Was helping my friend with her struggles of expression in fiction, and this was the prompt we both did. I chose sepiatoned by CG5. I love that song. Such a vibe. Here's what I wrote. (note- I didn't use all the lyrics. But is is about bendy teehee)
"We're dancing..." she begins, voice shaky. Her eyes dart around the room, scanning for anything that could potentially be dangerous, never knowing what would jump out of the inky puddles on the floor. "With danger. In a demon's despair."
"What?" He asks, confused by the statement. He tries to follow her eyes, to see what she sees amongst the yellow hued room, but doesn't see anything overly suspicious. "What are you talking-"
"Shh! There's no way out! We fell through the floor! We're trapped in a..A Sepiatoned Nightmare!"
"I don't-" She cuts him off again covering his mouth with her hand.
"The creator...he remastered 'the Darling Devil. Every wall in here is plastered with ink. Can't you hear the screams of agony that are left in his wake, that he revels in?"
"Okay, Okay. Don't be scared, you wimp. He's just heartless. A piece of cardboard. Sure, he's everywhere, always there, in the darkness, but-"
"He called to us, singing! 'If I don't sing with psychos, why do I write this musical haiku?' Is that not warning enough?"
"I mean-"
"Again, I say, we're dancing with danger being down here," she warns, trembling with fear.
"Someome one just needs to get us out of here."
"The past does't change, you know. History will repeat," a voice echoes from behind them, a cardboard mask covering the face.
"WELCOME TO THE SEPIATONED NIGHTMARE, LADIES AND GENTLEMEN."
Was helping my friend with her struggles of expression in fiction, and this was the prompt we both did. I chose sepiatoned by CG5. I love that song. Such a vibe. Here's what I wrote. (note- I didn't use all the lyrics. But is is about bendy teehee)
"We're dancing..." she begins, voice shaky. Her eyes dart around the room, scanning for anything that could potentially be dangerous, never knowing what would jump out of the inky puddles on the floor. "With danger. In a demon's despair."
"What?" He asks, confused by the statement. He tries to follow her eyes, to see what she sees amongst the yellow hued room, but doesn't see anything overly suspicious. "What are you talking-"
"Shh! There's no way out! We fell through the floor! We're trapped in a..A Sepiatoned Nightmare!"
"I don't-" She cuts him off again covering his mouth with her hand.
"The creator...he remastered 'the Darling Devil. Every wall in here is plastered with ink. Can't you hear the screams of agony that are left in his wake, that he revels in?"
"Okay, Okay. Don't be scared, you wimp. He's just heartless. A piece of cardboard. Sure, he's everywhere, always there, in the darkness, but-"
"He called to us, singing! 'If I don't sing with psychos, why do I write this musical haiku?' Is that not warning enough?"
"I mean-"
"Again, I say, we're dancing with danger being down here," she warns, trembling with fear.
"Someome one just needs to get us out of here."
"The past does't change, you know. History will repeat," a voice echoes from behind them, a cardboard mask covering the face.
"WELCOME TO THE SEPIATONED NIGHTMARE, LADIES AND GENTLEMEN."
Was helping my friend with her struggles of expression in fiction, and this was the prompt we both did. I chose sepiatoned by CG5. I love that song. Such a vibe. Here's what I wrote. (note- I didn't use all the lyrics. But is is about bendy teehee)
"We're dancing..." she begins, voice shaky. Her eyes dart around the room, scanning for anything that could potentially be dangerous, never knowing what would jump out of the inky puddles on the floor. "With danger. In a demon's despair."
"What?" He asks, confused by the statement. He tries to follow her eyes, to see what she sees amongst the yellow hued room, but doesn't see anything overly suspicious. "What are you talking-"
"Shh! There's no way out! We fell through the floor! We're trapped in a..A Sepiatoned Nightmare!"
"I don't-" She cuts him off again covering his mouth with her hand.
"The creator...he remastered 'the Darling Devil. Every wall in here is plastered with ink. Can't you hear the screams of agony that are left in his wake, that he revels in?"
"Okay, Okay. Don't be scared, you wimp. He's just heartless. A piece of cardboard. Sure, he's everywhere, always there, in the darkness, but-"
"He called to us, singing! 'If I don't sing with psychos, why do I write this musical haiku?' Is that not warning enough?"
"I mean-"
"Again, I say, we're dancing with danger being down here," she warns, trembling with fear.
"Someome one just needs to get us out of here."
"The past does't change, you know. History will repeat," a voice echoes from behind them, a cardboard mask covering the face.
"WELCOME TO THE SEPIATONED NIGHTMARE, LADIES AND GENTLEMEN."
Alastor and Charlie enter the hotel first, opening the doors and hearing the blaring alarm, Alastor folding his ears. “Charlotte, my love, we really must stop that indecent noise!”
“I know, Al. I’m trying.” She walks over to the machine, seeing Sir Pentious hunched over it. “Pentious! Can you turn it off?!”
“I am trying, Missss Charlie!” Sir Pentious had his hands buried in the machine, tangled in wires. Charlie was trying not to lose her patience and just break it, her patience wearing thin. Sir Pentious pulls a wire and the sound stops, Pentious sighing in relief. “My sssinceressst apologiesss, Missss Charlie. I did not know it would be that loud.” He looks at Charlie, eyes drooped.
“Pentious, it’s okay. Everyone makes mistakes. Owning up for them proves that you are willing to change.” His eyes lit up, supported by her words. “Thank you, Pentious, for your apology.” The sound returns, startling everyone in the vicinity. “I thought you stopped the sound!”
“I musssst have pulled the wrong wire!” He begins searching again, trying to find the correct one.
“Pentious!” Charlie shouts, patience at its last whim. “Just pull a wire!” The snake pulls a handful of wires out, the detector’s sound dying out slowly. “Oh thank goodness it’s over.” The two sigh in relief, ears ringing still.
“Apologiesss, Misss Charlie. I thought I pulled the right wire.”
“It’s fine, Sir Pentious. It-You couldn’t have known.”
“Is it gone?!” Alastor shouts from in front of the doors, ears still folded to protect his hearing. Charlie nods and he unfolds them, restoring his hearing. “Excellent. Now can someone tell me what happened?”
“I think they might be the reason.” In front of the fireplace sat a large figure, bright and illuminating with white light. Charlie points to the figure, directing everyone’s attention to them. Surprisingly, the first to step forward was Yuki, timidly crossing the room. “Yuki, wait. Charlie catches up to him, grabbing his shoulder and startling the man. “Stop. I don’t want you to get hurt,” she signs, cautious of her speed so as not to also appear unsettled. “Stay with Alastor and my parents. Please.”
“But Mrs. Charlie-”
“Please, Yuki.” The boy nods in agreement, shoulders slumped. “Thank you.” She watches as he walks back to Alastor’s side, a sigh of relief exhaling from her. But as she begins to approach closer, she begins to feel sicker, getting paler. Still she continues to approach the figure on their couch, stopping beside the furniture. “Hello. Is there something I can help you with?” A pair-no. Many pairs of eyes fall on her, the figure having many sets of eyes, just like her father did with his wings.
“Charlotte Morningstar,” The figure bellows, voice echoing through the room, catching her off guard.
The only problem?
Lucifer recognized the voice. “Charlie! Get away from him!” He was already in motion when the figure turned to look at him, stilling him completely.
“Dad?” Charlie tried to move as well, but couldn’t, no matter how hard she willed her body to move. “What’s going on?” The figure in front of her turned back towards her, giving her their full attention. “Who are you?” She could see the silhouette of a smile on what she thought was the person’s face, only making her more nervous.
“Is that any way to greet your grandfather? Albeit, I might not be recognizable in this form, but Your Realm has presented me this way…”
“Who?” Charlie was confused. Grandfather? Who was that? Why were they here?
“Get away from her!” Lucifer shouts, fighting against the invisible force holding him back. His horns were out, a crown of flames and light surrounding his head.
“Samael, please. I am trying to be civil. I know you are angry with me, and I am sorry, but-”
“Cut the bullshit! Get Away from My DAUGHTER!” Lucifer fell to the floor, pure rage seeping from him, the floor cracking underneath him. A sigh escaped the man in front of Charlie, lips curling into a frown.
From where Alastor was standing next to Lilith, he was filled with fear. His wife was trapped next to someone unfamiliar, his father in law pinned to the floor, mother in law trembling in fear and in tears, and the hotel in complete silence. The others had left and retreated to safety at Lilith’s beckon, leaving them to be the only ones there. He wanted to run to her, to stand by Charlie’s side, but his feet felt like they were encased in concrete, holding him still. “My Queen? What…what is happening?”
“I…” she began, the rest of her words never leaving her mouth, throat dry.
“Your Highness?” Alastor’s voice was filled with worry and fear, hands shaking.
“I’m sorry, Alastor. It’s best if we wait.”
“Wait?! Wait! My Wife-Your daughter could be in danger! And you want to-”
“We cannot do anything.” She cuts him off, deep purple eyes meeting his crimson ones. “The only thing we can do is wait. And pray.”
“Samael.” The name reverberated in Charlie and Lucifer’s bones, shaking them to their core. The figure walked away from her and towards Lucifer’s frozen form dug into a crater on the floor, hovering over him. “Please. I just want to-”
“Save it. Just go back to your throne up in Heaven. I don’t want you here,” Lucifer grits out, struggling to speak and breathe from his crippling spot on the floor.
“My son.”
“I am not. Your. Son. Not anymore.”
“You will always be my son, Samael.”
“That’s not my name. My name is Lucifer.”
“Lies. Your name is Samael.”
“Lucifer is my name! I left that name when you all threw me out of my home and abandoned me to this forsaken place!”
“Sam-”
“Excuse me?” Charlie appears behind the figure, startling him.
“How?” the figure thinks, shocked. “She shouldn’t be able to move.”
“I’m sorry. But you’re hurting my father. Do you mind stopping?” She moves in front of him, helping Lucifer up from the floor, removing the force that was holding him down.
“How are you doing this?” He asks, equally angry and surprised. “You shouldn’t be able to do this?!”
“She’s my daughter. You shouldn’t be shocked,” Lucifer gasps out, voice coarse but laughing at the figure’s dismay. “Thank you, Char-Char.” He holds onto her tightly, Charlie holding him up.
“Dad? Are you okay?”
“I will be, honeycake. Once he leaves.” Lucifer glares at the figure, deep-rooted hatred in his eyes.
“Who is he, Dad?” Charlie’s voice was soft, tinged with hints of concern and fear.
“He’s…He’s God.” Dead silence fills the room, drowning out anything in the room, no one breathing.
“Come again?”
“I’m God. You heard him, correct? Are your ears malfunctioning, granddaughter?” God asked, lowering his head to her face. “I can fix that for you if need be.”
“Her hearing’s fine, Dad! Stop! Back up!” Lucifer tries to stand on his own but winces, holding his ribcage in pain. “Shit,” he mumbles, grabbing Charlie’s attention instantly.
“Dad! Hold on.” She walks him to a chair nearby and sits him down, wanting to inspect the wound, multitasking while also trying to distract that she just found out that God is her Grandfather. The. God. She wasn’t prepared for that. But it’s fine, she’s not thinking about it too much. “May I?”
“Sure, hon.” He lifts up his shirt slightly, Charlie having already taken off his coat.
“What is going on here? What are you doing?” God asks, starting to walk towards them.
“Sir. With all due respect,” she asks, tilting her head towards the Heavenly Man. “I need you to politely shut the fuck up and stay over there. You’re making my father uncomfortable and feel unsafe, which is the opposite of what anyone who’s in pain wants to deal with. We can talk separately when I finish.” She turned her attention back to Lucifer, gently pressing her hands on his ribcage. “This is going to be slightly painful, Dad. But you can’t move. Got it?”
“Of course, Char-Char.” Lucifer grips the armrests of the chair tight and stills his body, nodding in agreement. “Go ahead,” Charlie begins, her hands beginning to disappear into Lucifer’s body, Charlie focusing deeply to not solidify her hands inside of her father. She corrects the broken ribs and pulls her hands out, resting them on the skin. She begins to speak, the ancient language falling from her lips and surrounding her hands, glowing and healing him. “There. That should do it.”
“I could’ve healed myself, Charlie.” Lucifer pouts, trying to make her laugh to ease the tension from the stressful moment. “Thank you.” He gives her a small kiss on the forehead, thanking her with affection.
“I know, I know. But I didn’t want to risk it being forgotten about.” She chuckles as he kisses her, smiling childishly. “ You’re welcome, Dad.” She stands up, taking a deep breath before turning around. “Grandfather. Sir. Can we maybe talk somewhere less…open? I’d like for my residents to not have to hide anymore, and for my father to rest.” She looks at her mother and Alastor off by the door, the two standing in bewilderment. “That, and it seems that I’ve broken my mother and husband. Again. Dad?”
“Yes?”
“Can you help Mom?”
“Of course! What’s the problem?” He turns and looks at his wife, seeing her frozen figure. “I see.” He looks at God, frowning. “Do you mind?”
“Whatever are you talking about?” God smiles, toying with Lucifer ever so slightly.
“Remove your enchantment, Father.”
“There isn’t one on them. I am telling you the truth, for-”
“Yeah, I know. You’re incapable of lying. I know.” Lucifer dismisses his Father, ignoring anything he says after that. “Lili!” She perked up, blinking a few times. “You okay?” she nods, the look of bewilderment on her face still.
“To your question, granddaughter, I will, for the people under your care matter very much to you. Sam-”
“Lucifer.” Charlie and Lucifer correct in unison, not letting God finish.
“Right. He will join us. Right, Son?”
“No. I don’t fucking feel like it. I am going home. And staying there until you leave.”
“Back up to Heaven?”
“That’s not my home anymore. I’m not welcome there.” Lucifer hugs Charlie tight, whispering in her ear. “Please be careful. Do not fall for his truths, for they only tell a sliver of the story.” He lets go, looking deeply into her eyes before walking off, hopefully not regretting his choice of letting her talk to Him alone. “Come on, Lili. Let’s go home. We’ll do what we needed to do here tomorrow.” The two leave together, Lilith supporting him and holding his hand tightly as they walk out of the hotel. Alastor now stands alone by the door of the Hotel, stiff and rigid. Charlie waves him over, trying to coax him to come be with her, but he doesn’t move, too afraid and shellshocked.
“Al? Honey? Are you okay?” Charlie asks, lightly skipping to him, placing her hand on his shoulder. “Alastor?” He snaps out of his daze, shaking his head, puffing his hair slightly.
“Apologies, my love. I had spaced out. Did you call me?”
“Yeah. I wanted to make sure you were okay.”
“I am quite alright. Just a bit…”
“Shocked?”
“That and lost. Why is he here?”
“That’s what I’m trying to figure out. I am taking him away from the Hotel to finish our conversation and let the residents return. Did you-”
“I will come with you.” His voice was determined. He wasn’t going to let some stranger go with his wife. Never in a million years. Especially one from Heaven. “I will not let you go alone.”
“You don’t have to, Al. I don’t want you to feel pressured and uncomfortable.”
“Charlotte. You are my wife. I swore an oath when I married you to protect you from all harm.”
“Except I’m stronger than you.”
“I beg to differ.”
“Keep lying to yourself. See how well that goes. But fine, I won’t push.”
“Thank you.” The two walk back towards the Heavenly Man, God simply just standing there in the middle of the Hotel lobby waiting for her.
“Are you done?” He asks as she approaches, seeing Alastor and frowning. “You are Alastor Lacroix.”
“Yes sir. I am.”
“A serial killer on Earth.”
“Yes sir.”
“Are you enjoying your punishment?”
“Yes sir. I am. I am married now to Charlie. She has made my life complete.” God scowls
“That isn’t what Hell is for. It is a realm for punishment, not reward.”
“That’s not entirely true,” Charlie points out, frowning slightly. “That's part of my hotel’s goal and function. Is to correct the bad behaviors and redeem them. If there is a reward for changing behavior for the better, the more they do it of their own volition. It’s a proven method and results are seen.”
“I don’t disagree with you. But a serial killer shouldn’t be rewarded by having more power to kill people.”
“Again, I’m not disagreeing. I’m-”
“Then why give him more power?”
“You will not interrogate my wife so disrespectfully.” Alastor moved in front of Charlie, defending her and snarling at God. “If you wish to ask questions about our hotel, you can do so with decency and respect, just as she has shown, you despite your actions.”
“Al, please. It’s fine.” He turns around, eyes softening as soon as they meet her gaze, understanding immediately.
“Of course, love.” He takes a step back, standing beside her now. “Continue.”
“If I may, sir, do you mind following me? It will make this easier, hopefully.” Charlie opens a shimmering gold portal, glitter emitting from the edges. “After you.” God huffs but steps through, Charlie looking at Alastor. “Tell the residents to come back and resume their regular days. And tell them I apologize for causing a commotion and disturbance.”
“Of course. I will join you shortly.” He kisses her on the cheek before disappearing into his shadow, vanishing from sight. Charlie steps through the portal and closes it behind her, now on the roof of the Hotel. They could see most of Pentagram City from there, the view incredible and bright despite how little light there was around them and how far away they actually were from the city.
“Now that we’re not in my hotel, I wanted to ask: why are you here?”
“I got a letter from my son. Not Lucifer, but Michael, his twin brother. Gabriel had also left me a letter as well. They told me about your hotel and you. They also told me about your wedding and your husband. I had also noticed in a court summary from the High Seraphim that you both were in Heaven and created controversy. I cannot have discourse in my Heavenly Realm.”
“There wouldn’t have been discourse if we weren’t threatened by the Head Seraphim in the first place. We had come to negotiate for a solution for redemption, not for a war against us,” Alastor retorts, Charlie taking his hand to restrain him slightly.
“Al, please.” Charlie pleads, trying to calm him down again, but stops, reconsidering. “Although you do have a good point. This whole debacle is because of the Sera's fear of confrontation. Her secret got out and she panicked and pushed the timeline for the Extermination sooner, which is an abuse of power. But, we cannot change the past. Only prepare for the future.” God didn’t respond, seeing the truth behind her statements. “Am I wrong?”
“No. I wasn’t expecting you to be so aware.” God chuckles, a grin on his face. “You think Sera has a fear of confrontation?”
“I think she has a fear of confrontation and failure. She’s a perfectionist. It genuinely scares her when something doesn’t go her way.”
“And she ensures everything goes her way,” Alastor continues, gripping Charlie’s hand tightly. “Even if it’s at the expense of others.”
“Like the exterminations. Those weren't my father’s idea, nor his choice. He was forced to sign that contract unless his only child were to be killed. He lost so much because of Sera.”
“Not only that, but she has been making decisions for the Archangels without their consent for centuries. Take the Angel of Death for example. She went behind his back and modernized his purpose to an automatic sorting system, which contributed to one of the reasons why the Exterminations started in the first place: overpopulation. Do you think that’s fair?”
“I-”
“Not only that but she also hid the exterminations from the Archangels as well, superseding their authority. Do you think that’s valid, too?”
“I don’t. I was unaware of this.”
“Sounds like the Almighty needed to come down from paradise more often,” Alastor quipped snarkily, smiling. “You are at fault, you know. You could have prevented this from happening.”
“You’re right. I could have, but I didn’t. And for that, I apologize. Allow me to correct it.”
“How?” Charlie asks, tilting her head slightly.
“I will speak with Sera. Make her correct her mistakes. She will pay for her choices,” God affirms, standing tall and glowing brightly. “Thank you, Charlie and Alastor Morningstar. I am truly grateful that I was able to meet my Granddaughter and finally correct the errors people made in my stead. You will know when everything is fixed. Until then, I bid you farewell.”
“Wait! You never told us why you came here in the first place.”
“Oh. I wanted to see my family.”
“That’s it?”
“Yes. Is it truly that hard to believe?”
“Yes, and no.”
“I suggest leaning into the no rather than the yes. Farewell, children.” With a bright flash of light, he was gone, the two standing atop the roof alone. Charlie breaks into laughter, tears falling down her face.
“Charlotte?” Alastor hugs her, confused at what happened. “Is something wrong?”
“That was terrifying!” She cackles, holding onto Alastor for dear life. Her nails dig into his back, piercing through his shirt and skin. “God was here. God Was HERE! At the hotel!”
“Charlotte, please. Breathe for me,” he asks, remaining calm to not scare her away. “It’s okay. He’s not here anymore.”
“The guy who created everything was here! Talking to us!”
“Yes, Charlotte. I know. Take a deep breath, please.”
“HE could’ve killed us! We could’ve DIED!” “CHARLIE!” Alastor shouts, distracting her for a moment. “Take a deep breath. Everything is okay now. We are okay. He’s gone, and we are unharmed. I wouldn’t have let anything happen to you. So, I beg of you, breathe, please.” He hugs her tightly, squeezing with as much force as he could without crushing her. “Let it out. All your tears, your stress, your pain. Let it all out. I can take it.” Charlotte hugs him back, shifting into her demon form as she finally lets loose, tears of pure hellfire falling down her face and burning through Alastor’s clothes, claws tearing his back and shoulders to shreds, horns poking his head, towering over him (not like he wasn’t just taller than her a second ago.) He was trying so hard not to scream in pain, but this is what he asked for. He wanted her to let it all out and that’s exactly what she was doing. Until they fell through the floor.
Chapter Thirty: Danger All Around/Heaven’s Best III
(Told from Charlie’s POV. Trigger for Violence.)
Exorcists surrounded us, spears, bows, and swords all pointing at us. “Demon scum!” one of them shouted. They got closer to us, blades practically scraping against my wings.
“We haven’t done anything wrong!” I shout, defending us and protecting Vox, who was underneath me, encompassed by my wings. “Please!” The exorcists-a black halo floating above her head with a small orb looking thing between two pointy crystals-was at the front, getting closer. They were all clothed in long-sleeved grey minidresses that were covered with a high collar with a gray feather-like pattern. They have greyish-white sashlike belts, and black tights, too. Their white, arm length gloves and high heeled thigh-high boots stood out, contrasting with their role as soldiers and outfits. They had a pair of wings on their backs, not as big as mine, and a pair of black horns with thin white stripes on their helmets, psycho grins on their faces. I had never seen one this close before. They were just as scary as they were far away. “Please! Don’t hurt us!” I plead, trying to stay calm despite the danger. Look how well that worked.
“Your existence alone is worthy of death!” One of the exorcists gets closer, her spear practically in my wing. She goes to pierce my wing and I back away, dragging me and Vox into a wall.
“You okay?” Vox asks, concerned on his face as he falls into my arms.
“They're attacking!” My horns grow bigger, smoke escaping my nostrils.
“Charlie! Calm down!” Vox places his hand on my shoulder, trying to stabilize himself. “Fly away. Go!” I take off without hesitation, my massive wings knocking over a few of the Exorcists as I fly away, Vox hanging on underneath me. I fly fast, the exorcists catching up quickly. They start firing at us with relentless amounts of arrows, forcing me to dodge. Many find they’re way in my wings, thankfully avoiding Vox.
“Charlie! You’re hurt!”
“But I can’t stop! They’re still chasing us!” The exorcists weren’t far, but far enough that they had to use range weapons on me. They were shouting, cursing at me angrily as they pursued me. But, they’re weapons gave me an idea. “Vox! Let go of one of my hands! I have an idea!”
“What? Are you insane?”
“Weren’t you the one who was openly willing to let go not even twenty minutes ago?!”
“Fair point!” He lets my left hand go, allowing me to summon my pitchfork, glowing in its bright flames.
“Take the pitchfork and aim at them!” I shout, lowering it to Vox.
“What? Are you insane?”
“Maybe! Now hurry up!” Vox was growing heavier as I held him with one hand. I could feel myself beginning to slow. But I pushed, forcing myself to go faster. He takes the pitchfork willingly, letting me hold his one hand with both of mine. I focus on flying steadily, hoping that he can get a good aim. “Tell me when you’re ready!” Vox takes a moment, aiming at the cocky exorcists.
“Ready!” I send my power through him, letting it make its way to the pitchfork, firing a red sparkly golden ray of light.
“Did it work?” I ask, feeling drained.
“Hell yeah! We got’em!” Vox cheers, giddy in his voice. “Charlie?”
“Yeah?”
“You okay?”
“A little tired. But I'm happy, nonetheless. We made it.” I hover, pulling Vox upwards so that he is eye-level, holding him by the waist.
“Charllie, you’re bleeding!” He looks at my flapping wings, seeing the blood covering them.
“I know. I have arrows stuck pretty good in my wings. We need to find somewhere to land. But there isn’t anywhere safe.”
“What if we went back to Ms. Molly’s home? She might help us.” Vox’s screen was close to my face, blinding because of its reflectiveness.
“I don’t know where to even begin looking. Where are we even at?” I look around, spinning us slowly to give us a better look. “Look. That building. It kinda looks like-”
“The Heaven Embassy in Hell,” Vox finishes, recognizing it as well. “Go there.” I fly down, landing on the footsteps of the building’s doors.
“What now?”
“We go in, I guess. Anything’s better than out here, in all honesty.” The two of us hobble inside, Vox holding and supporting me. “Ow.”
“You okay?” Vox looks at me with sympathy, concern on her face.
“Let’s find a chair for you to sit in.”
“Vox, I’m fine, really.”
“Charlie. You’re quite literally bleeding. I don’t wanna hear it.” The building was unfamiliar, but looked like something I had seen in one of the books in Dad’s library back at the Palace.
“Vox. Does this place look familiar?”
“Yeah. Sorta like a church.” The building had tinted glass windows creating beautiful mosaics as the light shone through. We sit down on a long bench, staring forward.
“It’s really pretty.”
“It really is.” A moment of silence goes by, the two of us just…sitting.
“I’m gonna make a call,” I exclaim, my words echoing off the walls. “Hopefully.” I stand up, wobbling as I stand. I step out, hoping it’ll work. The line rings, and rings, and rings until-
“Hello?”
“Alastor?”
“Charlotte? Blast this infernal device. Hold on, dear.” I could hear him struggling with the phone. “Bullshit,”I hear him say angrily, hearing his growing frustration. I stifle my laughter, not wanting to be mean. “Okay. Hello? Charlotte? Are you still there?”
“Yeah, I’m here.”
“Blessed. Are you alright?”
“I-” I sigh, tears falling from my face. “Not really. We were doing fine earlier, and then everything started going wrong and Vox was worried and made me stop and we were attacked and-”
“Charlotte, dear. Slow down. Start from the beginning.”
“Okay.” I take a few deep breaths, trying to calm myself down. “Okay. From the beginning. We got to heaven, met two people who were Seraphim named Sera and Emily, got to our room, met an Archangel named Chamuel, learned why Angel went to Hell, flew through Heaven, met Anthony’s sister Molly, learned about their childhood and how we could possibly redeem him-Oh and the angel dude mentioned something about a fallen angel, but didn’t say who-flew through Heaven again, landed because Vox threatened to let go of me because I refused to rest, got attacked by Exorcists, beat’em through Vox using my pitchfork and blasting them to smithereens, then we landed at a building that looks similar to the Heaven Embassy, and that brings us to now.” The other side of the phone line was quiet. I tapped the screen, seeing that the call was still active, “Hello? Alastor?”
“Sorry, dear. Did you finish?”
“Yeah.”
“Excellent.”
“Did you have questions?”
“Of course I do. You have my husband. And I took notes. I’m a radio host, after all. Must stay up to date! Anyway, my first question: When you said the Archangel fellow mentioned something about a fallen angel, was he referring to your father?”
“No. He said it was someone else. Do you know who?”
“I have a vague idea. But I do not want to give you more painful information, Charlotte. I have done that enough.”
“What are you talking about?”
“My lips are sealed, Charlotte. I’m moving on to my next question: You said you learned what young Anthony’s penalty for life was. What was it?”
“Murder.”
“Well, that’s convenient."
“Why?”
“Well, he killed his abuser when he was in the living realm, right? And his abuser when he was in Hell?”
“Yeah, but that wasn’t the right decision. You should do the opposite, right?”
“That depends on what Heaven’s people define as qualifications for a person to be accepted into their realm. You need to figure that out.”
“Got it.” I make a mental note of that, making sure to remember that.
“Excellent. Next question: you also mentioned that you were attacked by Excorcists. Are you alright?”
“Yeah. Bleeding, but I’m okay. Vox is uninjured. I don’t think they were aiming for him. Just me.”
“Did the Archangel not notice that you had stopped?”
“Nope. We were flying pretty fast when we were flying together. When I stopped, he was still flying. Why?”
“Because he was your chaperone. He should have been better at his job.”
“Al. Be nice.”
“Why? I’m not supposed to. That’s not on my resume, now is it?” I chuckle, his joke humorous.
“Okay, tough guy.” He laughs in response, static coming over the speaker.
“Al? Is everything alright?”
“Quite, my dear. Just a laugh. Alas, I digress. I have one more question, but I will save it for your return.”
“Why? Why wait to ask?”
“Don’t worry your pretty head about it, my dear. I will see you in a few hours.”
“Okay? Bye?”
“Farewell, Charlotte.” I wait for him to hang up the phone, but he doesn’t. “Can you press the button, dear?”
“Sure. Bye.” I hang up, putting my phone back in my pocket and heading to return back inside when a large voice comes from behind me.
“MISS MORNINGSTAR!!” I turn around, seeing Emily flying down quickly towards me.
“Emily?” I fall over, Emily tackling me, meeting the ground in pain. “ow.”
“Charlie! Are you okay?!” She looks directly at me, her blue, sparkling eyes baring into mine. She gets off of me, wings flapping eagerly.
“You’re bleeding! What happened?”
“I-” I wince as she helps me up, applying pressure to my back, as that’s where it hurts besides my wings. “I’m fine, just a bit scraped up. We were attacked, but other than that, our stay here has been great!” I smile, trying not to hurt her feelings. Emily seemed younger than me, and looked like it, too. “Why? How did you even find us?”
“I looked for your signature. You’re a demon amongst the people of Heaven. You aren’t that hard to track.” Emily shows me a little brick-looking scanner, pointing at a dot. “That’s you. See?”
“Yeah, I see it. Thanks. And that’s Vox?”
“Yup! He’s inside?”
“Yeah. He’s probably resting. Today’s been a lot.” I look at the short Archangel, her energy beaming. “Emily?”
“Yeah?”
“Why did you come looking for me? You have to be busy, considering that you’re a Seraphim.”
“Well, Sera takes care of most stuff, giving me a lot of free time. And I was sent to find you by her. She didn’t want you guys out here alone!”
“We weren’t alone. Chamuel was with us, but we needed to stop. He didn’t hear us, nor bother to look back.”
“I know. He’s being scolded for it now. I could take you guys back to your room, if you want. Instead of staying here.”
“That would be great. Let me go get Vox.” I head inside the church quickly, finding Vox asleep on the bench, snoring softly. I picked him up gently, holding him as he held Alastor. “Let’s go.” Emily opened a portal for us, the portal taking us directly to our temporary room. I step through and lay Vox on the bed, letting the exhausted man rest. “He said that someone wanted to meet with us. Do you know who?”
“Yeah. Your dad’s brother.” I freeze, shocked by the statement.
“Who?”
“Lucifer’s Twin? Michael?”
“My father has a twin?”
“Yeah. You didn’t know?”
“No. He doesn’t talk about Heaven. He hates it.”
“What really happened?” Emily looked confused.
“What do you mean? Happened with what?”
“Mr. Morningstar’s fall.”
“Oh. Heavy topics. How come you didn’t ask Sera?”
“I did. For years, I begged her to tell me. But she wouldn’t. Said she didn’t want to scare me.”
“He was kicked out of his home. His birthplace. All he had ever known. Because he made a simple mistake.” My hands ball into fists, frustration growing in my voice. “They never gave him an opportunity to change. He was just hopeful and innocent. He wanted to allow people to feel, to have emotion. He didn’t know that the fruit was something they were forbidden to eat before she had told him. But Lilith-My mom-was before that. He fell in love. The first one to fall in love. That title goes to my father. He spent time with her, more time than she spent with Adam. She was drawn to his bubbly personality, and he was drawn to her strong personality. They were perfect together. But something changed. Adam was possessive and angry. Heaven was infuriated by Lucifer’s decisions. The two pulled them apart. My mother fought Adam, getting her cast out and replaced. Lucifer defended her, taking the blame for her actions, and she was cast out of the garden. Condemned to Heaven. My dad visited her still. And then he gave Eve the fruit. It wasn’t an act of turmoil or revenge. Just pure consideration of what he thought was right. And he never knew that it was wrong. And they both paid the price. They were cast out by the Angels of Heaven and were sentenced never to return.”
“Wow. That’s…”
“A lot. Yeah. And that’s only up to his fall. My mother left us a few years after I was born. My father raised me through grief.”
“Do you know where she went?”
“I have no idea.”
“That’s horrible, Charlie. I’m so sorry.”
“There was nothing I could have done about it, Emily. I turned it towards the better. Made the hotel. Started working on redemption.” Emily doesn’t respond, simply just staring at me.
“Is Vox a sinner?”
“Yeah. Why?”
“Because he’s so kind. He cares. I thought all the people in Hell were mean.”
“Have you even been down there before?”
“Heavens no! Why would I?” Emily looked scared. Scared of the idea that she would ever willingly go down there.
“It’s not that bad. Being up here isn’t as different. Sure, it’s prim and proper up here, but at least you can have fun in Hell. People are free to be true to themselves.” I struck a nerve, Emily’s face scrunched up at my comment.
“People are free to be whatever they want to be here.”
“Not really. Everyone is bound by rules. Expectations.” I have an idea, a small grin forming on my face. “Come to Hell with me. Just for a day. See what it’s like to live in the dimension you angels condemn. See that it’s not all you make it to be.” She was actually considering the idea, giving it heavy thought.
“I’ll ask.”
“Ask who?”
“Sera.” I laugh, finally taking Alastor’s advice and charm skills.
“Why do you have to ask her to do anything? You’re your own person, aren’t you?”
“Yeah, I-”
“Then make your own decision. Don’t have her make it for you.” Emily tried to rebuttal, but stopped, realization hitting her.
“Okay. Okay.” She nods her head, agreeing and hyping herself up. “I’ll go.” “That’s the spirit! Now let’s go see whoever wants to meet me!” I wrap my arm around her shoulder, a big smile on my face.
Chapter Thirty: Danger All Around/Heaven’s Best III
(Told from Charlie’s POV. Trigger for Violence.)
Exorcists surrounded us, spears, bows, and swords all pointing at us. “Demon scum!” one of them shouted. They got closer to us, blades practically scraping against my wings.
“We haven’t done anything wrong!” I shout, defending us and protecting Vox, who was underneath me, encompassed by my wings. “Please!” The exorcists-a black halo floating above her head with a small orb looking thing between two pointy crystals-was at the front, getting closer. They were all clothed in long-sleeved grey minidresses that were covered with a high collar with a gray feather-like pattern. They have greyish-white sashlike belts, and black tights, too. Their white, arm length gloves and high heeled thigh-high boots stood out, contrasting with their role as soldiers and outfits. They had a pair of wings on their backs, not as big as mine, and a pair of black horns with thin white stripes on their helmets, psycho grins on their faces. I had never seen one this close before. They were just as scary as they were far away. “Please! Don’t hurt us!” I plead, trying to stay calm despite the danger. Look how well that worked.
“Your existence alone is worthy of death!” One of the exorcists gets closer, her spear practically in my wing. She goes to pierce my wing and I back away, dragging me and Vox into a wall.
“You okay?” Vox asks, concerned on his face as he falls into my arms.
“They're attacking!” My horns grow bigger, smoke escaping my nostrils.
“Charlie! Calm down!” Vox places his hand on my shoulder, trying to stabilize himself. “Fly away. Go!” I take off without hesitation, my massive wings knocking over a few of the Exorcists as I fly away, Vox hanging on underneath me. I fly fast, the exorcists catching up quickly. They start firing at us with relentless amounts of arrows, forcing me to dodge. Many find they’re way in my wings, thankfully avoiding Vox.
“Charlie! You’re hurt!”
“But I can’t stop! They’re still chasing us!” The exorcists weren’t far, but far enough that they had to use range weapons on me. They were shouting, cursing at me angrily as they pursued me. But, they’re weapons gave me an idea. “Vox! Let go of one of my hands! I have an idea!”
“What? Are you insane?”
“Weren’t you the one who was openly willing to let go not even twenty minutes ago?!”
“Fair point!” He lets my left hand go, allowing me to summon my pitchfork, glowing in its bright flames.
“Take the pitchfork and aim at them!” I shout, lowering it to Vox.
“What? Are you insane?”
“Maybe! Now hurry up!” Vox was growing heavier as I held him with one hand. I could feel myself beginning to slow. But I pushed, forcing myself to go faster. He takes the pitchfork willingly, letting me hold his one hand with both of mine. I focus on flying steadily, hoping that he can get a good aim. “Tell me when you’re ready!” Vox takes a moment, aiming at the cocky exorcists.
“Ready!” I send my power through him, letting it make its way to the pitchfork, firing a red sparkly golden ray of light.
“Did it work?” I ask, feeling drained.
“Hell yeah! We got’em!” Vox cheers, giddy in his voice. “Charlie?”
“Yeah?”
“You okay?”
“A little tired. But I'm happy, nonetheless. We made it.” I hover, pulling Vox upwards so that he is eye-level, holding him by the waist.
“Charllie, you’re bleeding!” He looks at my flapping wings, seeing the blood covering them.
“I know. I have arrows stuck pretty good in my wings. We need to find somewhere to land. But there isn’t anywhere safe.”
“What if we went back to Ms. Molly’s home? She might help us.” Vox’s screen was close to my face, blinding because of its reflectiveness.
“I don’t know where to even begin looking. Where are we even at?” I look around, spinning us slowly to give us a better look. “Look. That building. It kinda looks like-”
“The Heaven Embassy in Hell,” Vox finishes, recognizing it as well. “Go there.” I fly down, landing on the footsteps of the building’s doors.
“What now?”
“We go in, I guess. Anything’s better than out here, in all honesty.” The two of us hobble inside, Vox holding and supporting me. “Ow.”
“You okay?” Vox looks at me with sympathy, concern on her face.
“Let’s find a chair for you to sit in.”
“Vox, I’m fine, really.”
“Charlie. You’re quite literally bleeding. I don’t wanna hear it.” The building was unfamiliar, but looked like something I had seen in one of the books in Dad’s library back at the Palace.
“Vox. Does this place look familiar?”
“Yeah. Sorta like a church.” The building had tinted glass windows creating beautiful mosaics as the light shone through. We sit down on a long bench, staring forward.
“It’s really pretty.”
“It really is.” A moment of silence goes by, the two of us just…sitting.
“I’m gonna make a call,” I exclaim, my words echoing off the walls. “Hopefully.” I stand up, wobbling as I stand. I step out, hoping it’ll work. The line rings, and rings, and rings until-
“Hello?”
“Alastor?”
“Charlotte? Blast this infernal device. Hold on, dear.” I could hear him struggling with the phone. “Bullshit,”I hear him say angrily, hearing his growing frustration. I stifle my laughter, not wanting to be mean. “Okay. Hello? Charlotte? Are you still there?”
“Yeah, I’m here.”
“Blessed. Are you alright?”
“I-” I sigh, tears falling from my face. “Not really. We were doing fine earlier, and then everything started going wrong and Vox was worried and made me stop and we were attacked and-”
“Charlotte, dear. Slow down. Start from the beginning.”
“Okay.” I take a few deep breaths, trying to calm myself down. “Okay. From the beginning. We got to heaven, met two people who were Seraphim named Sera and Emily, got to our room, met an Archangel named Chamuel, learned why Angel went to Hell, flew through Heaven, met Anthony’s sister Molly, learned about their childhood and how we could possibly redeem him-Oh and the angel dude mentioned something about a fallen angel, but didn’t say who-flew through Heaven again, landed because Vox threatened to let go of me because I refused to rest, got attacked by Exorcists, beat’em through Vox using my pitchfork and blasting them to smithereens, then we landed at a building that looks similar to the Heaven Embassy, and that brings us to now.” The other side of the phone line was quiet. I tapped the screen, seeing that the call was still active, “Hello? Alastor?”
“Sorry, dear. Did you finish?”
“Yeah.”
“Excellent.”
“Did you have questions?”
“Of course I do. You have my husband. And I took notes. I’m a radio host, after all. Must stay up to date! Anyway, my first question: When you said the Archangel fellow mentioned something about a fallen angel, was he referring to your father?”
“No. He said it was someone else. Do you know who?”
“I have a vague idea. But I do not want to give you more painful information, Charlotte. I have done that enough.”
“What are you talking about?”
“My lips are sealed, Charlotte. I’m moving on to my next question: You said you learned what young Anthony’s penalty for life was. What was it?”
“Murder.”
“Well, that’s convenient."
“Why?”
“Well, he killed his abuser when he was in the living realm, right? And his abuser when he was in Hell?”
“Yeah, but that wasn’t the right decision. You should do the opposite, right?”
“That depends on what Heaven’s people define as qualifications for a person to be accepted into their realm. You need to figure that out.”
“Got it.” I make a mental note of that, making sure to remember that.
“Excellent. Next question: you also mentioned that you were attacked by Excorcists. Are you alright?”
“Yeah. Bleeding, but I’m okay. Vox is uninjured. I don’t think they were aiming for him. Just me.”
“Did the Archangel not notice that you had stopped?”
“Nope. We were flying pretty fast when we were flying together. When I stopped, he was still flying. Why?”
“Because he was your chaperone. He should have been better at his job.”
“Al. Be nice.”
“Why? I’m not supposed to. That’s not on my resume, now is it?” I chuckle, his joke humorous.
“Okay, tough guy.” He laughs in response, static coming over the speaker.
“Al? Is everything alright?”
“Quite, my dear. Just a laugh. Alas, I digress. I have one more question, but I will save it for your return.”
“Why? Why wait to ask?”
“Don’t worry your pretty head about it, my dear. I will see you in a few hours.”
“Okay? Bye?”
“Farewell, Charlotte.” I wait for him to hang up the phone, but he doesn’t. “Can you press the button, dear?”
“Sure. Bye.” I hang up, putting my phone back in my pocket and heading to return back inside when a large voice comes from behind me.
“MISS MORNINGSTAR!!” I turn around, seeing Emily flying down quickly towards me.
“Emily?” I fall over, Emily tackling me, meeting the ground in pain. “ow.”
“Charlie! Are you okay?!” She looks directly at me, her blue, sparkling eyes baring into mine. She gets off of me, wings flapping eagerly.
“You’re bleeding! What happened?”
“I-” I wince as she helps me up, applying pressure to my back, as that’s where it hurts besides my wings. “I’m fine, just a bit scraped up. We were attacked, but other than that, our stay here has been great!” I smile, trying not to hurt her feelings. Emily seemed younger than me, and looked like it, too. “Why? How did you even find us?”
“I looked for your signature. You’re a demon amongst the people of Heaven. You aren’t that hard to track.” Emily shows me a little brick-looking scanner, pointing at a dot. “That’s you. See?”
“Yeah, I see it. Thanks. And that’s Vox?”
“Yup! He’s inside?”
“Yeah. He’s probably resting. Today’s been a lot.” I look at the short Archangel, her energy beaming. “Emily?”
“Yeah?”
“Why did you come looking for me? You have to be busy, considering that you’re a Seraphim.”
“Well, Sera takes care of most stuff, giving me a lot of free time. And I was sent to find you by her. She didn’t want you guys out here alone!”
“We weren’t alone. Chamuel was with us, but we needed to stop. He didn’t hear us, nor bother to look back.”
“I know. He’s being scolded for it now. I could take you guys back to your room, if you want. Instead of staying here.”
“That would be great. Let me go get Vox.” I head inside the church quickly, finding Vox asleep on the bench, snoring softly. I picked him up gently, holding him as he held Alastor. “Let’s go.” Emily opened a portal for us, the portal taking us directly to our temporary room. I step through and lay Vox on the bed, letting the exhausted man rest. “He said that someone wanted to meet with us. Do you know who?”
“Yeah. Your dad’s brother.” I freeze, shocked by the statement.
“Who?”
“Lucifer’s Twin? Michael?”
“My father has a twin?”
“Yeah. You didn’t know?”
“No. He doesn’t talk about Heaven. He hates it.”
“What really happened?” Emily looked confused.
“What do you mean? Happened with what?”
“Mr. Morningstar’s fall.”
“Oh. Heavy topics. How come you didn’t ask Sera?”
“I did. For years, I begged her to tell me. But she wouldn’t. Said she didn’t want to scare me.”
“He was kicked out of his home. His birthplace. All he had ever known. Because he made a simple mistake.” My hands ball into fists, frustration growing in my voice. “They never gave him an opportunity to change. He was just hopeful and innocent. He wanted to allow people to feel, to have emotion. He didn’t know that the fruit was something they were forbidden to eat before she had told him. But Lilith-My mom-was before that. He fell in love. The first one to fall in love. That title goes to my father. He spent time with her, more time than she spent with Adam. She was drawn to his bubbly personality, and he was drawn to her strong personality. They were perfect together. But something changed. Adam was possessive and angry. Heaven was infuriated by Lucifer’s decisions. The two pulled them apart. My mother fought Adam, getting her cast out and replaced. Lucifer defended her, taking the blame for her actions, and she was cast out of the garden. Condemned to Heaven. My dad visited her still. And then he gave Eve the fruit. It wasn’t an act of turmoil or revenge. Just pure consideration of what he thought was right. And he never knew that it was wrong. And they both paid the price. They were cast out by the Angels of Heaven and were sentenced never to return.”
“Wow. That’s…”
“A lot. Yeah. And that’s only up to his fall. My mother left us a few years after I was born. My father raised me through grief.”
“Do you know where she went?”
“I have no idea.”
“That’s horrible, Charlie. I’m so sorry.”
“There was nothing I could have done about it, Emily. I turned it towards the better. Made the hotel. Started working on redemption.” Emily doesn’t respond, simply just staring at me.
“Is Vox a sinner?”
“Yeah. Why?”
“Because he’s so kind. He cares. I thought all the people in Hell were mean.”
“Have you even been down there before?”
“Heavens no! Why would I?” Emily looked scared. Scared of the idea that she would ever willingly go down there.
“It’s not that bad. Being up here isn’t as different. Sure, it’s prim and proper up here, but at least you can have fun in Hell. People are free to be true to themselves.” I struck a nerve, Emily’s face scrunched up at my comment.
“People are free to be whatever they want to be here.”
“Not really. Everyone is bound by rules. Expectations.” I have an idea, a small grin forming on my face. “Come to Hell with me. Just for a day. See what it’s like to live in the dimension you angels condemn. See that it’s not all you make it to be.” She was actually considering the idea, giving it heavy thought.
“I’ll ask.”
“Ask who?”
“Sera.” I laugh, finally taking Alastor’s advice and charm skills.
“Why do you have to ask her to do anything? You’re your own person, aren’t you?”
“Yeah, I-”
“Then make your own decision. Don’t have her make it for you.” Emily tried to rebuttal, but stopped, realization hitting her.
“Okay. Okay.” She nods her head, agreeing and hyping herself up. “I’ll go.” “That’s the spirit! Now let’s go see whoever wants to meet me!” I wrap my arm around her shoulder, a big smile on my face.
As we fly, I look up at Charlie, who seems nervous as she carries me. “You good there, sugar?”
“I’m fine, Vox,” Charlie groans out, pain visible on her face.
“You sure? ‘Cause your face says otherwise.”
“I’m just tired. I haven’t used my wings this much in a long time.” Her face was becoming pale, the deep rosy circles on her cheeks fading in color.
“Did you want to take a break?” I ask in concern.
“No. I have a feeling we’re almost there.”
“Okay. Steady breaths, okay?”
“Yup.” Charlie continued on, flying behind Chamuel. A few minutes later, we landed in front of a quaint little house, covered in pink. Pink flower gardens, pale pink on the house, and more. It was definitely Anthony’s sister by that amount of pink. Chamuel knocks on the door and a pretty looking girl steps out into the doorway. “Hello?”
“Hello! Are you Molly?” he asks, with a smile on his face.
“I am? What brings you here, sir? Has something gone wrong?”
“No. You have visitors.”
“Oh! Where might they be?” She tries to peek behind him, his height and wings interfering, blocking us from view.
“Behind me.” Chamuel steps out of the way, revealing me and Charlie, who’s in her demon form.
“Hello, Miss Molly. My name is Princess Charlotte, and this is my associate, Vox. We’re here to see you about your brother, Anthony.” Her appearance didn’t surprise Molly, much to my surprise.
“Has something happened to him? I haven’t seen him at all since I came here.”
“No. Your brother is fine right now. We just wanted to learn more about him,” I answered, stepping forward.
“Okay! But will you tell me about him as he is now?”
“Of course.”
“Then come in. You can sit anywhere.” She welcomes us inside, shuffling inside a single file.
“Thank you.” We enter, taking a seat on the sofa. “So, Miss Molly. What was your brother like growing up?”
“He was a good person. He would always protect me from my father’n brother, taking the abuse for me. Even if I pleaded for him not to. He always dealt with father and brother.”
“Your father was a mafia man, right?”
“Yea. He was very cruel to ‘Tony. Tony didn’t do great when Father was mean. He would often cry or go drinking. Or drugs. He often did all three together.”
“Was he a prostitute when you were alive?” I ask, no better way to approach it.
“Na. Father wouldn’t let him. He mainly did drugs and drank to compensate for the pain. Why do you ask? Is he a stripper now?” She asks, the question coming out as if it were a foreign thought.
“He used to be. But now he’s free. He’s an overlord now.”
“An overlord?”
“Just like me, yes we all have different things we do and have our own territory.”
“Is he happy?”
“Yes, he is.” I smile, seeing his smile when around the others.
“Will you tell us more about his addiction, Molly?” Charlie asks, changing subjects.
“It was bad. At first, it was just to numb the pain. But then he would use it so much that it got him hospitalized on a regular basis. And he couldn’t stop, either. But through it all, he was still kind and helped me with everything.”
“Did he kill anyone?”
“Not willingly. Father would force him to, threatening to kill me if he didn’t. That’s how much he cared about me. He did everything he could for me to have a happy life, only for me to die a few months after I got married. He died the day after my wedding. I was devastated.”
“How did you die?” Charlie asks, the question unsympathetic. I looked at her, concerned for Charlie.
“I was poisoned by an enemy of my father’s. Swift and painless.”
“I see. My sincerest apologies.”
“It’s fine. I just miss him.” Molly’s face shows signs of sadness, heartfelt emotion ringing in the air. “So how come you came and asked me about my brother?” She looks back at us, beaming again.
“Princess Charlotte is trying to redeem people, your brother included. We’re trying to get Heaven’s help in redeeming people, but we need one who is worth being redeemed,” I respond, eager to answer before Charlie can.
“Everyone deserves a second chance, in my opinion.”
“That’s good to know. Because we’ll need your help appealing to the board that he is worth it.”
“Anything for my brother. He did so much for me. It’s about time I returned ta favor.”
“You’d be willing to help us?” Charlie looked happy by that statement, eagerness and excitement bubbling.
“Of course. But how is he?”
“Your brother is doing good. He’s at Princess Charlie’s hotel, making progress towards redemption. He’s also helping people in Hell, protecting them. He was stubborn at first, from what Charlie has told me, but as time went on, he grew. Became kinder to people. Us New Yorkers don’t tend to be kind at first, now don’t we?”
“You’re from New York?” Molly looked ecstatic. “Me too!” Molly hugged me, her grip tight around my body despite her small figure.
“Your brother mentioned that.” The young lady lets go, giving me the opportunity to breathe.
“Will I get to see him?” Molly looks excited. Charlie and I look at Chamuel, pleading with our eyes.
“What?” The Archangel looked confused. “You want to bring him here?”
“Well, we need him in court, don’t we?” Charlie asks, making a valid point.
“And someone to testify as a witness.” I add.
“The double teaming is not appreciated, you know.” Chamuel buries his face in his hands, thinking. “As long as he doesn’t hurt anyone, he can testify in person.” The three of us cheer, hugging each other in joy.
“I get to see my brother! It’s been so long! Oh, I can’t wait.” Molly was ecstatic. She was beaming, her smile going from ear to ear. I notice Chamuel look at a clock on the wall, reading the time.
“Is it time to depart?” I ask, a pang of sadness in my voice.
“I am afraid that it is.” The Archangel stands, heading towards the door. “Thank you, Miss Molly, for your hospitality. We will see each other again soon.” Charlie and I follow suit, shaking Molly’s hand and hugging the woman.
“Farewell, Miss Molly.”
“Bye!!” Charlie and Chamuel spread their wings, Charlie taking my hands and taking off into the sky. We follow after Chamuel, letting him lead us.
“Where are we going?” I ask, the wind drowning out my voice.
“Charlie!” Her head turns, looking down at me.
“What?!” She shouts, unable to hear me. “What did you say?”
“I said WHERE ARE WE GOING?”
“I don’t know! Let me ask!!” She turns to Chamuel, shouting loudly. “Where are we going?!!” The archangel turns, looking at us.
“We’re heading to the Heavenly Court. Someone asked to meet with you.” The yelling was a lot. You could probably hear him in the city below. He began to fly faster, Charlie keeping even pace despite not using her wings very much. Looking at her face, I can see the discoloration in her face, pushing herself to keep up.
“Charlie! Stop!” I try to get her attention, shouting proving to be futile. Through my hands, I send small shocks of electricity through my fingers, shocking her enough to get her attention.
“What?” She shouts, looking down at me.
“Stop! Stop flying and land!”
“Why?” She begins to slow down, the wind no longer overwhelming.
“Please,” I beg, wanting her to rest. “Exerting yourself is not worth it.” She looks at me, now just hovering in the air. “I can tell that you’re tired. Please. Take a moment to rest.”
“We have to keep going,” she argues, gesturing to the Angel of Peace, who hasn’t noticed that we have stopped. “We’re going to lose him.”
“Charlie. I don’t care. I promised I would care for you while we were here, and that’s what I’m doing,” I exclaim sternly. “Land. Now. Or I’ll let go.” Her pupils blow, shock in her face.
“Fine. Just don’t let go. Please.” She begins to fly down, making our way to the ground.
“Thank you.” We land amongst civilians, surprise and fear on their faces at Charlie’s appearance. They scream and run away, making me laugh.
“You’re not even scary.”
“They’ve never seen a demon, Vox. Be nice.” I could see Charlie’s sadness as the people fled from her, even though she didn’t do anything.
“Let’s look for a bench. There ought to be one out here. It’s Heaven, after all.” We begin to walk down the sidewalk, people fleeing from us as we did.
“They’re terrified of me.” That idea alone terrified her, seeing it happen in effect scaring her more. “I’m a monster.”
“Hey. None of that now.” I step in front of her, looking directly into her eyes. “You said so yourself: They’ve never seen a demon before. That’s okay. It’s not your fault. You’re beautiful, Charlie. No one else’s opinion matters.” I hugged her tightly, not wanting to see her any sadder than she was. “It’s okay, kiddo.”
“Kiddo?” Charlie chuckles, her chuckle turning into a full blown laugh. “Kiddo?”
“What?” I was confused. She was younger than me.
“Vox. How old do you think I am?”
“I don’t know. Somewhere in your twenties.” She looked like she had just choked.
“Thanks, but no. Vox, I’m 2340 years old.” My jaw drops, surprised.
“You’re twenty-three centuries old?”
“With another thirty-four years on top. Yeah. Crazy, isn’t it? Imagine my father. He’s as old as creation.” “That doesn’t make it any better!” I stand there, shock ridden on my face. “That’s insane. That puts me to shame. I’m nowhere near you.”
“But, if you account for the time difference in how it passes between Hell and Earth, we have our lunar and solar cycles faster than humans regularly do. So in human years, I would only be 234 years old.”
“That’s still pretty old.”
“Gee thanks.” She has a mischievous pout on her face, faking being emotionally hurt.
“I don’t mean it in a bad way, Charlie. It just means that you’ve been around.”
“Thanks.” Charlie smiles softly, a comforting smile. Suddenly, the sound of many wings surrounds us, wind blowing in every direction. Charlie covers me with her own, protecting me.
“What’s happening?” I yell over the sound, Charlie blocking my view.
i wanted to do an ask me anything game with you guys. whether it be write a little snippet of an idea you had or draw something, I wanted to see what you guys want me to do.
nothing died here... i think @tzakarira - Tumblr Blog | Tumgag
