Bad Apple



       « Creek » The crying of an opening door caught everyone’s attention. It’s been a while since the Hazbin Hotel had re-opened its doors since the last extermination. And despite the growing popularity of it, due to the fight against Adam and Lute; Charlie was still struggling to find new guests.
       Until now.
       Behind the door stood a curious sinner. He appeared to be a hybrid of a domestic cat and a red fox, yet his fur was of a dark tone –thin, confident posture and enchanting blue eyes. And compared to the rest, his outfit was rather conservative –by only wearing a white formal t-shirt and white pants, with nothing over the top or which screamed for attention –curiously causing the opposite effect by default.
       Looking around he was able to see Husk; the bartender cat, cleaning a glass.
       Angel, the porn star; sitting at the bar, looking at the sinner with a slightly flirting gaze.
       Charlie Morningstar, Lucifer’s daughter; behind the front desk with the widest smile. She was clearly overly excited compared to the rest as she wiggled in her chair waiting for the new guest to check in.
       Lastly was Vaggie; the fallen angel, who was almost out of view –seemingly arguing with little Niffty, or so it seemed.
       Unbothered by this, the sinner simply continued walking forward –committed to what seemed to be a goal of his. Gentle steps, confident speed.
       —Welcome to the Hazbin Hotel! —Charlie was holding back her excitement—. Are you ready to start your path to redemption?
       Silently, the sinner put away his things. He carried little, but mainly a portfolio filled with sheets of paper; and a smug grin on his face.
       He then turned his eyes towards Charlie to finally start a conversation:
       —Good day, your highness. —The sinner bowed gently—. My name is Dante, and unlike what the name would suggest; I’m not here to seek a path to heaven to find Beatriz. As I think I found her here in hell.
       —Beatriz? Oh.. right. That book. —Charlie chucked, uncomfortable and nervous—. W-Well, whatever reason you may have, redemption is the path! Feel free to just call me Charlie.
       —Pleasure to meet you, Charlie. —Dante gave a gentle bow once more—.
       From that interaction alone, most turned from surprise to distrust, specially Alastor and Vaggie –whom have been on a constant look-out ever since the hotel began. Furthermore, since the fight with Adam, they had deemed necessary to never leave anything to chance and he was looking like a prime example of why.
       —Now, please fill up this form so we can set up a room specially for you and your needs! —Charlie tried to push the conversation forward—.
       —Of course. —The sinner took a pen and began writing down—. Although, to be honest –I’m starting to think all I will ever need is already here.
       —Mister.. —Charlie blushed gently—-.
       As expected from his suspicions, Alastor was first to approach the two –interrupting the conversation. He appeared seemingly out of nowhere; and unlike Dante, his steps were silent and only did he announced his presence by tapping his microphone stand against the floor.
       —Good evening. —His static voice echoed—. Name’s Alastor.
       Alastor quickly stretched his arm to greet Dante, his indestructible smile at the front of everything.
       —Alastor! Pleasure to meet you. —Dante replied with a smile of his own—. Heard a lot about you on TV.
       The radio demon’s eye twitched for a fraction of a second, his grab on Dante’s hand getting tight.
       —Is that so? —He sounded over the top—.
       —Now, now. Alastor, he is probably new to hell. —Charlie jumped in, feeling his resentment—. He probably doesn’t know your work.
       —Do not worry Miss Morningstar. It makes sense given his nickname. Am I wrong Sir Radio Demon? I’m simply someone from more recent times.
       —Well, at least you do recognize me. Welcome to the Hazbin Hotel. —Alastor backed down—.
       And as they continued the chitchat for a while, it was growing obvious how Dante seemed to have a growing interest in Charlie herself. Constantly getting her to blush or look away as he made one or another curious remark on her achievements so far against heaven. All while Charlie tried to stir the talk back to the topic of redemption.
       Unfortunately for him, Alastor was also quick to notice his continuous remarks, turning it into a two against one situation.
       —Charlie, my dear, if you allow me then I will see Dante to his new room. —Alastor once again looked hostile—.
       —Thank you Alastor! Here’s the room form too.
       The eyes of the radio demon were glued on Dante as he took the paper the sinner filled out. After that, the rest of the evening went without much else.
       
       ***
       
       Dante’s room was as you would expect of an artist: A place to paint, one to keep any finished works at, and so on. But most importantly –strategically placed in the middle of everyone else’s rooms to keep an eye on him at all times, courtesy of Alastor himself. Such was his first impression.
       
       ***
       
       By the next morning –much like when Sir Pentious joined, it was time to have everyone formally meet Dante.
       Angel did not waste time trying to seduce him, as expected. Husk seemed to be indifferent to him. And little Niffty look a little too disappointed as she felt like an artist was not “a bad guy” at all.
       Not much else occurred as Charlie took it upon herself to try yet another of her group activities; by having everyone talk about something good they did either in life or in hell after being punished for sinning.
       That’s when Vaggie also jumped the gun much like how Alastor did the day before; realizing his conversations seemed to always revolve around him putting Charlie on the spotlight.
       Dante would go on about how he helped a girl on her last moments –by giving her a painting that cheered her spirit as life abandoned her body, continuing his tale as some sort of redemption arc he went through to help those in need –making his sins sound like necessary evil for the greater good. Then twisting it all to say how Charlie reminded him of this gal, and how after seeing her on TV; he felt like this was life telling him to try again –boasting about how he had fallen in love, and it was this love that called him here.
       And while most didn’t believe a single word he said for the simple reason that he; much like them, was a sinner, Vaggie was having issues holding back her claims against him; knowing that if she tried to accuse him that fast –Charlie would side with him for the rest of his stay.
       As such, it didn’t take long before the fallen angel had a private intervention with her girlfriend:
       —Charlie, you can’t be fucking serious. —Vaggie walked around the room furiously—. It’s all bullshit, he’s a con artist.
       —Oh, Vaggie don’t be so jealous! —Charlie shrugged it off—. You may not believe his story, but I do, and I think stories like his are great to prove that some sinners are here undeservingly!
       —Madre Santa, how can you still be so gullible after all we’ve been through…
       —Because someone has to believe in you. Like how we believe in each other.
       —Still, promise me you’ll be careful around him.
       —I promise. —Charlie closed it by kissing Vaggie gently—.
       As expected, Vaggie did not fully trust Charlie’s words, but knew that with how stubborn she gets –this was as far as she could get for the time being. Only by allowing her to see her own mistakes would Charlie realize how right Vaggie was to fear Dante.
       
       ***
       
       Of course, Charlie took it as a challenge and came up with an idea. She was going to tackle Dante on a one-on-one basis –thinking that if they were alone, he wouldn’t need to play-pretend and could be his true self. If Vaggie was right he would immediately try something, and if not –then she could show how judging a book by its cover was a dangerous approach.
       Besides, Charlie already had been planning on a similar therapy for the others, since so far no one had redeemed; maybe it was time to test a different approach.
       She then promptly asked Alastor for some help, and with his magic a new office was set up –cozy and almost makeshift, it didn’t feel like it was magic that put it together to begin with. Charlie got to work right away on Dante’s redemption plan.
       By the next day, she was already setting up his first appointment.
       
       ***
       
       —Please, Dante. —Charlie’s voice came from behind the door—. Step inside.
       The sinner was in awe. When he heard from Charlie that she would be addressing him directly, he figured that his made-up story had been good enough to peak her interest –and that from there he would have smooth sailing towards the power he seeks. But he did not expect that Charlie would take things to the next step.
       She was wearing a nice black and white office suit, glasses and even carrying a clipboard. From her perspective, she was simply taking on the role of a therapist interested in learning about her patient –from Dante’s perspective, he thought she was simply being too kinky about it; which he was all in for.
       —You see, Dante. I wanted to talk to you about your story from the other day. —Charlie said as professionally as she could—. I think that if someone has a chance at redemption; that’s you. Doing good even from the side of evil shows true altruism, and altruism is the steppingstone of charity.
       —I’ve always seen myself as someone who gives more than he takes. —Dante responded—. Even if God seems to disagree.
       —And that’s exactly why I think you should be allowed to redeem! Now, I have made a one-of-a-kind path for us to follow that I just know will give us results…
       The conversation went for hours, a time by which Dante started to wonder if this was at all what he thought; or was he giving Charlie too much credit.
       She went on rambling questions about his past, what sins he felt caused him to end up in hell, strengths, weaknesses and all. It was becoming apparent that Charlie was in fact trying to help him –even if he was full of shit.
       Dante, as expected, answered everything alongside a subtle flirtish remark –slowly tailoring his persona to the one Charlie expected him to be. If everything went to plan he could at least become her favourite; securing that any foreign assumption would be brushed off as jealousy or bias.
       It was in fact going too well.
       —It’s clear to me that the bitterness of your past influenced not only your actions, but your artistic passion as well.
       —Art is, after all, the language of the soul. —Dante flirted—.
       —And you will use that language to tell me something. —Charlie sounded hopeful—. Since you said that I remind you of someone, I want you to draw something that says whatever it is you wish you could say to her.
       —As in, pretend that you are her?
       —Correct!
       Dante’s evil grin showed. After all, he had an ability of his own like many other sinners who found their way towards power. Alastor’s power lay on the dark magic he performed while in life, Husk skills focused on cheats and deception like any good gambler, Vox controlled electronics; so on and so forth. For him, his art was a way to influence and create the same way an artist did on whoever experienced their creations.
       Whatever he painted, it would affect the outside world to his will. Unfortunately, it had a major drawback –he could only influence the weak minded. The truly ignorant. Or anyone willing to be changed –much like how we let ourselves be influenced by what we experience.
       And different to demons like Alastor or Vox, who enforced these changes, he first had to plant the seed of deceit.
       Here lied why he was so interested in Charlie, if he could get to her, Dante could manipulate her feelings so she could give him enough strength to overcome this obstacle and shift hell to his will –and this was the perfect opportunity to lay the seeds of his plan.
       Dante’s hands moved like the wind as he grabbed a piece of paper and pencil, carefully crafting an image of Charlie herself. The piece was simple yet hold a concrete message. It showed her in her current outfit but gave off the idea of helplessness –loneliness. As if the Charlie of this drawing craved for attention of any kind.
       It was obvious that she who wanted to help others would hide just how much help she needed herself.
       —Here you go, princess.
       As expected, Charlie was quickly influenced by the piece Dante had made. The image quickly turned into a reality as it filled her with a sense of dread and solitude.
       She saw herself and her image looked back –she was lost for words. Then, Dante took her hands and looked at her deep into her eyes.
       —You don’t have to be alone. —Dante whispered—.
       Charlie’s heart raced to the warm touch of his palms, their eyes meeting halfway as his glanced turned into the so badly needed cure for her pain. It did not take long before Dante made his move –kissing her possessively as she closed her eyes to let it happen.
       Deep within she knew it was wrong, memories of Vaggie faintly trying to reach her –but not strong enough to save her. That pain the drawing hold, it was now her pain, and Dante was the drug to take it away.
       In the blink of an eye, he was already on top of her; clothes slowly going loose as their bodies met each other for the first time. The more Dante touched her, the more she craved, now all he had to do was to push and pull just enough while the spell lasted so she could remain perceptive to his tricks.
       —Listen to my soul.. —Dante spoke sweet nothings to her ear—.
       His hand moving everywhere he reached under her blossom, caressing on top of her chest and breasts –pressing her bra where her nipples were, calling them out to play.
       Meanwhile, Charlie couldn’t do anything –her body was numb, and her mind was blank as she felt this false hole fill up by Dante’s touch. She simply laid motionless as fate took her over.
       Even when he reached down, pressing on her panties to tease –all she could do was moan silently as her voice was muted with a passionate kiss that covered her lips in saliva that run down to her neck only to be cleaned by his tongue.
       She was finally ready for the taking, but Dante knew it wasn’t time just yet and his magic was not strong enough to hold her any longer if he went for it. For now.
       Until then, it was a waiting game about Charlie’s mind gently returning back to normal as Dante left the scene –leaving her on her own to wonder what happened, and why she was so worked up; alone in that small studio.
       The art piece was gone, Dante was gone. Only the faint feeling of longing remaining in her heart that shortly died as well.
       Such was the small reach of his powers. A day or two went by and Charlie had completely forgotten what occurred that day; and the loneliness turned to dust just by the sheer nature of her relationship with Vaggie.
       And session after session, Dante would craft pieces with the same message –one of dependency and submission that eventually would pay off.
       
       ***
       
       —What’s wrong, babe? —Vaggie approached Charlie with worry—.
       —Oh, Vaggie.. —Charlie chucked, fixing her hair—. Didn’t see you there.
       —It’s uncommon of you to visit the rooftop so often.
       —Is it? I didn’t notice. I guess I’ve just been thinking a lot lately.
       —Yeah, that’s exactly what worries me. —Vaggie gave her a warm smile—. We are standing on the result of your thinking, after all.
       —It’s just.. I mean.. I probably sound like a broken record by now, but ever since Dante checked in –I wonder if any of my help actually helps.
       —To be fair, it’s just been a week; and he still gives me the ick too, so.. —Vaggie seemed to turn defensive—. Maybe, like we’ve been telling you –he’s not here to be redeemed. He rarely talks to others, is late to all group meetings.. But awfully persistent and punctual when talking to you.
       —You’re overreacting. If he wanted to do something he would’ve done so already.
       —Maybe he is. You are basically his meat shield at this point any time someone confronts him –and session after session I can’t help to notice you stay behind to feel sorry for him.
       —Well, it’s my duty! I promised him to help.
       —You did, but sometimes some promises you can’t keep and that’s that.
       —For you maybe. I am tired of people giving up on others –Sir Pentious gave his life, why shouldn’t I give up some of mine as well?
       —Just remember to keep some of it for yourself. —Vaggie hugged her—.
       —I will. —Charlie finished with a kiss—.
       —I love you.
       —I love you too.
       The two girls hugged for a while –the solitude that she felt due to Dante’s powers had been stacking up to a point where no matter what she did; Vaggie no longer filled this void.
       Eventually something had to occur.
       —Speaking of, could you tell Dante to meet me here? He’s probably wondering where I am.
       —Sure. Just remember what I said, ok?
       —Thanks, Vaggie.
       Right away, the fallen angel did as she was told and guided herself to the little studio. Dante; as expected, was there –waiting patiently and seemingly unbothered by the tardiness of her therapist.
       Just the look of his resting poker face was enough to trigger Vaggie’s senses.
       —Dante, Charlie’s waiting for you at the rooftop. —Vaggie said with her worst tone possible. It showed just how much she spited him—. Make it quick, please.
       His face turned into a smile once again –like an evil villain who is about to press the big red button, and no hero is there to stop him. Undoubtedly he made haste to meet her. And no one was happier than Dante than Charlie herself.
       —Sorry for dragging you here. —Charlie made a gentle bow—. I lost track of time.
       —Nothing to apologize for, princess. —Dante took her by the chin—. Time is all we got.
       She blushed profoundly. Not even at his words but at his audacity to take her so confidently –forcing her to see him in the eyes.
       Charlie did not even realize her hands were now grabbing Dante’s and pulling him close.
       —Did a new piece, care to see it? —Dante continued—.
       —More than anything..
       The piece was abstract and complicated, like a mashup of colours that by themselves made no sense –but caused one to feel like they tell a complicated message. It was unlike any of the others that seemed to tell a story –a story of a girl who lost purpose and took it to herself to find one in the emptiness of the cosmos looking for love. This piece was the catastasis of that story, the subject matter to be discussed between Charlie and her soul.
       Was she willing to take hold? Before she could give an answer to herself, Dante did it for her by means of a kiss.
       Her lips burned, her heart raced, and her mind pieced together all previous moments with Dante as if these were the colours in the canvas; patching them together in a way that translated to more than just coincidence and more into a theory that claimed to be fate from the start.
       —Dante, this isn’t right.. —Charlie whispered between kisses—.
       —Says who? —He teased—.
       —I do. —Charlie mumbled—. I should be helping you redeem yourself, not fall into sin.
       —Yet you mention love as a path to redemption. Who else to love but that who showed me the path to improve myself..
       Charlie was awestruck. Even if his words were as fake as they come, her heart saw no difference between truth and deceit within them.
       —I now know that if I want to fix my wrongs.. —Dante continued—. I must do right to those I hurt. Use my talents to show others the path you showed me –and with your help; we could change all of hell.
       The underlined intentions flew over her by the wings of his smooth vocabulary like a bird that soars the sky every morning, instead focusing on the keywords of help and change –all while Dante guided her to the nearest wall.
       Now Charlie felt more anxious than she expected; she was surely aroused by Dante, and she was clearly excited to do whatever it was they were doing.
       But, after all, it was her first time coming across these feelings and excitement was all over her, so, she wanted to start right away the same way she wanted to stop and take their time.
       Maybe it was her innocence, but any other person would have been shocked at Dante’s forwardness, especially after he began to blatantly force himself to her like a hungry mutt.
       Instead, she welcomed him as the kissing continued, and his hands danced all over her body while hers followed him around.
       In the blink of an eye now both had their pants down, Charlie’s legs raised and crossed around Dante’s waist as he prepared himself to begin penetration.
       Hung like a horse, he had quite a dick. She could not take her eyes away from it as it pressed against her crotch, eager to be inside. His knot almost twice as wide seemed impossible to fit in.
       —What now? —Charlie asked as she seemed to gather second thoughts—. Shouldn’t we do this inside? Or… not at all…
       —And allow ourselves to get caught? —Dante tried to take her attention away from doubt—.
       Charlie blushed at the idea as she wondered how others would react if that was the case. How could she explain that her heart had taken a new direction?
       —Then what are you waiting for? —Charlie whispered—.
       The spell was complete. Days of holding himself back finally culminating in what promised to be the best night of his new life.
       All sense leaving her mind as Dante finally thrusted her insides –causing Charlie to give out the loudest moan as her body stretched to fit his size.
       She looked at the sky, mouth open while her new partner bit her neck, his cock sliding in and out as her body hit the wall each time, and his knot tried to fit in.
       —F-Fuck! —Dante exclaimed as he penetrated her—.
       He first wanted to get the feel for it; touch her vulva with his penis and start slowly, but he couldn’t control himself enough –so, instead he simply did it as much and as hard and fast as he could, getting overwhelmed by the warm feeling of Charlie’s insides.
       —Shit! —She replied back to him as she felt his cock slide in like it was nothing—. Fuck-
       Her words were muffled as she tried to get him to slow down, but he persisted in pushing himself back into her, as if he was magnetically attracted to Charlie. Despite her reluctance, she couldn’t resist the overwhelming pleasure that coursed through her body.
       Every time he thrust into her, she felt a wave of ecstasy wash over her, making her breath hitch. She felt an urge to stop him, but the sensations were too intense to resist. Her body was betraying her mind, and she found herself arching her back and moaning with pleasure as he used her.
       His incredible length pushed her insides over and over and Charlie craved more. What would feel like attacks, felt more like momentary lapses of pleasure that felt better and better as he kept thrusting.
       As he continued to move inside her, she felt her resistance crumbling. She couldn’t believe how much she was enjoying this, but it was impossible to deny the pleasure he was giving her. And she was quickly adapting to it and bringing in her own enthusiasm to it as well.
       Her first protests quickly meant nothing as he kept going, his movements becoming more urgent and intense as she got into it with him. She felt herself getting closer and closer to the edge, her body trembling with the force of her impending orgasm. And then, with a final thrust, she came undone, her body convulsing with pleasure as he continued to move inside her.
       Charlie now belonged to Dante. Any resemblance of interest for Vaggie gone as she craved him more and more.
       Dante, who was also being overpowered by the sensations produced by her sudden wild behaviour couldn’t help himself to moan with her as both came for the first time, his knot finally breaching in, painfully spreading her pussy like never before –and as he looked at what he had done, seeing it dripping down from her insides, he was finally able to let his guard down.
       In the meantime, as she laid there, panting and spent against the wall and carried by Dante alone, she indulged on her desires to keep going, eager to get some of her strength back and push their bodies further beyond. Without realizing it, she had let him have his way with her, and she had enjoyed every moment of it.
       —Give me more.. —She begged—.
       But Dante was still getting himself back on track. He wanted for a time-out, but instead a hidden flame inside of Charlie had lighted up, prompting her to force him to fuck her some more with nothing more than leg strength and the power of her will. At least until both of them finally tired each other out after their second round.
       “How did she even...?” Dante questioned himself, not expecting Charlie to be so forward at all. He even feared starting a confrontation with her in case she somehow snapped out of it. Instead, he found himself getting exactly what he wanted, exactly how he wanted it.
       Never had a plan worked so well before. But now that Charlie was under his charms, it wouldn’t take long before the aftermath would come back and bite him in the ass.
       
       ***
       
       The hotel lounge felt heavier than usual, the muted amber light casting long, distorted shadows across the floor. Alastor leaned back in his chair, his grin as wide and unsettling as ever, though there was a tension in his posture that suggested he was less amused than he appeared. Vaggie, on the other hand, was openly seething, her arms crossed tightly over her chest as she glared at Charlie across the room.  
       —This is getting out of hand, Charlie. —Vaggie muttered, her voice a low hiss—.
       —Oh, it’s been out of hand for quite some time, my dear. —Alastor replied, his tone lilting but sharp—. Our dear princess has been… distracted, shall we say?
       —I think it goes without saying, Charlie. We don’t trust him. There’s something off about him. He’s too innocent, too… perfect. I don’t know what he wants, but it sure as hell isn’t redemption.
       Alastor’s grin widened, if that were even possible.
       —Oh, I couldn’t agree more! He’s a slippery little snake, isn’t he? And yet Charlie has been spending so much of her precious time on him. Almost as if he’s her pet project… or perhaps something more.  
       Vaggie’s stomach churned at the thought and snapped.
       —You’re smarter than this babe. At least, I think you are.
       —What is it with you two? Finally, we get a sinner that shows real promise and now suddenly it’s a problem? 
       —What’s with us? —Vaggie repeated, her frustration spilling over—. Charlie, what the fuck is going on with you? You’ve been spending all your time with Dante, ignoring everything else –including the hotel. Do you even remember when was the last time you dealt with anyone else besides him?
       Charlie frowned, her brow furrowing.
       —That’s not true. I’ve been–
       —No, you haven’t. —Vaggie interrupted—. You’ve been completely wrapped up in him. And for what? What makes him so special?
       Charlie hesitated, and for a moment, Vaggie thought she might finally get an answer. But then Charlie shook her head, her expression hardening.  
       —He’s the first one to actually want to redeem, for one. I think–
       —You think? —Vaggie cut in—. Or he’s told you? Because from where I’m standing, it looks like he’s manipulating you to get on your good side.
       Charlie’s eyes widened in shock, then narrowed in anger.
       —That’s because you don’t even know him. Neither of you two do with how much you avoid him like the plague.
       —And you know him? —Vaggie shot back—. You’re acting like he’s the only person who matters. Can’t you see what he’s doing? He’s isolating you, making you prioritize him over everything else. That’s not redemption, Charlie. That’s control.
       Charlie’s lips pressed into a thin line.
       —You’re wrong. —She said quietly—. He’s not like that.
       Vaggie sighed, running a hand through her hair.
       —I hope you’re right. —She said, her voice softer now—. But if you’re not… if he hurts you, or the hotel… don’t say we didn’t warn you.
       With that, Vaggie turned and walked away, leaving Charlie standing alone with Alastor, his grin as sharp as ever as he saw the discussion unfold –breaking silence as he rose from his chair, his cane tapping softly against the floor. His grin never wavered, though his eyes gleamed with something darker than usual.
       —Why, Charlie, my dear. —He said smoothly, his voice cutting through the low hum of conversation—. It seems you’ve been pouring all your energy into one particular guest. A charming fellow, I’m sure, but not exactly what one might call… trustworthy.
       Charlie’s expression stiffened, losing her temper as the conversation seemed to have reset.
       —Dante isn’t like that. He’s special.
       —Is he now? —Alastor tilted his head, his grin sharp and knowing—. —How fascinating. And what, pray tell, makes him so special? Is it his tragic backstory? His roguish charm? Or perhaps something else entirely?
       Charlie’s cheeks flushed, and she looked away.
       —It’s not like that. —She said quietly—.
       —Hmm.. —Alastor mused; his tone playful but laced with menace—. You know, my dear, it’s like you to get so attached. But lately…
       —I know what I’m doing. —Charlie said firmly—.
       With that, he turned and sauntered back to his chair, his cane tapping softly against the floor. Charlie watched him go, her chest tight with anger and something else she couldn’t quite name.
       Back at his seat, Alastor settled in with a satisfied sigh, his grin as wide and unsettling as ever. Whatever game Dante was playing, Alastor was determined to keep watching –and when the inevitable fallout came, he’d be there to pick up the pieces.
       Meanwhile, tired of being attacked, Charlie returned to Dante’s side; directly to his room, her shoulders stiff but her resolve unshaken. It was as if every time he had his way with her body, Charlie’s worries disappeared.
       —Rough night? —Dante asked, his tone low and smooth—.
       —You could say that. —Charlie replied, her voice tight—.
       He leaned against his drawing board, his gaze locking onto hers.
       —You’re letting them get in your head again.
       —They don’t understand. —She said, her tone more defensive than she’d intended—. They don’t see you the way I do.
       —And how do you see me? —He asked, stepping closer—.
       Charlie hesitated, her chest tightening as she met his eyes. There was something about the way he looked at her –like he could see straight through her, past the layers of composure and optimism, to the raw, vulnerable core she worked so hard to hide. It was equal parts terrifying and intoxicating. She was under his complete control.
       —You’re not what they think you are. —She said softly—. You’re… different. I know you are. I see in you, in your art, I wish they could see it too.
       —It’s my fault. —Dante said faking sadness—. My art simply isn’t strong enough to reach them. Neither are my words.
       —Then it’s simple! —She said firmly, stepping closer—. If they won’t see it for themselves, we have to show them.
       Dante reached out, his fingers brushing against her cheek. The touch was light, but it sent a shiver through her, igniting a fire that burned away the lingering doubts and fears.
       —We’ll show them.
       Charlie met his eyes, her resolve unwavering. Dante stepped closer, his hands finding her waist as he pulled her against him. She let out a shaky breath, her fingers gripping the front of his shirt as she felt the tension between them snap like a taut string.
       Trembling, her hands went up to Dante’s face next; hugging his head, sinking her fingers into his fur; affectionately kissing him. The taste on her lips could only be described as sweet honey.
       Dante would gradually lose control as well, with his last act of consciousness being taking Charlie by the shoulders; and forcing himself to her with erotic violence.
       With all his strength, he threw himself at her, knocking them down on the bed in the process.
       Then, Charlie regained her stance by bracing her hands on the bed, allowing him to free his hands that now lay outstretched from side to side. 
       Dante, with one of his arms took Charlie’s head once again, who was now staring at him like a sad puppy. She; that despite seeming to be the one orchestrating this encounter, had a look that was the result of eroticism, excitement, pleasure, desire and sadness.
       Dante, who finally had Charlie under control, knew that he must not let her go now, or else it all would’ve been for nothing. So, while she was still connected to his lips –he took one of her hands, then tuck it under his pants, finally requesting to her to stroke him off.
       Meanwhile, the feel of Dante’s arms crossing her slender body as she obeyed, gave Charlie sensations she had never felt before with anyone else. Hands that now crossed her curves as the wind caresses the mountains.
       The inevitable interruption of the kiss, due to the need to get rid of what her body was covered with, felt eternal as they both took the opportunity to catch their breath that they sorely needed –and still on the offensive, Charlie took it upon herself to finish taking off her clothes as well as his lover’s.
       Finally exposing themselves once more; her body giddy, highlighting her small breasts and nipples tense with excitement. Charlie now supporting her arms on Dante’ chest to prevent him from making a sudden movement, clearly wanting to take her time.
       This, of course, didn’t last long, as both went against each other almost instantly, tasting each other’s body as if this was the first time the ever did that.
       Charlie had a unique and intoxicating flavour, a mixture of sweat, warmth, eroticism and passion and something else. It resembled the taste of the forbidden fruit that had given birth to creation and to sin, to impurity. It was almost poetical; being Lucifer’s daughter, to resemble such things.
       —Dante…! —She let out a moan—.
       The feel of Dante’s tongue aroused Charlie in incredible ways she didn’t know were possible. Dante knew it because as he was holding her, it was obvious to him the rapid spasms Charlie was having.
       He gave with his tongue one, two, three slow passes over her pussy, and Charlie could do nothing but shoot a moan at the cosmos, her tremors were already uncontrollable and like a deadbolt she began to close her legs across his neck. as she brought her hands to his head and back to the bed, not knowing what to hold on to as he ate her whole.
       Dante immutably continued the oral carefully, little by little he pushed his tongue inside her as Charlie’s body surrendered itself to him.
       Her taste was intoxicating, however. A mixture of the taste of their fluids with eroticism and the sin of lust gave a complete course with a single meal. While the moans of the princess served as an essential companion.
       His tongue kept going in and out, skimming her inside walls from top to bottom and left to right. It was then that Dante felt confident to help himself with his hands, using his fingers to open her pussy and see inside her more easily and exposing each part. There he began to slowly run his tongue over her inside area, causing strong sensations of pleasure. A sudden glory that caused her to abandon her awareness and focus solely on the pleasure as she grabbed her partner’s head and pulled him hard toward herself.
       Dante continued to play in a thousand and one indescribable, unimaginable and impossible ways that took Charlie from one world to another and back again while he continued licking, sucking and stroking with his tongue in a circular way until the time had come.
       She then gave a great moan as she came, and Dante captured everything in his mouth. Her mind was clouded in the sea of passion; lost in the abyss, the sensation of exquisite and lustful climax. And her body was filled with spasms as a strange panic at such a new experience made her cling to her lover’s head like never before. The feeling of bewilderment –but that brought her ecstasy beyond her imagination, morbidity that completely embraced her, thus giving a catharsis of purification of all her previous emotions, leaving her mind in a blank limbo where there was only her.
       And so, as her orgasm ended and her mind returned, Dante rose and began to climb her body until he was facing her. Lovingly arranging her hair while she was still recovering. He looked at her tenderly as a warm red painted her cheeks. Her chest heaved with each breath, and she felt as if her heart was going to burst.
       —Make one with me. —Dante offered a deal—. Give me your strength so together we can make them see.
       Charlie couldn’t handle any pause, she couldn’t explain it to herself, but every moment of calm was like an opportunity for suffering to take her heart and force it to stop completely, so as soon as she heard the words of her master, she took him again and kissed him, closing that deal forever. Dante returned the kiss gently and again their scents mingled. Charlie couldn’t help but let out a tear from one of her eyes, while she clung to that kiss as if it was the last kiss she would give in her life.
       When it was finally over and they parted once more, Dante noticed that stealthy tear and asked.
       —Do not cry my dear.
       —Take me. —Charlie answered, interrupting in an almost mute tone of voice—.  Use my strength as yours.
       Dante smiled.
       —I want you to take me! Make me yours, I want you to show everyone how we feel, I want us to be a guide for the rest. —Charlie yelled—. 
       —So be it...
       They kissed again tenderly and thus Dante settled between Charlie’s legs and began to bring his cock closer to her. She was excited as she clung tightly to him.
       Dante began to penetrate her slowly, which caused her to let go of the kiss, allowing her to launch a new moan of pleasure, leaning her head against his, leaving her mouth wide open and her tongue sticking out as if she were a panting dog. She, without thinking, with her thighs pushed her master’s buttocks so that he penetrated her completely, which only amplified her pleasure as his knot was forced inside but also aroused a blurring confusion with pain. As it was her first time.
       This thought carried the entire act in her mind, but at last she had conceded the climax of her consciousness. The sudden pain disappeared in a short time as he made a constant penetration movement where each soft or hard thrust was received by her with open doors and begging for more. His cock inside her was embraced by warm throbbing. Her body trying to capture him inside her but not being able to stop him.
       After a few minutes Charlie had another orgasm. She could swear to herself that it was more intense than the last.
       And just as everything continued its course, the necessary time passed for Dante, who began to hear his own panting, his own moans. He knew it was his turn to cum inside.
       And perhaps it was destiny, or the feminine intuition of his little toy that; just as she had trapped him once, she would do it again –forcing him to stay inside her. Which soon made it clear what would happen now.
       And so, Dante for the first time in that act had the opportunity to have an orgasm of his own, ejaculating without being able to stop as he filled Charlie with his semen.
       Dante’s body arched as he came, his mind screaming with pleasure and ecstasy knowing what he had done.
       —I Love you.
       It was the last thing Charlie said to her lover as they finally rested.
       
       ***
       
       Hours later, Charlie lay tangled in the sheets, her body pressed against Dante’s. The room was quiet save for the soft hum of the air, and for the first time in what felt like forever, her mind was at ease.
       Dante’s arm was draped over her waist, his fingers tracing idle patterns along her skin. She closed her eyes, leaning into his touch, and let herself exist in the moment.
       Suddenly, the hazy tranquility of the room shattered in an instant.  
       A deafening crash echoed through the hotel, followed by the unmistakable sound of glass shattering. Charlie bolted upright; the sheets tangled around her as her heart pounded in her chest. Dante was already on his feet, his sharp instincts kicking in as he pulled on his shirt and peered out the window.
       —What the hell– —Dante muttered, his voice low and tense—.  
       Charlie scrambled to dress, her hands trembling as she moved to his side. Outside, the courtyard was a scene of chaos. Figures in stark armor, their faces obscured by glowing masks, descended upon the hotel like avenging angels. Exorcists.
       —No. —Charlie whispered; her stomach lurching—. They’re not supposed to be here. Not now.
       Dante turned to her; his expression grim.
       —Who are they?
       —Exorcists. —She said, her voice shaking—. But they shouldn’t be here, it’s too soon. They must be trying to avenge Adam’s death.
       A sudden explosion rocked the building, and the walls trembled under the force. Screams echoed down the halls as everyone else scrambled for safety.
       —Stay here. —Charlie said, her tone firm despite the fear in her eyes—. I have to help.
       —No chance. —Dante said, grabbing her wrist before she could run—. You’re not going out there alone.
       Truth be told, Dante did not truly care much for anyone nor the hotel itself; but being who he is, he knew this was not only the perfect chance to test his new strength but also a great opportunity to get everyone else on his side as well.
       —I can handle this. —She insisted, though her voice betrayed her uncertainty—.
       Dante’s eyes narrowed.
       —I’m not taking any risks.
       Charlie hesitated, her resolve faltering. Before she could argue further, another explosion rattled the walls, and Dante’s expression darkened.
       —We’ll go together. —He said, his voice leaving no room for debate—.
       Charlie nodded reluctantly, and the two of them rushed into the corridor. Smoke filled the air, mingling with the acrid scent of burning wood. The once-lively halls of the hotel were now a battlefield, with exorcists advancing through the chaos. As expected, Alastor and Vaggie were there, fighting back valiantly, but it was clear they were outmatched.
       —Stay close to me. —Dante said, his voice steady as he surveyed the scene—.
       As they descended the stairs, they met with Vaggie; who was fending off two exorcists with her spear. She was holding her own, but her movements were frantic, her usual precision dulled by the sheer number of attackers. Nearby, Alastor was unleashing waves of crimson energy, his grin sharp and dangerous. Yet even his power seemed to be struggling against the relentless tide.
       —Charlie! —Vaggie called out, relief flashing across her face as she saw them—.
       —Vaggie, what’s happening? —Charlie asked, her voice rising over the din—.
       —They’re everywhere. —Vaggie said, her breaths labored—. We can’t hold them off much longer!
       Dante’s gaze swept across the chaos, his mind working quickly. Despite how serious and confident he sounded earlier, now faced with the enemy he couldn’t help to foster second thoughts. The hotel wasn’t worth his life; then again he still wanted to test himself. 
       —Charlie. —He said, his tone urgent—. Give me some cover.
       Charlie blinked, taken aback by the command in his voice.
       —What are you going to do?
       —Turn the tables. —Dante said, a faint smirk tugging at his lips—.  But I’ll need some space.
       Without waiting for a response, Dante strode into the fray, his hands glowing with an ethereal light as he summoned his powers, and as he did, strength was drawn from Charlie herself; her eyes’ sclera turning black as he did. His artistic talents were now exponentially superior and could bend reality like he did the canvas.  
       Dante extended his hand, and the air shimmered as vibrant strokes of color materialized, forming a twisting labyrinth that separated the exorcists from them. Walls of swirling paint sprang up around the attackers, disorienting them as they struggled to navigate the maze. For them it was as if new corridors spawned between them furthering the distance between one another. For Charlie and the rest, the exorcists simply looked like they were flying in circles.
       —Let’s see how you like this. —Dante muttered, his smirk growing as he watched the confusion unfold—.
       A new and unaffected exorcists lunged at him, their blade glowing with holy light, but Vaggie jumped in as she saw his power unfold, she still didn’t trust him; but his magic was working.
       Next, with a flick of his wrist, he conjured a cascade of ink that erupted beneath the attacker’s feet, hardening into jagged spikes that sent them sprawling. Once more, for the gang it was like living paint, for the enemy it was like metal spikes spawning from the ground.
       The tide of the battle began to shift as Dante’s illusions and traps turned the chaos into controlled chaos. Exorcists found themselves ensnared in nets of shimmering thread; their movements slowed by the illusions cast. Others were lured into false pathways that led them straight into ambushes.  
       Vaggie and Alastor quickly capitalized on the advantage, their attacks hitting with newfound precision as the exorcists faltered. Vaggie’s spear found its mark again and again, while Alastor’s crimson energy cut through the armored invaders like a hot knife through butter.
       Charlie watched in awe as Dante moved through the battlefield, his power weaving reality into something entirely his own. She had always known he was talented, but this… this was something else entirely.
       —Dante! —She called out, her voice breaking through the chaos—.  
       He glanced back at her, his expression unreadable.
       —Stay with the others. —He said—. I’ve got this.
       The exorcists, realizing they were being outmaneuvered, began to retreat, their ranks thinning as Dante’s traps continued to whittle them down. One by one, they vanished into the night, leaving behind a hotel battered but standing.
       As the dust settled, silence fell over the lobby. Charlie looked around, her heart racing as she took in the aftermath. The walls were scorched, the floor littered with debris, but they had survived.
       Vaggie approached, her spear still in hand, her expression a mix of relief and suspicion.
       —What the hell was that? —She demanded, her gaze fixed on Dante—.
       —Just doing my part. —Dante said, his tone casual, almost insulted by her demeanor—.
       Vaggie’s eye narrowed in silence.
       —Enough. —Charlie said, stepping between them. She turned to Dante, her eyes soft but determined—. Thank you. For saving us.
       Dante shrugged; his expression guarded.
       —Don’t mention it.
       Alastor, who had been watching silently from the sidelines, chuckled darkly.
       —Well, well. It seems our little artist has some tricks up his sleeve after all. How… delightful.
       His tone was anything but, and Charlie shot him a warning look.
       Dante ignored the tension, his gaze meeting Charlie’s.
       —You should check on the others. —He said—. Make sure they’re okay.
       Charlie nodded. As she disappeared into the destruction, Vaggie turned to Alastor, her expression grim.
       —I still don’t trust him. —She said—.
       —Nor do I. —Alastor replied, his grin widening—. But he’s proven himself useful, hasn’t he? For now, at least.
       Dante stood apart from the others, his eyes scanning the room. He wasn’t here to win their trust or their approval, but tonight had shown him something he hadn’t expected. The reach of his new power was more than he ever imagined.
       The hotel lobby was a wreck. Smoke still lingered in the air, the faint scent of singed fabric mixing with the acrid tang of spilled drinks and charred wood. Broken furniture lay scattered across the room, and the once-pristine chandelier dangled precariously, its shattered crystals glinting in the dim light.
       Angel Dust sat cross-legged on the floor, a cigarette dangling from his lips as he examined a nasty gash on his arm.
       —Well, that was a freakin’ party. —He muttered, blowing out a plume of smoke—.
       Husk grumbled from behind the bar, nursing a half-empty glass of whiskey.
       —Remind me why I’m still here. —He said, his tone flat as ever—.
       —Because you love us, Husky! —Angel said with a grin, earning a withering glare from the bartender—.
       Nearby, Niffty flitted around, trying to sweep up the debris despite the overwhelming mess.
       —This place is such a disaster! I’ll have it cleaned up in no time, don’t worry!
       Charlie stood in the center of it all, her gaze sweeping over the room as she assessed the damage. Her heart ached at the sight of her beloved hotel in shambles yet again, but the worst was over. They survived.
       Her eyes found Dante across the room, standing apart from the others as he leaned against a cracked pillar. He was wiping a smear of dirt from his hand, his expression unreadable as always.
       Charlie took a deep breath and walked over to him, her heels crunching against the broken glass.
       —Hey. —She said softly, drawing his attention—.
       Dante looked up, his dark eyes meeting hers.
       —Hey.
       For a moment, neither of them spoke. The weight of the night hung between them, heavy and unyielding. Finally, Charlie broke the silence.
       —You saved us. —She said, her voice filled with quiet gratitude—.  I don’t know how to thank you.
       Dante shrugged, his gaze dropping to the floor.
       —You don’t have to. It was thanks to you after all that I had the power to win.
       Charlie smiled faintly, her hand brushing against his arm.
       From across the room, Vaggie watched the exchange with a scowl. Vaggie’s fists clenched at her sides.
       —Charlie’s too close to see it. He’s got her wrapped around his finger.
       —Oh, my dear Vaggie. —Alastor said, his tone mocking—. Let her have her little fantasy. It will be all the more entertaining when it inevitably falls apart.
       Back in the corner of the room, Charlie and Dante remained locked in their quiet conversation.
       —Come with me. —Charlie said suddenly, her voice trembling with a mix of determination and something deeper—.
       Dante raised an eyebrow.
       —To where?
       —Someplace quiet. —She said, her cheeks flushing—. We still got pending business…
       Dante’s smirk widened, but he said nothing, simply following her as she led him out of the ruined lobby and up the stairs.
       
       ***
       
       The hotel survived once more, but even then not much changed. Still, now Dante hold Charlie’s soul and power; it would now be just a matter of time before his takeover. Could anyone oppose him now?
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