Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Vox really fucked up thinking he could take on Alastor. Now he’s buried in a pile of rubble, screen smashed in and no doubt glitching like hell. He can’t seem to get any part of himself to function properly. He can’t call Velvette and Valentino for help and he can’t even zap his way out. He doesn’t sense any technology around him and even if he did, any attempt to enter one would probably lead to him accidentally exploding himself. Great.

He can hear the echoes of the Radio Demon’s laugh. His pride was shattered and that’s the only thing Vox is willing to admit to himself. If he ever gets out of this he’s going to just focus on work and nothing else…

He suddenly felt a strange sensation as a strange light consumed him. He closed his eyes in panic. Did Alastor come back to finish him off? Or is this Val and Vel’s doing, trying to save him?

All the pain from his injuries suddenly vanished and he felt like he was momentarily falling. Once his back made contact with the floor did he open his eyes.

What the fuck!?!

He was in a lavish room. Reds and golds decorated the place. It seemed to be some sort of study room. There were books, files and papers schroon about. 

What a fucking mess.

Sitting behind the desk was none other than…the Queen of Hell, Lilith!?!

Her head was down as her hands grasped her hair. She looked utterly exhausted. She looked up and he took notice of the bags under her eyes. Once she focused on him did she light up.

“It’s you! Just who I’ve been looking for!”

“M-Me!?”

“Oh yes I want to make a deal with you”

“I’m flattered…Honored! Really but I think you’ve got the wrong guy.”

“Overlord Vox. Leader of the Vees. Head Ceo of Voxtek Industries. #1 Hell tech empire with hundreds of souls under your belt. You oversee the business and finances of the other two Vees and have a monopoly on almost all media platforms together.”

“...Ok. so maybe you do have the right guy but I don’t know what you could possibly want from me to strike a deal”

Lilith got up from her desk and made her way around and towards Vox. shit she was really tall and intimidating. She loomed over Vox who was still lying down on the floor. She reached down and grabbed him by his jacket and pulled him close to her face.

“I NEED A FUCKING BREAK” she yelled in his face before dropping him down to the floor once more as she dropped her head into her hands and began to cry. Vox was confused and stunned by the whole scene.

“Wha–”

“For hundreds of years I’ve been running all seven rings of Hell. My dear Lucy has become nothing more than a depressed shut-in. He spends his days locked away making fucking ducks!” She pulled at her hair, “Day in and day out it’s meeting with the Sins, or Nobles or the Heaven embassy and with the rise of Overlords I might have to start delegating them too!”

She looked at Vox with manic eyes. He was right, she was exhausted. She looks like she hasn’t slept in days.

“You!” she pointed at him, “You are able to run such a giant organization while also maintaining control of your souls and somehow juggling different projects and yet you still have the time to stalk and do other silly things with your partners”

“Hey I–”

“Running Hell wouldn’t be too different. I know how you greedy sinners operate. I’m willing to offer you power and wealth in return…”

“You’re really serious. You want me to run Hell while you’re on vacation?”

Lilith conjured up a contract.

“I want you to fulfill my role as Queen and look after Hell while I’m gone. You will have access to my powers and my resources to get the job done”

The powers of the Queen would be his… She’s really just going to hand that over to him. Vox can’t help reaching for the contract when suddenly she pulls away.

“Now I’m not stupid. You can’t exploit these powers! They are to be used to do your job.”

“Then what the fuck am I getting out of this!”

“Protection! And access to the other rings. Use this as an opportunity to further expand your business and influence but that’s it…Do we have a deal”

Like hell he’s going to miss out on such an opportunity. He conjures a pen and signs his name.

V̛̛̝͖̼͔͔̖̪͚̜̟̹̗̺̮̫̠̝̾̆͑͗́̉̂́̒ͫ͂̀͛̕̕͡ͅi̵̴̧͓͚̙͔̤̫̻̠̳̯͓̐ͩͣ̈́̀̏͊͋̀͌͒̅͛̓͘͜͝͝n̫̞̳̖̭ͥ̇̇̓͑́ͥ̈̕͟͡͞c̉͟e͎ͤ̈͑͜_̵̟̭͙̠̲̦͎̿ͫ̀͆͛̓̇̑̍̓ͤ̐̍͛͆ͬͪ́̚̕͟͝ͅṋt̵̶̶̩̭̟̟̻̘̘͚̘̰͙̾͋̂̈́͑ͣͣ̍͆̀̔ͩ̕ M̷̴̢̯͚̟̞͉̮̪̱͕̼͈̯͎͙̠͔̣͓͓̯̗̖̙̼̗̀̃̐ͪ̒̌̍͗̚͘͡͡i̮̞͈̖̤͗ͩ͒̑̚l̶̼͒͑ͧ͒̇͒ͮ̔̈́ͩͅļ̷͓̠̦͍̣ͮ̐ͮ̾̄̌́ͪ̀̿͑̑̍̀͌̿͠͠ĕ͔͚̤̻̞ͭͪ̾̋ͫ͡_̴̨̭̩̝͇̥̰̃̅̾͛ͨ̽̂ͧͪͣ̆͌̈̒͐͒̈̒͝r̴̨̻͈͎͕̩͔͈ͨ̀͐̂̀ͧ̇̀

“Great! Here’s a list of all your duties as Queen! You also have to look after my daughter while I’m away. Now I don’t mean babysit her…just check in on her now and then…”

“Uh…are you telling them you’re leaving for a while?”

“I’ll have a talk with my daughter right after, as for my hubby…uh I’ll leave him a note. Any other concerns or tasks will be in your contract”

“Wait! I’m a sinner. How am I going to operate with the sins or nobles residing in other rings”

“Like I said, your business and influence will reach those rings. While you physically won’t be able to appear you’ll hold meetings virtually”

“And that’s it? You just want me to manage your stuff while you're away?”

“Yup” Lilith conjures up a pair of sunglasses and a sun hat, “Oh wait only Lucifer and Charlie should know about my absence. So I’ll need you to pretend to be me in those meetings”

“Wha–?”

“I know you have the technology to do it. Voice manipulation and holograms should cover it and like I said access to my powers too… I’ll call in now and then to check up on you but you won’t be able to call me…sooooo ... .just do your best and any questions you have my dear Charlie could probably answer for you. Ok toodaloo” with a snap of her fingers she vanished.

Vox was reeling from everything that just happened. He got his ass kicked by the radio demon and now he’s working for the Queen of Hell what the fuck!?!

He looked around at the mess in her study room. Guess he should start with her planner and calendar to get an idea what her day to day schedule is.

With a snap of his fingers he conjures up a fizzbot. Custom made just like the one he got for Valentino. He had also gotten one for Vel, she had named her Dolly and usually treats her as a dress up doll and personal assistant. Vox on the other hand keeps his fizzbot more masculine presenting. Wearing a suit similar to his own and painted blue, his fizzbot has also had changes done to its body. He gave it a fin on its back and a shark tail to fit Vox’s personal aesthetic and he named it Vic.

Vox is not an affectionate or sentimental man, even with the other Vees despite their long standing history. He had learned his lesson a long time ago to keep his emotions bottled up…however when it came to things like his pet sharks and Vic he couldn’t help letting his mask slip.

He pets the little robot and gives it a genuine smile.

“We got a lot of work to do, ok? I’m going to need you to help me organize this. Will start off by categorizing them from High to Low priority then subdivide them into locations. Once that’s done we’ll scan and digitize these files so that it will be easier to manage and plan out a proper schedule…Will also have to cross-examine them with my own personal schedule. I can't neglect my own duties…”

Fuck. Shouldn’t she have servants or employees who could have helped her out. Well, he’s not one to talk. He also has hundreds of souls under contract but hardly relinquishes many of his own tasks to them. He’s very controlling about how he likes to get things done. He guesses that the Queen is very similar to him, perhaps that’s why she chose him.

He’ll have to find some excuses for his long absences from the Vee tower but so long as everything is working they can’t complain. Getting started is usually the hardest part. Once he’s sure he can maintain a schedule it will probably get easier so there’s no time to rest even if he has to pull an all-nighter. At this point Vox had long forgotten his fight with Alastor. His mind is now single-focused on so many new projects.

Vox didn’t realize he had fallen asleep; it was already morning. Thankfully everything had been sorted! All the piles of paperwork were gone or properly stored away. It seems his program was successful in sorting everything and even planned out the schedule according to his parameters. He noticed Vic slumped over a stack of books. He immediately went to pick it up. 

‘Low Battery’

“You did great, Vic. Couldn’t have done it without you.” He found some cushions and blankets and made it a makeshift bed. He knows it's not necessary but he can’t help it. He plugs the robot to a charger and lets it rest.

He never got around to having a kid back on earth but it was probably for the best. Vox knows the kind of guy he was then. Career oriented and selfish. He would not have had time to look after one and probably would have fucked them up just like his parents did to him. Still he can’t help having some regret. Perhaps if he had gotten his shit together he could have been a decent father.

Vox soon realized he himself was low on energy. What little sleep he got last night clearly wasn’t enough to recharge him and he can’t remember the last time he ate. He’ll have to resort to charging himself as well. He conjured up an extension and plugged it to his head.

‘27% full’

Fuck! It’ll take awhile to get fully charged. He’s stuck sitting in this room. He might as well review and study up on the other rings of hell and what exactly the Queen gets up to.

There’s a knock at the door and Vox doesn’t really know who to expect. The door cracks open a little and peers in the princess.

“Uh…Hi. You must be Vox. Nice to meet you”

“Hello Princess Morningstar. Come in. this is your home after all” Vox puts on his best smile.

“Oh, Charlie is fine and since you’re going to be staying here quite often it’s your home too! Thank you so much for helping my mom out! She’s been really stressed and not herself in so long she really needed the break”

“...And what of your father?”

“Oh him…he…uh ... .is around too but uh he’s kind of stepped away from all this quite a long time ago. Anyways if you need anything just let me know. Extermination is tomorrow so you can stay here if you’d like. You can call me if anything comes up!”

“What will you be doing?”

“As princess it’s my job to look after our people. I can’t just stand by during an extermination. I do my best to help as much as I can during and after each one” she smiles brightly.

Ugh a bleeding heart type. Vox fights the urge to roll his eyes at her optimism.

“Do be safe dear. Your mother also entrusted me to look after you. So please don’t make my job more difficult…”

Charlie puffed her cheeks, “I’m not a child and besides all hellborns are exempt from it. I want to use this privilege to help others”

“Of course you do…”

“Wha–?”

“I mean that’s great that you take after your mother. A real go-getter!” Vox approaches her, “But if you really want to help, maybe think bigger my dear. You don’t get anything done just by treating the symptom you need to get to the root of things. Get to the heart of the problem so that you can find the right solution that you can profit from” 

“...maybe you’re right! Oh thank you Vox for the advice” She hugs Vox tightly, shocking him at such an open display of affection but before he can push her off she is already running out the room with excitement. He makes a mental note to not give her any sugar or caffeine.

Vox wonders if he should check in on Val and Vel but they no doubt already made plans for extermination day. Vee tower has strong security and they’ll most likely just stay cooped up doing whatever.

He wonders if he should explore the mansion. It’s not everyday you get to be inside Hell’s royalty’s home.

Ah but he still has to charge. Best to just go back to what he was doing on his desk.

The extermination came and went. All three Vees lost a good amount of souls. Shit. they’ll need to bump up their numbers. Fortunately all the other Overlords took a hit too. It will at least ensure no turf wars and some quietness as everyone tries to regain themselves.

What he didn’t expect is for Charlie to come home with a stranger. 

“Her name is Vaggie. She’ll be staying here to recover!” Charlie held this new sinner by her shoulders. She seemed reserved and hypervigilant about her surroundings. Both had obvious blush painting their cheeks.

Ugh just what he needed to deal with, love drama. But he felt Lilith’s contract pull his soul. He guesses this falls under the ‘look after Charlie’ clause.

“Miss Morningstar you can’t just bring a stranger into the house…”

“Vox, please call me Charlie. And it’s fine I trust Vaggie. I looked into her eyes and I knew she was someone with a good heart” She smiled brightly as the girl next to her only blushed harder. Vox rolled his eyes.

“Fine but,” Vox loomed over the sinner, “know that I have surveillance everywhere. The Queen has entrusted me to look after not just Hell but her daughter too. You pose a threat and I will remove you is that understood”

The sinner stood up straight, shoulders pulled back with a determined look on her face, “She saved my life. I owe her and vow to stand by her side to make up for it. I promise you that.” It was Charlie’s turn to blush taken back by the proclamation.

“Very well. So long as we’re understood” Vox respected her determination but still made a note to keep a file on the girl just in case.

The two ladies took off. Charlie wanted to give her a tour of the place. Vox thought it was high time he did too. Having been confined to that office for 2 days now. He asked Vic to make some phone calls and see if anything needed attention at Voxtek and to deal with it through emails if possible. The little robot nodded and saluted and ran off. Cute, was all Vox could think.

The place was enormous! Sure the Vee tower was tall but most of those floors were studios and offices. Only the top 3 floors were for personal use and each one was for each Vee but they pale in comparison to this place. 

As he made his way around he spotted a figure in one of the rooms just slumped on the floor. He would have just ignored it but just like before with Charlie his contract was telling him to go and ‘fix’ the issue. So with no other choice he went to talk to the person. Imagine his surprise when the person wallowing on the floor was Lucifer. The king of hell himself, former arcangel, THE devil. 

“Uh your highness? Are you alright?” 

Lucifer moved his head to look at vox then went back to looking at the floor, “Just dandy”

He sounded so pitiful. Really this is the guy Lilith’s been married to for hundreds of years. How she hasn’t divorced him already was a mystery to him. Vox tried to turn away to leave but instead his feet only brought him closer to Lucifer.

What the fuck? This strange urge to…comfort the devil overpowering him. Ain’t no fucking way. Surely this wasn’t part of the contract. She must have misspoke when she said he had to fulfill her Queenly duties. She doesn’t expect him to comfort her husband!?! Vox wanted to scream.

He rested his hand on the man’s shoulder.

“What’s wrong?” he gritted out.

“Like I’ll explain myself to some lowly sinner” Lucifer spat out. Vox’s eye twitched. If this wasn’t the all powerful devil he would have electrocuted him already.

“If this is about your wife. She’s only taking a break for a while no need to be dramatic”

“I’m not being dramatic!” Lucifer pouted like a spoiled child. For fuck sake he can’t tell if he’d rather deal with Val’s tantrums or his.

“Instead of cooping yourself up in this massive house you could go and  find a hobby…or do your job” Vox muttered the last bit.

“There’s nothing in this world that brings me joy any more…”

Vox was tempted to just kick the king but instead looked around the room. He’ll have to start a file on the king and his history with his wife and hell.

He spots a yellow duck on the shelf. It appears to be handcrafted and well made. He grabs it and brings it over to Lucifer.

“Did you make this?”

“Yeah what of it?”

“It’s…nice.”

“I don’t need your sarcasm”

“Ugh I’m trying okay. Look, I mean it. It’s really nice. You don’t get to see genuine, hand crafted things these days. Everything is machine and industrial made”

“You like it?”

“It’s not my favorite animal but it’s…cute I guess”

“Lilith started getting annoyed by them and once Charlie got older, she grew bored of them too…”

“If they’re getting boring then reinvent them.”

“Huh”

“There are over 100 types of ducks you can pull from for inspiration and even then, that shouldn’t stop you from making up new ones, right? It might help you get out of this funk. Start small or whatever”

“Yeah, I think I will…” Lucifer perked up. Vox felt the weight of the contract lift up and he got up to leave wanting to get away. He makes a note to just avoid the guy, so he doesn’t have to deal with this again.

“Ah wait, what's your name?”

“Vox”

“I don’t usually trust you sinners but if my wife chose you then I guess…what I mean…uh let’s try to get along yeah?”

“Of course, your highness”

“Lucifer is just fine.”

Vox has no interest in getting close to these royals. He’ll expand his own business empire and once the queen returns, he’ll wash his hands from this whole affair.

After all, how long does she plan to be away….?

Chapter Text

DAY 3:

Vox woke up at 5. Every minute of the hour, every hour of the day was scheduled in great detail and not a second wasted. Today he’d be meeting with the Sin of Greed. He wanted to make sure all his tech was updated and programs ready to go for when he had to pretend to be the queen. He doesn’t want to admit it but he’s nervous. He has no clue how the queen acts around these sins. He only has footage of her from her many concerts and announcements to the public.

The Greed ring has many factories beneficial to Vox, wishing to expand and boost production at a cheaper cost. But it also has rampant criminal activity. If he could convince Mammon to get better control of the gangs, maybe he could also use them to his benefit. You never know, having close contacts to some of the criminals could prove beneficial to his company.

He was certain he was the only one awake. Who else would be up at this hour? He was used to the other Vees sleeping in but to his surprise Charlie was in the kitchen.

“Morning ⭐!” She's awfully chirpy so early in the day. Vox groaned, “It seems we’re both early risers!”

“Miss Morningstar, why are you up so early?” It’s not like this girl has a job. What could she possibly be up to?

“I thought we could get to know each other by tagging along and helping you with your tasks!”

“Oh that won’t be necessary–”

“This will be your first time interacting with a Sin. I know my mom the best! I can help you maintain your cover!”

She made an awfully good point but Vox wanted to be rid of her anyways.

“It’s fine princess–”

“Charlie, please call me Charlie.”

“Charlie” Vox gritted, but still smiled at her “Your mother left this to me so please let me do my job how I see fit”

“But–”

“Do you have some other reason to tag along? Do you not trust me because I’m a sinner?” Vox hoped to play on the Princess’s values.

“No! Of course not Vox it’s just…” She looked down, playing with her fingers, “When mom said she was handing over her responsibilities to you, I guess I was upset that she didn’t come to me first…”

Vox rolled his eyes.

“So she didn’t think you were ready” he said bluntly causing Charlie’s shoulders to drop, “then prove her wrong” he continued making her look up at him. “Do something of your own. Build it from scratch and prove your worth. Following me around ain’t going to do shit. Just annoy me and send a message to her that I can’t do my job”

“What should I do?”

“I can’t tell you that! That’s the whole point. Figure out what you want to do with your life and turn that into some passion project” Vox made himself some coffee and left, he was wasting minutes.

“Wait you should eat something” he heard Charlie shout as he retreated. Ugh, he just wanted to get away and start his day.

He snapped his fingers and Vic appeared with a tablet in hand. His meeting with Mammon was later in the day so he needed to finish his other tasks first. He pulled out his phone and saw he had several messages from Valentino and Velvette

| VELVETTE: Where the FUK  R U, you’ve been missing 3 days now! Dont tell me 

exorcists got u?

| VAL         : Voxxy ♥️where r u? Feels like we havent spent any time together I’m 

getting lonely

Vox let out a huff. It’s his fault for not notifying them of his absence but how is he going to explain this to them when he can’t say why? He texts them to meet him around 9 since they both like to sleep in anyways.

With their souls being down Vox asks Vic to pull up any applicants looking for jobs. Fortunately there’s several people desperate for work. He scrolls through some and he notices that 20% of them are from the same person…Some loser named Sir Pentious. Why does that name sound familiar? Whatever. He also needs to remind the other two to start getting more souls under contract they can’t fall behind from the other overlords. 

He wonders if he should tap into his drones and see how the rest of the pride ring is doing. It’s only then that Vox remembered he had a fight with Alastor. Did anyone know about it? Shit. Did Alastor brag about his victory? He hopes no one saw it. Speaking of which, how was that red bastard doing? When suddenly his phone began to ring. Well not his phone, the one the queen gave him so he could have all her contacts who might try to reach her.

The contact said Bee…

“Uh Hello?” Vox answered by manipulating his voice to sound like Lilith.

“What up, girl. It’s been like forever since we hung out! Don’t tell me you still have so much work to do! Let’s go crash Ozzy’s place! We haven’t heard you perform in like forever!”

“Sorry…Bee. I’m quite busy today and I have a meeting with Mammon anyway” Vox kept his voice calm and even and hopes he is talking the way Lilith does.

“Gross. Mammon? Really? Can’t someone else go do that for you? Live a little!”

“I really have to go Bee but uh thanks for the invite”

“I’ll get you to come over to party, sooner or later” Vox then hung up. Jeez, she has a lot of energy. He looked up who Bee was and realized he had been talking to the Sin of Gluttony. Not what he had imagined.

He then ordered Vic to clean the mansion and if Charlie hadn’t done so already to send some food to Lucifer too. Oh and to warn him if he’s nearby he doesn’t want to interact with the guy.

After going over any paperwork that needed the queen’s approval he quickly went through his. He was surprised how much he got done by 9. He headed out to see Val and Vel.

“Where the fuck have you been?” Vel was already in the boardroom waiting.

“Morning Vel, good to see you too. And Val?” 

“On his way. You know he takes forever to get ready” She rolled her eyes

Val walked in, cigarette in hand looking irritated.

“Where’ve you been amorcito my bed was cold without you” Vox rolled his eyes.

“Sure it was Val. You have hundreds of whores to choose from. I’m sure one of them kept you company.”

“Are you going to explain yourself or what?” Vel cut in.

“I’ve been away, yes, but rest assured that a great opportunity arose. I can’t explain much but you won’t see me often in the tower but know I’m not neglecting my duties. The Vees are my number 1 priority”

“Really last we heard from you, you went to confront the radio demon…” Valentino said venomously.

“That and this have nothing to do with each other. Like I said I can’t tell you but just because I’ll be away don’t think I won’t know what’ll be going on Val. We each lost some souls so I’m going to need you two to hurry up and increase your soul counts and get everyone back to work. If all goes well on my end you’ll be seeing some changes around our productions and profits”

“What are you planning, Vox?” Velvette crossed her arms, glaring at him.

“You’ll just have to trust me” His alarm went off just then, “I have somewhere else to be. Just stay focus”

Vel took off without another word but Valentino walked over to Vox.

“And will I see you tonight, amor?”

“...We’ll see. If i’m not too tired later” he brushed him aside as he left.

Vox had come to learn many hellborns were already using Voxtek branded products so it was quite easy to start building a network in the other rings. He began to implement drones and cameras throughout hell.

He tasked Vic to start building a database on all demons, sinners and hellborns alike.

It was time to test out the Lilith hologram and hope he could fool the Sin. He plastered on his businessman smile and hoped it came out more warm on Lilith’s face.

“Hello Queen Lilith! Happy to see you. After our last video call I thought you’d be done with us!” Mammon yelled through the screen.

One of Vox’s eye twitched. If this guy is the reason for finally breaking Lilith then he does not blame her. This guy seems insufferable.

“It’s so nice to see you Mammon. How goes the Greed Ring?”

“My business is booming as usual! By the way, is there any way I can finally talk to the man in charge? No offense babe. These conversations with you never go anywhere. Feels like such things should be left between men”

Vox feels agitation growing. If Velvette was here she’d rip him a new one. He can’t help but cringe since he used to be like this too, just not so open and egregious like him. He soon spotted Vic holding a tablet and pointing at it. Vox transferred the article to his phone and quickly read it.

“Now Mammon, I’d watch your mouth since you have so many lawsuits pending. I would hate to see Loo Loo Land close down.”

“Whoa wait–”

“And you know I’m considering sitting down with an organization advocating for imp’s rights. I hope your business will be able to continue once many of your workers are able to unionize…”

Lilith had made it one of her goals to help the lower hellborns but had difficulty pushing it through if she couldn’t get all the sins to back her up. As far as Vox could tell from his notes only 2 sins seem to support her. He doesn’t really care about helping hellborns but it’s not like it would affect his business when he relies more on soul contracts anyway.

“What the fuck Lily!”

“It’s Queen Lilith and you will speak to me, not Lucifer. He doesn’t have to put up with your stupid rambles.” Vox gave his big sharp toothy smile. He wasn’t sure how that translated onto Lilith but it seemed to unnerve Mammon. “I don’t need you to reduce the crime rate, I just need you to have better control of it. Bribe them, blackmail them or threaten them I don’t care just so long as they don’t mess with any upcoming businesses that want to expand got it”

“...Got it”

“But if you are worried about staying ahead in the market, may I recommend partnering with Voxtek Industries. I heard they are fans of yours. Even bought some of your Fizzbots. I’m sure they can strike a deal with you”

“Uh yeah thanks for the tip” he grumbled.

“I’m glad we have that sorted. Let’s talk again in… 3 months. I hope to be updated on any new reports” ‘ she ’ smiled darkly at him, “Toodaloo!” Vox soon hung up before Mammon could reply back.

Lilith met up with this guy almost weekly. It’s no wonder she’s exhausted. He needed to place new boundaries and be more firm with these Sins. He gets that she has an image to maintain. She comes off as strong but gentle, unwavering and rebellious but graceful under pressure but would it kill her to just be more brutal with people.

He’ll have to repeat this all over for the rest of the week as he meets up with the other Sins. Tomorrow he’s to chat with Osmodeus. Depending how each goes he’ll make a personal itinerary around each. He looked at Vic who seemed to be taking notes on the meeting. He pats its head.

“Good job” Vic technically has a permanent smile but something about the way it chirps at the compliment makes Vox believe that it’s pleased at the praise.

Vox was only bluffing about the Imp worker’s union but seeing as it is something Lilith wants to get done he has no choice but to try to figure that out. Despite being King and Queen, Lucifer and Lilith leave most of the governing to the Sins. Making each ring operate under different laws and rules, at least what little there is of them. He’s going to have to push the limits of her power while also not stepping on any of the Sins’ toes. But things should operate better if there’s at least some foundation or basis of government from which each ring can form its own local government from.

When he thinks about it, it’s kind of how the Overlords operate with the different sections and territory of the Pride Ring. They all agree more or less to certain rules among themselves. He hates to admit it but he’ll have to take a page out of Carmilla Carmine. Oh yeah there should be an Overlord meeting happening soon too now that the extermination happened.

He had a bit of a break before he had to go do work for his own company and headed to the kitchen to grab something to drink. Just his luck he found a mopping Charlie and her new ‘friend’ trying to comfort her.

“Great, what's wrong with her now…” Vaggie just glared at the man.

“Sorry, Vox it’s just…I went to attend a banquet. I thought I should be more involved with Hell. Like you told me but… Everyone just mocked me. They didn’t even let me get a word in.”

“Tell me did your parents ever get involved in any of these kinds of events?”

“Well mom was usually busy and dad…well doesn’t go out much”

“No offense but your image has been ruined by your parents. It’s going to be an uphill battle to forge your own image kid”

“How will I do that”

“For one, get thicker skin. You let these people know that they can get to you only gives them power over you. Second you’re a princess act like one”

“Hey you don’t have to be so harsh” Vaggie cuts in.

“People aren’t going to be gentle with your girlfriend” Vox retaliates causing the girls to blush. Oh brother, these two.

“Despite your mother’s efforts. Hell is a mess, of course it is, it’s hell. You're both working towards a hopeless cause. It’s no wonder your father threw in the towel” It was about time someone gave this girl a reality check. She’s been coddled for too long but as soon as her whole demeanor dropped and she was on the verge of tears he could feel that stupid contract pulling at his soul and whether he’ll admit it or not he did feel a bit guilty for going too far.

“You’re right it’s useless…I’m useless”

“Now c’mon don’t put words in my mouth that’s not what I said…” He tried to turn it around.

“You literally told her it's hopeless” Vaggie cut in.

“Shut up” he gritted, “Look there might be a way to turn things around like I said you just got to find a better way to go about it. You need to get on their level”

“But I don’t want to have to do it their way. If I have to change everything about myself and disregard my principles then I’ve already lost” Charlie mood soured.

“What’s wrong with that?” Vox got agitated at that remark, “One has to change and adapt to get ahead”

“Then was it ever worth it if you’re no longer yourself” chimed Vaggie. What nonsense. He hasn’t lost himself. He’s still perfectly in control. Hell he’d say he has more control than ever before and has gotten everything he’s wanted.

This has to be the reason things fell apart for Lilith. Did she also try to do this the ‘righteous way’ and instill the same stupid ideologies to her daughter?

“I just want a chance to prove myself. To prove things can be done differently. But no one in hell believes in me….not even my own parents” she looked utterly defeated.

“I believe in you Charlie…” Vaggie tried to comfort but Charlie was already lost in her sorrow.

Vox couldn’t help the sense of deja vu. He was like this once. Wanting to prove himself.

“Well waiting around for someone to give you a chance isn’t going to get you anywhere. You have to grab the opportunity for yourself. It’s clear you’ve been coddled for too long, princess. Sort yourself out before you try tackling all of Hell.”

Vox grabbed his coffee and headed back to the study room. He’ll study up on any laws and history for each ring of Hell.

Before he knew it he had fallen asleep on the desk. Valentino will surely chew him out for not showing up but Vox was too busy, mind preoccupied with more meetings.

Day 20

Val is still giving him the silent treatment. He makes a note to buy him some expensive gift or some shit and maybe he’ll get over his tantrum. Work is piling up and he won’t lie he is getting frustrated. He hasn’t gotten laid in a while but he isn’t going to go to Val to beg.

Right now he’s going to focus on one of his other “Queen” projects. Building a clean up task force and a construction one to handle the aftermath of each extermination. Sinners are too busy recovering or salvaging from the mess so he has to rely on hellborns willing to work. Who wouldn’t take up a job funded by the royal family?

He’ll make a commercial for it and have Velvette also post it online so it makes the rounds. Physically they are restricted to the Pride ring but their influence throughout hell has grown and with Lilith’s powers to boost it has reached far and wide unbeknownst to the other Vees.

Day 35

It seems his advice to the King has been taken the wrong way. Lucifer has holed himself up just partaking in his….hobby. If making ducks all day can be considered one. Charlie says he’s “depressed” but Vox rolls his eyes at the notion. Just an excuse that was made up to get out of not doing work and being a burden to society. 

Vox has been down in the dumps from time to time but you know what he did? He pulled himself from his bootstraps and made something of himself. Lilith probably coddled him too just like she did with her daughter…ugh. He’s not going to babysit a grown man. It’s currently not an issue for Vox so he’ll just ignore it. He just hopes Charlie doesn’t turn out the same.

She’s like a roller coaster happy and excited one moment and then on the floor mopping when her ventures end up in failure…

Day 57

Vox had fortunately caught up on his Voxtek work. Sure he hasn’t had much sleep and he’s pretty sure it's just energy drinks sloshing around in his stomach but the Vees are rising at pretty good speed given all the setbacks from the last extermination. They’re ahead of most of the other overlords. Speaking of which he is on his way to attend the meeting. He can’t trust Val so he never attends and Velvette has been busy on her fashion project and would tear up anyone who distracted her for a second.

Vox makes sures that he has auto-record on just in case he dozes off. Vox arrives pretty early sitting towards the other end of the table across from Carmilla. He’s going over his schedule and also pouring over the data and any information that Carmilla might bring up. He hopes to use any information here to use later as Lilith when he inevitably starts forming connections with the overlords as “Queen”

It’s only when Rosie sits near him that he spares a thought to Alastor. Will he show up? How long has it been since he saw him? Since that …fight?

Rosie spares a glance and politely nods at him. Vox nods back and does his best to keep a neutral expression.

Carmilla arrives along with the other overlords. No one really brings up Alastor and the meeting goes as normal.

Carmilla brings up the Queen’s efforts and to be on alert if there’s any changes in hell due to her involvement. Vox tries his best not to smile smugly. Carmilla is praising the queen’s efforts to bring some order and Vox can’t help feeling a little proud at the compliments. People are finally acknowledging his work. Well not him persay…but still. Vox can’t help a strange pang in his chest.

The meeting ends and Vox has no time to chat with anyone as he has to head back to the Morningstar’s mansion to begin his other work. No rest for the wicked.

Day 73

“I thought we were having movie night” Velvette crossed her arms.

“Sorry doll but I just have a lot of things right now”

“You always have other things” she scoffs

“Sorry, just hang out with Val”

“Whatever” Velvette brushes it off and goes back to her phone. At least Vel never makes things complicated. Doesn’t throw a fit like Val or get all mopey like Charlie.

But as he zaps away, Vel looks up from her phone with a sad expression.

Day 121

Vox had made significant progress establishing new relations with the other Sins. He knows now which ones required more attention and firm guiding hand and which he can just let be. But he realizes that it's taking some attention away from his company and his relationship with the Vees.

Day 184

The Meeting with the Sins didn’t go as planned. It quickly devolved into arguing and fighting with nothing getting done. Vox hoped, as Lilith, he could wrangle some control but it seems her reputation along with Lucifer has made them so incompetent to the rest of hell that the Sins don’t have any confidence in Lilith.

The meeting ended with nothing getting done. In fact it felt like several setbacks had occurred and Vox was now in the study room in complete silence as he took in this absolute loss. He wanted to scream. How hell hasn’t become an absolute cesspool that’s been mercifully killed by Heaven is beyond him. He looked up at the royal family portrait hung above the desk. Such a happy family, free from any real struggles…

To immortals, things become monotonous. The feeble lives of others insignificant, the day to day of hell blurs into one awful drone. And once you stare at something for too long you can’t make tit for tat. And maybe for them it seems like everything remains the same but to sinners and hellborns who don’t get a long stay things are always changing and they’re left scrambling to adapt and survive. Maybe it's for this reason that the King and Queen don’t know how to make a difference

Vox begins to laugh.

The King has no vision, the Queen’s burned out and the princess is directionless. But Vox has always thrived in these kinds of situations. It’s all he’s known. He climbed his way to the top by any means necessary back on earth and he did it once more in hell. Every obstacle posed an entertaining challenge for Vox and this was no different. For however long he has on this throne until Lilith’s return he’ll make the most of it and have fun along the way.

With this new resolve Vox picks himself up. New ideas and plans circulating in his mind. He won’t be brought down, made weak or a fool. He’s learned from his mistakes and he’ll go at it stronger.

Day 213

Some of the sins are beginning to demand that Lucifer sit in for meetings as King of Hell, in particular, Satan has been the most forward. Those two seem to have some sort of beef. Vox is running out of excuses and he doesn’t have any sort of relationship with Lucifer to demand of him to come. And even if he could convince him it would make him an uncontrollable variable. He wouldn’t know how Lucifer would behave or what he’d say and therefore have no control of the outcome. He wonders if he could play a convincing Lucifer himself but that would only bring more suspicion especially since all their meetings have been through holograms and not face to face.

He was at a loss.

When Charlie popped into the office.

“Sorry it’s just I haven’t seen you in days and was worried you weren’t looking after yourself. I brought you some coffee”

“Uh…thanks”

“What’s wrong?”

“It’s nothing you can help me with…”

“Try me” she smiled brightly. Hoping for a chance to prove herself.

“It’s the sins–”

“Oh they’re like my Uncles and aunts. They tell me all sorts of things you can ask me anything”

That could actually be useful…

“Well it’s mostly Satan. He’s difficult to handle”

“Ah yes Uncle Satan has a lot of anger issues but as the embodiment of wrath many things trigger him” she giggles.

“Then how do I get him to do what I want”

“Oh no, Satan doesn’t like being told what to do. He’s a bit sensitive about not being the one on top. Him and Dad use to argue all the time about how to rule hell and …well since dad stepped away he thought that meant that he’d get to take control but of course mom stepped in instead”

Hmmm he’s getting a better idea of this Sin.

“I suggest you get him a therapist who can help him calm down! With a clearer head he can be reasoned better and if you give him some more power and suggest to him what you want but let him take control of the conversation so you lead him to the right decision”

“Charlie dear, are you telling me how to manipulate your uncle?”

“W-wha– no! It’s just that Uncle Satan just doesn’t like others making demands and he’s a lot more agreeable when he’s in a good mood! He’s always helped me when I asked him for help!!”

Vox chuckles.

“You’ve definitely surprised me dear Charlie. I underestimated you. Thank you for the advice. You’ve been so helpful”

Charlie blushed at the compliment even if she wasn’t sure whether she liked how her advice would be used.

Day 231

“I don’t understand why you’re so upset by this? You always have some whore to keep your bed warm”

But Valentino only continues to glare at the floor with his arms crossed.

Geezus one would think they were in a committed relationship or something. Val was the one who wanted to keep it casual, no strings attached. He got to sleep around while Vox holed himself up in work until the two needed to fuck each other to let out some tension.

Neither of them did…emotions. Keeping things simple was just easier. So why was Valentino making things so complicated?

“Tell me the truth Vox. Have you just been hiding away looking for the radio demon?”

“What!? What made you jump to that stupid conclusion?”

“He hasn’t been seen since the extermination. In fact that’s when you started acting all weird. So just tell me the truth, are you just wasting our resources to chase after that freaky deer?” he snarled as he loomed over Vox gripping his arms. Vox could only laugh.

“First of all, our numbers are higher than ever. Second of all I haven’t spared a single thought to that smiling freak. I…have other projects that I just can’t tell you, either of you but trust that this will benefit all of us.”

He gets it now. The idiot is just jealous over a scenario he made up on his own. He fights the urge to roll his eyes. Yet Val will mock him whenever he brings up Angel Dust. Whatever one of them has to be the mature one. He gets out of Val’s grasp and caresses his face.

“Look I have some time now….so why don’t we get over this little fight and make our way to your bed and we fuck already. To be honest I’ve been feeling pretty lonely too”

Val finally relaxes his expression and turns it into a flirty one as he grabs Vox’s waist.

Vox actually does have a lot of shit to do but he guesses he’ll just have to make extra time later. If he half assed this he won’t hear the end of it. He’s pent up and yet he also doesn’t quite feel in the mood but he just wants Val to get over his tantrum. And guessing by how hard Val is gripping him if he puts this off any further it will end up worse for him. Best to just let Val rough him up a bit. It’s his fault for neglecting him after all.

He wonders how much longer he has to satisfy others before he can’t start feeling satisfied himself….

Day 250

There’s now a steady rhythm to his life. He has come up with some compromise with the sins. Letting Satan take charge over certain matters while ensuring they line up with Lilith’s goals. Vel has started to wrap up her fashion project and is now mostly in the process of promoting it and setting up the event. Val…well Val is Val. His films are selling and his clubs are always the talk of the town and that’s all that matters. As for their sex life it’s pretty hit or miss depending when their moods sync up.

Vox has been able to squeeze in an hour of rest everyday for himself and allows Vic to do most of the paperwork or emails.

Charlie has made it a habit to pop in around this time to bring him coffee and snacks.

“I’m just worried you’re not eating enough. I know I know you technically don’t need to eat or sleep much but at least try to eat something healthy and not just rely on energy drinks” CHarlie set a plate of fruits and a small bowl of salad. She petted Vic’s head, “make sure he eats ok?”

Vic nods and salutes Charlie as she giggles and heads out. That little traitor. But Vox can’t help the small smile that appears on his face as she retreats. But immediately snaps out of it.

No he can’t get attached.

Day 276

“We’re just doing some rehearsals at this point” Velvette explained, “i’ll be doing a full practice run this weekend…You should come and see it. Maybe give me a few notes”

“That’s great Vel but I’m busy. Besides, you don’t need notes from me. I don’t know shit about fashion, maybe ask Valentino” Vox held a smile, hoping to wrap it up so he can go to sleep.

“...”

Velvette just continued to look down at her tablet, expression unreadable.

“That’s— That’s all I wanted to discuss. I’ll let you and Valentino know when the date for the show is then”

“Great! Amazing as always my dear Velvette” Vox waved her off and zapped away. Velvette just stared off in silence.

Day 297

It seemed like another charity event went south for the princess and her girlfriend. They’re the talk of the internet. With articles mocking and questioning her status as royalty. Constantly criticized and being compared to her mother while also having to be dragged down by the reputation of her recluse father.

“Why are you so obsessed with getting your parent’s love and approval? I never got either and I turned out great!”

“Well–” “That explains so much” 

There is a lot of potential in Charlie, it's just directionless. If he had had mentors to guide him when he was young maybe he wouldn’t have made such big screw ups.

Then again when he did have someone to guide him it resulted in a smash screen and broken heart– whatever! He won’t be like that prick! No! In fact he’ll be better than him.

He’ll make Charlie the competent leader she was meant to be. Because when she rises so will he. Equals. He won’t abandon her and …maybe she won’t abandon him either.

Charlie lifted her head but sadness and insecurity still tormented her. Vox grabbed her hand and pulled her towards him. Music began to play out of him.

🎶 Gray skies are gonna clear up

Put on a happy face;

Brush off the clouds and cheer up

Put on a happy face 🎶

Vox spun her around then pushed her into the arms of Vaggie.

🎶 Take off the gloomy mask of tragedy

It's not your style;

You'll look so good that you'll be glad

Ya' decide to smile! 🎶

With his sparks he created some fireworks above the two.

🎶 Pick out a pleasant outlook

Stick out that noble chin;

Wipe off that "full of doubt" look

Slap on a happy grin! 🎶

He gestured with his hands a big grin on his face. His screen then glitched into a frown which he then hit the side of his casing to glitch it back to a smile causing Charlie to giggle.

🎶 And spread sunshine all over the place

Just put on a happy face!

Put on a happy face

Put on a happy face 🎶

He did a bit of tap dancing then leaned on the kitchen table to grin at them. Charlie smiled brightly while Vaggie gave an amused grin.

🎶 And if you're feeling cross and bitterish

Don't sit and whine

Think of banana split and licorice

And you'll feel fine 🎶

He zapped behind Vaggie and gave her a spin.

🎶 I knew a girl so gloomy

She'd never laugh or sing

She wouldn't listen to me

Now she's a mean old thing 🎶

He then pushed her (a bit more roughly than he did to Charlie) into Charlie’s arms. As he gave her a teasing grin which she returned with a glare. But Charlie hugged her tightly as she joined in on the singing.

🎶 So spread sunshine all over the place

And put on a happy, happy face

Put on a happy, happy, happy face~🎶

“Thank you Mr. Vox!” Charlie bounced up in joy.

“You gotta smile through it all. It’s a useful tool and it’s the best way to maintain control” He smiled big as a demonstration. “It’s not going to be easy. I meant it when I said you need to toughen up but it seems like you already have a good support system” gesturing to Vaggie, “But you can’t tackle everything all at once. Hell is a mess no doubt about it so start on one single thing and focus on that okay?”

She nodded brightly and held Vaggie’s hand tight, “I guess we have a lot of work to do” Her and Vaggie ran off in excitement. Vox held his smile a bit longer before finally dropping it once they were fully gone. She might have potential, he really did see a lot of himself in her. At least his old self but maybe she’ll have more luck. Hopefully she won’t become bitter and defensive like him.

Ugh his little break was over. He grabbed a can of beelzejuice and zapped away into his office back at the tower. Just as he was about to begin work, Velvette barged in irritated.

“Ugh! Valentino ripped one of my models again” she kicked down one of his chairs.

“And why did he do that?”

“Because he’s pissy that his TV has been ignoring him” Vox groaned “My fashion show is only a few days away” She pulled at her hair.

“Vel calm down one model isn’t going to ruin that”

“Shut up! I’ve been planning this show for months! I had told Val how much this meant to me but you fuckers never care! You drop everything for Val but you never help me out” He’s never seen her this upset before.

“Vel look I’ll help any way I can. I’ll get you another model. Relax, doll. I do… care but you always seem to handle everything yourself anyway” He got up to approach her.

“Because I always have to prove myself to others. I can’t be seen as weak or helpless. It’s exhausting. Val doesn’t ask for help he just expects others to bail him out and you never ask for help either and somehow you get everything done. I’m supposed to be your equal”

“Vel you can come to me for help… And you’ve seen what happens when I don’t ask for help…I completely crash out and you two always have to bail me out. So how about this. We lean on each other, yeah?” He petted her head as she leaned on his chest.

“Stupid fucker when you get so sentimental” Vox only chuckled at her comment. But she’s right. Fuck, don’t tell him that that Morningstar was already rubbing off on him.

He really hopes this isn’t the start of something new…

Day 335

While things are still a bit tense with the sins. He has finally nailed down his schedule for the most part. He might be stretching himself a bit thin but that’s what happens when doing two jobs as one. But he’s made sure that once Lilith returns it would be an easy transition for her to take back control. This time it will be easier to manage so she doesn’t burn out again.

Speaking of which, it's almost been a year and he hasn’t heard anything from her. He’s growing concerned and Charlie might begin to worry too.

Just then his phone rings well, not his but the one Lilith gave him which means… it’s Lilith herself calling him.

Vox scrambles to answer. This is it maybe now this will all be over and yet in the back of his mind he’s a little sad about it.

“Vox! I’m sorry I haven’t called. I didn’t mean to go no contact for so long”

“No worries my queen. I’m glad you’re enjoying your much needed break” and now he needed a break of his own. “So when will you be back?”

“....well. The thing is I’m going to extend my vacation a bit longer. Something came up and I wanted to catch up with an old friend” Huh? What does that mean?

“E-exactly how long?”

“Not sure yet. But it seems things are going great down there. You’re doing a great job! So thank you for that….I must be going” She glanced off camera as if on the lookout for someone in particular.

“But what about your family–” but she had hung up by then. Fuck! What’s he to do now? Will she call up Charlie and explain her extension or is it up to him to break the news. He’ll wait a couple of days to see if Charlie brings up anything. Damn it he should have read through the contract and done some adjustments or perhaps made it a short term contract. 

Day 346

No call yet. Charlie has been mostly in her room hoping for her mom to call. It’s beginning to worry him, no he means Vaggie it’s beginning to worry Vaggie and annoy him.

It doesn’t help that Lucifer has only worsened in his melancholic state and therefore useless in comforting his own daughter.

Vox doesn’t do comfort but…maybe he doesn’t have to be the one to do it. Vox makes his way to Charlie’s room and soon makes himself into electricity. Zapping his way into her room discreetly and entering her phone. With a bit of magic, he makes her phone ring and on the phone’s screen it displays ‘Mom Calling’.

She sits up in excitement to answer.

“Hello! Mom?” on the other side Lilith’s voice is heard.

“Hello my dear I’m sorry for not calling sooner”

“Mom, when will you be back?”

“I’m sorry it seems my stay will be a lot longer than I planned but I’m so happy to hear your voice and I hope you are doing well”

“Of course! You deserve a break. I’m doing the best I can to help out our people! Vox has been doing great too! I hope to be as good of a leader as him and you”

“.... You’re….doing wonderful dear. I’m so proud of you and I believe in you”

Charlie tried to hold in her tears.

“I have to go now. I’m thinking of you, always”

“Bye mom I love you”

“....m-me too bye” and the phone call ended

Vox zapped back into his office, having made sure to leave his phone on the desk as a point of return. That was …extremely awkward and he hopes he pulled it off.

There’s knocking at his door and he’s not at all surprised to see Charlie there.

“Charlie, dear. How can I help you?”

“Oh, I just wanted to let you know that mom won’t be returning soon”

“I see…Well there’s nothing either of us can do. So, let’s just continue to work together” Vox extends his hand but is shocked when Charlie instead goes for a hug. It’s clear she still wants to cry so Vox just awkwardly pats her back.

“....ooookay well I got to go back to work sooo”

“Right! I’m sorry” she blushes and runs off.

Welp Vox will just have to push through for another year… He made a lot of progress this year. Surely it won’t be difficult to do it one more time.

Chapter Text

For the next seven years, Vox, with the help of Charlie, did their best to clean up Hell. The Sins had agreed to a set of laws that they will enforce in their respective rings, allowing them some freedom on how to rule while also conforming to the Queen’s wishes. It’s not perfect and there’s always some in fighting among themselves. Vox’s own public image shifted, becoming more elusive and mysterious as he’s hardly seen around.  To say his relationship with the other vees is strained is putting it mildly.

He’s distant with them, emotionally and physically. Because of this Valentino tends to act out more with no one there to supervise him. Velvette mostly keeps to herself. Vox brushes this off because their influence and power has only increased. He feels that the ends justify the means. He’s gotten Ozzy to back off on threats against Vel and Val’s love potion and expanded their business into the other rings. Many of their clubs and fashion stores have been popping up in those rings. Most of the cheap labor is done in the pride ring through sinner’s contracted souls since Vox had successfully pushed through labor rights for hellborns. Meaning Sins and other demons outside of the pride ring had no choice but to go through Voxtek for cheap labor as well.

But Vox isn’t the only one who’s relationship became strained. Charlie after realizing the things her mom went through trying to rule hell by herself also became distant with her father. Or more like Lucifer became distant with her. She had since stopped trying to connect with the man. Instead her relationship with Vox had become rather close as her mentor. Over time she was able to see past his bravado and genuinely believed there was a lot of good in him whether he wanted to admit it or not. This would inspire her to finally decide on a project she wished to pursue.

Going through some of her mom’s ideas she found the plans for an abandoned hotel.

“You want to start a redemption hotel?” Vox questioned Charlie.

“You told me to focus on one particular issue in hell and what’s more important than the extermination?”

“Charlie, dear, Extermination can’t be fixed. Your dad signed and agreed to it”

“And it was a mistake to throw our people out like that! If we can prove that sinners can be rehabilitated and redeemed then they might put a stop to it!”

Vox thought it was a stupid idea and his past self would have shot it down with some icy words but looking at Charlie’s hopeful eyes he couldn’t help but groan.

“Fine…I’ll give you a small starting amount and budget but I need to see results by the end of the year”

“Oh thank you” Charlie hugged Vox ... .something he was starting to get used to but that still made him uncomfortable.

“I’ll get you a spot on Katie’s segment so do prepare something to say….she can be….harsh. Got it?” Charlie nodded excitedly as she bolted. Vox quickly phoned Vaggie and explained to her what was going to happen and implored her to keep Charlie in check. Her happy disposition wasn’t going to work on most sinners.

She picked practically the worst project to tackle. He wanted her to get hit with a reality check that most sinners deserve to be here.

But he had no time to worry about her. She’ll find out sooner or later. He needed to make his way to the Vees tower. He transported himself to his computer room and hooked himself up to check all surveillance footage. Velvette was down in the studio room doing a photo shoot with her models. He lingered his gaze on her for a few moments. They didn’t hang out as much as they used to. Any attempt to approach her was awkward and she always dismissed him. She must have noticed him staring because she glared at the camera before throwing a cloth over it so he couldn’t see. So he turned his attention to Val who was at one of his clubs.

And well…it wasn’t going so well. One of the dancers seemed to be off in the corner crying as he yelled and berated others. Vox just rolled his eyes. If things get out of hand he’ll cut the power. Valentino storms towards the crying sinner and Vox while a sickening feeling creeps up his stomach he justifies that it’s not his place what Val does with his souls. Just then Angel Dust gets in between the two, flirting and feeling up Val to calm him down while he gestures to the sinner to get away. At first Val seems to calm down as Angel takes him to another room. Vox can’t help his disgust. It always takes him a bit longer to get Val to calm down but all Angel has to do is flaunt himself and the bastard keels over. But after a while Vox picks up on some noise and switches to the camera of another room. 

Val is choking Angel, berating him for trying to ‘manipulate’ him. Vox considers switching to another channel. It’s not his place and Angel brought this on himself for trying to be a hero and yet….

Vox pulls out his phone and dials Val. It takes a couple of rings for Val to register it and drops Angel to the floor.

“Voxxy, amorcito! This is a surprise you hardly ever call” there’s some venom to his voice clearly bitter that him and Val haven’t fucked around for a long ass time. He tries to hold his annoyance.

“I thought me and you could hang out tonight…” Vox says carefully

“Just hang out…” Vox rolls his eyes.

“You know what I mean…it’s been a while…I…miss you” Vox wants to gag. He hears Val chuckle.

“I miss you too carino. I’ll come over right now” Val hangs up and glares at Angel but nonetheless dismisses him and tells him to tell the other dancers they have the rest of the night off as well.

Vox calls Vaggie and informs her to take Charlie to a certain location where they’ll bump into Angel. He tells her that he’s a perfect fit for Charlie’s redemption program and hangs up.

He gets up to compose himself. Using one of the cameras he takes a look at his appearance and does his best to put on a smile as he waits for Val. How long has it been?

He makes his way to their shared living room and waits for Val. Not long after Val arrives he quickly sets his eyes on Vox and struts over with a flirtatious smile. He leans down and kisses Vox, straddling him. He starts to slowly remove Vox’s clothes. They slowly make their way over to Vox’s room. Vox has to admit he’s missed this. He’s been frustrated for a while now.

Val is going down Vox’s body kissing every inch of him, caressing him. This is strange. Val usually just gets down to business. Why is he being so….gentle with him.

“Come on Val, why are you messing about?” he chuckles.

“It’s called foreplay carino. Like I said I missed you. Can’t we just enjoy and take our time”

“...” Vox has never seen Val be gentle and it was a bit off putting but he didn’t want to ruin the mood. Val continued his actions, taking his time exploring Vox. It felt nice seeing this side of Val; he had almost forgotten everything that happened before this. Val got up to kiss Vox, some of his pink poison dripping down his chin. Vox lapped it up. It doesn’t affect him the way it does other sinners. It’s not strong enough but it does give him a nice buzz. 

Vox wakes up with Val wrapped around him. He’s not used to waking up with Val still here. He attempts to get up but Val only tightens his hold. He sighs. 

“Val wake up I have work to do”

“Mmm a few more minutes”

“Stay in bed if you want but I have to go” he eventually gets out of Val’s hold and takes a shower. He hopes that Val will remain in a good mood for a bit longer. If Charlie and Vaggie succeed in convincing Angel to join then he’ll have to deal with an explosive Valentino later.

He makes his way to the kitchen to grab some coffee when he spots Vel already there. Her eyes widened in surprise.

“Why are you here?”

“...uh I live here”

“Do you? It’s hard to tell since we never see you here” She says bitterly.

“Vel…” but before he could continue his phone rang. It’s Charlie. He sighs, “I gotta go”

“Whatever”

Vox zaps away to his office back in the Morningstar mansion and answers.

“Hello?”

“THank you so much Vox! Angel agreed to join our program and is moving into the hotel!”

“That’s great darling. Make sure he stays in line. He’s going to represent your project so you need  to make a good impression with him. Don’t forget you have an interview with Katie Killjoy. Stick to your guns. Talk only about what’s important and for the love of god don’t sing…be careful ok?”

“Yes I got it don’t worry mom–Vox! I meant Vox! Ok– I gotta go bye” she quickly hung up. Ooookay that was weird. He’s going to ignore that.

He went over some emails. Replying and deleting through them. For whatever reason most of them seem to be application notices from some guy named Sir Pentious. Wait, didn't he already reject this person? The name sounds familiar. Vic showed up with a tablet in hand to show him his schedule for today. He was wearing some new clothes. Probably Charlie’s doing. She had grown fond of the little robot. That and she keeps tabs of Vox’s health through him, that little traitor.

He makes his way to the kitchen realizing he never got his coffee. Unfortunately Lucifer was occupying it already. He’s been more mopey since Charlie moved out to pursue the hotel thing.

“Morning your highness”

“Ah…morning, Box” things got awkward real quick. “How’s Charlie?”

“She’s doing just fine…you’d know if you bothered to call her up” Vox saw Lucifer visibly cringe.

“...right…and how are things going for you?”

“Busy.” Vox stated, preparing himself some coffee and walking away. He can’t blame Lilith for her burn out if she didn’t get the support she needed. Lucifer needs to stop wallowing in self pity before he loses his daughter too.

Vox took a sip of coffee and let out a sigh. His thoughts drifted to Velvette. But he shook his head. It's not the same thing. Vel is not his daughter and he’s not responsible for her. They’re business partners and nothing more.

A few days later he tuned in for Charlie’s interview and well…. It didn’t go well.

“I’m sorry Vox. After you went through all the trouble–”

“Charlie, it’s fine. It’s only a setback. Keep your chin up and smile ok?”

“Thank you…do you think Dad saw it?”

“Doesn’t matter what he thinks. Focus on yourself. I have to go but uh keep me updated ok?”

Vox hung up. Fuck. Maybe he should have a ‘talk’ with Katie. Straighten her out and see if she’ll do a redo with Charlie. No, not worth the risk with that woman.  Perhaps he should interview Charlie himself. He hasn’t been in front of a camera in a long time (at least not as himself) let alone host his own show. He kinda misses it. His thoughts trail off to a certain red demon. His first ever gig was being a guest on his show.

Vox snaps out of his thoughts. It’s been 7 years…fuck 7 years! Lilith also hasn’t contacted him in so long. Is he gonna have to rule hell forever…well it doesn’t sound bad until he realized how much fucking work actually goes into it.

No, not forever. Charlie has grown so much and it’s clear she has so much potential. He can one day hand over the reins to her. A soft but sad smile forms on Vox’s face. Right…one day Charlie won’t need him any more. She’ll be queen of Hell and she’s got her dad to help her out if that idiot ever pulls himself together. And Vox will go back to just being… Vox.

Despite all his accomplishments it will all go unnoticed by the rest of hell. No one knows it's him and no one would believe him anyways.

Vox is suddenly snapped out of his melancholy by a text alert. It’s from Vaggie.

EMERGENCY!!! The Radio Demon showed up at the hotel! He’s convinced Charlie to let him help her with the hotel business! I couldn’t talk her out of it! I’m Sorry!.

He sat quietly in his chair, trying to take in this information

What. The. Fuck!

7 years gone! 7 fucking years! And the bastard decides to finally show back up.

He tries to calm down. He can’t freak out and lose control, that's just what Alastor wants.

Wait.

There’s no way he’d know Vox is involved with the princess. So what’s his real goal? Is he seriously trying to trick her into making a deal with him?

Of course why else approach a Morningstar. After all, they're overlords. Going after power and control is what they do. But Charlie’s not an idiot. He trusts her….

But it wouldn’t hurt to check up on her.

Charlie was so excited only a few weeks in and she already has a sponsor! Surely this counts as proof she can show her dad and Vox later.

Just then her phone began to ring so she excused herself to another room.

“Vox! Hello! I was just about to call you–”

“Charlie, dear, what’s this about you befriending the Radio Demon”

How did he already know!? …Vaggie. She huffs a bit annoyed but understanding. Vaggie could be overprotective but she wished those around her had more confidence in her.

“Vox it’s fine. I haven’t made any deals. He’s going to be a sponsor”

“...You can’t trust him, Charlie. I know what he’s like”

“Vox please have some confidence in me. I can handle this…please”

“...I’m going to check in now and then. Vaggie will report to me if anything suspicious happens. Got it?”

“Fine…” She hung up quickly, a bit frustrated.

“Is there a problem dear?” Alastor popped from the shadows, making her jump.

“Wha– No it’s fine just talking with my….mom” Charlie cringed. This is the 2nd time now she’s referred to Vox that way.

Alastor’s eyes narrowed, “how are the king and queen? I’ve been gone for so long and they’ve sure have made a lot of changes around here…”

Charlie perked up, excited to explain all that’s happened, “Oh yes! A-and I helped too. V-Mom! And I want to make hell a better place, that's why she’s given me this opportunity with the hotel!”

As if on queue a royal announcement began to broadcast on tv in the shared living room of the hotel.

Lilith appeared in all her glory addressing the people.

“Good Afternoon citizens of the Pride Ring! As you know, the extermination passed a few days ago. Though we lost  quite a lot of souls we have seen a decline in collateral damage and have seen quick rebuilding of our community! I’m so happy the programs we implemented are working and that sinners can bounce back faster than ever! We hope to see more progress is made in finding ways to combat this dilemma. No matter what we shall continue to resist and persevere! And thank you once more for putting your trust in us”

Alastor raised his brow as the broadcast finished. He had seen a couple of her past appearances before and he can’t help feeling that there is something off about her.

Yes she does hold herself quite dignified but not in a royal sense. She doesn’t have that presence or grace that he remembered. She seemed more like a host or politician and strangely familiar too. Then again he’s been gone for so long who knows how drastic some people have changed. If the rumors are to be believed her relationship with the king had become estranged but he’s not one for gossip.

Speaking of estranged relationships his thoughts drift to a certain picture box…

With all the new advancements and cameras scattered around the city he would have thought that Vox would be the first to know of his reappearance yet nothing…

Of course he doesn’t care either way. He’d just be a nuisance anyways. But he’ll take a stroll around town anyway…just to refamiliarize himself with the city nothing more.

Vox deactivated the hologram. But he knows he’ll have to ‘wear’ it again soon for his meeting with the sins. But his mind is still preoccupied with Charlie and Alastor. He’s… worried about her even if he won’t say it out loud.

“Great broadcast by the way” Vox turns around to see Lucifer by the door.

“Thanks…I hope after 7 years I haven’t ruined your wife’s image”

“N-no you’re doing great! Really captured her…enthusiasm” Lucifer chuckled nervously. Vox rolled his eyes. He wonders why he’s even talking with him and about his wife no less. The guy has kept to himself this whole time. Just then a mean thought crosses his mind. He turns the hologram back on as he approaches Lucifer.

“Aw what’s the problem Lucy~ ♥️missing your wife? I’ll play along if you like” Lucifer immediately jumped away from Vox, blushing before his expression changed to anger.

“Don’t” Lucifer threatened but Vox just laughed as he turned the hologram off. He’s learned that thanks to Lilith’s contract he can’t hurt him.

“What are you doing out of your room? Your daughter has to practically beg you. Only ever coming down to eat is the only time we see you”

“I saw her interview with Katie…is she okay?”

“She’s fine. Bounced right back up because she’s strong and capable” Vox smirked still trying to get under his skin. 

“Yeah...” Lucifer only replied with a gentle smile, “Hey have you eaten yet? I could make us something…”

“I’m not hungry” Vox replied sharply only to be disproven by a growl and an alert on his screen telling him he’s low on fuel. Dammit.

Lucifer chuckled before holding the door for Vox so they could walk to the kitchen together.

“It better not be pancakes” Vox mumbled as he gave in.

“Haha of course not” Lucifer said nervously as he pulled at his collar, “how about uh how about some cheesecake or brownies or maybe even some strawberry shortcake. I can also make angel food cake or hah devil’s food cake–”

“Lucifer…those are all desserts” Vox interjected

“Oh… yeah”

“You only know how to make sweets huh” Lucifer nodded abashedly as Vox let out a sigh, “I guess I could make us something…”

Luckily Charlie always made sure to stock the fridge and pantry.

“Uh, I can make a mean meatloaf or some beef stroganoff…”

“Oh, anything is fine really” Lucifer replied surprised that Vox is actually going to cook for him.

“Beef stroganoff it is…” contrary to what others might think Vox can cook. He’s no master chef but he can make decent meals. He had to learn since he began to live on his own at a young age and he didn’t start off rich either, so he knows how to make a quick and simple meal with limited ingredients. “But you’re going to help make some of the side dishes, got it?”

Lucifer's eyes widened briefly but he smiled, happy to be included in the process. Food was usually prepared by the servants; the few times he actually cooked was with Lilith on very rare occasions. Like when they both tried to make a special meal for Charlie together but failed badly. But they laughed it off, happy to have done something together.

He’s snapped out of his reminiscing as Vox hands him a knife.

“Here cut up some vegetables and roast them in the oven and then chop up some lettuce and make a simple caesar salad that should be easy even for you” Vox teased as Lucifer rolled his eyes.

Lucifer helped set the table and finish up the side dishes. Vox was serving each their plate. They sat down to eat. Vox waited for Lucifer to take a bite first, eager to see his reaction. Lucifer took a spoonful and happily savored it.

“Well?”

“It’s delicious!”

“It’s okay? No complaints? Are you sure?” Vox pushed for more. Lucifer studied Vox’s face. It’s like Vox wanted some sort of criticism, practically expected it.

“Like I said, delicious. No complaints! All my compliments to the chef”

“Really?” Vox relaxed a bit, a small sincere smile appearing.

“Yeah, just going out of your way to cook for me is kind of you. What kind of idiot would ruin the gesture by criticizing it like some sort of test”

Vox smiled more brightly at that. Lucifer couldn’t help but think that maybe Vox doesn’t get many compliments his way and is used to mostly receiving criticisms. Lucifer also couldn’t help the happiness growing inside him, knowing he also cheered up Vox.

“It would be nice to do this again…” Lucifer continued.

Vox suddenly felt the weight of Lilith’s contract pull him. 

Oh. That's right he’s only doing this because he has to… He doesn’t care about Lucifer…or Charlie. Vox pushes this fluttery feeling he was having to focus on Lilith’s contract. It seemed this little activity somehow helped Lucifer’s wellbeing. It would be in his best interest to continue encouraging these healthy exercises.

“...If that’s what you want…and if I’m not too busy” Vox replied monotonously.

Lucifer was taken aback by the sudden shift in mood. Vox was suddenly cold and distant. Such a contrast to just a few seconds ago.

“Yeah, it’d be nice to do things together. Get to know each other properly and I could start doing more around the house” Lucifer is going to do his best to finally better himself. Even if it means starting out small.

Vox barely touched his food before dismissing himself as he prepared for some upcoming meetings. He had to talk to Satan, then close off some deals for VoxTek and then prepare for the overlord meeting coming up soon which he’ll have to repeat as he meets up with them again as Lilith.

Alastor had walked around the city for hours. Even intentionally walking right in front of the cameras but nothing!

He’s probably thrown himself into a lot of work, Alastor rationalized, that darn TV has a habit of overworking himself.

No worries he’ll see him at the overlord meeting. He won’t be able to ignore him then…

Just because Lilith hasn’t made contact in 7 years doesn’t mean Vox should become complacent. When did he change so much? He hardly talks to the other Vees; he hardly sees the rest of Hell as Vox. He feels like he’s losing himself.

Who is Vox anymore? Who was he anyway? He needs to recenter himself. For the first time in a long time Vox reminisces about his time on earth. How did he become the sinner he is now? Why is he in hell in the first place? What will he be when Lilith returns…if she ever returns.

Chapter Text

Alastor prepared to head off to the overlord meeting while Charlie and her girlfriend worked on improving Angel and the hotel’s image.

The first person he met on his way to the meeting was Zestial, curious about his absence but Alastor kept things vague. He always wants to leave people wanting more. When they arrived he saw his dear friend Rosie already settled in. her eyes briefly widened in shock before smiling and greeting him as he took the seat next to her. Everyone else soon rolled in as Carmilla made her way to the front to start the meeting.

At the last second Vox zapped in to take the last available seat which happened to be across Alastor. Their eyes met for a moment. Alastor’s smile grew sharper, hoping that Vox would let out a big reaction only for Vox to raise an eyebrow and turn to face Carmilla completely ignoring him. Alastor’s nails dug into the table. This was not the reaction he was expecting but he quickly composed himself when Rosie raised her eyebrow at him, concerned.

The meeting helped Alastor catch up on all he’s missed. The many reforms the Queen implemented and the new laws that the Overlords abide by in terms of territory and power disputes. They’re gathered here today to discuss and vote on any topics or issues that will be brought up in the next meeting happening soon that the Queen will show up for. Thought that next meeting attendance is not mandatory. Usually only Carmilla and Zestial show up to represent the Overlords as a whole but anyone else can attend if they so wish.

After a while Alastor took notice that it was mostly Vox leading these discussions with Carmilla with many nodding in agreement. When did Vox garnered so much trust and respect among their peers? But most of all why are they allowing him to take complete control? Surely they must suspect that anything he brings up must benefit him and not them.

And yet as he listens in, most of Vox’s suggestions are not unreasonable. Sure they help expand his business but they never step on other’s territories. At most Carmilla might tweak a few things here or there but the smug smile on Vox’s face suggests that he still got what he wanted from this meeting. 

“Thank you all once again. I shall make sure to bring up these issues to the Queen” Carmilla spoke up, “But now another issue is at hand. The Queen’s daughter has a hotel that hopes to redeem sinners. This could spell trouble for us who own thousands of souls.”

“That’s nothing to worry about. There’s no evidence sinners can be redeemed plus it ain’t the first time she tried to do something and failed miserably” replied Zeezi

“Even if it’s impossible, many would try to take refuge to get away from their owners” countered another overlord

Before Alastor could jump in to vouch for Charlie as he needs this hotel to stay around as long as possible, Vox spoke up first.

“The hotel would still be a better alternative than the exterminations if she can convince Heaven to adopt this route”

“You don’t seriously believe in redemption do you?” questioned Carmilla

“No,” Vox let out a laugh, “but it’s not about whether we believe in it, only that Heaven does. Think about it, in one day the exterminators wipe out hundreds of souls here in hell but this redemption program even if it’s successful would take months or even years to redeem one soul…”

“Then why would heaven even endorse it if it’s so ineffective?” another overlord questioned

“It would eat at their so call morality if there's even a chance that there might be someone down here that shouldn’t” Vox countered

“And if it does prove successful what will that spell for us?” asked Carmilla.

“It means that we now get a seat at the table” Vox smirked, “We had to stand by and watch heaven slaughter us but if the hotel is implemented then we can discuss rules and boundaries with the queen and her daughter as they act as mediaries for hell and heaven. Trust me…the hotel is a good thing for us and we should be supporting it…”

Everyone began to murmur among each other. Opinions quickly flipped as they discussed further. Alastor was completely dumbfounded. He’d never would have imagined Vox supporting some redemption hotel let alone convincing a bunch of overlords to support it.

“Very well I shall discuss this further with the Queen at our next meeting. As always others are welcome to attend but if you have any concerns or questions, raise them now. This meeting is over” Carmilla finished off.

Vox was delighted to push this meeting in the right direction. He can’t wait to see the look on Charlie's face when she learns that she’ll have the support of Overlords soon. As he makes his way out of the room searching for a camera to just zap out of here, he’s stopped by Alastor just appearing in front of him. Oh right, the smiling freak is back he forgot.

“Not stopping to say hello. My, how you’ve forgotten your manners, old friend”

“Alastor…it’s been so long and yet not long enough” Alastor chuckles at this, “But I’m extremely busy, some of us have actual work to do”

“Oh my dear picture box, I think it’s in our best interest to be reacquainted with ourselves since we’ll be seeing more of each other. You see, that hotel that was brought up in the meeting is the very one I have chosen to endorse”

“Trust me, I know,” Vox muttered. Alastor’s smile grew clearly pleased by the answer but before the conversation went further a phone rang and Vox immediately answered.

“Ok, that’s fine. I’ll be right over” Vox hung up and started to pass Alastor, “Do what you want just don’t bother me about it” and zapped away leaving Alastor frustrated by the short reunion.

Alastor had decided to attend the other optional overlord meeting so that he could meet the Queen in person. Rosie decided to tag along as she too had never bothered before and wanted to see what Alastor would do. It seems the only other people in attendance were Zestial and Carmilla. He had expected to see her in person but was disappointed to see it was nothing more than a video meeting.

“Good Afternoon Carmilla and Zestial–” the queen’s eyes widened briefly when she took notice of Rosie and Alastor, clearly not expecting others to show up, “...A- and first time attendees”

Alastor couldn’t help but get a sense that the queen didn’t like his presence there, making him grin wider at her much to her irritation.

“Hello Queen Lilith. Our meeting with the other Overlords has concluded and we are all unanimously in agreement to back up Princess Morningstar’s project” Carmilla led the meeting. “With the promise that if this hotel is successful that certain measures and provisions will be passed through with all overlords regarding how souls will be selected without interfering with our powers and status”

“Of course! You’ve all done such a great job complying to all the changes happening in hell. It’s only fair that such loyalty and trust be rewarded” Lilith smiled.

Alastor couldn’t help but think that her smile looked so unnatural on her face. It did not suit a lady of such background….was she always like this?

“And tell me, are all the meetings always this impersonal?” Alastor chimed in.

“Whatever do you mean Mr. Radio Demon” Lilith spitted out bitterly much to his amusement.

“I’m not one for these silly picture contraptions. If we are to all have a much closer relationship should we not be able to meet face to face”

Carmilla and Zestial turned to each other. Clearly such thoughts also crossed their minds but were never voiced to the Queen.

“I’m a very busy person. I have other important people to meet up with–”

“If we are all to work together, should we not be on equal footing with the Sins and Ars Goetia? It feels like we’re just an after thought. Are we not contributing to the success of hell?” Alastor continued.

“We have had to conform to a lot of the royal family's demands than any other group” chimed Rosie with Carmilla and Zestial nodding along.

Lilith’s smile strained as she tried to keep her composure, “Noted. I shall see if i can reschedule my meetings to make personal time for all of you…is that all”

The four overlords looked to each other and with a quick nod they all seemed to silently agree.

“That seems to be all for now” answered Carmilla for all of them.

“Then I shall see if I can push forward my daughter’s project onto heaven and I’ll see to it that I can make arrangements to meet with you all in person. Meeting adjourned.” and with that Lilith signed off.

Zestial and Carmilla said their goodbyes and headed off. Once it was just Alastor and Rosie he let out a laugh.

“Getting under the Queen’s skin? Are you trying to get yourself a permanent death?” chuckled Rosie.

“I could not help myself. I didn’t think she’d make it so easy” Alastor started to head out with Rosie walking by his side, “And now that I’m cozying up to her daughter it will be more fun to see what I can get away with…”

“Do be careful Alastor. A lot has changed since you were gone and the royal family is a lot more active. We overlords can’t go around doing as we please like we used to”

“All the more reason to get close to them and find their weakness…” Alastor decided to accompany Rosie all the way back to Cannibal Town and spend some time catching up.

“THAT FUCKER!!!” Vox swiped his arm across his desk, knocking several items over. First the Sins demanding to see Lilith in person and now thanks to Alastor so are the overlords. Soon enough the Goetias will too. And even though Lucifer is dealing with Heaven, they’ll no doubt start asking for her to show up to those meetings as well. What is he to do? He doubts Lilith thought this far. A hologram image inducer can only go so far. SHIT! SHIT FUCKING BALLS!!!!

Just then Lucifer peeked in.

“Is everything alright…?”

“Fuck No! Everyone wants to suddenly meet up with Lilith!”

“...If you want… I could attend these meetings?”

“Oh please we both know talking and giving presentations isn’t your forte. And you’re not exactly popular with the public compared to Lilith” exhausted Vox collapsed on his chair. His face lit up with an alert telling him to either go to sleep or charge himself. Vic came waltzing in with a snack and some coffee for him. “What am I going to do…?”

Lucifer looked at Vox with pity. It really wasn’t fair that Vox had to do all this work on top of that he’s still running Voxtek. Did his wife really have to go through all this? Why didn’t she ask for help? But most importantly why didn’t he take notice and act sooner? He’s not going to make the same mistake again. Charlie no doubt is also going through a lot of stress trying to get the hotel to work.

“Why not…meet them all at once?” Lucifer finally spoke up. Vox who had had his face in his hands looked up at him in disbelief.

“....are you a moron?”

“No think about it…you can’t go to the other rings to meet up with the sins so tell them to come meet you here in the pride ring. We can hold some sort of banquet here in the palace! And since your plan is to get the Sins, Overlords and Goetias to work together with heaven. Why not get them to all meet up!”

“You’re forgetting one thing, Lucifer. The hologram only makes me look like Lilith. What if one of those bozos decides to go for a handshake or worse…a hug. Some of them were close friends with that woman”

“No problem!” exclaimed Lucifer and with a snap of his finger smoke surrounded Vox.

Vox coughed and waved the smoke away, “What the hell Lucife–”. Vox noticed his voice was high and feminine and as he reached for his throat he felt a soft chin. Raising his hand and noticing delicate fingers he felt around his face and felt more soft skin and soon enough hair that felt heavy as it cascaded all the way down towards the floor.

Lucifer conjured up a full length mirror and Vox soon approached it. He looked like Lilith!

“See! You won’t have to rely on the hologram when they’re here”

“...Wow. you actually came up with something clever and useful, Lucy” Vox said while checking himself out. Lucifer blushed at the nickname. He hadn’t heard anyone call him that in quite a long time. But his blush only got deeper when Vox started fondling his breasts.

“H-hey! Watch it! T-That’s my Wife’s body!!!” Lucifer’s horns grew and his eyes went red.

Vox let out a loud laugh, “Ok!Ok! Sorry” he instead went to touching his face and playing with his hair. Lilith was very beautiful no doubt about it but Vox honestly just missed having a more human body. He was envious of those in hell who got to have a more humanoid appearance while he was stuck with a stupid TV head and inorganic body parts.

Lucifer watched as Vox’s face went from playful admiration to a bitter sad expression.

“What’s wrong?”

“...Nothing, just change me back already…” With another snap, Vox watched his face change back to a screen. His hand hovered over his flat face. No longer warm soft skin but a plastic flat surface heating from all the electricity running through him. He let out a sigh and began to pick up the items he dropped in his frustration, with Vic quickly assisting.

Lucifer felt guilt but he wasn’t sure why. Why did Vox’s moods switch so quickly?

“...Do you perhaps…miss your human self?”

“I doubt most sinners enjoy their hellish form…it is after all a punishment for those who arrive here.”

Vox had quickly cleaned up the place.

“Look we can discuss your plan further–”

“If you want I can make you human–”

“What?”

“Ah! Only for a little while though” Lucifer clarified, realizing he just blurted it outloud.

“I could see my old face again…really?” Vox's voice went soft.

“...Yeah. Of course” Lucifer focused on Vox’s soul before snapping his fingers. Once again the smoke surrounded Vox. He once again began to cough as he waved them away. He approached the mirror slowly, almost afraid of what he might see.

It had been almost 80 years since he last saw himself as human.

…and there he was.

He touched his skin. Not as soft as Lilith but it felt good to touch real flesh. His eyes were blue just like he remembered, black hair comb back and olive skin from living on the west coast under that sunny California sky.

He almost forgot that Lucifer was in the room. And he was staring quite intently.

“I’m quite the looker, aren’t I?” Vox smirked, laying the charm on thick but when Lucifer remained quiet, all that false confidence quickly went away.

“O-Okay I get it. I’m no Marlon Brando o-or Paul Newman” Vox began to blush. Suddenly old memories of his low self image in the industry came back to haunt him. Staring back at the mirror and Vox couldn’t help but pick apart all the things he thought were wrong with him. He should probably eat less…. Jesus he let himself stay out in the sun too long…was he really that old when he died? He can practically see wrinkles and grey hair.

“N-No! Sorry! You’re really quite handsome! I was taken aback!” Lucifer finally snapped out of his thoughts.

“Ok ok you don’t have to give me some pity compliments. I get it. Next to Lilith my looks pale in comparison…but I used to turn some heads back in my prime… I’ve gotten old”

“I’m not lying Vox..really! You’re really handsome…gorgeous even! You’re totally my type!” Lucifer blurted out without thinking. An awkward silence filled the room.

“Uh thanks? You’re …really handsome too? And when you’re not wallowing in self pity you can even be pretty cool” Vox tried to turn things around. Just then his stomach growled loudly. Perfect!

“Why don’t we go eat” Vox tried to change the subject. Now that he’s human. That feeling of tiredness and hunger was amplified. He wonders if his sense of taste is stronger or weaker now that he’s human again. Wasting no time he headed to the kitchen. With Lucifer walking right behind trying to calm down, reeling from the embarrassment he caused.

“I could go for some tomato soup and grilled sandwiches! Those were always my favorite to make. Quick and easy too!” Vox kept talking trying to fill the awkward silence.

Once he prepared a dish for each they ate in silence.

“So uh how long does this spell last? You know, so we can plan for the actual event.”

“Oh! Um the longest I can hold it for is 2 hours but this one should only last like 1 hour”

“...ok that’s good then the special event will only be for an hour and a half… Fuck will need some excuse as to why I, Vox, won’t be there especially when all the other Overlords are sure to come….Jeez what will I tell Val and Vel” Vox began to mutter to himself as a bunch of problems began to circulate his head.

“Well you really haven’t been making that many public appearances as yourself so it shouldn’t be too out of the ordinary for you not to show up especially because your business partners will be there to represent the Vees anyways…”

“You’re probably right Lucy” Vox once again inadvertently called Lucifer by his nickname causing him to blush at the nickname and affirmation.

“But another issue arises…” continued Vox.

“What is it?”

“You and Charlie will be there too…”

“Yeah …so?”

“We’re going to have to keep up the act of a loving family…”

“I mean you and Charlie have gotten pretty close…”

“...Lucifer… you and I are going to have to act like a couple…. A married couple” he clarified.

“...Oh” Lucifer felt so flustered, not sure how else to reply. When suddenly Vox leaned in quite close.

“You and I are gonna have to spend the next few days close together to get to know each other better okay?” Vox stared down intensely at Lucifer, who tried really hard not to look down at Vox’s lips.

“Uh ok?” Lucifer replied rather pathetically. But soon he processed what he actually agreed to.

These are technically DATES!!! He hasn’t been on one in who knows how long.

“Good well I better head off to bed then… this spell is about to wear off anyway”

Vox would send an invite to all Overlords, Goetias and Sins the next day, announcing that a banquet will be held at the Morningstar Palace in 3 weeks! He had a lot to prepare but he’s finally going to shut down all his retractors and hopefully reign in all those doubting him.

*****

Alastor on the other hand looked down at his invite and his smile grew wide. It seemed he really did get under the Queen’s skin in the end. He wonders how he’ll make that annoying royal couple make a fool of themselves and lose the trust of all of hell.

*****

“And tell me again amorcito why you won’t be attending?” Valentino leaned back arms cross clearly annoyed at Vox for once again neglecting the two.

“I’m busy and I have no time to entertain royalty” Vox explained nonchalantly

“But we do?” Velvette added glaring down at her phone, refusing to make eye contact with Vox.

Vox let out a sigh, voice trying to be softer, “I hear Beelzebub is a fan of your fashion line Vel could be good PR for you. I’m sure a lot of wealthy Goetias will also want to meet with you. And Val it’s best you make nice with Osmodeus since he no longer is going after you and Vel for those Love Potions ....”

Vox got an internal alert that he needed to go and meet up with Lucifer and said his goodbyes not waiting for a reply. He knows the two will just give him the cold shoulder. They can’t appreciate or comprehend all the work he does for those two.

Vox arrived at the palace and made his way to Lucifer’s chambers. Just as he was about to knock on the door, Lucifer walked out in a new attire. It was somehow fancier than his usual suit, no hat and hair even further combed back.

“Uh what’s with the get up your majesty?”

“Uh we are going out aren’t we? I- I mean we have to practice being a couple right!?!”

“... Yeah I guess you’re right” with a flash of light Vox also changed from his business suit to something more casual.

“Great! I rented out LuLu World so it’ll just be us! Lilith and I would constantly take Charlie there and even have some of our date nights there”

Throughout their walk around the park, Lucifer kept fumbling with his hands and having a hard time keeping casual conversation with Vox. It was honestly starting to irritate Vox. How are they going to fool anyone that they’re a couple?

“Hey Lucy if it makes you feel any better I haven’t been on a date in quite a long time too. So just relax okay?”

“Oh I thought you and that moth were…” Lucifer trailed off not wanting to finish that sentence. The thought of that overlord always rubbed him the wrong way.

“Val and I aren’t a couple. Val doesn’t do relationships. So we’ve never dated or done dates. We fucked around that’s all” No strings attached that’s what they had agreed on. Val got to fuck others and occasionally they fucked each other but since this gig they really haven’t done much. But what does it matter? Val has a catalog of whores to choose from. He doesn’t care. Val has never cared. That’s why he doesn’t get why Val has these sudden tantrums of a jealous boyfriend.

“Oh ok…” Lucifer feels like he probably shouldn’t prod into that can of worms but he feels some strange relief from that clarification, “...So when was the last time you went on a date?”

“Hmmm” Vox thought hard. His mind immediately drifted to a certain red radio demon. drinking , dancing, terrorizing sinners. No, it didn’t count. It was that kind of delusional thinking that got him in that mess to begin with. Him and that bastard weren’t….anything. Vox’s chest suddenly ached. He hated thinking about his ‘love life’ or lack thereof. He was divorced twice back on earth and had one failed affair with a man. “Fuck have I really not been on a date since my teen years”

Vox had muttered that thought out loud without thinking, catching Lucifer off guard. He felt guilty clearly he must have triggered bad memories for Vox who’s whole demeanor went sour.

“Well, hey! It seems we’re both out of practice! So let’s have the bestest date ever!” Lucifer exclaimed as he grabbed Vox’s hand and led him to a roller coaster ride. Vox snapped out of his thoughts, did his best to keep up. That’s right, no point in wallowing in the past, only the future matters!

After a couple of intense rides, they decided to catch their breath and get a few snacks and drinks. Vox’s face was bright and happy.

“This place sure is fun. Maybe Voxtek should expand and get into the amusement park business”

Lucifer rolled his eyes, “Can you get your mind off work. This is a date! When was the last time you had a vacation anyways”

Vox chuckled, sipping his drink and looking around.

There were several performers in the distance performing tricks. One in particular seemed to be doing card tricks. 

Vox’s eyes seemed to focus on the guy. Lucifer followed his gaze, “You like card tricks?”

“...I suddenly remember…”

“Huh remember what?”

“My last date…” Vox smiled fondly at the performer, “He was a fellow overlord. He loved card tricks. We got on pretty well. He treated me…decently”

“Gee what high standards you have” Lucifer replied trying to contain his jealousy but regretted it when Vox’s face turned sad.

“Well maybe he wasn’t such a decent guy after all… he suddenly stopped talking to me. All together ghosted me and avoided me. Last I heard he lost his status as an overlord…”

While Lilith did leave a note before leaving, Lucifer understands that feeling of someone just cutting all connections with you and not having any sort of closure or reassurance of any kind.

“This date isn’t going so well, is it?” Vox cut the silence.

“Nonsense! I think we’re getting quite comfortable with each other” Lucifer held out his hand and Vox gave him a playful smirk, grabbing his hand and sending an electric shock that caused Lucifer’s hair to stand up.

“H-Hey!!” Vox lets out a chuckle. It’s fun to tease the almighty fallen angel.

“I think we should head home. I asked Charlie and her girlfriend to have dinner with us.”

“O-Oh”

“It’s about time you two reconcile. Remember we’re supposed to be seen as a family”

“Right! You’re right!”

Vox isn’t too excited about this dinner either. He’ll have to explain to Charlie that they are to act…mother and daughter. That girl is not a very good liar but most of all she’s terribly awkward.

Charlie and Vaggie arrived soon after they did. Vaggie, always the soldier, stood straight and nodded politely at the two of them. Charlie on the other hand ran up and hugged Vox and much to the disappointment of Lucifer, he received an awkward hand wave.

“...Hi, dad”

They all sat around the table and Vox began to explain the plan.

“I’ll make a speech addressing them all. Charlie dear, since it’s your project you’ll also have to have a speech prepared ok?”

“R-right! Got it” Charlie tried not to panic. Vaggie patted her back in comfort.

“We have to uphold a perfect image as the royal family of Hell. And that means… getting along well with each other. How do you usually address your mother?”

“Mom! Of course and…dad” Charlie awkwardly smiled at Lucifer.

“None of that Charlie. I know you and your father haven’t spent enough time together but you both need to rebuild this relationship. Tomorrow he’s going to spend all day with you at the Hotel”

“What!” “Oh! Okay” father and daughter were taken aback.

“What about me, sir?” Vaggie turned to Vox, wishing to be of use too.

“I don’t really have any notes” Vaggie slumped down, “Uh but you should help Charlie have a speech prepared and have her practice. Also keep her from slipping up. Can’t have her accidentally calling my name instead of Lilith’s”

“Will do!”

With everything in order, they ate peacefully and chatted casually catching up on everything going on.

Tomorrow will be a stressful day. He’s not sure how Lucifer will handle his outing with his daughter. Vox seemed to have forgotten that there is a particular guest at the Hotel that could cause problems but that’s for tomorrow to deal with….