confront them and see what they wanted. She was willing to get a second chance anyway, since dad had said Adam was the one to bring her up to Sera. That had to mean he wasn't all bad, right?

Taking a deep breath, Charlie walks up to the two. "Hey um... I kinda noticed you've been hanging around, do you... want to talk to me or something?"

"Fuck, Lute, we've been caught!" 

Lute rolls her eyes. "Sir, we aren't doing anything, therefore there is nothing to get caught at." She turns to Charlie. "The High Seraphim asked us to keep an eye on you and make sure you were comfortable up here. We weren't sure you'd want us hanging close by or talking to you though, so we kept our distance."

That sounded a lot like Sera not trusting her, but whatever. "I mean... you did kinda tell me my dreams were stupid..."

"Look kid, I still think they are-" Lute glares at Adam, but he ignores her. "-But, I can respect you trying to make that shithole better. But you gotta admit, my guitar solo was fucking awesome!"

Lute looks like she wants to facepalm. Charlie could understand that. She's reminded again exactly why she'd been putting off talking to these two. Lute sighs, "I'm sorry about him, he has no awareness of social interactions whatsoever. Look, since he couldn't make a decent apology to save his life-" 

"Hey!"

"-I'm gonna say sorry for how we did that. I might not exactly believe in redemption or am very fond of demons, but there definitely were better ways to say no to you than well... Air guitar solos." She says that last part looking pointedly at Adam, which he flips her off in response

Well, it's an effort, and that's a start! Charlie smiles at them. "Forgiven! I would be a hypocrite if I didn't give you a second chance."

"Of course you'd give me a second chance, I fucking rock! You won't regret it!"

Lute just groans at Adam. "Look... do you wanna, I dunno, go shopping or something? We were gonna do that later, so do you wanna come along?"

Charlie laughs at the two's interactions. "I'd love to!"

Yeah, maybe these two weren't so bad. Charlie would still have some issues with them. They had killed millions of her people, and would be killing more in about 5 months... But she could still make an effort to get along with them.

She was starting to wonder when she'd be able to talk about her redemption plans to anyone other than Emily. Everytime she tried to talk to Sera about setting a court date, the High Seraphim would just brush her off or avoid the topic. It was getting weirder every day she spent in Heaven and even Emily couldn't answer her questions on why.

On a different note it turned out Adam and Lute were really fun to hang out with. Adam could be and was an asshole at times, but he admitted he was, and Lute generally tried to reign him in. With some varying degrees of success, but it was funny to see her try. They were definitely friends, no matter how much they tried to say it was just them working together. She never saw any of the other exorcists hanging with them. Charlie also suspected they might like each other a little more than just as friends, but she doubted they'd ever admit it. Lute was too strict, and would certainly refuse to admit she had feelings for her superior. And Adam was both too oblivious and Adam-y to admit he liked Lute.

Charlie was shopping with Adam and Lute again today. It turned out they were fun shopping partners. Well, Adam generally wandered off to one of the music stores after a while, but Lute stuck around. They were in a clothing shop at the moment, surprisingly Adam had yet to wander off. Charlie spotted a row of hair ribbons similar to what Vaggie wears. They would be the perfect gift for her! Grabbing two of them she turns towards Lute.

"Hey Lute, what do you think about these? Light pink or black?"

"For you? Cause I don't think they'd fit your style too well." 

"Oh! No, sorry!" She laughs. "For my girlfriend Vaggie! Oh wait, let me show you a picture..." She pulls out her phone.

Adam appears behind Lute. "Black, and did you say Vaggie?" He looks at Lute. They both know that name, but it could just be a coincidence. 

"Yup! Here!" She turns the phone to them, showing a picture of Vaggie smiling softly at the camera. Or more likely, Charlie who was behind it. 

Adam's eyes widen. "Holy fucking shit, it is her."

Lute seems both shocked and maybe even happy. "She's doing ok then. That's good."

"Wait, wait, sorry hold on. You know Vaggie? Like my Vaggie? My girlfriend? How???" Charlie looks at them confused. 

"Wait, you don't know Charlie? She never told you?" Lute asks. 

"Told me what!?" She's starting to panic a little now, what doesn't she know about her own girlfriend? How do Adam and Lute know her?

"Vagasaurus there used to work for me. She was one of my best girls for a few years, till she fell."

Lute nods in confirmation. "She started questioning her orders and stuff after a while. Which is something you don't do. During an extermination a few years back, she spared a sinner. Big no-no. We had to leave her behind because of it." Lute got a little nervous as she talked about it. She looked a little regretful too.

"Wait... You're telling me... That the woman I've been dating for the past three years... Is an ANGEL!!!???" She shouts the last part, earning a few looks from other customers in the store. 

"Yeah, and uh... let's take this somewhere else, okay kid?" Adam opens a portal back to Charlie's hotel room, quickly ushering her through. Once they were through it he spoke again. "Look sorry kid, thought you knew it. Sucks you had to find out that way."

Charlie takes a deep breath before speaking again, tone firm but brewing with anger. "I saved her in that alleyway. Three years I've been dating her. And she lied to my face the entire time! She let me believe she was a sinner! You said she was one of your best girls?" 

"Yeah..." Adam says nervously. Probably not wanting to face the wrath of a furious Nephilim.

"So she's killed thousands of my people. The people I'm trying to redeem. Just stood there, smiling and supporting me while she's slaughtered them heartlessly! I can't believe it! I've shared everything about myself with her! And she couldn't tell me something that big!?"

Lute takes a breath, putting a hand on Charlie's shoulder. "Look Charlie, it sounds like she did something pretty shitty. She definitely should've told you that. We're gonna go, cause it seems like you need to talk to her privately. But good luck, okay?" 

Charlie nods. "Yeah, thanks. I'll see you two later I guess." The two exorcists walk out the door, both waving goodbye before closing it.  Charlie takes a deep breath to calm herself a bit, forcing the horns she hadn't even realized had appeared back into her head. Picking her phone back up, she opens her contacts, and starts dialing Vaggie. She couldn't believe this! For her to lie about something so big!

Her possibly ex-girlfriend picks up the phone on the second ring. "Hey ba-"

Charlie cuts her off before she can call her 'babe.' "Vaggie, we need to talk." She shocks herself by how cold her voice is.

She can hear shuffling on the other end of the call. And what sounds like Angel. It sounds like Vaggie's moving to a different room of the hotel. "Um ok, but what is this about? Is everything ok?"

"No Vaggie, everything is not ok. Right now I'm furious at you. How could you do that to me? I've told you so much about myself, even my insecurities, and you couldn't tell me the truth about what you are!?"

There's a pause on the other end. "Y-you know then... That I- I was an exorcist?"

"Uh yeah! And I shouldn't've had to find out about that from Adam and Lute of all people!"

"Charlie.... I, I'm sorry. I just... I was going to tell you! So many times! But then you'd say something so kind, and I'd lose my nerve. I thought I'd lose everything again by telling you. That you'd hate me for who I was. I'm not proud of it, any of what I did."

"Vaggie, we've been dating for three years. Three years! Didn't you think I deserved to know before we ever did that? What, did you just think I'd never find out!? How long were you going to continue lying to me!? How can I even trust you anymore?"

"Charlie, I'm sorry."

"’Sorry’ doesn't cut it Vaggie! You can't say you love me, and lie to me everyday! And what about my dreams of redemption!? Were you just silently laughing at me? Reminiscing about how many demons you've killed?" 

"No! I hate what I've done! That's the very reason I fell! I refused to kill a Cannibal child one extermination! And Lute saw it and well... She cut out my eye and wings and took my halo. That's when you found me. I would never laugh at you or your dreams. Ever."

"Saving one child doesn't wipe the blood off your hands! You still lied to me for years! I can't believe you right now!" Charlie huffs in anger, the horns she'd forced down just a few minutes ago were coming out again. As were the third pair of wings that came out in her full form. "I think we need time apart. For now I don't want you calling or texting me unless something seriously bad is happening at the hotel. I can't trust you anymore, and if I can't trust you then we can't have a relationship."

"Charlie, wait! I'm sorry! You're right, I should've told you sooner! I was a coward but-"

"Whatever we had is over Vaggie. And you need to tell the others about this too. They need to know who they're living with." With that she hangs up. Flopping onto the bed she grabs a pillow and screams into it out of anger. She's surprised she kept as much composure as she did talking to Vaggie. She can't even begin to sort out the turmoil of emotions swirling in her right now. 

She looks up hearing a knock on the door before it swings open. "Hey Charlie! I- oh my gosh! Are you okay? What's wrong?" Emily rushes in, and sits down on the bed next to Charlie. Opening her arms she hugs Charlie tightly.

Charlie lets the tears fall as she cries into the Seraphim's shoulder. They were tears of both grief and anger. " I just broke up with my girlfriend. She lied to me about who she was for years! How do I deal with that?"

Emily pauses in thought, choosing her words carefully. "I... I don't think there is any right way to deal with that. But it'll be ok Charlie." Then the angel of joy hugs the princess tighter as she cries. Determined to make her feel better somehow.

Vaggie's hand shakes as she sets her phone down on a nearby table. Tears brim at her eyes, threatening to spill. Eventually she gives in and choked sobs echo throughout the empty room. She struggles to fight against her raging thoughts. Everything was over wasn't it? She'd lost yet another thing important to her. All because she was too much of a coward to tell the damn truth. Everyone else would hate her now too. Of course they would, she'd slaughtered so many sinners in her 7 years as an exorcist. Charlie was right, sparing one life didn't change anything. 

Lost in the flood of her thoughts she doesn't notice Angel come into the room initially, and barely acknowledges him when he sits down on the arm of her chair. "Hey Vaggs. What happened?"

"I- Charlie- she..." Vaggie inhales deeply before speaking again. "We're over. And it's all because I fucked up. I know there is no fixing this. I lied to her for too long. You'll probably hate me now too." She laughs harshly.

Angel wraps her in a hug. "Hey, hey, I don't hate ya. But maybe back up a bit. Why'd she break up with ya? What'd ya lie 'bout?"

"Remember earlier? I told you I used to be a soldier?" Angel nods. "Well... that wasn't on Earth. I... I used to be an exorcist. I hate what I did, how many souls I destroyed permanently. There's no fixing what I've done."

"Wait, you're an angel? Damn Vaggs, no wonder Charlie's pissed at ya. That's pretty big." She groans in response. "But, I don' hate ya. I mean... yeah it's kinda fucked up you did that. And a shit move to lie about it to your girlfriend, but I get why ya did it. I know you regret it, and that's what matters don' it?"

"But how can you not hate me? Despise me for killing so many?"

"Vaggs, I've killed in my life too ya'know. And shit, how many sinners has Smiles killed and probably eaten too? You're not perfect, and what ya did was bad, sure, but you know that. You acknowledge it and feel remorse for it. It's jus' like ya were tellin' me earlier. We're both sinners ain't we? I'm not gonna judge you for fucking up." 

Vaggie clings tighter to Angel. "Thank you, Angel. That means a lot." 

He laughs. "Whoah! Not too tight Vaggs!" Despite that, he hugs her back. "Look, give Charlie time to sort stuff out. You and her might be over romantically, but I doubt she'll hold a grudge against ya forever. This is the princess we're talking about."

"I guess you're right. Maybe this is for the best anyway." She sighs. "I just wish I'd've had the guts to tell her long before any of this." 

Vaggie may never forgive herself for lying to Charlie for so long. Or truly forgive herself for all the demon blood she's spilt. Yet, her soul felt lighter than it had in years. She'd never thought Angel and her would find friends in each other, but she was thankful for it anyway. Things might never be the same, but she'd be ok.

Lute was sitting with Adam on his couch watching TV. She wasn't paying attention to the show playing though. She hadn't thought about Vaggie for years now, but after what happened today she was. She remembered about a decade ago when Vaggie was a new soul in Heaven. 19, and fierce. She'd had a strong will to protect the innocent and those weaker than herself. A perfect fit for the exorcists. 

Lute had been proven right in her thinking when Vaggie got the most kills each extermination, quickly rising rank. The new soul quickly forging a friendship with Lute, and together the two were Adam's right and left hands. They were a team, always flying together on exterminations. High-fiving each other for a job well done.

Slowly Vaggie changed though. She started to drop in her kill numbers, still having high ones but no longer being number one. Lute saw her become more hesitant at times to kill. While Lute didn't understand, they were just demons to her, she knew that as a human soul Vaggie might see it differently. Lute herself was heavenborn, and Vaggie was a human soul. 

In all honesty, Lute feared for Vaggie. Exorcists had faced punishment before for not following orders. For questioning things. Adam tried to protect his girls, but in the end he couldn't do anything against the High Seraphim. Lute didn't want Vaggie to end up with the same fate. So she started hanging closer to her each extermination. But she still failed, and wasn't there to stop Vaggie from disobeying orders. 

Looking back now, Lute wasn't proud of what she did. She'd been overwhelmed with fury when she'd seen Vaggie disobeying her orders. Didn't she know she was throwing her life away for demon scum? In her anger, Lute did more than she should've. She'd intended to take her wings, causing her to fall, so she wouldn't face worse punishment from Sera. But she'd done more than that. Lute lost control of herself for a moment, and had taken Vaggie's eye as well. What's done is done though. She was sure Vaggie hated her now, but that was fine. She'd done what she had to do. 

Chapter Text

A week. That's how long it took Charlie to call Vaggie again. She knew what she wanted to say, and hoped Vaggie would be willing to start again. Not as girfriends, Charlie realized maybe they weren't the best for each other in that way anyway, but as friends. Looking back, Charlie wonders if they ever should've dated in the first place. Sure, they cared about each other, and yeah Charlie loved Vaggie, but she wasn't sure exactly what way. She'd only ever dated once before Vaggie, and she wasn't sure she actually loved Vaggie like that anyway. As a friend definitley, but as a partner? She wasn't so sure anymore. 

What had led Charlie to thinking on this so much, was she'd started to realize she liked Emily. She thinks she actually had feeling for her since day one, she just hadn't realized them until she broke up with Vaggie. While it had hurt to find out Vaggie's lie, and it still hurt, she wonders if it wasn't a good thing. If that wouldn't be better for both of them in the end. She didn't know how how Vaggie felt, but she was about to find out.

One week. That's how long Vaggie had been waiting for the radio silence(Yes, yes, she knows, stop laughing Alastor) to break. For Charlie to call or text or anything. In all honesty, Vaggie had accepted the breakup now. It still hurt her, she'd never heard Charlie get so mad. But she deserved everything Charlie had said. She'd fucked up big time. But deep down she had known her secret would come out at some point. And honestly... Vaggie was ok with it. She'd spent a lot of time thinking, and she wondered how strong their relationship had really been.

Let's make thing one thing clear, Vaggie loved Charlie. She always probably would, but there are many different kinds of love. And Vaggie honestly wasn't sure it was romantic love she felt for Charlie. At one point it definitely had been, at least she thought so. She'd be the first to acknowledge she wasn't the best at these sorts of things. She'd been 19 when she died, and had hardly dated much. As an exorcist she had never felt anything of that sort towards the other exorcists. All of them were her sisters in arms, and some specifically her friends.  Charlie had been the first long-term relationship she'd ever had.

A lot had happened in that week too. First, she'd told everyone else at the hotel she used to be an exorcist, with Angel's help. No one really judged her. They were a little shocked, but they accepted her as she was. There were varying degrees of it. Alastor made some jabs at her about being a killer like him. "My dear Vagatha, I didn't realize you were a kindred spirit!" or "Ha! Congratulations on the high kill count my dear!" That one had been after she said about being top exorcist for a few years. It was annoying, and she wanted to punch him many times for it, but she knew it was just Alastor being, well Alastor. She didn't like him, but he did have his moments of decency.

Husk just said everyone down here had made some mistakes. And that he didn't really give much of a shit, which yeah that tracks for Husk. Pentious was... Pentious. He acted about the same to be honest. It was sad when Niffty was the most disturbing of them all. Her "Oooh! You're a bad girl!" creeped Vaggie out on so many levels. And of course Angel had been accepting of her. Actually Angel had been really amazing these past few days. A true friend to her, and Vaggie wasn't sure she deserved it. But she was grateful nonetheless. And if she waited up on the night he worked late (3 nights that week) then that was no one's business but his and hers.

Everyone agreed that Charlie would likely forgive her eventually once she'd cooled off and processed. That it wasn't her nature to hold a grudge, and to just give her space. Which is exactly what she did. Nothing bad happened a the hotel,so she didn't call or text. She would let Charlie decide when and if to reach out to her again. That being said, she still visibly jumped when the pop song that was Charlie's ringtone started blaring. Vaggie had been watching some random Hell drama, since she was bored. Angel was at work, Husk was tending the bar, Niffty was cleaning somewhere, Pentious was probably in his room, and Alastor was being his elusive self. 

She picks up the phone within two rings, sitting back down on the couch. "Hey Charlie, what's um... up?"

"Hey Vaggie. I wanted to talk some stuff out since we've cooled down and whatnot. I- I don't think I can be with someone who lied to me for so long, but I still want to be friends. If you'd want that of course!"

"Charlie, I fucked up. Big time. I lied to you for years. I'm not gonna try to sugarcoat that or paint myself in a better light. Pretty sure Angel would kick my ass if I tried." Vaggie laughs a little, knowing Angel would definitely kick her ass if she pulled a 'holier than thou' stunt. "So I get it Charlie. It hurts a little yeah, but I can only blame myself for this one. That being said, I would never not want to be friends Charlie. If you think we could even be that, I'd love it."

She can hear Charlie letting out a sigh of relief on the other end. "Ok! I guess we should work some things out huh? Like... How we feel about each other. I'm not exactly how to tell you this honestly..."

Vaggie has inkling what Charlie might mean. "Like maybe we rushed into dating in the first place? Like maybe you don't love me like a girlfriend, and perhaps you never truly did?"

"Wait, how did you?"

"I've done a lot of thinking. I kinda came to the same thoughts actually."

Charlie laughs. "Oh my god. I can't believe that happened, but... now I think this definitely was a good decision then." A knock sounds at the other end of the phone. "Oh gosh! I'm sorry, I have to go! I'll call you again later, but I feel better knowing we can still be friends."

"Yeah, go. I'll talk to you later Charlie. We'll finish figuring stuff out then. Bye." Vaggie hears Charlie say bye as well and hang up the phone. A smile grows on her face. Maybe this would be good in the end. They could build a friendship together. Things weren't fixed yet, not in the slightest, but they would get better. 

It was a month since Charlie had first started to mend things with Vaggie, as friends. They'd made up for the most part, and Vaggie seemed very supportive of her moving on. In fact she was the one who encouraged her to tell Emily how she felt. Which ended up working out amazingly, since Emily also apparently felt that way,she just didn't know how to say it. They were taking it slow, but they were together now! They worked so well together, as they matched personalities and energies perfectly. Emily also loved singing just as much as she did! 

Emily had also been working with her to get a court hearing about redemption. Charlie was running out of time for this meeting, yet Sera seemed to be stalling about it. Charlie couldn't afford that. In 3 and a half months, the next Extermination would happen. Charlie needed to have the meeting before that, and she needed to be back in Hell by then. Yet Sera didn't seem to have that sense of urgency. Charlie hadn't even delved into why exactly she was working so hard for redemption to Emily, but she understood! They'd already worked out how they'd stay together when Charlie went back! They'd visit each other, sometimes in Heaven, other times in Hell. Well, as long as Charlie could go back to Heaven occasionally. If not it would just be Hell.

Oooooh, god help Vaggie. Was she going insane? She was going insane. Why? Why did she have to get feelings for Angel of all people!? Was she just destined to have feelings for people that she would never have successful relationships with? Or was it because she had a thing for people who supported her? Was this her punishment for disobeying orders? Whatever it was, it was crazy! Angel was gay for fucks sake! Hell, up until now, Vaggie was sure she only liked girls! 

Ok, she needs help on this. Now. She has no one at the hotel to help. Husk is a big no, since him and Angel were friends now. And there was no fucking way she was gonna ask Alastor. She was pretty sure he was Ace anyway. Ok, calling Charlie it is. She frantically dials her number, praying she picks up.

She does! "Hey Vaggie! How's my favorite fallen angel doing?" She called her that now. A month and a half after finding out the truth, and it was water under the bridge for Charlie. Which was great, of course. It turned they were better as friends anways. 

"Good... I guess... I actually called because I need help. I think I'm going because that's only way to explain this."

"Uhm, back up a second. What makes you think you're going insane?"

"Charlie... I think... I like Angel. I mean, like, like him."

Charlie squeels. "That's amazing Vaggie! You should definitely tell him!"

"No! It's not amazing Charlie! Angel is gay! Meaning, he would never feel the same way, not in a million years! And I'm not gonna ruin the friendship we:be formed, because I stupidly started liking him."

"Weeeelll, I wouldn't take it off the table yet Vaggie! I've heard you talk about him, and it sounds like he might feel the saaammmmmeee!" She says the last part in a sing-song voice. "Besides, either way, tell him. It'll make you feel better, and you can move on easier if he doesn't return the feelings. That's better than constantly wondering if you threw an amazing opportunity down the drain."

"Are... are you sure Charlie? I don't want to ruin anything. I've already screwed stuff up with you."

"First off, you and me doesn't compare, plus we're friends now aren't we? And have a little more faith in yourself! Trust me Vaggie, it'll be fine. Take a leap! I think you'll be happier if you do." 

"O-ok, I'll try. Thanks Charlie, this really helped."

"Of course! Call me and tell me how it goes!"

Vaggie tells her she will, and hangs up. Well,time to go find Angel she guesses. Or actually, wait until he gets bacl, since she's pretty sure he's working.

Angel plops onto the couch after a long day at work. He groans, and calls to Husk. "Hey Whiskers, mind getting me a drink?"

"If you want a drink, you know where I am. I don't deliver."

Angel rolls his eyes. "Ugh, fine kitty."

"Don't call me that."

"Aww, why not? Ain't you a cat?"

Husk is about to reply, but Vaggie comes in looking nervous. "Hey Angel, um... can I talk to you about something? In uh, private? It's important."

"Eh? Sure Vaggs, what's up?" Angel gets up from his seat and follows Vaggie into the kitchen. It's pretty late, so everyone already ate dinner and Alastor cleaned up. 

"Hey... um... I..." Vaggie taking a moment to find her words. She mutters "Cómo lo digo?" She sighs, still looking unsure how to express her feelings into words. "Look I... I've realized I may... like you." She starts talking faster, as her anxiety increases. "And I know I probably shouldn't've said anything, and I know your gay,  I just, Charlie said I should and-"

"Woah, woah, woah. Vaggs, calm down!" Angel is shocked by what she said, but he understands her panic. Honestly, he's noticed his own feelings for Vaggie, just elected to ignore them because he knows he's gay. He's always liked guys and only guys. Sure, maybe he screwed a few girls, but that was for work and they always paid extra. Hence why he had decided to ignore whatever he felt towards Vaggie that was anything but platonic, cause it wasn't like him. 'sides, he knew Vaggie was into girls. But, this sounded like maybe she was into both? Still didn't explain how he felt about her...

"Ya do mean dat as in ya into me, right? I thought ya were lesbian."

"If you wanna put it that way, yes. And I thought I was but now... I don't know." Vaggie's calmed down a bit, seeing Angel hadn't gotten mad. "I'm sure you probably don't feel that way about me, and I can just shut up about it from now. I don't even know why this happened." 

Welp, might as well tell her. Who knows, it's worth a try. "Did I say that Vaggs?"

Her eye widens a bit. "Bu- aren't you?"

He laughs a little. "Looks like ya aren't the only one who's been seriously questioning their sexuality lately. I ain't ever had any feelings for girls before, so I was pretty much set on ignoring it. Guess I shouldn't if ya return 'em huh?"

The fallen angel starts laughing at the absurdity. "Dios mio. I can't believe this. Our lives are absolutely insane aren't they? I mean I'm a fallen exorcist, who's ex girlfriend is basically my best friend now. And you're a porn star stuck in a bad contract, who's also seeking redemption. We both were sure we only liked the same sex, yet here we are, realizing we like each other!"

The spider starts laughing with her. 'God, you're right! But eh, they do say opposites attract, don' they?" 

Vaggie grins and slaps him with a dish towel she picked up. "You're horrible, that was awful." 

Angel just shrugs "Maybe." Then he grins back at her. 

Alastor steps out of the shadows once Angel leaves the bar for the night. He does this most nights. Truly, he enjoyed Husker's company. And if he were to admit it, Husker was one of the few people he'd call a friend. 

"Hey boss. Usual?"

"Much appreciated my good man!" He says as he sits down. 

Husk pours him a glass of whiskey, and sets it down in front of Alastor. "Hey boss, I actually have a story for you tonight." The old cat chuckles. Usually Alastor is the one talking the most.

"Oh? 

" Yup. Pretty funny. Angel seems to think we're a thing." He points at Alastor and then himself. "I dunno how he got that in his head, but he seems convinced we're secretly together or something."

"Hmm, while I wouldn't necessarily be opposed, I do believe that seems a bit of a stretch for our femenine fellow to think." Alastor says without much thought. Truly a ridiculous idea for the spider to have. They were friends at most. 

"Yea- wait what?" Husk looks up surprised. 

"hm?" Alastor tilts his head for a moment, until his brain catches up to the words he just spoke. Curse his lack of sleep, making him say that. Husker needn't know that. It was something Alastor never intended to act on, certainly not while he owned the cat's soul. It didn't feel right like that, and he didn't want the cat to feel forced into something. No, a relationship wouldn't be possible. Alastor would feel like he had too much power in it.

Quickly correcting his mistake he says, "Ah, just a slip of the tongue Husker."

Husk seems doubtful of that. He hesitates for a moment, before speaking again. "You sure it was just that?"

Internally Alastor is most certainly panicking. He hopes his face doesn't show that though. While his smile might still be there, he knew he had other tells that Husk certainly picked up on. There was no way he didn't after 50 years. "Quite sure! What else would it be?" Blast it. He could could hear his voice be unsteady.

Husk sighs. "I... wouldn't necessarily be opposed to it either boss, that's why I asked."

Alastor's mind screeches to a halt for several long seconds, before his thoughts catch up to Husk's words. Well then. That was unexpected. But perhaps things could work out? It would be a first though.

Charlie walks into Sera's office. Determined to get a court hearing scheduled this time. She had two months before the extermination. Use wouldn't wait any longer. She didn't know why Sera kept delaying scheduling it, but it didn't matter. Charlie would get it done today. Vaggie had advised her to be firm. 'Aggressively kind' as she'd called it. It might be a little mean, but she was the Princess of Hell. She won't let the High Seraphim get in her way anymore. 

"Hello princess, how is Heaven treating you?" Sera smiles.

"It's been fine Sera. But I am here to talk about the meeting for redemption. I understand you wanted me to adjust to Heaven first, but it's been 3 months now. I'm plenty adjusted now."

Sera's smile stiffens a little. It's a small change, but Charlie notices it. "Of course Charlotte. It will take some time to arrange it though."

"All the more reason to schedule it right away Sera. In roughly 2 months more of my people will be permanently killed. I need to secure them a chance for redemption before then. Furthermore I wish to be back in Hell by then as well."

Sera stiffen slightly at the mention of the exterminations. "Very well." She pulls out some sheets of paper from her desk and ruffles through them. "I'm afraid the next available court date is exactly a month from now. Will that work?" 

Charlie nods. "That's perfect! Thank you, this is really important for me!" 

The Seraphim scribbles something down on one of the sheets. "Alright then, it's done."

Charlie thanks her again, then walks out of Sera's offfice. Emily is waiting outside. 

"How'd it go?" the younger Seraphim asks.

Charlie grins. "One month! And then I can prove my ideas of redemption!"

Emily squeels and gives her a tight hug. "Yes! You'll do amazing! There's no way the court won't approve it, I just know it!" 

Charlie smiles and gives her a peck on the cheek. "Thanks for the vote of confidence!"

Both smiling, the Nephilim and Seraphim walk together, holding hands and and chatting away excitedly.

Chapter Text

Vaggie looks up as Angel trudges into the room, exhaustion clearly showing on his face. 'Finally' she thinks. It was mid afternoon now, and he'd been called into work last night. Admitedly she hadnt slept very well, hence why she'd left hotel managment up to Alastor today. She didn't like the guy, but he was reliable at least.

Angel groans and as he flops down onto the couch next to Vaggie. She sets her book down, and starts running her hand through his hair. A familiar gesture of comfort between the two."Bad day at work?" She asks. She pretty much knows the answer, but she knows Angel offenders to vent. And she was more than happy to let him do so.

"Ugh tell me 'bout it." He sits up and cracks his back a he talks. "Val makes work 16 hours on a fucking whim. And made me screw basically everyone twice. Fucking dickbag." He flops back down, head landing onto Vaggie's lap. She smiles at the welcome weight. 

"Honestly, I have considered killing that asshole moth for you so many times. I only decide against it so the other two Vees don't target the hotel."

"I wi-" Angel gets cut off by the wall exploding, startling both of them off the couch and landing in a heap on the floor. For fuck's sake! There's a door for a reason! Oh well, at least that's Alastor's problem, not Vaggie's. He gets to deal with fixing the wall as "facilities manager." Although Vaggie's pretty sure Charlie came up with that position on the spot.

"Ah! What the fuck is with that wall?!" What indeed. This was what? The 2nd? 3rd time it's gotten blown up? Admittedly, the most of that was Pentious. And then that friend of Alastor's fault. Vaggie was glad when he'd told the flapper to leave. That woman had gotten on her nerves. And she kinda sounded like one of the characters in that kids' cartoon. 

A woman's outline appears in the smoke coming from the hole in the wall. "What's up hoes!" the girl calls as she laughs. 

Angel quickly untangled himself from Vaggie after hearing the girls' voice. "Holy shit! Cherri? Long time no see girl!" 

The girl, apparently Cherri, jumps into the room. She looks to be Cyclops demon, with a topknot. Oh wait... is this the girl Angel helped out in that turf war a few months back? Huh. Vaggie's not sure if she'll like her too well.

"Angie, ya bitch! You been texting me depressin' shit all day! Figured we could let off some steam like old times. It's been forever!"

" I love seein' ya Cherri, but I'm too tired tonight. I just wanna pass out." He tries to fall back onto the couch, where Vaggie has re-situated herself onto it again, but Cherri stops him. 

"Nah fuckhead, you can sleep when you're double dead! You need to recharge! Blow shot up! Be-"

"Responsible?" Vaggie pipes up from her seat, eyebrow quirked.

Angel snorts at that one. "Damn Vaggs, chill out. How 'bout we bring you along?"

"Uh, wait Angie, I only meant us."

"Oh right, ya don't knw who Vaggs is do ya? Aight, remember I told ya bout the girl I was inta'?" Cherri nods. "Yeah, dis is her. We're dating now."

"No shit Angie? Damn, and here I thought you were only into guys. Welcome to team bi!"

That gets a laugh out of Vaggie."Yeah, you can welcome us both I guess. Anyway, I'm Vaggie. Its cool to meet you. I guess I don't mind going out."

"I wanna go too!!!!!" Niffty giggles, running up to them. 

Vaggie looks towards Angel and Cherri. "I have an idea. How about we all go out?  I think we could all use a break. I don't mind covering for it, as long as there's no drugs, no blowing things up, and responsible drinking."

"Aaaaanndd, there's my responsible Vaggs!" She playfully slaps him on the arm in response.

"Aight, if I ain't paying, let's go!"

Charlie and Emily arrived at the courtroom together. Before entering they exchanged a hug and kiss. 

"You'll do great Charlie, I just know it!"

"Thank Em, I feel better knowing you'll be supporting me. I don't know what Adam and Lute will do honestly. They could be contrary or they could be supportive."

"Haha, they are a bit of a wildcard at times! But I'm sure they won't be too bad."

They walk in together, but Emily flies up to take a seat next to Sera. Charlie takes a seat at the podium on ground. The podiums the angels sit in tower up above her, but she smiles when she sees Emily waving at her.

Adam and Lute fly in next. Lute immediately flies to their own podium, but Adam pauses to speak to Charlie. "Saw you're still on this redemption kick girl! Never learn to give up do ya?" He chuckles and flies up to sit with Lute. When Charlie looks at her, she can tell Lute wants to scold him for saying that. Honestly, that was pretty tame for what he could've said. And Charlie's used to Adam's general ass-holery by this point.

Once everyone is seated, Sera speaks up in a very professional voice. "We are gathered here today to determine whether a soul in Hell can ascend to Heaven through means of " redemption" via one "Hazbin Hotelm" Princess Charlotte Morningstar?"

"Thank you High Seraphim." She takes a breath before speaking again. "Since the beginning of time, souls that sinned in life have been damned to eternity in Hell. But what is it to say these souls can't change? Isn't it human's nature to change and grow? Even the Holy Bible itself speaks of redemption. But what exactly does it mean? According to Webster's dictionary, redemption is—"

"Objection!" Adam calls from his booth. "Lame and unoriginal!" Oh, ok. Contrary asshole it is today. I mean, seriously!? Objecting to a dictionary reference?

"Sustained. No further dictionary references please." Ugh, fine. She can do this without the definitions. Although they were supporting parts of her case. She's assuming quoting how the Bible talks of redemption is off the table now too... Ugh, damnit Adam! 

"Very well. My point is, redemption is worth giving a chance. Perhaps not every soul can be redeemed, nor wants to, but we should give them a chance!" Charlie argues fiercly, speaking firm. Vaggie had given her some pointers for this, and surprisingly Alastor did too. Of course his were along the lines of "smile" but still. "Humans have a saying; 'learn from your mistakes.' Well, I believe these souls can learn from their mistakes too!"

"Instead of yapping, how about you show us some actual evidence!" Ooohhh, Charlie is gonna slap Adam when this over. She has a damn good defence! He just keeps messing it up! 

Ok, channeling inner-Alastor right now, because she knows her horns are threatening to grow. "We have a patron who's making incredible progress!"

"Uh huh. Who?" Wait... is Adam actually helping? He knows who so maybe.... huh, helping by being a contrary asshole. That's a new one, but on par for the first man.

"Angel Dust." 

"The porn demon? Sure, totally worthy of redemption." 

"Alright then, what do you think it takes for someone to get into Heaven?" She smirks, knowing that she got him good.

Adam stutters, suddenly losing his confidence. "W-well, uuuhhh..."

"Is everything alright Adam?" Sera calls.

"Give me fucking minute! Jesus." Sera almost frowns at the last part. Adam writes something down on a piece of golden paper and teleport it to Charlie.

Charlie reads it out loud. "Act selfless, don't steal, and stick to the man? Are you being serious right now?"

"Adam was the first human soul in Heaven." Sera confirms. Well, that's not exactly an answer...

"Well, I bet Angel's doing all of those things right now!" Oh please, please, please let Angel be with Vaggie right now and not at work. Let this not backfire on her, please. 

"Alright fine bitch. Let's see it." he summons an orb that shows Angel and the others at a club. Well... not work. And Vaggie's there. Better than nothing...

Why did Vaggie decide to go along? This is a fucking sex club. Ugh. That makes her so uncomfortable. Also, Pentious clearly has a huge ass crush on Cherri. It's kinda sweet, but he needs to go about it better. He literally just bought the entire club drinks!

Ok, cuddle time later then. Vaggie wasn't kidding when she said she'd kill Valentino if it wouldn't cause huge issues. Although... maybe she could enlist Alastor? Speaking of, he had been noticeably absent when she'd offered to take everyone out. And Husk had said no as well. Which was weird, she'd figured he agree to anything if drinks were involved. Not that she really cared, just strange nonetheless.

Ok, this Cherri girl might get on Vaggie's nerves. Angel does not need to take drugs. "Angel, C'mon. You've been clean for a while. There's healthier ways to deal with this too." 

"Oh don't be a judgmental buzzkill!" This girl is a bad influence. But... Vaggie can't be too pushy. She knows Angel will do it if she is, just to spite her. So she just sighs and listens as Cherri tries to convince Angel to do the drugs.

"I... I dunno Cherri. Vaggs is right, I been clean for a while. I shouldn't."

"Aw, c'mon Angie! Y-" At that moment Pentious comes up offering Cherri another shot. And inadvertently buys the whole club a shot as well. Again. At this rate he'll be broke by end of the night. Still, she can thank him for that, as it seems to help Angel make up his mind.

"Alright, no drugs, but I'm taking another drink!" He says the last part with a grin. Vaggie finds herself proud of Angel. Had this been even a month ago he likely would've done the drugs, regardless of what Vaggie said. He really had come so far. She kinda wants to kiss him. Oh god, no. Not in public. Wait is her face turning gold? Oh no.

"See! Angel made good decisions! He's struggled with addiction for most of his life and the entire time he's been in Hell, yet he didn't do the drugs!"

"He still kept drinking!" Adam calls. Which, is A very weak point. But Charlie sees what Adam's doing. He's acts like he's not on her side, but he's actually helping. Opposing her, but giving her a chance to prove her point and ideas. 

So naturally, she gives him an unimpressed look. "Really? Who doesn't have a drink after a hard day at work? In fact, I'd say drinking with friends is a healthy thing to do."

"It Heaven. We don't have hard days stupid. You should know that Princess." Yeah, which is one thing Charlie has found she doesn't like about heavenborn angels. Or the winners who had good, easy lives. They seem to be judgemental and have no real concept of struggle. Emily isn't like that luckily. Even though she's heavenborn, she understands hardship. Although, that's likely because of her job as the Angel of Joy.

"True, I do know that. Which is why none of you have any right to judge Angel on how he deals with a hard day." Charlie states firmly. She sees Emily smile encouragingly at her. "None of you understand hardship or struggle! None of you understand what some of these souls have had to go through and still go through!"

Sera's voice rings out, firm and commanding. "Regardless of the lives these demons lived, they still sinned. Any hardship they faced doesn't change that fact. A good soul would not have sinned despite what they faced. You have shown no true evidence of redemption Princess Morningstar." Emily visibly frowns at that and her eyes flare at Sera's stinging words. 

"Perhaps some souls wouldn't, but that doesn't matter. You still don't know any of these demons! You don't even know what gets someone into Heaven!" Thanks to Emily, she'd learned that one. Charlie knows she won't convey her point this way though. So she takes a deep breath, and sings.

"It's not fair Sera. Some of these souls never got a choice."

"Don't you care Sera? That just because someone is dead, it doesn't mean they don't deserve a second chance!  Get to turn the page and rise through the gates!" 

"I'm sure you wish it could be so. But there's a lot that you don't know." Like what? She sure as heck knows a lot more about humans than Sera. That was clear. Admittedly most of what Charlie knew was from Vaggie, and things Emily had learned from Winners, but still. 

Emily flys from the booth, turning to face Sera. "Maybe so, Sera. But that doesn't mean she's not right. Don't you know, Sera? That not all demons are bad." Should Charlie be finding Emily really hot for defending her? Maybe not. Oh well, food for later thought! 

Charlie pulls out her own wings, flying to grab Emily's hands as they sing together. "They can change, they can grow! They can redeem and rise, if only we give them a chance!" 

Lute interjects at this point. Charlie's not sure why though. They already helped her. "What are you even talking about, these demons don't stand a chance!" ♫ She starts singing, and Charlie has to admit she sounds really good. "They already blew their shot,  this is all senseless and petty!" 

Both exterminators sing together. "There's no question to be posed, they're all unholy, case closed! Or did you forget that Hell is forever?" 

"Men only live once, we'll be down there in one month! Gotta say I can't wait to, go down and exterminate you!" 

"Wait, what are you saying? Let me get this straight, you go down there and kill those poor souls?" Wait. what? 

"You didn't know?" Charlie sings incredulously. She'd just assumed all heavenborn angels knew, especially one with as high a rank as Seraphim. But if Emily didn't know, this changes everything. 

"Whoops, guess the cat's out of the bag!" Lute sings. She acts like it was accidental and they just got lost in the moment, but Charlie can tell it was intentional.

Emily looks up disapprovingly at her older sister. "Sera you can't tell me that you didn't know." 

"I was older, it was my load to shoulder" 

"No!" 

"I did what I had to ensure Heaven was protected"

"To think you see yourself as better, when you've just as bad them!"  Emily's right. Sera is no better than Sinners in reality. Sera may not have directly killed any of them, but she issued the order to the Exorcists. 

Charlie watches as Emily sings furiously at Sera. "Was I too naive to expect you to heed the morals you're purveying?" That's what Charlie had been saying! 

Charlie grabs her girlfriends hands once more. Singing together once again. "If Hell is forever, then Heaven must be a lie! If angels can do whatever, and remain in the sky!" The orb-thing changed to show an exorcist killing a demon. "The rules are shades of gray when you don't do as you say, when you make the wretched suffer just to kill them again!"

"You can't claim to be righteous, when you do wrong in the supposed name right." Charlie finishes singing. 

Charlie watches as Sera takes a deep breath, regaining her composure before speaking again. "Heaven's decisions are not what is on trial, and I'm sorry, but this court has found no evidence at souls in Hell can be redeemed. This case is dismissed." That's not fair! Wait... Sera never intended to allow redemption anyway, did she? Realization hits Charlie like a metaphorical truck. That was why she kept delaying the trial! But why does she want Charlie in Heaven in the question? 

"Fine. But I will leaving Heaven shortly. To go protect my people that you have shunned. I truly hope redemption is possible, for your own sake Sera." With that Charlie quickly flies it of the courtroom, leaving Emily to talk with Sera.

She was so sure she'd prove redemption! But it seemed Sera had already decided before the trial. She didn't know why Sera wanted her in Heaven, but no longer. She would come to visit Emily if she was allowed, but she couldn't stay here. She needed to get back to Hell. 

~-~

She gets to her room, quickly moving to pack her things. She wanted to both scream and cry. She'd done everything right! She'd proven her point, she'd had support. She was starting to see why her dad disliked Heaven so much. The were judgemental, hypocritical and self-righteous. At least Sera was, and she had the most sway. Emily was a Seraphim, but it seemed she had little power on the court. 

She hears a knock on her doorframe. Taking a deep breath, she starts talking, assuming Emily was done talking to Sera. "I'm sorry Emily, I thought you knew abou-"  

She gets cut off by a voice that was certainly not Emily's. "I'm afraid I'm not that delightful Seraphim, but I still hope you're happy to see me dear." 

Charlie whirls around quickly. Shocked to see the woman in front of her. She immediately recognizes the long blonde haired woman, even with her horns retracted. "Mom!?" 

Lilith smiles warmly at her daughter. But... something feels off about it. Maybe it's just because she's been gone so long though. "I'm here my darling girl. I've missed you." The queen pulls her into a hug.

Charlie pulls away after a few moments. "Not that I'm not happy to see you, but what are you doing here? In Heaven?"

"Oh my beautiful princess, where did you think I went?"

Wait a second. "What?" She asks. "But, how? I mean, I thought after everything that happened in Eden and stuff you wouldn't be allowed back. Nor that you'd want to. I thought you hated Heaven as much as dad? Isn't that why you empowered demons all those centuries ago?" Something isn't adding up. and Charlie is gonna figure out what it is. She's been in Heaven for months now. And mom only comes to see her now? Right when she's preparing to leave?

Lilith lets out a warm laugh. "Oh Charlie, people change their minds! And besides, I needed to get away from your father for a while. You know how he is, always has more important this to do." Charlie narrows her eyes at that. She was happy to see her mom, but no word for 7 years? And then blaming it on dad?

"Mom, you still could've called me! Or answered my messages. I left a lot. I missed you! And why haven't you come to see me up here?"

"I apologize sweetie. I'm afraid the calls never went through, but I heard all your messages. I promise, I never forgot about you. And I wanted you to get adjusted before I came to see you."

Wait... adjusted? That's the same thing Sera said! "Mom... why are you here?"

"To see you of course! Of course we have a lot to catch up on. And I thought perhaps we could spend some time on the beaches, they are so beautiful here!"

"Mom, it's great you want to do that, and maybe we still can, but right now I'm going back to Hell. Regardless of what Sera says, I know they deserve a chance. And they're my people, I won't be up here during the extermination." 

"Oh well, I'm are you can wait a while, can't you? The sinners will still be there in Hell, no matter when you go back. And I have bonding time to catch up on, don't I?"

"Mom, you don't get it! I'm the princess, and those are my people! What sort of princess would I be if I was up in Heaven during an extermination? Besides, maybe I can use the Hotel as a shelter!"

Lilth's smile get strained. "But wouldn't you rather be in Heaven? Spending time with me and that Seraphim of yours?"

Charlie realizes her mom only came to convince her to stay, for whatever reason "I have a duty to my people. And friends back in Hell I won't leave alone on Extermination. Emily has always known I'd go back to Hell at some point. It's not an issue. Unless you're coming back to Hell with me, please leave. Call me later if you want, but I have to finish packing, call dad for a portal, and say goodbye to Emily."

Lilith stiffens, but nods. "Very well daughter, if that's what you wish. I suppose I understand. Someday you'll learn, but I guess you're still young. I hope to speak to you later than." Lilith leans in to kiss Charlie on her forehead before gliding out of the room. Leaving Charlie still reeling from the encounter and the things she learned. And more questions now.

Emily barrels into the room, her eye still glowing over her chest. "Charlie!" She pauses for a moment, eye diaspearing. "W- was that Lilith?"

Charlie nods. "Y-yeah. That was my mom."

Chapter Text

The princess had made her choice. Sera gave her the option of divinity. The choice of Heaven. Yet she chose to forsake it for sinners. Sera couldn't begin to fathom how Charlie could choose the wretched over the divine. The princess was truly naive. Those sinners couldn't be saved. Yet that girl, she had a light in her. A fire that would need to be extinguished. Sera hadn't wanted to do this, but Charlie gave her no other choice.

If Lilith failed to get Charlie to stay, Sera would have to destroy that light. It wasn't an ideal option, but Sera would keep Heaven safe. One day Emily would understand as well. But for now... she had to get Emily to calm down. 

"How could you let this happen Sera!? Those are human souls! It's your job to protect them, right?" 

"Emily, you must understand. They were uprising. My job is to protect the divine. Those 'human souls' already threw their chance away! They made their choices on Earth!"

"So you decided they didn't deserve life!? Decided to play God?" Sera's sister shouts at her furiously. "You know as much as I do that we don't know what gets a soul into Heaven. So what's to say they can't change? I once looked up to you Sera, but now I see. You aren't an angel of justice. You're an angel of judgement with prejudice to those you see as evil." 

"Emily, you're too young to see. They are wretched! They wreck havoc on their own home, they must be kept in check to keep Heaven safe." Why couldn't she understand? Those sinners didn't deserve any second chance!

"No. Sera, you are the one with clouded sight. My sight's clearer than it's ever been. If what you say is true– if Hell is forever, then Heaven is truly a lie. If angels can fall, then demons can rise." Her sister says with conviction. Sadness and fury mix together in her voice. Emily turns and flies out the door quickly, racing in the same direction Charlie went.

Sera sighs. She was in the right, she knew it. Sinners had no chance. Even Lilith saw that now. But Sera could see that Charlie had her mother's ability of song. If she wasn't kept in Heaven, she would cause another uprising with her light. So if she didn't stay, Sera would have to crush her hope. She would do what she needed to ensure Heaven's stability and safety.

Emily flies furiously, speeding away from her sister. How could she do this! Allow souls to be killed permanently!? What other lies does Sera have? How many secrets does Heaven's facade hide? She would go do some digging but first, she needed to see Charlie. Just before she reaches Charlie's room, she passes a blur of purple and blonde.

 "Charlie!" She calls to the girl in the room before realizing what she saw. "W-was that Lilith?"

 "Y-yeah. That was my mom." 

 " but why? How? She shouldn't be allowed in Heaven! And why was she here now? " Another secret, huh Sera? Well, if you can have them, I can keep some too. You don't need to know I'm aware of this.

 "I... I don't know how mom is here right now but... She was trying to convince me to stay here, in Heaven."

 "What!? Why? I mean, I'd love for you to stay, but I know you have to go back."

 Charlie shakes her head, and finished shoving her belongings into her luggage and closing it. "I don't know. She acted like sinners didn't matter. I don't get it! I thought she loved and cared about our people! She's part of the reason I started the hotel!"

Emily thinks for a moment. "Well... you may not like me saying this, but what if... she never cared about sinners? What if she was just out for her own gain and power?"

The princess's eyes widen. "Oh my Satan... that's... you might be right." She groans. "And if you are, I've been a fool. Mom was the one who started that uprising. It... was one of the things mom and dad always fought about. Mom always thought dad should've supported it and not signed off on the exterminations. Dad always said she should've never started it, and that he had to sign off on the exterminations to protect me and other hellborn. Thinking about it now, that uprising didn't help sinners at all, but it did gain mom a lot more followers and support from denizens of hell."

She sighs and then hugs Emily tightly. "I feel like everyone keeps lying to me. Vaggie lied to me about being an exorcist, Sera's been lying to me about considering redemption, and my own mother has been lying to me my whole life. I think I'm starting to see where being so trusting is backfiring on me."

Emily hugs her back. "Hey no, that's what's so amazing about you. You grew up in Hell and you're still do amazingly sweet and kind. You're smart, but still trusting. You're hopeful and have so many wonderful dreams that would make things better for everyone when they come true. And I think you'll find you have way more people in your side then against."

A sparkle returns to Charlie's eyes, and she perks up a little from Emily's words. "Thanks Em, I needed that." She grins as she picks up her suitcase. "Race you to the gates! Loser has to kiss the winner" Charlie pulls out her wings and flies off, Emily following. 

The two chase each other, flying rather quickly towards the gates of Heaven. Thus twirl and spin around each other, a swirl of light blue and bright pink, almost resembling cotton candy. Despite Charlie's headstart, the reach their destination at about the same time. Giggling they both try to catch their breath. 

 "I- huff - I think we tied Char." 

 "Welllll.." A sneaky grin spreads across Charlie's face. "I suppose we could each give the other one a kiss since we tied."

 Emily grins back, and leans in to give her girlfriend a soft kiss, lingering before pulling away. "That's a very good idea." She says softly with a smile.

Charlie smiles back lovingly, before pulling Emily in for another one, wrapping her wings around the Seraphim. The kiss is sweet and gentle, but seems to convey so much more. A sense of trust and warmth is there, seeming to wrap around the two. Slowly they pull away from each other, each looking into the other's eyes. Blue meet yellow, each reflecting back into the other. 

 "I thought so too." Charlie replied back, equally soft. "I love you Emily, I'm going to miss you. With you, I think I've found what true love feels like."

" I love too Charlotte. I've never felt the way I do about you with anyone else. I'll miss you too, but I know what you have to do. Fight for your people, and I'll try to fight for redemption here. Together, I know we can change things."

Charlie starts to reply, but a coughing rings out from behind them. "Aheh heh heh, ummm wow! You two really got into it there but uh... Maybe not do that right at Heaven's gates. Really awkward for me, I gotta say." St. Peter makes himself known. And wow, they really did just get intimate in front of Peter. Emily wants to giggle at that. This man really had no room to talk considering he moans almost every time he sings his welcome song to new souls.

"Sorry St. Peter!" Charlie apologizes for the both of them, blushing a little. "I'm leaving Heaven, so I guess we got a little carried away. No regrets though." She sends a look towards Emily as she says the last part, causing her own cheeks to flush gold. 

"Leaving? But, I wasn't told anything about that! I'm supposed to be told these things! Why does Sera never tell me these important things! Wait, don't you need a portal?" St. Peter continues to mutter to himself, complaining how Sera never tell him things. 

"Oh! Gosh that's right, I need to call dad for a portal!" Charlie pull her phone out of her pocket, opening her contacts. She laughs at little. "Gosh, I just realized I've talked to dad more in the last few months than I've done in years."

"That's a good thing though! Maybe you can reconnect with him!"

"I... Maybe. It's complicated, but I would like that. Anyways, here goes." She hits the call button on her dad's contact.

Charlie listens to it ring. She knows he'll pick up, but it usually takes him a few rings. And he always sounds out of breath. Hopefully he answers it normally this time though. Actually, who answers their daughter's call by saying 'Heeey bitch'? He only did it once, but still. That was awkward. 

"H-hey Char-Char! How's my little rainbow? Everything ok? How was the meeting?" Her dad speaks quickly. He always seems nervous talking to her, but she can tell he does at least care about her.

"Hey dad. I'm... doing ok I guess. The meeting didn't go too well though. I... I actually need a portal back to Hell. I'm at the gates right now." She debated telling him about mom, but decides that's an in-person conversation. 

Duckling, you're ok right!? They didn't harm you? They better not be kicking you out!" He sounds a little panicked and worried now, maybe she should've worded that better.

"No, no dad! I'm fine! Sera just... she didn't listen at all. I'm pretty sure she never actually cared about redemption anyway. I think she 'd still want me here for some weird reason. If the Extermination wasn't in a month I might stay longer, but I need to get back home."

She can hear a sigh of relief some from her dad. "Ok, ok, sorry I overreacted. You're at the gates right?" "Yeah, I'm right there."

"Ok good. Give me a few minutes to make it. Portals to Heaven are... hard for me to make now, even only to the gates."

"That's fine dad, I'll need to talk to you when I get back. Maybe you could stop by the hotel in a day or so?" 

"O-of course! I'll see you soon then Char-Char!" Her dad hangs up the phone, and Charlie sighs. She turns to Emily. 

"Ok, the portal should open soon. I- I'll call you every day, ok?"

Emily smiles at her. " I do the same. I'll do what I can up here and-"

The Seraphim gets interrupted by a golden paper appearing in front of Charlie. It look like... wait, it's from Adam? The Princess takes the paper and starts reading. 

 'Hey girly, watch that hotel of yours come Extermination day. Sera seems to be gunning for it, and I can't easily disobey her orders. Rock on Princess, we got faith in you.

- Dickmaster and DangerTits'

She shows it to Emily, mindful of St. Peter being near. Emily's eye flickers for a moment, a sign of her rising anger. "I'll be having a talk with Sera." She speaks coldly, and Charlie has to admit, it's kinda hot seeing her girlfriend be as passionate about this as her.

A golden portal opens up with a little circus jangle, signaling Charlie's cue to leave. "I gotta go now I guess, but I love you Emily." She kisses Emily once more, slightly unwilling to pull away, but she knows she has to. "Don't worry, I'll be ok. And I won't let my hotel be destroyed if I can help it." 

Charlie picks her suitcase back up, going through the portal before she can change her mind, already reluctant to leave Emily. 

As soon as she walks through the portal, a sense of familiarity and home washes over her. She breathes deeply, inhaling the scent of brimstone and ashes. Some might find it strange, but it was comforting. Hell was and always would be her home. Heaven was beautiful, but it was almost too perfect. Hell might be a place of fire and suffering, filled with the damned, but it was where she belonged. Each imperfection a place she could improve and make better, every scream a soul she can save.

The voices of her friends pulls her out of her mind. All of them sound surprised to see her. The voice of her ex-girlfriend, now best friends is the clearest. 

"Charlie!? You're back? Is everything ok, you didn't tell me your be coming back today."

"I'm ok Vaggie, but there is some matters to talk about. Is Alastor here?"

Her hotelier slips out the shadows. "Right here my dear! I shall say this is a bit of a surprise!" His cheerful, static-tinged voice and constant grin another comfort to her about being back where she belongs.

Charlie takes a breath before speaking again. "Ok, good. I need to talk to both of you, soooooo... I call a meeting to my room I guess? Since I need to unpack too..."

 after hearing confirmation from both of them, she turns and starts walking up the stairs, heading to her room.

"Damn! Charlie's wings look good!" She's grins at Angel's comment, pulling them in at their mention as she actually forgot she's had them out.

Alastor had been playing a game of cards(no bets!) with Husk when he felt Charlie return to the hotel. Her presence was even more powerful now, no doubt a result of the angelic powers she'd realized she had while in Heaven. Still, it was a shock. 

He informs Husker, and slips into his shadows, waiting for the time to greet her. He also reached out to his mistress hoping she knew something about the Princess's unannounced return. 'Madame, might I inquire what occurred in Heaven?'

He can feel her presence within his shadows now. Undoubtedly just her owns powers reaching out to communicate with him. 'As expected, Sera prevented any possibilities of redemption to be considered. Our little princess decided to return to continue her efforts, as well as protect the hotel. In another interesting note, Lilith made herself know to Charlotte. I must say that wasn't a smart move on her end. It caused Charlie to see through some of her mother's lies.'

'Well that is rather surprising. Lilith hasn't gone far from her beach for the past few years. And Virtue City is quite a ways from it. And I don't suppose you could've warned me of Charlotte's return?'

'Oh darling, you know I revel in chaos. Besides, you were spending time with Husker, and I didn't wish to intrude.'

~-~-~

Alastor slips back into the shadows, reappearing in Charlie's room. He'd given both the princess and fallen exorcist time to get there before stepping out of them. 

"Ok! So, I know this may be the wrong way to start off, but I think I should say that this hotel is the main target for next extermination."

" What!? How could Adam do that!? I thought you two were getting along! " Vaggie exclaims in outrage.

The princess shakes her head. "It wasn't Adam. Sera was the one who made that decision. I only know cause Adam sent me a note before I left warning me. But, I'm not going to abandoned hotel or let it be destroyed. Is there any way we can defend it instead?"

Hm, well... He does happen to know those angels can be killed. Perhaps? "Well, I might happen know those birds aren't quite as indestructible as they think they are."

"What!? How Alastor? What do you mean?" Charlie questions.

His grin sharpens. "I suppose I could tell you. But you see, if it came out how I found this out I might be in trouble with my fellow Overlords. Perhaps a deal for my troubles?" He can hear faint chuckling in his mind from his mistress listening. 'It won't work little fawn. Although I do applaud, you are a deal maker first aren't you?'

Vaggie looks about five seconds away from attacking him for even suggesting a deal, but surprisingly enough, Charlie speaks firm and confident, shutting any possibilities of a deal down.

The blonde haired girl grins and laughs a little. "Never gonna happen Al. While I normally wouldn't do this, 'fraid I'm gonna have to pull rank on you. As Princess of Hell and heir to the throne, I very politely command you to tell me what you know."

Hm, well that was surprising. Even Vaggie seems a little shocked. It seems Charlotte grew more confident in Heaven. "Hm, fair enough. I must say, I do like your newfound confidence my dear. It's much more befitting of a princess."

"Thanks Al, but c'mon, stop skirting around it. Spill what you know."

"Oh very well, as you wish your highness. It came to my awareness at the last Overlord meeting that Miss Carmine killed an exorcist last extermination. "

"Wait what!? But how? I didn't even know angels could be hurt." 

"With all due respect Vagatha, you are missing an eye aren't you?"

Charlie recovers from her own shock, and chides him. "Alastor, be nice."

"Look gilipollas I just assumed I'd already fallen ok? That didn't answer my question either. "

He lets out a sigh. "I do not know how, all I know is that Carrmilla did the deed. The meeting was quite an explosive one. That youngest Vee quite literally tossed the decapitated angel head into the table.",

"Ok, ok..." Charlie looks to be in thought for a moment. " Ok! SOo, we need to see Carmilla to know how she did it, and... If we're fighting back we'll also need numbers... I don't think sinners would follow me though... "

Well, most sinners wouldn't for sure. But there is once place where the princess's penchant for song might actually be helpful. "I might be able to help with that part my dear. And before you ask, no I'm not lending you any more of my souls. I wouldn't dare risk losing any, it would be bad business!"

The princess brightens when Alastor says he'll help her. "Thank you Al! Ok, I think I know what we need to do! Vaggie, if you can see Carmilla Carmine, I can go with Al. And then we just need to tell the others everything too." Charlie smiles warmly at the other two. "I know we can do this, we'll defend ourselves this time!" 

Perhaps Charlie is right, perhaps not. But this will certainly be entertaining no matter what.

Chapter Text

 Dad was coming to visit today! Charlie was happy but also a little nervous. He's always been supportive of her in Heaven, but would he be mad? She couldn't stop the exterminations, and she might've actually made it worse. Plus she'll have to tell him about mom. Ok, no it'll be fine. Thanks to Alastor, she now has the cannibals helping her. And sure maybe she was a little off-put by the fact they would eat the angels when it was all over, but they were her people and she wouldn't judge. Vaggie managed to convince Carmilla to supply weapons too! Although Charlie knew she could've ordered it as princess of she had to, it was way better she didn't. Less resentment and more showing of trust.

 Anways! It has been a while since she's seen dad. And while they started to mend their relationship a little, it wasn't a lot. And it didn't make up for his almost complete absence in her childhood. And total disappearance since mom left. Speaking of mom... her world still felt shattered. Rosie had at least helped her work through some it, thankfully. Really, Rosie was pretty smart. She actually helped her with processing a lot of what had happened in the past few months.

 'words are cheap, but actions speak loud.' 

 Words were cheap. Vaggie has used words while lying to her for years. But Charlie knew the fallen angel would always stand by her side, her actions had proven that. Just as Emily had long since earned Charlie's trust through her actions. And just as mom had always used words while singing to Charlie all those year, she could see Lilith's actions spoke louder. But she didn't know how dad would take all this. Did he even know mom has left Hell? Or if he did, she was sure he'd assumed she was Earth.

 Oh well, she can't dwell on this now. Deep breaths Charlie. She looks around and grins, seeing everyone had made sure the hotel looked perfect. There's a knock at the door, and she moves quickly towards it. As soon as she opens the door, her dad wraps her into a suffocating hug.

 "Charlie!" Her dad actually seems really happy right now. "How are you sweetie?"

 She smiles at her dad. "I'm doing pretty good. I actually have a lot I want to tell you, but first I wanna introduce you to my staff and guests!" 

 Charlie leads the king further into the hotel, where Vaggie and the others are waiting. She noticed Alastor seems to be absent at that moment. Or well, as least hidden in his shadows. "Ok dad! This is my best friend, Vaggie!"

 "Uh, it's great to meet you Maggie!" He shakes her hand and a strange look appears on his face. " Um... Oh... You're uh... "

 Charlie lets out a small laugh. "Don't worry dad, everyone knows Vaggie's is a fallen exorcist."

 "Oh! Aheh, ok, that's um... Uh, sorry about that then uh... Maggie." Ok, wow. Charlie makes a note to get dad out of the palace more. He is way to awkward around others. 

 Vaggie seems a little nervous, but Charlie guess that's understandable. She is technically meeting the King of Hell for the first time. "It's Vaggie sir. With a 'V'. But um... It's fine sir."

 Her dad laughs a little nervously but he's at least making an effort, so Charlie can't really complain. "Again, sorry, not always good with new names. But please, if you want you can just call me Lucifer. You don't have to call me sir. Not really a fan of the whole royal titles or anything anyways."

 Vaggie nods in affirmation. Charlie realizes that's another thing she's more like her dad about. Lilith always expected anyone outside the Morningstar family/friends to address her properly and as Queen. Dad never really cared about it, aside from the very few times it was required at meetings or royal functions. 

 Charlie introduces the rest of friends. (Sans Alastor; where was he' actually?) This is our first guest, Angel Dust! 

 "Heya, short king"

 "Sir Pentious here is our second guest, and if course his egg bois!"

 "Ah, it's truly an honour, your majessssty. "Pentious bows and the egg bois salute.

 "Husk is our bartender!"

 "Hi." He lifts up his hand in a wave.

 "And then there's Niffty, our houskeeper!"

 The bug-like sinner runs up to Charlie's dad, climbing up his suit a little. That's totally not creepy. Nope! "The ultimate bad boy" Niffty giggles. "Hehe, I clean." 

 Lucifer moves the small maid off him awkwardly, clearly creeped out. He looks around and gives Charlie a caring smile. "Everything looks great, and it's nice to meet your friends Char-Char!" He pauses, catching sight of the bar, which is very much 'eldritch-y.' He gaps in... disgust? Honestly Charlie's not sure exactly. "Oh! What in the un-holy Hell is that!?" 

 Alastor chooses that moment to appear, slipping out of the shadows and popping up right behind Lucifer. He'd already made his opinion on bad fathers clear to Charlie, so she's curious to see how he'll act towards her dad. And how her dad will react to Alastor. Al's biggest Sin is definitely Pride. Which means they'll either get along famously, or horribly. "That's some of new additions we added! Adds a bit of color, don't you think?" He grins at her dad, shaking his apple cane. "Alastor, pleasure to be meeting you, quite a pleasure. Although I just say you are much shorter in real life." He makes a squishing motion with his thumb and pointed finger. "I have to assume a stool was used for all the family portraits." Aaannnddd, there's the shit-eating grin. Charlie would say low-blow, if he wasn't completely right about the stool. 

 Her dad narrows his eyes. "Who- who is this? The bellhop?" 

 Alastor gasps in offense. "Ha! No! I am the host of this fine establishment! You might have also heard of me from my radio broadcasts!"

 "Hmmm... Nope! Guess that's why Charlie named it the Hazbin Hotel." Oh, dad was so wrong about that one. She should probably intervene soon...

 "Haha! That was actually my idea."

 "Oh yeah? Well it's not very clever!" 

 "Haha! Fuck you." Alastor leaned down to say it directly to her dad's face. Definitely time to intervene, because holy shit– ALASTOR JUST SWORE? 

 Stepping between the two, Charlie speaks up, "Okay! Alastor, dad, stop it. Dad, I know Alastor can be..." What's a nice word to use? Anger-inducing? No... C'mon, NICE WORD! Oh! "A little infuriating when you're first getting to know him, but he is a valued staff member and has been a huge help in the past few months." 

 She turns to Alastor. "And Al, please try to be... less provocative to my dad. I seriously don't need my dad and facilities manager fighting right now. For me, please?" Ok, so maybe Charlie pulled out the puppy eyes on Alastor. If it worked, she didn't really care though. 

 Alastor sighs, "Very well my dear, I shall try."

 Her dad was definitely glaring at Alastor before she turned to him. This'll take a bit more effort to have them getting along. "Alright Char-char, for you." 

 Charlie smiles brightly at her dad. Running a quick checklist through her head, she decides to show him around the hotel. That'll also probably be a good time to talk to him about mom... Yeah, ok! 

 Deciding what to do next she speaks cheerfully, "Ok, so I was thinking since this is your first time at the hotel and since you've met eveeyone, I figured a could give you a tour?"

 Her dad seems to light up at the suggestion. "Yeah, of course! I'd love to see everything!" 

 ~-~-~

The tour was going pretty well. Her dad did seem to be really listening, and while Charlie could tell he wasn't always sure what to say, he did seem to be supportive. While she rambled about the new wallpaper, refinished floors, and all the progress Pentious and Angel had made, she was also looking for a good way to tell dad about mom. She spotted the balcony that Alastor usually sat out on in the mornings. Seeing it as a perfect place to talk, she guided her dad there.

 "So, what do you think dad?"

 Dad weighed his thoughts a moment before answering. " I... I truly think everything is amazing sweetheart. I'll admit I wasn't the most open to all this the previous times you've told me about your ideas. And I still don't have much faith in sinners– and heaven– for the most part. But I believe in you." He smiles lovingly at her. "I know the extermination is coming up soon. And if you need a safe place for your friends to stay, the palace is open... even to your bellhop."

 She can feel her eyes get wet. She never quite realized how much her dad really cared for her. She started to realize it in Heaven, but it hasn't really hit her until this moment. He loved her; he believed in her.

 "Dad..." She hugs him tightly. "Thank you. I have a plan for all that though.. Um... Speaking of heaven, I have something to tell you. It's uh... it's about mom.."

 The king takes a sharp breath and glances down at his wedding band before nodding. "Ok... What is it?" 

 "Well..."

 That short king was very annoying. How dare he call Alastor a 'bellhop'!? To be absent from his position as king and from his own child's life was despicable. Although, at least he did seem to care for Charlotte. Certainly a step up from Alastor's own poor excuse of a father. 

 Another thing Alastor supposes he can credit Lucifer for; he handled Charlie telling him about Lilth well. (Yes, of course Alastor sent his shadow to spy on the father and daughter.) Truthfully, he had expected Lucifer to take it badly or not believe Charlie. He seemed to accept it quite well, although saddened by this information. 

 'Although,' Alastor muses, 'I suppose 7 years without a trace would diminish one's reverence or love for someone.'

 Faint feminine sighing echoes out. Alastor smiles faintly, eyes moving towards the shadows of his bayou where he could feel his mistress's presence gathering. She wouldn't completely shift realms to avoid cutting off her ability to observe heaven, but enough of her magic would move for the moment so she could communicate. 

 The shadows pool together, slowly taking a female shape. Long strands flow out from shape, reflecting his mistress's own hair. Her voice rings out, undoubtedly only him being able to hear it knowing her value of privacy. "There were issues long before Lilith's... Shall we say abandonment." She chuckles a little, the shadow grinning at the first woman's expense. "That was just the icing on the cake. Honestly, if she wasn't so self-involved, she would've realized that little stunt will only hinder her more."

 Alastor huffs out a small laugh. "Yes well, I shall take that as a victory. If she had Lucifer still heavily wrapped around her finger..."

 "Then it would be much harder to stop her plans, yes. But we needn't worry! Charlie is steadily seeing through her facade– I must applaud that Rosie of yours for some of that."

"Rosie is quite wonderful." A smile grows on Alastor's face. "I must ask you my lady, do you have any specific instructions for the coming Extermination?"

 "That is mainly up to you Alastor. I told you nearly a century ago that I would never force you into harm's way, and I shall stand by that. Stay and fight or leave if you wish. I won't fault you and I doubt the princess will either." 

 He considers his choice for several moments, before coming to a decision. "Heh, I have become rather fond of this ragtag group. I believe I'll stay."

 The shadow smiles faintly. "Very well, just watch yourself. Souls such as intriguing as yours are so rare to find." That darkness slowly melts into its normal shapelessness.

Alastor sighs and walks out of his room, headed toward the bar where he was sure to find Husker. Fond of this group indeed. And if all went well, he could make good on his promise that Rosie's cannibals would be able to eat their fill.

Chapter Text

Emily hummed happily as she kept up her digging. She'd been working hard, making her plans. Less than two weeks until Extermination, and she needed to be sure everything was perfect. She and Charlie had spoken on this. It was dangerous for Emily, it was even possible she'd end up falling for it. What she was planning... it was rebellion— not against the Heavenly Father or the Archangels, but against Sera; against the corruption of the Holy Council. 

But truly? Emily was surprisingly ok if she did fall. Perhaps it was knowing Charlie would always be there to catch her. Perhaps it was the righteous fury constantly burning right beneath her skin now. Perhaps it was her powerful conviction to fight for the good and right. If falling was the price for exposing the corruption, so be it. 

She doubted that would be her fate, it was just a worst-case scenario. Yes, she was rebelling, but against her sister. And she was exposing something she was pretty sure the Archangels knew nothing about. Still, Heaven wasn't exactly known for its open-mindedness. It had a lot of rules, and she was pretty sure exposing Holy Council secrets and very possibly starting uprisings amongst winners broke several of them. 

It didn't matter though. Emily knew what was right, and she would stand by that. She was the Angel of Joy, and that was for every human soul, not just those in Heaven. Souls in Hell would always suffer, that was something Emily knew she would never be able to truly prevent. She knew she could still make life better for some sinners. If she could expose the exterminations, then she might at least start the path to change. Redemption was possible, Emily was sure of that. She believed in Charlie and in a soul's ability to change.

So she dug into classified files. Being careful to stay within what she should be allowed to see anyway, with her rank as a Seraphim. Obviously looking into Archangel ranking files would be bad, and with her already treading a thin line, she wouldn't dare try. Besides, she doubted there'd be anything in them concerning what she was looking for. 

Sera had kept most of everything on the Exterminations hidden well, with every file about it having the mark signaling only Seraphims or higher were allowed to view the info inside. Lucky for Emily, and unluckily for Sera, Emily could read them. What she was having the most trouble finding was things on Lilith. Specifically why and how she was in Heaven. 

Wait... Jackpot! Well, still nothing on Lilith, buuuut... 

Emily grins as she continues to unroll the scroll she found. It was a copy of the contract between Heaven and Hell that allowed the Exterminations to happen. This would be important to Charlie too, as somehow— even Emily didn't understand how someone did this— Lucifer had lost his copy of it. Or as Charlie had said with a nervous laugh, "It's probably somewhere in dad's office but um... there's a lot of ducks in there now so it'll take him a while to find it." 

This solved that! Quickly using her magic to make a copy of the scroll, she texts Charlie. 

Emmy: Found a copy of the agreement Char! Sending one I made of it to you now!

Char: OMG! THAT IS SO AMAZING!!

Char: Thank you, this helps SO much!

After making sure the copy she sent got to her girlfriend ok, she looks closer at the one she found. Certain parts of the wording caught her eye. 

"...agrees to allow Heaven's soldiers to control Hell's population of Sinners and not interfere, so long as no hellborn is killed at the hands of a not-fallen Angel of any rank. " 

" Lucifer Morningstar, Lilith Morningstar, and the beings known as the Seven Deadly Sins cannot interfere with a population control event, unless agreement is otherwise broken. Interfering without a broken or re-negotiated agreement will result in severe consequences."

Noticeably this didn't mention Charlie or any future royalty or heirs at all. Which was strange considering how powerful Emily was sure Charlie really was. Unless... 

Emily looks at the date of the agreement, understanding why Charlie isn't even mentioned. This was made over 250 years ago, making it about a decade or so before Charlie had been born. Which was great, since that worked in their favor. This definitely was a loophole for Charlie to slip through; something that made sure the princess could defend her property and friends in Extermination Day without "severe consequences".

Still, Emily sighs. Whatever was up with Lilith being in Heaven, Sera had either destroyed all records of it, never kept any, or held them in her office. Will of which, did not help Emily. And there was no one she could go to about this without showing her hand except... Adam! Maybe he knew something. He held a pretty high status as first man and was involved in the exterminations. If nothing else it was worth a shot.

Jesus fucking Christ that little Seraphim could sneak up on you! One minute Adam's flipping through the CDs on the shelves of his favorite music store with Lute, and the next he's getting bombarded with cheerful determination. And the girl's not leaving him alone either. Dammit. Guess he's gonna have to indulge her then.

"Alright, alright. Jeez. Look, if you're gonna ask me a crap to of questions about stuff, at least don't do it in here, kay? I get you wanna help out your little princess girlfriend, but here ain't the place for this. Much as it rocks."

 The seraphim looks around before nodding quickly. "Right, right, right. Sorry, just you're the only person I could think of who might help so I guess I got a little eager. Um... Where do you want to talk then?"

 Adam groans and glances at Lute for a moment. "Ugh, I would preferable not deal with this anywhere nor at anytime. I just do my job, got'cha? But I guess might as well get this shit over with, s'long as your cool with it Lute?"

 His lieutenant salutes, "Of course sir!" 

 With nothing (unfortunately) to delay this questioning session with Charlie 2.0, Adam opens a portal back to his apartment. He sees Emily sit down with Lute as he goes to his fridge. Grabbing a beer from it, he all-but throws himself into his couch.

 "Sir," Lute sighs. " I've already said you'll wear out the couch if you keep tossing yourself on it. "

 "So?" He shoots back, taking a swig of his drink. "I'll just get a new one. 'sides, if it can't take a little weight on it, it's crappy to begin with."

 Emily clears her throat nervously. "Um... Can I...?"

 "Huh? Oh yeah, go ahead. Ask whatever you wanted to ask me, girl."

 She smiles brightly having gotten her go-ahead. "Ok! So um, I guess I actually never brought this up but the day Charlie went back uh... We ran into her mom. Or more like, Lilith came to see Char. And I know she definitely shouldn't be up here but I can't find anything on why she is, so I was hoping you could maybe help? Like, if you knew anything about why or how Lilith is in Heaven?"

 Ah shit balls. It had to be about one of his ex-wives. The one he hated too. (Despite what most might think, he and Eve still got along pretty well. They just went their separate ways is all.) And also the one he technically–as–far–as–Sera's–officially–concerned–doesn't–know–anything–about.

Eh, you know what? Screw it. Screw that cheating bitch. If she already showed herself to the princess, what he knew about her not-so-legal vacation in Heaven was fair game. 

 "Alright, look babe. I can't tell you specifics cause I don't know 'em, but I can definitely tell you that little bitch has some kinda deal or arrangement with Sera. Lilith's been getting a tan on the beaches for  the past like, seven years or something. Don't know any more than that. Ain't like I care what the whore does anymore anyways. She can fuck off into the void for all I care."

 The seraphim mutters "I knew it," before getting up. She sighs before smiling graciously at him. "Alright, well thanks. At least I know there's probably something written somewhere."

 "Yeah, no problem. If you wanna find it I'd suggest doing a little B&E into big sis's office, but you never heard it from me. "

 "Don't worry, I'm not gonna get you in trouble. I don't wanna break into Sera's office though, so I'm gonna have to find some other way..." She shakes her head and flutters up to leave, but turns back at the last second. "Oh! One last thing um... Is the hotel still in danger?"

 Oooh... Damn. Yes it very much is. Especially with how it's looking like he might not even be the one leading his girls this time. Which of course, is absolute bullshit. He's the Adam. And no one can do a better job at exterminating than him. But what Sera wants is what Sera wants. If she wants to get her pristine hands dirty, then she can get her pristine hands dirty. "Yep, sorry babe. Your sis has made that pretty clear, and even I ain't stupid enough to go against the High Seraphim." 

 Lute smirks, "I beg to differ on that."

 He looks sharply at her and grins. "What was that danger tits? You saying I'm not brilliant?" 

 "Oh, you can be quite dense at times sir. That's why you need me so much."

 Emily giggles at their banter before thanking him again. "Thanks a ton Adam! Have a great day!" She flies out the door, leaving him alone with Lute. He groans and tilts his head back.

 "So, how badly do you think this is gonna go Lute? I'm not blind, I know what that little Seraphim is planning. And I got a lot of faith in the princess, but I'm not sure she's quite ready for what's coming if Sera really does take command on Extermination day. And then there's my cheating ex-wife who I seriously don't trust. "

Lute sighs. "I honestly don't know Adam. I've never had issues killing sinners before, but I don't like targeting the princess's hotel. It doesn't feel right. I understand keeping the order between the two realms and keeping Hell's population in check. But this feels different. And... " Lute looks down and keeps her eyes trained firmly on her lap. "I know I messed up with Vaggie. I want to apologize for what I did, not fight her again."

in a rare moment of non-assholery, Adam sets his beer down and moved over to where Lute is sitting. He puts his arms around her, enveloping her in a bear hug. "Hey, I never was that harsh on you for it. Shit happens. 'sides, she scored the fuckin' princess as both a lover and a best friend. I have no clue if Vagasaurus forgives you, but I'd say she's doing fine. And I have a feeling you might find yourself fighting with her, not against her on Extermination Day."

Pulling out of the hug, she looks questioningly at him. "What do you mean sir? I'd never betray Heaven or you, I swear on my honor to that."

"Not saying you would Lute. All I'm saying is that I have a sinking feeling Sera's planning something big that she isn't telling me about. And if I'm right, it isn't anything good." He sighs. "Just follow your heart and do what you feel is right, kay? "

Lute nods, understanding Adam's silent permission to help the princess if things go badly. "Alright sir."

The first woman saunters into Sera's office. Lilith often acted like she owned the place, something that irritated Sera to no end. However she dealt with it, knowing she needed to work with Lilith and not antagonize her. Much as Sera loathed to admit it, it was necessary to keep Hell under control. 

Lilith smirks. "Well Sera, it's almost time." The first woman laughs; a rather haunting sound to be honest. "Almost time to take what's rightfully mine from my pathetic husband and show my equally worthless daughter what being royalty really means."

"Don't forget what we're working to accomplish." Sera warns.

"Oh don't you worry, I haven't." The first woman sits on the edge of Sera's desk, back towards the high-ranking angel, and turns her head to face the Seraphim. Her long sweeping hair falling across the wood. "However, I am not going to miss this opportunity to teach little Charlotte a much-needed lesson. It seems she's taken a lot after her father. Sad really. It wouldn'tve even been an issue has she just stayed in Heaven. But no, of course she just has to save her people." Lilith rolls her eyes. " Her 'people' have forgotten who really rules the kingdom they live in. But then again, I suppose they'll be getting a reminder very soon, won't they? "

Sera looks sternly at Lilith, once again annoyed at how the woman acted. If she didn't need her cooperation, Sera would have thrown Lilith out of Heaven many years ago. "Remember we are only subduing the sinners of Hell and stamping down another rebellion."

 Lilith looks slyly at Sera. "Ah yes of course. Just don't forget you need me to rule over Hell. I'd tread carefully Sera. You are speaking to the Queen of Hell. If you got on my bad side, I could decide to not cooperate after this is over. "

Sera narrows her eyes. "You underestimate my power and think too highly of yourself Lilith. I am the eldest Seraphim. You are strong, but first woman and demoness or not, you are merely a human soul. It is beneficial to both of us if we work together though, so let's just stick to put plan."

 Lilith laughs faintly. "Yes of course. And then I'll take back my rightful throne and you'll keep your order. I wouldn't have it any other way."

Chapter Text

 This was the last night. A few hours until Extermination Day. Charlie knows full well she might not win this. Yes, thanks to Alastor and Rosie, she has the Cannibals helping. Yes, Vaggie convinced Carmilla Carmine to supply them with angelic steel. (Which, was it just Charlie, or was Carmilla being kinda motherly to Vaggie???) Yes, they had a plan. Yes, they'd ALL been training for the past month. But there was a few important factors she had to take into account. First was she didn't know whether this was gonna be a normal exorcist army this time or not. If it was Adam leading, they would be fine. Probably. But if Sera came? Then Charlie wasn't sure that they could win. And then there was mom. 

 It stung worse than anything that Lilith, the mother Charlie had idolized for so long, had been living it up in Heaven for years without any contact. And even when Charlie has been in the same realm, she waited until Charlie was gonna leave to see her??? It didn't vibe with the caring mom Charlie had always seen her as. But she realized there was a lot of things about Lilith she hadn't known. Or really thought about. Like the fact it has been mom who always kept her away from dad. It was mom who'd further broken the bond between Charlie and her dad.

 When she was little, Charlie remembered sneaking into her dad's workshop, and dad would always light up when he saw her, only for mom to come in later and take her away. And as much as it hurt now, Charlie couldn't deny that her mother, whom she still loved so much, probably wasn't a good person. Based on what Emily has been able to find out, Lilith has some deal with Sera, and she doubted it was anything good.

 Still, despite all the things that could go wrong, Charlie won't let the bad thoughts take over. Alastor had lent her his cane to make a small speech to everyone, and she gonna make sure it was encouraging. Tapping the microphone, she take a deep breath and puts on a bright smile. What had Alastor once said? A smile encourages your friends? Well that was something she definitely wanted to do!

 "Hey everyone, I just want to thank you all for helping to take a stand tomorrow. I know none of you had to, especially those of you aren't staying here," she glances at Cherri, "Which is why this means so much to me. I believe in all of you, and I believe in us. I know we'll win tomorrow!"

 "Yeah we will, Charlie!" Vaggie calls out reassuringly, making her smile.

 "But," she continues, "Just in case we don't, I want all of you to know that getting to know each and every one of you has been the biggest honour of my life. And whatever Redemption really means, whether you want it or not, I know there's good in all of you. I– I guess what I really wanna say is that I love you all so much! So just... Just live tonight however you want, because—"

 "WE'RE ALL GONNA DIE!" Niffty calls, cackling maniacally before running off. 

 Why did that sort-of make her smile? Oh well, probably just her getting used to Niffty's uniqueness.

 Vaggie starts clapping, "alright, let's try not to do that! Love not dying... Drinks?"

 ~-~-~-~-~-~

 Charlie watches her friends have fun at the bar, celebrating tonight. A feeling of warmth and happiness flows within her as she sips from her own cocktail. This is why she's fighting so hard. So her friends, her people, and everyone she does and ever will care about has a chance. A chance to find heaven, whether that be still down here or up where Emily is. A chance to live, to do more than just survive. 

 She smiles as Angel and Vaggie share a soft kiss and Cherri cheers them on. From what Vaggie said, it sounded like they hadn't gotten along at first, but Cherri definitely supported Vaggie and Angel now. Glancing up towards the balcony on the second floor that overlooks the main area, she sees Alastor and Niffty. Al looks truly happy, something Charlie doesn't see often– or at the very least can't tell. The little maid puts a string of bugs—ew— on Alastor's head, but it still looks a little endearing.

 Content that everyone is happy, Charlie digs out her phone and slips down one of the empty hallways. Contemplating for a moment, she decides to call Emily. She could call her dad, but it would be too awkward. Besides, she really wanted to hear Emily's voice. Pressing dial over Emily's cheerful— and gorgeous— face, she holds her cell up to her ear and leans back against the wall.

 "Helllooooo, my sweet, brave, kind, and amazing beau; what words of love do I need to inspire you with today?"

  A small breath of laughter escaping, Charlie answers, adoration strong in her voice. "I love you too Emily." Sighing a little bit, she gets more serious. "Hey, you really think I can do this? We can do this? Stand against Heaven; expose the corruption? I mean, really do it?"

 The confidence echoes strongly in the Seraphim's voice. "Yeah, I do Char. First off, you're the strongest, most passionate woman I have ever met, and I know you can do this. Secondly, I'm not the only one; Your dad, Vaggie, all your other friends, heck I think even Adam, in his own way, believes in you. And no matter what, I'll be here for you. Same as I know you'll be here for me."

 "I know, I know, it's just... You told me yourself that Sera's probably leading the army this time, and dad won't be able to do anything unless— Satan forbid— a hellborn dies. And we still have no idea what mom is even doing or wants and—"

 "Charlotte," Emily states firmly. "Stop. Everything will be fine. You've worked out the plan several times already. And trust me, you're stronger than you think. I know you've been training with your dad, so your angelic powers have to be way stronger now. They won't know what hit them!"

 Feeling better already, Charlie smiles. "Yeah, you're right Em. I can do this. Because I won't let Sera win." Determination makes her eyes glow fiercly, and Emily cheers on the other end of the call. 

 "Exactly Char!"

 Vaggie walks next to Angel, fingers intertwined with one of his lower sets. When they reach his door, she reaches up to grab his hair pulling his face gently down to her level. Softly, their lips connect for several moments before she pulls away slowly. 

 "I'll be right back, I just need to grab some things from my room so I can have a few extra moments to stay with you in the morning, kay?"

 Angel grins, his gold tooth shining a little from the light in the hall. "Kay Vags, me an' Fat Nuggets will be waitin' for ya ta' cuddle then."

 Smiling, Vaggie turns and walks steadily towards her room, picking up into a soft run when she turns the corner. She needs her fighting clothes for tomorrow and a tighter hair bow to keep her long locks out of the way. Despite Carmilla's training, she still wasn't used to fighting with her hair long, and it kept getting the way. The compromise so she didn't have to cut it again was keeping it pulled back. 

 She stops jogging when she sees she Charlie at her door looking at some of the photos Angel has finally convinced Vaggie to pin on it. She's a little surprised to see her best friend at this time; it was getting a little late. Still Vaggie just assumes Charlie had wanted to say good night. She freezes when she sees Charlie's cheeks glistening with fresh tears.

 "Charlie?" she calls out softly.

 The princess jolts, looking up quickly. Using her hands to wipe away the tears, she apologizes, "I'm sorry I just wanted to say good night and I just... I don't know. I talked to Emily, and I felt so confident but then I saw all these photos and it just hit me. I could lose you all tomorrow, and I didn't want to admit it earlier, but I'm scared. Emily called me brave, but how can I be if I'm this terrified?"

 Vaggie shakes her head, "Oh Charlie," she says. Slowly she starts walking towards the nephilim she once called a lover, singing softly. "You've, already done so much. So many lives you've changed, so many souls you've touched"

 Grabbing Charlie's hands, Vaggie looks straight into her eyes, hoping to express how grateful she was to her. "And in the end, you've brought us all this way. You lifted me up on my darkest day. You showed that I could change."

 Taking a deep breath, Vaggie smiles as she continues. "And though we may not be lovers anymore, you continue to guide me, the morning star that will always shine above. So in the end, there's something I just have to say."

 Charlie looks shocked, clearly having not known how much she's impacted Vaggie's life. "More than anything, more than anything, you need to know how grateful I am more than anything."

 Pulling her friend into a tight hug, she finishes her last line. "Thanks for everything." 

 "Vaggie," Charlie says almost breathlessly. And even though the fallen angels can't see her face, she instinctively knows there's a beaming smile on it. "Thank you." the princess whispers. "I needed that."

 "What else are friends for?"

As Charlie watches the golden portal to Heaven open, black and white clad exorcists spilling out, she grips her trident tighter, the anxiety melting into confidence. Emily and Vaggie were right, she could do this. It didn't matter if she was scared, all that mattered was her friends and why she was fighting. and even as she sees the six grey wings of the eldest Seraphim, Charlie didn't let the fear overtake her. 

She'd sung it with uncertainty only a month ago, but now she knew it was true; She was ready to step into her throne. Ready to defend her home and take a stand. This was her destiny, and nothing and no one would hold her back anymore. For the first time in her life, she truly felt ready for this, with friends by her side.

And so, with her black dress moving in the breeze and her crown proudly resting on her head, she roars with all the rage and power of a 200 year old princess defending the lives of her people:

 "Let's fuck them up!"

Chapter Text

 "For you souls!" Charlie hears Vaggie call as she runs forward with her spear to fight some of her once-sisters-in-arms. Angelic steel-tipped trident in one hand, shield in the other, Charlie surveys the battle field and oncoming army. While she can see Sera, Adam and Lute are curiously... hanging back? She spots them at the very back of the army, hovering where the portal closed.

 Eldritch-voodoo magic seeps up from the ground around them, creating a dome of protective magic around the hotel. Angel-shielding sigils float around the inky magic, along with some runes Charlie doesn't really recognize. She assumes they are some sort of Voodoo symbol, since some look vaguely familiar of the ones that appear around Alastor sometimes. With Sera leading the army this time, the shield likely won't hold for long— even the strongest sigil is only so good when you're weighing sinner magic against that of a Seraphim. Still, it's working for now, keeping half of the army trapped with Hell's defending denizens, and the other half at the mercy of Alastor's angelic-arms-weilding shadow tentacles.

 Charlie lifts her shield, blocking an exorcists blow and immediately pushes her trident forward, piercing the soldier's armour. She apologizes in her head, not knowing if this was one she had met while in Heaven or not. She didn't like having to kill, but this was war. A memory of a quote from one human movie Vaggie had showed her pops in her head. Something about casualties and peacocks? Oh well, didn't matter! 

In the background, Angel's Tommy guns fire rapidly, and the Cannibals fight viciously against the invading army. Pentious commands his little egg bois to fire the canons, creating a little symphony of explosions when combined with Cherri's arsenal of choice. Out of the corner of her eye, Charlie catches Niffty furiously stabbing the soldiers that lay fallen on the ground— to the side of the spine too. And no, she is not going to question how or why the little maid knows anatomy. 

 Casting a spell, the princess sends fireworks barreling towards the angels that surrounded Vaggie, and her best friend calls her thanks before turning her attention back towards the fight. Charlie looks up just in time to see a beam of holy light shoot towards the shield, shattering it like a rock through a stained glass window. Growling  Charlie calls for her dragon guards in anticipation for the likely confrontation with Sera.

 Despite her attention on the six-winged elder, she catches Lute dart down into battle. Except she thrusts her blade in the path of another exorcists' preventing it from carving through a cannibal's chest. That's... different, but Charlie focuses back on the bigger threat. She gasps as she spots Pentious's warship appear behind the Seraphim. She watches as its now angelicly upgraded raygun charges up. The seconds tick away, each one seeming to drag on for hours. With bated breath, she hopes; could this really be over so soon, so easily? Not that Charlie necessarily wished the Seraphim dead— she was Emily's sister— but this would end it all at least. 

 An exorcist yells out, "SERAPHIM! BEHIND YOU!" Sera turns quickly, and in an instant a beam of holy light flashes from her left hand, a long saber in her right. The warship disapears, almost as if it had never existed to begin with. 

 "NO!" The Princess screams out in rage and anguish. Red hot tears prickle as she grieves the loss of her friend. Vaggie hugs her, whispering consolations. 

 Angel mutters, "Ya did good buddy," and Cherri falls to her knees in despair. 

 A deep sense of burning fury rises up in Charlie. How dare Sera do this? Invade Charlie's home and murder her friends? Infernal magic thrums underneath the princesses's skin and hellfire erupts around her dragon guard and herself. The power of Hell itself lifts Charlie up, responding to her call. 

 Bright red horns emerge from her skull, curving back slightly and blackening at the tips. Once yellow sclera turning blood red and her teeth sharpening as the demonic features she usually hides make themselves known. A black, spaded tail sprouts out from underneath Charlie's dress, and she tosses her shield onto her back, hopping onto a now transformed Razzle's back. 

 Her best friend follows suit, climbing onto Dazzle. Together they fly towards the head Seraphim, weapons griped tight. Two masked soldiers move quickly though, attacking the dragon pair. A spear tears a hole in Razzle's right wing, causing the creature to falter its approach and screech in pain. Unfortunately, a damaged wing is much better than Dazzle's fate, as a sword carves its way into his stomach. 

 Both friends find themselves falling fast, but Charlie closes her eyes, as focuses on the four pink and golden-trimmed wings unfurling from her back. She stops her descent with a quick beat of her feathered appendages, and hopes that Vaggie will be ok. Without wings of her own, Vaggie wouldn't be able to catch herself. 

 Apparently Charlie flapped to forcefully, as she tumbles in the air a litle bit, but a familiar hand steadies. She looks up to find a golden mask facing her. "Careful girly, don't wanna hurt yourself before the main attraction."

 "Adam?" The princess asks in shock. "What are you—"

 "What? Shocked to see me helping sinners?" The first man shrugs. "Wasn't gonna let those bitches steal my show. Besides, Sera's taken stuff too far." He grins, twirling his guitar-axe. "Ready to take on some  haughty Seraphim ass?"

 Charlie nods firmly, face set in a determined smirk. Wielding her trident in both hands, she turns towards Sera, red eyes burning as she glares at the ancient angel.

Well then. This wasn't expected. Sure, they knew she was partly involved, but he sure hadn't actually expected her to fight. Certainly  he's much rather be in the main battle right now (with Husker) than on this roof.

 Alastor stares at the first woman who floats above near the hotel's sign. Purple magic swirls around her and her longs blonde hair moves freely in the wind, ram horns curling around the sides of her head. She wears a black dress surprising similar to Charlie's, although this one hugs the woman's bodice, showing off her curves. In no way is it practical in a fight, but Alastor supposes Lilith is more concerned with looking "beautiful" than being comfortable. 

 His ever present grin sharpens, "Liliitthh, Queen of Hell, about to be felled!" He cracks his neck with an audible snap.

 The ex-queen looks amused. "And who are you, little sinner? Shouldn't be bowing to your queen?"

"Ha! I wasn't aware queens abandon their kingdom and daughter for seven years. Although I'm not surprised you're too self absorbed to not know who I am. At least your husband had the excuse of depression." 

Lilith's eyes flare red. "How dare you, know your place sinner. You're speaking to your queen."

 'Well, she's quite easy to anger,' Alastor muses. "Allow me to introduce myself; the name's Alastor, Overlord of Radio and your daughter's hotelier! I'm about to end your miserable fucking life." Is Alastor bullshitting right now? Oh hell yes. He may have a fairly big ego— or so dear Husker says— but he's not stupid enough to think he can actually kill the Queen of Hell. Regardless on how much she actually deserved that title, she was still the first woman, and therefore would be on equal or near equal footing of Adam and his mistress. But, as that saying goes, 'fake it till you make it.' All he has to do is hold her off until either Charlie has dealt with Sera, or something causes the arrangement between Heaven and Hell to break and Lucifer can join the fight... Ok, neither of those are all that likely, but still. 

 If he continues to taunt her, he'll have an advantage as anger makes one not ax focused and controlled. Thankfully his deal gives him protection from the Queen's enchanting voice should she have the mind to use it. 

The first woman glares, speaking back in a tone tinged with irritation but still replying with a taunt of her own. "I love the hubris, but you should know better than to talk back to one of higher position to yourself!" She moves forward quickly, swinging her twin scimitars. 

 "Ah, an ah!" He wiggles his pointer finger condescendingly like he's scolding a child, using his shadows to block the blades as he jumps out the way. Purple roots sprout from the roof, clashing with Alastor's shadow tendrils. Green Voodoo symbols flicker in and out of existence as he bends and dodges Lilith's slashes. 

 "You think you're tough shit don't you? Killed all those Overlord back in the day and now you think you can challenge anyone and face no consequences? Well let me tell you something little fawn," Lilith says with a smirk. Alastor's eye twitches in annoyance at the name. "You are nothing compared to me. I am a goddess and you're just a mere peasant."

 Alastor takes advantage of Lilith being distracted by her rant to sneak a shadow around her and swings the first woman into the glowing sign proclaiming 'Hazbin Hotel.' 

 "I wouldn't call a bug-eyed betty such as you a goddess, but then again, beauty is in the eye of the beholder!" He retorts with a sneer. 

 "What did you just call me?" Lilith's eyes flare and purple roots explode around her, all headed straight for Alastor. The Overlord allows the shadows to explode from his back, slicing through the roots before the magical constructs can pierce him. 

 "Call it like I see it dear," he summons dozens of his small shadow minions to flood the queen.

 "How dare— I'll show you— insolent—" She struggles to come up with a retort as she spins around, hacking through the persistent creatures. "BASTARD!" the first woman roars, her voice thrumming with power, evaporating the minions. The force in it presses against Alastor's thin frame as he digs his cane and shadow tendrils into the roof to keep him in place. 

 Lilith glares, murder in her eyes. "It's time you learn your place," she says fiercely and firmly, rage barely contained. Her voice echoes with a force directed straight at Alastor, and he raised his cane to block it. Violet magic flashes brightly.

 "What just happened?" Alastor questions as something seems different. He looks down, and upon seeing his broken cane he curses, "fuck." While his cane isn't directly connected to his powets, it is his focus. This just made things much riskier.

 Before Alastor can change tactics, Lilith dashes forward, spinning in a graceful flip, she slashes her twin blades. While he manages to block one of the schimitars with his shadows, the other one cuts across his chest, throwing him back with a stunning force. Much to his dismay, a cry of pain forces itself from his mouth and air rushes out of him as his back thumps against the roofs' guard-wall.

 Gasping, he pushed himself up from where he previously had crumpled. Pain radiates through him and warm blood flows freely from the wound. Grabbing the broken pieces of his came he leans weakly against the wall, one hand putting pressure over the gash. He laughs weakly, voice strained. "Oh, I know my place. But you are not the woman I serve. It must have burned to be replaced Lilith. Although I must say, Eve is a better woman than you ever were and ever will be." As he speaks, shadows pool underneath him, waiting to welcome the deer sinner into its embrace. 

 Pure hatred burn in Lilith's eyes as she steps forward blades poised to strike. "How dare—" but that's all Alastor catches as slips into the shadows, making his escape. In the safety of the darkness, he exhales shakily, allowing himself to let go more than he otherwise would, knowing his mistress would ensure his soul wouldn't be extinguished.

Chapter Text

 Charlie flies with the speed and elegance she learned from Emily. She doesn't want to kill Sera, so she's aiming for non-vital areas, but she knows she can't put Sera's life before her own.  

 Sera may be a Seraphim, but she is at least almost evenly matched since she's fighting against the nephilim of an Archangel and the first woman, and one of the oldest human souls with essentially the rank of a Saint. Charlie's not sure why it surprises her, but Adam definitely knows how to fight. As she darts out of the way of Sera's lance, she yells, "Hey Adam, didn't know you could fight this well. Maybe you should've been teaching me in Heaven."

 The First Man shoots a beam of angelic energy at Sera, which she blocks with her own magic. "Yeah, well, when you just got kicked out of Eden with a pregnant wife, you gotta learn how to protect yourself, your wife, and unborn child, and get food. And how else do you think I got picked as my girls' general?"

 Sera glares at the both of them, swinging her lance in an arc that Charlie just manages to evade in time. "Enough! This is insubordination Adam! You know this is necessary."

 "Fuck 'insubordination' Sera. I fuckin' love the exterminations, they're fun as shit, but even I know attacking the princess here is taking this too far." His guitar-sword clashes with her lance, throwing him back when the older angel pushes forward.

 Charlie focuses and sends a beam of light pink (apparently that's her angelic color or something. Adam's is gold, Sera's is white, and Emily's is blue. All angels' magic is different colors apparently) light between Adam and Sera. "What about this is 'necessary'!?" She screams with controlled fury. "What gives you any right to do this? This isn't population-control and you know it Sera. What are you so afraid of? Hell uprising? Redemption?" She attacks with each guess, hellfire burning into existence around her. "No," she realizes, scorn heavy in her voice. A part of her is even shocked with the viciousness she's speaking, but she knows it's because of Pentious and all the other sinners who are fighting for their existence right now. For all the sinners who will never get a chance of redemption because of Sera's exterminations. For Vaggie falling all for sparing a life. 

  She taunts Sera, "It's because you don't want to admit you made a mistake, right? Because if I prove redemption's possible then you have to admit that you. Fucked. Up." 

 Charlie can tell she angered Sera with that, but she thinks that may be a good thing. She remembers Alastor saying something about a angry opponent being a reckless opponent. "You are naive and silly if you really think these sinners can be redeemed." Sera spits out 'sinners' like they're the worst thing in existence. The seraphim's wings flare and she swings her lance towards Charlie. The princess makes eye contact with Adam and the silent agreement is made. 

 Adam jams on the chords of his guitar-sword (Charlie really needs a better name for that thing, but she's kinda afraid to ask Adam if he has one. Knowing the first man it's probably "dickmaster" or something even worse) and the weapon glows a bit, magic building. 

 Charlie takes a deep breathe, singing as Adam plays, and the three opponents battle in the air.

 "You say that hell is all we’ve got, But I’m fighting for the chance that it’s not"

 It's a dance, but deadly one.

 "A heart full of hope, a mind full of light, I’m not giving up on us without a fight"

 She knows this won't kill Sera, but hopefully it will at least hurt her a little 

 "I’ll take these broken souls and make ‘em whole again, In a world that’s burning, I’ll be their friend"

 And if nothing else, it should empower those fighting.

 "You say I’m foolish, you say I’m naïve, But what’s a dreamer if they don’t believe?"

 Charlie's learned that her voice has power if she uses it right. Combined with angelic strings, and it could probably do a lot.

 "I see the fear, I feel the pain, But that’s the fuel for the change I’ll gain"

 Sera feared an uprising, well, Charlie's gonna give her one.

 "If Hell is forever, then Heaven must be a lie! You call it divine justice, but I refuse to comply!" 

 Charlie can feel the power and magic thrumming through the air, and Adam's weapon is glowing fully hold now.

 "I won’t let this place be destroyed tonight, I’ll stand in the fire, burn bright in the fight!"

 Adam blasts out the magic that had been building in the guitar-axe at Sera, a ray of golden glory. Strangely enough, Charlie also feels a twinging in her, but she ignored it for now.

 When the light dissipates, Sera glared at them, but laughs coldly. Here wings are slightly singed, but she otherwise seems unharmed. "I have been lenient Adam, but even you should know that no human soul could harm a Seraphim. With a flick of her wrist, Sera sends a blast of wind at the first man.

 "Woah, shit!" He yelps as the gust sends him flying away. 

 Charlie speaks, "Perhaps not a human soul. But you forget Sera, I'm a nephilim. I do want to say, I don't want to hurt you. I don't want to hurt anyone. But you've given me no choice." The Princess surged foward, hellfire burning around her in a flury. This is her fight now. 

 While her attention is on Sera, Charlie does catch a glimpse of someone who she used to look up to. But she is no longer worth the princesses's time. Not now anyways.

  Eve finally left the realm of Purgatory when she felt her charge's soul cry out in immense pain. She watches Alastor slip safely into his (and her) realm of shadows. Quickly she shifts into the shadows as well, wincing as she sees the damage. Pressing a hand into his chest, black stitches appeared into the gash, sealing the wound and purging any residual angelic energy from the weapon used. 

 Once that was done, she follows the pathway Alastor had just used, knowing damn well who had harmed him. Her soft, gentle smile sharpened into a devious and taunting smirk, her red-encased white irises catching sight of the target who would face Eve's wrath. 

 Rising up from the darkness, her long black hair flows around her, the ends tinged red and pieces of her own dark magic swirling about. A long red checkered overcoat blows behind her from the wind where she stands, black heeled boots perched on the roof's ledge. "Lilith!" She calls, tone falsely jovial, darkness already swirling about her left hand, forming into her own weapon of choice. "Long time no see! Always such a delight." Eve says 'delight' like a curse.

 The already angered blonde glowers, Lilith's fuse already having been lit, so to speak. The Queen's grip on her scimtars tightens. "Eve," she drawls, tone even, somehow. "I'm afraid there's really no need for you to be here. I'm just cleaning house; reminding the peasants whose Queen."

 She laughs playfully, "Oh Lili, you can call me Roo, if you'd like. And I'm afraid that even if it weren't my business previously, you've made it my business. You see, the Radio Demon is mine. You should understand, you never did like others playing with your toys..." Her from sharpens into pure malice and her voice is taunting, "Or your husband, for that matter." The implication of Eve and Lucifer having had sex is obviously there, although really she's just bullshitting. While she doubts Lilith was, Lucifer was a devoted husband and always faithful. He'd just been a friend. 

 "How dare you Eve. Coming into my kingdom and acting as though it's yours. Go back to Purgatory, bitch." Sickly purple roots explode around Lilith, their sharpened points all head straight for the darker haired woman.  

 Eve glanced at them, unimpressed. The darkness forming in her hand hardens, summoning the black scythe she called her own, the angelic metal blade gleaming. With a simple click of her wrist, it spins around her, slicing the roots in two. "Really? That's all you've got? I'm disappointed Lili! Let's make this a real fight sweetie. And no name-calling, it's unbecoming of a Queen, don't you agree?" Her right hand grips the brim of her large black and red hat.

 Lilith straightens, still very enraged, but she reels it in, eyes alight with anticipation. Twisting her fingers, her twin blades spin rapidly. "Perhaps your right," she says, "Let's neither hold back, and may the best woman win."

 "May the best woman win," Eve concurs, and her hand flicks and releases its grip on the hat, sending it flying towards the first woman, it's edges now sharp as a knife. It barely knicks Lilith, a slight cut, and blades immediately clash; Eve's had firmly back in place. Black and violet magic illuminate the hotel's roof, two tall figures dancing around one another in battle. Steel clanging, both seeming to be an even match. 

 A golden blur interupts the two women's fight, crashing straight into the hotel sign and sending it crashing onto the rooftop. "Aah, fuck! Give a guy a break Sera! Fuckin' hell." The golden winged Angel grumbles. "Oh, hey whore! I see you finally picked your perky ass off that beach, huh?"

 Lilith huffs a disgusted growl, but Eve laughs, eyes sparkling with amusement. "Oh hello Adam. Need a little help there?" She asks teasingly, despite the scythe still firmly gripped in her gloved fingers and pointed at Lilith. 

 Adam waves her off, his mask slightly broken from the crash, so his grin is visible on both his helmet and face. "Nah, nah, I'm good. How's it going Evie?"

 "Hmm, well I was having a little spat with you first wife, if you'd care to referee?"

  Adam laughs, "Eve, I ain't refereeing shit. But I'll help, if you'd like?" He spins his golden axe.

 "Always."

 Lilith growls, recognizing she's now likely outmatched. "Adam, I thought you if all people would understand the awfulness of sinners."

  "Yeah, so ya see Lils-Bills, I ain't saying I really care about siners, but I do like the Princess. Kinda sad ain't it? When your ex is more supportive of your daughter than you are."

 Lilith roars, and jumps, twirling both herself and her blades, course aimed straight for Adam. This ends up being her undoing, as Adam is prepared, twisting his axe just so that Lilith's schimtars are ripped from her grasp. Eve takes this moment to strike, her scythe slashing through the air and snagging the Queen of Hell's right leg, cutting straight through. 

 The first woman shrieks in pain, her voice reverberating through the entire structure, while Adam whistles, "Damn Eve."

 Adam's second wife chuckles, stalking to the handicapped Queen. "Once again, your ease to anger has led to your defeat, Lilith. Your ambition made you stretch far beyond your place, and I am putting you back in check. I think you'll find Hell is not yours to rule anymore; nay, it is Charlie's time to shine now. Nor is Heaven a welcome place to you, and I guarantee that you'll never breach my own realm."

 Lilith glowers, hands clutching the bleeding stump that used to be her leg, red flooding from the wound. "You'll pay, both of you. I have allies in high places."

 "All of which I'm aware of, and a certain young Seraphim will receive a letter disclosing the names very soon," Eve retorts.

 "Just admit it Lils, you lo— auurgh!" Adam looks down at his chest, one of Lilith's roots having poked through. Golden blood spills forth as the root tears itself out, the Queen laughing, "What was that, dear Adam?" 

 Eve rolls her eyes, waving a hand and letting darkness teleport Lilith away. Rushing over to catch Adam, who tilted sideways. "Fuck, Evie, that bitch got me good, " he gasps. 

 "Oh quit whining, you baby," her hand presses over Adam's stab wound. "You'll live, this isn't even from angelic steel." 

 With a flash, his puncture is stitched shut with the same magic Eve used to stitch Alastor's gash. "There, see? Now—" Eve is cut off by a violent roar echoing through the air.

 "Attacking my daughter will be the last mistake you'll ever make, Sera!"