Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“So this is…tangible suffering,” Sera had stated quietly, her expression half-mortified, half-...intrigued? Lucifer wasn’t quite certain that expression was. Emily looked like she wanted to poke it, but was uncertain about it.

On the floor in front of them was Mimzy’s blob, Akos having summoned it for them when Sera got curious about the stuff while discussing further details regarding trade agreements, which had evolved into their troubles regarding changing Hell’s currency.

Beside him, Lucifer noted Alastor was twitching, the guilt of having turned his friend in to this against his will still there.

“Ye-ep,” Lucifer confirmed, rubbing Alastor’s hand to comfort him. “We were just finishing up preparations to start production in a more...ethical...way. Namely creating it from the suffering Hell naturally creates on it’s own.”

“But now all that work may be thrown out the window due to the changes Father intends to make,” Akos added with a sigh. “There will be no doubt a significant population shift once ‘purgatory’ is created, though how fast that shift will happen is unknown.”

“Hopefully it’s not automatic and some kind of vetting process is required,” Alastor remarked. “Souls can and do change after they first spawn down here...and many I imagine would be adverse to being forced to ‘move’ against their will.”

“I’m certain Father has it figured out,” Sera stated. “Now...you said this...blob...used to be an actual person?”

“An irredeemable sinner,” Alastor replied, before adding softly. “Used to be a friend of mine...but at the time I...lost control of the form used to turn sinners into this.”

“Lost control?” Sera sounded understandably worried.

“We thought it was because of how quickly I developed these powers,” Alastor grumbled. “As the form was like a...second person inside me. That, thankfully changed after the encounter with the Troublemaker.”

“It’s...possible Father left a very small piece of Himself in that form so He could take control of it when the Troublemaker intruded upon the realm,” Akos speculated. “Though why it wanted to eat Mimzy so badly….”

“Father didn’t tell me anything about that, sorry,” Lucifer said with a shrug.

“Regardless...it’s clear you regret what happened to this person, Alastor,” Sera pointed out.

“I do…,” Alastor admitted, his ears back. “Yes, she was an irredeemable, narcissistic bitch...but she didn’t deserve this kind of punishment. Not like Valentino and Cyber...whom are the other two I turned into these blobs.”

“So this is...not reversible?”

“We are still not sure,” Akos replied. “I haven’t had much of a chance to run any tests or research with everything else that had been going on.”

“Have you...um…just tried eating it again?” Emily suggested, looking at Alastor. “I mean...if eating a person is what created it maybe…it can do the reverse?”

“Hmm...that does sound logical…,” Akos mused. “Alastor?”

Alastor’s ears were perked forward, his expression one of consideration. “I’m willing to try,” he finally stated with some reservation in his voice. “But...I’m worried eating her again may just as well send her to oblivion...or do nothing at all.”

“I would think oblivion would be preferable to eternal suffering,” Vaggie pointed out. “It would be a mercy.”

“You have a point…,” Alastor was saying. “And putting it that way makes the odds of a ‘positive’ outcome in our favor. Though...eating this is not going to be easy….”

“Yeah, I don’t think eatin’ something with the consistency of play-doe is gonna be pleasant,” Angel remarked.

“Swallowing it in one go is likely the best option,” Akos suggested as they used their magic to put the Mimzy blob into a large, oval-shaped bowl.

“I agree,” Alastor said as he shifted to his devourer form, Emily and Sera stepping back, their eyes wide by it’s appearance. “Do Not WorRy, I Have Full ConTrol Of It Now.”

“Annnd I don’t think either of you would ‘fit’ the requirement for getting devoured anyway,” Lucifer quipped.

“I certainly hope not!” Sera exclaimed, Lucifer chuckling.

“Hmm….,” Alastor was tilting his head. “Yes, Some AdJustMents Have Been Made.”

“Got uh...patch notes?” Vaggie asked, to which Alastor nodded.

“From What I Can UnDerStand...The State Of EterNal PunIshMent Is Now AbLe To ADapt.”

“Adapt?” Sera queried. “To what?”

“I’m going to guess that before it was a ‘one size fits all’ bit,” Lucifer remarked.

“But we know that saying is false in a lotta ways,” Angel added. “Wait...this is almost soundin’ like Mimzy was forced to be eaten cause the Big Man up there needed a sinner whom didn’t cause direct physical pain….”

Alastor was nodding.

Well, that was a bit fucked up, though Lucifer supposed at the time Father didn’t really have an easy means to ask Alastor to go looking for a ‘variety’ of irredeemable sinners to test that ‘state’ on. “Well...is it also telling you how to...’undo’ the state?” he asked.

“No,” Alastor sighed, before picking up the bowl with both hands. “Well...BotToms Up.” Alastor tilted his head back and dumped the entire blob into his open maw. Lucifer saw his body shudder in revulsion as he swallowed.

“Ugh...That Was Not PleaSent!”

“Did it ‘disappear’ like a normal person does?” Lucifer asked.

“No...It Went All The Way Down,” Alastor said with a grimace. “Feels Like A Lead Weight….”

“So...how long do we have ta wait?” Angel asked. “It took a few days the other way, if I recall?”

“I Don’t Know,” Alastor groaned, looking uncomfortable. “But It’s Not LetTing Me Change Back.”

Lucifer winced at that. Hopefully it won’t be too long...as it would be quite awkward to have to do the wedding with Alastor stuck like this. Though if he’s not being allowed to change back...maybe that means-

His thoughts were interrupted when Alastor started to cough, then heave. Everyone took a few steps back and a moment later a fully restored Mimzy was coughed up. The tiny woman had tumbled a bit when she hit the floor, but was not harmed...aside from missing any clothing. Lucifer quickly conjured a towel and draped it over her shoulders.

Mimzy was blinking, looking around confused, the sclera of her eyes now white instead of black.

“Mimzy?” Alastor, whom had changed back, called out, his voice one of concern. Lucifer felt a bit of concern himself. While it was implied the ‘old’ state of eternal punishment wouldn’t had worked well on Mimzy, there was likely some mental repercussions.

Seriously? Did he just her Angel and Husk make a bet?

Mimzy had looked up sharply at Alastor, a puzzled look on her face, before she narrowed her eyes and tilted her head.

“Alastor?” She finally spoke.  “Is that annoying dream finally over?”

“Dream?”. Alastor echoed, raising a brow.

“Yeah!  One where I kept watching myself…swindle myself into bad deals and shit...then boo hooing and crying about it later,” she explained as she rolled her eyes and got to her feet.  “It was really starting to get on my nerves and worse..you weren't there to help me!”

Lucifer softly groaned in exasperation, Alastor was sighing and was rolling his eyes. Apparently her experienced hadn’t taught her anything. Guess that’s why she was ‘irredeemable’. Out of the corner of his eye he saw Angel pass Husk some money.

“And what's with this new look?” Mimzy continued, poking Alastor in the chest.  “How can I expect you to be intimating to those after me if you look like a pussy?”

Interesting…did she not remember what led up to her ‘having an annoying dream?

“Do you not remember?” Alastor had asked stiffly, an edge to his tone. “We are ‘done’.”

Mimzy blinked, her eyes then widening before finally realizing she only had a towel to cover her with.  “What the fuck…you ate me!  And all I wanted was an invitation to your stupid wedding!”

“You wouldn't take no for an answer,” Alastor reminded her bluntly. 

“But that is still not an excuse to eat me!” 

“Ya know that can be taken in a number of ways…,”. Angel remarked.

“Angel! “ A number of people scolded, Angel just shrugging in response.

“You forced my hand,”. Alastor lightly growled, his ears starting to go back.  “I had told you to leave.”

“And you don't boss me around, buster!”. Mimzy snapped.

“Mimzy…”

Oh no, Lucifer could this was going downhill fast. He started to take a step forward when Alastor put a hand up in his direction.

~I got this,~ he told him privately.

“And where are my clothes?” Mimzy had snarled.  “I am not going back to my bar in only a towel!”

“Um…I think saying saying please would get you further than-”. Emily started to say.

“Shut up you holy bitch!” Mimzy snapped. Emily recoiled, while Sera looked like she was very close to smiting her herself.

“Mimzy…”. Alastor's ears were fully back now.

“Why the fuck are you holy assholes here any way?  Go the fuck back to Heaven you-”

“MIMZY!” Alastor yelled, his form suddenly shifting. His sclera turned red, teeth becoming sharp, hair returning to it’s red coloration with dark brown accents. Fingers turned red and his tail elongated into a thin, black tail with a red and black tail tuft at the end. Lastly, his antlers grew out, still halo shaped, but the tines were more jagged, their coloration a reflective silver, and there was as small green flame floating in the center.

Everyone, save for Lucifer, Mimzy and Emily, had taken another step back.

“Now that is more like-urk!” Mimzy started to say before Alastor's tail wrapped around her neck.

“Unless you desire to be put back into that ‘annoying dream’ I suggest you shut the fuck up!” Alastor growled. “And if I do put you back there, I can guarantee it won’t just be an ‘annoying dream’ next time!”

Mimzy’s eyes were wide, but wisely stayed quiet as Alastor continued.

“I only restored you for the sake of our friendship,” Alastor hissed. “So do not make me regret granting you mercy. Do you understand?”

Mimzy slowly nodded.

“Good.” Alastor released her, but his form had not receded yet. “Now...I highly suggest you just go back home and don’t bother me again unless you want redemption.”

“What about my invit-” Mimzy started to ask, but a stiff growl from Alastor made her rethink her question. “Clothes! I meant clothes!”

With a smirk, Lucifer snapped his fingers and dressed her in something rather similar to nun attire. A few people snickered.

“That’s not funny!” Mimzy hissed at him. “This is too much cloth on me!”

“Fine, fine…” Lucifer sighed and snapped his fingers again, changing the clothing to a simple white dress.

“Ugh...this will do for now I guess,” Mimzy groaned as she started to stop out of the lobby.

“Do try to to avoid getting into a deal with Mammon this time, my dear,” Alastor, whom had returned to normal, called after her, only to get flipped off by her as she exited the Hotel.

“I...I hate to say it,” Sera muttered, looking a bit ashamed of herself. “But I think she was more ‘pleasant’ to be around as a blob….”

“That’s Hell for you,” Lucifer stated with a sigh. “Let’s hope she doesn’t try to crash our wedding out of spite.”

“If she does, I would be very tempted to devour her again...willingly this time,” Alastor had snarled.

Hopefully it won’t come to that.

Chapter Text

Things were busy at the Hotel.

Angels came and went, helping with healing those still recovering with injuries from the battle and repairing the city. Funeral arrangements for the fallen were being made.

And of course the final preparations for her Dad’s and Alastor’s wedding.

Gosh it was so overwhelming! Charlie was going to need a vacation after this! Alastor and Lucifer as well. Poor guys likely won’t really get a chance to have much of a honeymoon with everything that was going on.

If they even got a honeymoon.

Yeah, Lucifer was King, he could just say ‘fuck it’ and take one anyway. Both he and Alastor needed it after the emotional rollercoaster they’ve been through. For the time being however...work had to be done.

She and the rest of the Hotel staff (minus a certain Radio Demon and King: those two snuck off somewhere) were going over blue prints for a new ‘Hall of the Fallen’ building to honor the lives lost during the battle, when a portal from Heaven crackled open in the middle of the lobby.

“Odd, I thought Heaven was done sending help for the day?” Charlie remarked as a man and woman stepped through. She could immediately tell these weren’t angels, but winners. The woman had a dark skin tone and her black hair tied up in a bun. As for the man….

Charlie’s eyes widened: he...reminded her of Alastor. What he could have looked like when he was alive. Short, dark brown hair, white skin and a pair of glasses on his nose.

Where these….

“Thank you!” the woman said curtly back toward the portal as it closed. “Now...where is that no good son of ours?”

“Maybe those fine folk over there would know, my dear?” the man said, gesturing toward them.

“Good idea, Joseph!”

Charlie was already walking toward them as the woman turned toward her. “Hello there! I’m Charlie Morningstar,” she greeted. “Can I help?”

“’Charlie Morningstar…” the woman echoed, before her face lit up with glee. “Ah! You must be my soon-to-be step-granddaughter!”

Before she could confirm that, the woman had reached up and pitched her cheeks. “Oh look at you! So gorgeous and finely dressed! And polite as well! Your parents did right by you!”

“Th-thanks…,” Charlie said, slightly embarrassed the woman let her go and looked at her with a proud smile.

“I am Joseph and this is Marie,” Joseph introduced.

“Please to meet you both!” Charlie stated, before asking. “So, you need to see Alastor?”

“Indeed! I need to have a word or two with that boy, so if you know where he’s hidin’,” Marie stated.

“Unfortunately, I don’t know where he is right now, ma’am,” Charlie confessed. “He’s with Dad somewhere in the Hotel.”

“Probably doin’ some-” Angel started to say but had a hand from both Husk and Vaggie cover his mouth.

“’A-hem’, as I was saying,” Charlie continued, barely suppressing an eye roll. “I can call Dad though and have him let Al know your here.”

“Ah, no need for that, my dear,” Marie said with a flap of her hand. “I got this.”

She then took a deep breath and yelled Alastor's full name.

Many in the room shuddered, especially when Marie started doing a count down from ten.

“Oh man, not just first, middle and last name,” Angel muttered, cringing. “But a count down as well…Smiles is gonna get it….”

---

Meanwhile

Alastor and Lucifer’s room

“Still nothing?” Lucifer asked.

“Nope,” Alastor confirmed then asked. “You?”

“Nooope….” the angel said with a heavy sigh.

They were sitting on their bed, looking down their respective pants. It had been two full days since they got their new bodies and their genitals hadn’t shown up yet. They were starting to get a bit...worried...(and maybe a bit sexually frustrated).

“You are certain it was only supposed to take one or two days?” Alastor pried.

“That’s how it was for everyone else and the first time I was ‘born’,” Lucifer replied. “Though...with our luck it could be delayed due to the...circumstances...behind our new body acquisition.”

Alastor threw himself backwards onto the bed with an annoyed huff. “Is it possible Father is forcing us to be celibate until our wedding night?” he asked.

“I...really hope not…,” Lucifer said with a shudder. “Though...we are both ‘technically’ virgins again...and being a virgin before marriage was a kind of a big deal before marriage.”

“For women, if I recall right!” Alastor growled. “We are both men.” Lucifer just shrugged helplessly.

Alastor sat up once more, thinking. “Maybe we can get around it by having sex in our-” He froze as every hair and strand of fur stood on end as the chill of pure dread ran down his spine. His eyes widened and ears went flat against his head.

“Shit…,” Alastor said before bolting out the door, a very confused Lucifer calling out to him.

~Al, what's wrong,~ Lucifer then asked telepathically, concern in his tone.

~Ma is calling me,~ he replied simply, mentally counting down how much time he had left as he ran as fast as he could.

Wait...they were on the top floor. She would locally be in the lobby. Fuck. Running wouldn’t get him there in time! With a curse he wrapped himself in shadow and teleported down to the lounge.

A quick look around confirmed she wasn’t there, so he ran toward the lobby. Alastor skidded into the lobby as he heard his mother about to count down to ‘one’.

“I'm here ma!” he announced, panting as he stopped in front of her.  “What is the-ah!”. Alastor yelped in pain as his mother grabbed him by the ear.

“You got some explainin’ to do, young man,” she sneered.

Oh fuck whadidido?  His other ear went back and down as he tries to think of what set her off.  “It it not about the wedding invitation, is it?” He asked.  “I did send one I swear!”

Oh gods it would be just his luck if Sera lost it….

“Oh no, my dear boy, I got that just fine,” his mother assured him.  “I told everyone I knew about your wedding!”

Well…that explained how Daraz found out about it….

“No, boy, the reason I am angry at you is because you came all the way to Heaven…and you didn't think to stop by and visit your o’ma?”

Fuck. Alastor felt his face going pale.  “Ma…I I can assure you that there was a very good reason why-ow!”. His mother's grip on her poor ear tightened as he was pulled closer.

“It better be, so talk!”

“I don't know if you've heard by now, but there was, essentially, a coup attempt in heaven,” he spoke quickly. “And a massive attack on Hell.  That was why I was there with Luci and a couple others: to stop it.  As soon as the coup itself was dealt with, we had to go back to Hell to end the battle there.”

Please believe me please believe me!

“And you didn't think to check on your o ma to ensure we were alright?”. She growled.  “We were all forced to stay in our homes or in a shelter that day!”

“Dear, you’re being a bit unreasonable,” a man’s voice interjected.

The first time Alastor noticed the man standing beside his mother. He...felt like he was looking at himself from his time as a living human, just with paler skin.

Was this….

“From the gossip we’ve been hearing going around and from what he just said,” the man continued calmly. “It sounded like some really major events were going on, the kind of things were it would be understandable if our son didn’t get a change to come by to visit.”

Father...this was his biological father. He could only stare as his mother finally let go of his ear and allowed him to stand up straight once more.

“Fine, you have a point, dear,” his mother said with a sigh. “Now, where is your fiance at? I’d like to have a chat with him.”

“Um….” Alastor just barely caught the sound of Lucifer’s voice. He looked that way to see his beloved just entering the lobby, looking like he was about to turn around and run away.

“Come here, darling!” Alastor called out to him playfully (and a touch of sadism) as he shot out a tentacle, grabbed Lucifer by the waist and half-dragged, half-carried to him toward him. “It’s time for you to meet my parents!”

After releasing him from his tentacle’s grip, Lucifer just stood there frozen, looking a bit terrified. “Um...hi?” he finally said quietly with a small smile and a little hand wave. “I’m...Lucifer Morningstar, pleased to meet you?”

“Joseph and Marie,” his father introduced, before looking at Lucifer with a raised brow. “I was not expecting you to be shorter than us both.”

“Nor was I expecting him so...bashful...either,” his mother remarked, a hand on her chin. “I thought he was supposed to be the King?”

“Ah, but even Kings can feel dread when meeting the parents of their better half!” Alastor explained, Lucifer shooting him a look as Alastor slipped behind him and draped his hands over his shoulders. “And don’t be fooled by his small stature: you know what they say about appearances being deceiving!”

“Good points, both,” his father said. “Why don’t he and your mother get to know each other.”

Alastor could feel Lucifer stiffen.

“Good idea! Nothing like bonding over making some good old jambalaya,” his mother announced, before looking Lucifer square in the eye. “Mind being a gentleman and showing me where your kitchen is.”

“S-sure…,” Lucifer said as he, somewhat hesitantly, turned and gestured for her to follow him.

~Aaaallll...I’m not sure about this...~ Lucifer remarked telepathically.

~Just do exactly what she says while in the kitchen and you’ll be fine, darling,~ Alastor replied, a faint smirk on his face.

“Hmm, what’s that smirk about, son?” Joseph asked.

“Hm? Oh, just thinking about how much ‘fun’ Luci and ma are about to have together,” he replied with a grin.

“Ah and that’s the ‘I hope I don’t end up on the couch’ look.” There was knowing smirk on his father’s face.

Alastor stiffened...how did he? “Well, um...truthfully we haven’t had any actual ‘you’re sleeping on the couch’ moments.”

“Yet!” Angel shouted, Alastor glaring at him.

“Perhaps we should go somewhere more private and with less...random commentary,” his father suggested.

“A good idea. The study is not far. Charlie, would you let us know when ma is done cooking?”

“Of course!” Charlie replied. “Annnd I’ll keep an eye on Dad and your mother.”

“Much appreciated, my dear!”

Alastor lead his father out of the lobby, feeling anxiety build in his gut. What to say? Would he be upset at his life choices?

His thoughts were briefly disrupted when they passed by the kitchen.

“That is not how you de-shell shrimp!” His mother was saying.

“Sorry, I usually make breakfast and deserts!” Lucifer was saying apologetically.

“Goodness, you have a lot to learn if you are going to keep my boy properly fed!”

“Um...I am a King and technically…OW!” Oh...poor Lucifer must have gotten the wooden spoon.

“Don’t care if you are God Himself! You will learn to cook proper food for my son. Poor boy needs meat on his bones!”

“That’s because of-” Another yelp from another smack from the wooden spoon.

“No excuses!”

~If you want to preserve what’s left of your pride, my dear, it is best to not talk back to her,~ Alastor advised telepathically. He could feel the fuming of indignation from Lucifer over their bond.

“Ah, brings back fond memories,” His father remarked. “Both in life and after she joined me in Heaven.”

“She gave you the same treatment?” Alastor asked as the approached the study.

“Her more so after she joined me,” he replied. “Though my parents were quite ‘traditional’ as well.”

“H-how did you meet her?” He nervously asked as they entered the study.

“Had a run in with a gator while looking for good pieces of wood to whittle,” Joseph explained as they sat next to each other on a couch. “The gator didn’t actually get me, but I cut myself badly on some brush getting away. She happened to be traveling the same path and helped me bandage it up. I was smitten by her then and she me, though I wasn’t the only one who was after her affection…”

Alastor didn’t miss the bitterness in his tone. “I...I think I know whom you are referring to,” he remarked, not covering his own hatred.

“Zenon...yes…,” Joseph confirmed.

“That man doesn’t deserve his name being even being spoken,” Alastor growled.

His father was nodding in agreement. “Because I was a pure-blood Frenchman, he detested that I was eyeing a Creole, made that point very clear many times at our workplace,” he explained. “But Marie clearly preferred me over him and she even made that clear to him.”

“He must have been overjoyed when you died in that sawmill accident…,” Alastor grumbled.

“It...wasn’t an accident….”

Alastor’s fists clenched at the fabric of his pants, hating that he was right about that.

“And how did you know about that incident? She told me she never told you….”

“I found a newspaper clipping about it...and an engagement ring wrapped up in it, a short time after she...died.” He breathed a sigh. “Before that moment, I had thought you had abandoned ma deliberately...that’s what ‘he’ always claimed anyway, but she never corrected him.”

“She always wanted to tell you the truth,” Joseph said softly.  “But feared for your safety.  It was a miracle he didn't kill you.”

“He threatened to do so many times,” Alastor told him. “Made an actual attempt shortly after ma died…but I was expecting it: he died instead…though in the process earned my place in Hell due to the wrath I had felt.  The anger and desire to punish him for what he did to us both…and you.”

“I do not fault you,” Joseph had said.  “I likely would have done the same in your place.”

“But it wasn't just him I killed, father…” he muttered.  “I-I took the lives of many others of.. similar disposition…to him.  Rapists, abusers…scum of the earth.”

A heavy sigh.  “I understand now that it was not my place to judge.”

“Look at you now through:  a proper angel,” Joseph pointed out. “Clearly you did something right.”

“Or God made many exceptions in my case to ensure His plans came to fruition.”

“He saw something in you worth including you in such plans in such a significant way “

“I was such a monster though…”

“A monster with good intentions and that's what matters, at least to me.”. His father then pulled him into a hug.  “The path you were out on was painful, but you rose above it.  For that, I'm proud of you.”

Hot tears rimmed his eyes as he pressed his face into his father's chest.

This…this was the father he had always dreamed about, always wanted.  Not that shit stain his mother had been forced to marry.

“My life…would have been so different if only…” he began.

“I know, but would you be where you are now if I had been?” his father said softly.

His mind spun with many possibilities, many not good.  Charlie likely would have been killed by Adam before Lucifer arrived.  Lucifer, in his grief, likely would have attacked Heaven in retaliation with disastrous results.

Roo would have won.

Yes, it was likely Father would have adjusted his plans to account for his absence…but….

“No…I likely wouldn't,” he replied.  “And nor would we be in a moment of positive transition for creation itself.”

“Indeed, so stop with the pessimism, my son: we all have a brighter future ahead of us now.”

“Yes, father,” Alastor said with a small smile.

Yes, father...the phrase he’d never thought he would feel good about saying.

--

They continued to talk. Alastor learning Joseph was a carpenter and wood sculptor by trade, the latter suggesting he would get long with Lucifer quite well. He was quite saddened to learn that Zenon had destroyed all the little wooden figurines Joseph had made for his mother after his death and that Joseph had died due to being crushed by a collapsing log pile that Zenon had triggered during an argument. That had been...almost right after Joseph had proposed to her when they found out she was pregnant.

Alastor in turn told his father about his love for radio and that he ran his own show. Also told him about his love for dancing and theater. Joseph had listened to him with obvious interest, even with the...less nice parts like how he died and how he initially operated in Hell. He was clearly happy he found another parental figure in the form of Akos and love in Lucifer.

Alas their private time together was cut short when Charlie told him the food was ready.

“Oh, before you go, I gotta show you something Al!” Charlie was snickering as she showed him a picture of Lucifer.

Lucifer...was in his demon form...with a sauce pan balanced on this horns. He was leaning on the counter, his arms folded and expression looked a mix of humiliated and fuming. If it had been a video, he was certain Lucifer’s tail would be doing the ‘annoyed cat tail wag’.

“Oh dear...my darling Lucifer has become Lucistove!” Alastor laughed.

“My advice, son,” Joseph said while snickering. “Say nothing...else you probably will be on the couch tonight!”

As much as it pained him to miss out on the opportunity to tease his beloved, his father was probably right….

---

BONUS ART!

Chapter Text

Lucifer stretched and yawned as he and Alastor entered their bedroom after a long day.

Three days.  Well, almost two days now.  Until their wedding.

To be honest he’ll be glad when that day comes, as it would mean a lot of shit was finally done and over with.

Only…for more shit to come in it’s place.

Ugh…it’s so ‘good’ to be King, but at least he doesn’t have to face that alone.  With that thought in mind he looked over at Alastor fondly. His fiance had already taken off his coat and was starting to unbutton his shirt. Lucifer smiling at the thought that, within moments, he’ll be snuggled up against that warm body.

Soon…soon they will be officially married.  A mix of warmth and butterflies danced in his gut at the thought.

He just really hoped their genitals would manifest themselves by then. That it was taking so long was making Lucifer worried Father was doing this on purpose….

“What is this?”  Alastor asked, breaking his chain of thought. His beloved was pointing at a strange envelope on their nightstand.  It was oval shaped, the color reminding him of the void he can see in Akos’ room.

“I…don’t know,” Lucifer admitted, drawing closer to it. “It wasn’t there this morning…”  And only staff were allowed to come into their room then they weren’t present: the wards would have alerted them either way.

Yet, it was here, which meant had to be sent through magical means capable of bypassing his wards without disturbing them.

That was more than enough to make him hesitant about touching it, let alone opening it….

He was just about to have Alastor call for Akos when Akos came into their room.

“Ah, I see you got one as well,” the dragon-like seraphim said when they spotted it on the nightstand.

“Do you know what it is?” Alastor asked.

“It is an invitation to witness the proceedings of Roo’s trial,” they explained.  “It's tomorrow morning”

Lucifer needed to process that for a moment.  “Why are we being invited?” he asked. 

“It does seem a bit...above our pay grade,” Alastor remarked 

“A matter of courtesy, I believe, since us three were the most directly affected by Roo’s shenanigans…those that are still alive, anyway.”

Fair enough.  He looked at Alastor, who nodded.  “So how do we .. RSVP for this?” he asked as he picked up and opened the envelope.  Immediately what looked like a field of stars making out some kind of language appeared.  He was about to ask for a translation when the stars rearranged themselves into a language he could understand.

“Poke the thing that looks like a galaxy if you wish to go.  The black hole if not,” Akos informed him.

He did so, the ‘galaxy’ flaring, followed by the stars rearranging once more for a new message.

“Father will pick us up when it is time,” he said, after reading it.

“I suppose He will have to, considering I doubt this trial will take place in a location we can normally reach,” Alastor remarked.  “Let's just hope it's not a long, drawn out and boring trial.”

He and Akos nodded in agreement.

---

Next morning 

Akos watched with some amusement as Lucifer and Alastor fussed over each other's appearances.  Lucifer was in his usual ‘Ringmaster’ style suit and hat, while Alastor was in his white and black suit.

“Guys, these are cosmic beings you’ll be meeting,” they reminded them.  “They won't care if you have a wrinkle or a thread hanging out.“

“Principle.” They both replied in unison, to which Akos rolled their eyes with a smirk on their face.

“Oh this sounds so exciting!”. Charlie was saying.

“Trials are boring as shit, princess,” Husk told her.  “Trust me on this.. had to sit in a few in life.  Stupid jury duty….”

“I'm not talking about the trial but all the…um…’people’ they will get to see,” Charlie clarified.  “Who knows what they will look like!”

“Sorry to disappoint, but many will likely assume a form related to this realm and their role.,” Akos pointed out. “ It's to protect the sanity of lesser beings in their presence.”

“Like how Demonakos was essentially just a black dragon with white spikes and horns?”. Alastor asked, Akos nodding in confirmation.

“And my mentor, the Observer, usually chooses a form that's a bunch of eyeballs…at least that's what he was when he visited me that day.“

“Still, I’d like to know what varity you’ll get to see.”

“Fair enough.”

There was a flash of golden light and Father appeared, though in a slightly different form than last. Still gold and white, but was ‘dressed’ in a suit, His eyes hovering around His head. Akos and Lucifer lowered their heads, Alastor and the others following their lead.

“Are you ready?” He asked.

“As can be, Father,” Akos replied, Lucifer and Alastor nodding in confirmation. “We thank you for the honor of witnessing this event.”

“I will warn you now,” Father said. “Some things you will not understand, or will be allowed to perceive. Even you, Akos.”

“Understood.”

“Do you...know how long this will take?” Lucifer asked, a hint of concern in his voice.

“Most of the ‘work’ had been done prior, so this is more of a ‘hearing’ and ‘sentencing’,” Father explained. “Still, Time Keeper will be attending, in the event some...’time manipulation’ is needed.”

Oh, they had heard of them before: for obvious reasons, they don’t get involved in matters often, as time manipulation was a...delicate thing.

“So they can, like, go back to the time of the dinosaurs and shit?” Angel pipped up, a few others groaning.

Father, however, completely ignored him, though Akos thought they caught a slight eye roll. Instead a portal made of light and stars formed, it’s center showing what looked like a cavern as the destination. He then inclined his head toward it. Akos nodded and gestured for Lucifer and Alastor to follow.

“Hope things go well!” Charlie had called out as they stepped through.

---

Somewhere deep under Hell

The first thing Lucifer noticed was Roo’s presence the moment they stepped through the portal. Feel their anger, despair and fear. He gripped Alastor’s hand, noting his beloved’s ears were back a bit, remembering that as a full angel now, Alastor could now ‘perceive’ things like Roo’s essence a lot more easily. Lucifer gave the top of his hand a comforting rub with his thumb, before taking in the room they had arrived in.

The room was fairly large, the walls and floor a smooth white marble: the ceiling however, was still rather rough, but covered with twinkling lights that reminded him of stars. It were these that provided the space with sufficient light for them. Lucifer noticed there were no doors nor windows in the space, but he supposed cosmic entities don’t need them...

Then he noticed there were a line of chairs facing a wall...four of them, but...there were only three of them. They looked at each other with puzzled looks, before a new portal opened and Sera stepped through. The Elder Seraphim looked quite out of her element, her wings constantly flicking in anxiety.

“Ah, you got an invitation as well?” Akos asked.

“I did…,” Sera confirmed, looking a bit relieved to see the three of them. “Father said it would be a good idea for me to get a...broader scope of things….”

From the smirk on Akos’ face, Lucifer could tell they really wanted to make a comment about that. From the ‘don’t you dare’ expression on Sera’s face, she saw it as well.

“The rest of my kin will be starting to arrive in a moment,” Father announced. “They all know of your attendance so you should not affected by their presence.”

“Will we be required to...um...testify?” Alastor asked.

“No,” Father replied. “As stated before, most of the work regarding this moment has been done prior. Your role will be as witnesses, nothing more.”

They all nodded in acknowledgment.

The arrival of the first of Father’s in came with a sound of many clocks ticking and a single hourly gong. An entity in the shape of a floating pocket watch appeared.

“Time Keeper, punctual as always,” Father greeted.

“Of course,” Time Keeper rumbled with what sounded like a chuckle, before floating past and through the wall.

The next came with a deathly chill, Lucifer huddling next to Alastor in a vain attempt to counter it. Even Father seemed to shudder as a black hooded figure appeared, holding a scythe and an hour glass: classic interpretation of the Grim Reaper.

“The End…” Akos whispered as the figure simply nodded toward Father and went the same way as Time Keeper went.

“I’m starting to think most of their appearances are going to be a bit...on the nose,” Sera muttered.

Lucifer had to agree as the air then smelled of bleach, a human figure in a janitor outfit appearing and walking by, giving Father and Akos a ‘thumbs up’ as he walked by.

“I’m guessing that is The Cleanser,” Lucifer asked, Akos nodding in acknowledgment.

He was followed by two others, one took the form of a restaurant chef and the second a walking tree: the Eater and the Grower, they were referred to respectively.

The Observer arrived next, appearing as a large eye ball with many smaller ones floating around him. He and Akos nodded toward each other, before looking toward Father.

“Has he arrived yet?” The Observer asked.

“No,” Father replied with a hint of annoyance. “Bet you he thinks he doesn’t ‘need’ to be here.”

The Observer had scoffed. “I’ll go get him then,” he remarked before disappearing.

“I wonder who they are-” Lucifer started to ask before a portal appeared and a familiar looking black dragon figure was tossed through. “Oh….”

Both he and Alastor pressed against each other, their ‘fight’ against Demonakos still too fresh in their minds. Akos had a snarl on their face and Sera was looking at the forcefully newly arrived with wide eyes.

“Why, do I need to be here?” Demonakos snarled, picking himself off the floor. “I had nothing to do with their schemes!”

“Not intentionally, but involved you still were,” Father told him sternly as The Observer reappeared. “Plus you will have a role to play after.”

“Oh great, lovely….fantastic!” Demonakos huffed sarcastically, before noticing them. “Why are sparks here?”

“Witnesses due to how entwined their lives were with what have unfolded,” Father replied simply. “Now, get in your position.”

“Yes ‘father’,” Demonakos grumbled before joining the others. The Observer and Father muttering ‘young ones’ with an eye roll.

“Please take a seat,” Father said. “A window will appear that will allow you to hear and watch when things begin.” Both he and the Observer then passed through the wall.

With nothing else to do, they did so.  Akos and Sera took the end seats, while he and Alastor sat in the middle.

A moment later the was in front of them shimmered and the room beyond came into view.  There was an audible gasp from Sera and Lucifer felt a chill go down his spine.

The room was spherical and looked to be made of white marble like theirs.  From the walls came four glowing cords, each one leading to the center.

In the center, bound by them was Roo.

Roo was simply a gelatinous, greyish brown  mass, with small tentacles and a few red eyes.  Below them was a small cluster of roots, though they looked rotted and no longer had any of Roo’s powers 

”I wasn't expecting them to look almost literally like a piece of crap,” Alastor quipped, Lucifer having to stifle a laugh.

“So...that's what Roo…really looks like?”. Sera was asking.

“No,” Akos replied.  “Like the others, their form has been simplified so we are able to comprehend it without going insane.”

“I see... “

The End then began to speak in abysmal, his tone haunting and chilling

“OK, you gonna translate for us, Sy?” Lucifer asked.

“What I can,” they replied.  “Some…advanced abyssal is being used, but I can understand the gist of it.  Right now, it sounds like a list of charges Roo has been found guilty of.”

“So not giving them a chance to plead in their defense,” Sera remarked, looking concerned. Obviously not because Roo deserved any leniency, but even Roo had the right to defend themselves against accusations.

“That is coming up now.”

While he didn't understand Roo, their voice was still unmistakable.  Beside him, he felt Alastor flinch. Lucifer safely guessed Alastor was remembering the horrors the entity has put him through and he rubbed his hand to comfort him.

“Roo is claiming Father refused to cooperate with them, insisted on doing everything Himself,“ Akos translated. “That He refused to ensure balance.”

There was a rumbling of laughter that echoed through the connected chambers. 

Lucifer didn't need a translation to know Roo’s argument was not accepted.

Now the Observer was speaking and Akos ears really perked up.

“Interesting,” Akos muttered.

“What are they saying?” Sera has asked.

“If I am understanding what I am hearing correctly,” Akos began.  “Is that this whole spot of creation was purposely made to be a test for Roo.  Things had been set up in a way to see how far they would go to achieve their goals.”

“Hence, why Father implied this was their last chance,“ Lucifer remarked, Akos nodding.

“What exactly was their goal,” Sera asked.

“Roo wanted to purposely draw a devourer here…to completely destroy creation,” Akos said bluntly.  “It is something they had succeeded in accomplishing a number of times prior apparently...all because those creations were not done exactly how they wanted it.”

“A control freak, in other words,” Lucifer muttered.

“A ‘my way or the highway’ type…,” Alastor added.

“So in reality...Father was doing to them, under permission, what they were doing to past...uh...creation partners,” Sera remarked.

“Pretty much...and being one that can see into the future, Father was the best choice to run such a test,” Akos stated.

“Hence why He was able to set up things so we would still ‘win’ in the end,” Lucifer commented before rubbing his chest. “Though I really didn’t like me having die bit…”

“Nor did I,” Alastor agreed.

“Since Father Himself was constrained, there was likely little He could do to work around that...inconvenience,” Sera remarked sympathetically.

Suddenly the window in front of them went opaque.

“The sentience is being carried out,” Akos told them grimly. “Execution.”

Lucifer looked at them, his mouth open, about ask if that was why The End was present, when he felt a major shift in the entirety of creation itself. He froze, Sera went stiff, while Alastor gasped as Roo’s presence violently shuddered, then completely disappeared.

Well, not completely. He still felt a ‘whisper’, a thread in his soul. An anchor that had been cut free from it’s source, but could never be dislodged from where it rested.

The window became clear again and they could see Roo was no longer there, the glowing chains that once bound them hanging limp and starting to dissipate. Father and the other entities were talking once more.

“They are talking about who is to replace Roo as the ‘darkness’ for this creation.” Akos informed them, before their eyes widened and ears went back. “It will be...Demonakos.”

“Um….is that a good idea?” Lucifer grumbled, looking at Alastor whose ears were also pinned back and had a matching expression of concern on his face. “There’s a good chance he has a beef with us so….”

“As this would be his first time ‘working’ along side someone on a creation, he’s being restricted to only influencing Earth,” Akos translated after a moment. Through the window, they could see the entities starting to disappear, the session over. A moment later, Father, The Observer and Demonakos appeared in their room.

“This is not fair!” Demonakos was protesting. “Just one of three dimensions of this creation!?”

“Soon to be four,” Father corrected, Demonakos briefly manifesting a bunch of white spikes all over his body in frustration.

“The one you can influence will affect the others overtime,” The Observer pointed out, before hovering closer to him. “It’s either this...or we restrict your essence to an asteroid again.”

“And this time we would make sure you can’t do anything to the asteroid…,” Father muttered, His eyes narrowed. “We don’t want a repeat of what you did to the creation with the living transforming robots.”

“Fiiiine….,” Demonakos said dramatically. “I...go start World War 3 or something then….”

“No,” Father said bluntly.

“Not even a civil war?” Demonakos pouted.

“Do you know how many such civil wars I’ve been trying to keep from erupting?” Father informed him, his arms folded across his chest. “And all because humans can’t seem to handle people with different opinions these days?”

“Isn’t that kind of how it’s always been?”

“It’s gotten even worse since the inventtion of the internet….” Father sighed, he shook his head. “Especially once social media came along.”

Lucifer nodded in agreement, Alastor along with him.

“Well, a nice big war would help ‘reset’ things would it?” Demonakos pointed out. “Take out some of the idiots a well. However….” The enitity started scratching his chin.

“….it’s the idiots that make things entertaining….

“We’ll discuss things later!” Father groaned a hand on His head. “I need to see our guests home.”

“Good luck,” The Observer stated before both he and Demonakos disappeared.

“Sounds like you are in for more headaches, Father,” Sera remarked as they rose from their seats.

“His motivations are a lot more manageable than Roo’s was,” Father sighed. “Are you ready to return?”

“We are, but...a question…,” Lucifer spoke up, then blushed as he asked sheepishly. It was a bit inappropriate, but now was the best time to ask. “I...know Al and I’s...resurrection were not...exactly typical but...a certain thing hasn’t happened and we’re starting to get...um...worried?”

All of Father’s eyes blinked, then narrowed. “You can’t wait until your wedding night?” he asked ‘matter of factually’.

The color drained from his face as his face, Alastor’s as well. Akos started snickering and Sera just looked aghast

~Fucking Hell how did I know!?~ Alastor mentally exclaimed, before asking. “Shouldn’t that be our choice? You know...free will?”

Father crossed His arms and scratched His chin. “OK, you have a point. They’ll show up tonight.”

They both sighed with relief.

“So long as I get to marry you two.”

Lucifer stiffened.

“We do need someone to replace priest that got killed during the battle,” Akos reminded them.

“True...though it is a bit...awkward…,” Lucifer said sheepishly. “I mean...having your own Dad perform your wedding….”

“Lucifer...so help me…,” Alastor hissed lowly, his fiance having grabbed him by the lapels. “Do not refuse this opportunity or you’re sleeping on the couch until the wedding!”

Akos burst out laughing. Even Sera cracked a giggle.

“That’s blackmail!” Lucifer cried, but then sighed. “Fine...Father, we agree to your terms.” Sex or no sex...he cannot sleep without his warm fuzzy pillow!!

Father nodded with a big grin on his face. “Now that I am free, I’ll be more active in general,” He stated. “Once Purgatory is created, I’ll let you know so you can start the fine tuning.

They all nodded.

A short time later they were back in the Hotel, where they informed the others on what happened. Of course with the existence of Purgatory coming to fruition soon, they now had to figure out who was going to ‘rule’ it, how to structure things and so on.

Another thing to add to the pile of things to get done.

At the very least, Father was true to His word: their genitals manifested that night. They did some mutual exploring of themselves and each other, but nothing more. It was just a relief to finally be complete, so to speak.

Despite that, they opted to wait anyway.

They can wait two more days before taking each others new ‘viginity’, well, less than two days now.

And this time, the wait would be by choice.

As it should have been.

Chapter Text

Today was going to be long one, especially emotionally.

Today they were holding the memorial service for the fallen and along with it, the announcement of the creation of Purgatory and the changes that will come with it. The reveal of Purgatory Lucifer honestly wasn’t sure how the population would react to.

What he did know, however, was that the memorial service itself was going to be rough for Alastor.

He looked over at his beloved, the angel fully checking over his white suit. He had his smile on, but Lucifer could tell how he was feeling by how his ears were slightly drooping. While he was good at hiding it, Lucifer knew Niffty’s death still haunted him: Lucifer had caught him looking for her a couple of times and did not take the idea of having to find a replacement flower girl well at all.

Hopefully, after today he’ll be able to let go.

“Are you ready, Al?” he asked him softly.

“As can be,” Alastor replied with a sigh.

Lucifer pulled him down for a kiss, the pair holding each other both to comfort and for affection for a moment after.

“Let’s go,” Lucifer said as he slipped his hand into his and opened a portal to the Embassy.

Once they were through they were greeted by Charlie and the rest of the Hotel staff, Akos and Lilith. For the Heaven side, there was with Sera, Emily and a couple other Seraphim Elders. They nodded to each other in acknowledgment, before heading for the Embassy’s main entrance as a group.

Oh, there was a lot more people than he was expecting. Sinners, Overlords, Hellborn, Sin...the street was quite...full.

Lucifer felt his heart rate spike seeing all the people in front of them, the mix of cameras and drones not helping with his anxiety either. This was going to be broadcasted across both Heaven and Hell and would be the perfect opportunity for someone to try something stupid. Such as one of those Underlords they knew were still out there. Thankfully a number of security wards were set up just in case.

More for everyone else and not himself and Alastor, but still….

As they reached the start of the stairs, the crowd had gone quiet, a few flashes of cameras taking pictures happening. He and Alastor were in the center of their group. Sera to their left, with Charlie on their right, Akos and the other two Seraphim standing behind them.

Lucifer hooked a finger around one of Alastor’s as he took a breath to calm his nerves and began.

“Greetings everyone, across both Heaven and Hell,” he began. “As you are aware, a few days ago we were attacked by forces from Heaven. However, this attack was not approved by Heaven’s Council.”

“An Elder Seraphim by the name of Daraz, once the Angel of Judgment,” Sera continued. “Had gone rogue and conspired with Roo, Father’s adversary, to take control of Heaven and all of Creation for himself.”

“He did not know, however, that Roo’s ultimate plan was the utter destruction of Creation itself,” Akos added. “Roo was just using him and he lost his life by their hands in the end.”

“Daraz’s death however, does little to account for the many lives lost that day,” Lucifer continued. “The lives of those that answered the call to defend Hell from the attack. Sinner, Overlord, Ars Goetia, Hellborn, and Angel all suffered causalities and they will be remembered for their sacrifice.”

“A new wing to the Embassy will be constructed that will serve as a memorial for those that have lost their lives that day,” Sera announced. “Not just to honor the fallen, but to signify unity between our realms going forward and the changes that are coming that will impact us all.”

“For their lives were not lost in vain: for their crimes against Creation, Roo has been vanquished,” Lucifer stated, a few stirring in surprise. “Father, whom had been imprisoned for a long time, is now free and He is already working to make things right, adjusting things to make things more fair, making changes that will improve things for everyone.”

“A key one being that we will no longer be judged with black and white morality upon death.” Alastor announced.  “And now there will be a third option the newly departed can go: Purgatory.  A safe place for those that didn't quite make the cut for Heaven and but do not deserve Hell.  It will also serve as the place for those who wish to redeem themselves can stay.”

There were quite a bit of muttering and shifting, but thankfully no outcries.

“Unfortunately, people cannot be ‘grandfathered’ into Purgatory,” Alastor had continued. “Many of you we know will have adjusted to life in Hell and would be reluctant to leave.  Those that do wish to do so, however, we will be vetting for eligibility.  I would strongly advise against trying to trick us …as I will be able to see the status of your sins.”

“While we are still working out the logistics,”. Charlie spoke up.  “It has already been decided that the Hazbin Hotel will serve as the gateway to Purgatory. Now, as Purgatory is brand new, there is a lot to do before it will truly be a home.”

“Myself and the other Elders of Heaven,” Sera said.  “Have already decided unanimously to aid in preparing Purgatory for habitation. And to have it serve as a place of truce between Heaven and Hell.”

“Though hopefully there won't be any conflicts between Heaven and Hell for a looong time,” Charlie added.

“Hopefully never again.” Lucifer looked at Sera with a smile, whom looked at with a smile and a nod. “As for who will run Purgatory itself, it will be a joint venture between Heaven and Hell. Hierarchy is still being worked on, but Charlie and Emily have been selected as the primary leadership, though Alastor, as the Angel of Redemption, will also play a significant role.”

“In regards to redemption itself,” Alastor announced. “A step that was once required to trigger the ascension, non-suicidal death, is no longer needed.”

In the crowd, Lucifer saw Carmillia and her daughters sigh with relief.

“One of our residents, in fact, redeemed this morning!” Charlie stated with a happy squeal. “Jaime, one of Valentino’s victims, has gone to Heaven.”

“There has been a number of reports of new souls entering Heaven whom originated from Hell,” Sera added with a broad smile.

“On that note, for those in Heaven listening,” Alastor spoke up once more. “We are well aware of concerns some winners have. Namely those who were victims of sinners crimes in life. I can assure you, not every sinner is capable of redemption and many do not desire it in the first place. Redemption is a choice, first and foremost, and cannot be forced. Thus the chances of the ones harming you whom are not truly repentant joining you are slim to none.“

“However, we also understand that even if they are truly repentant for what they had done to others, some may not be comfortable their presence in Heaven,” Sera added. “We are willing to work with you on a case by case basis on what would work best for both parties.”

“Please do not hesitate to ask questions,” Charlie said. “And we will answer them the best we can!”

“We will also be accepting volunteers to help with building up Purgatory, properly vetted of course,” Lucifer stated, before he and Alastor looked at each other fondly. “Last thing to end things on a happy note! A reminder that my and Alastor’s wedding is tomorrow: for those that are unable to attend in person, it will be broadcasted LIVE.”

“And the reception will be...entertaining,” Alastor added with a knowing smirk between them. “And has been relocated to Purgatory. Portals will be provided to get there.”

“That will be all,” Lucifer concluded. “Thank you for coming.”

They took questions awhile afterword. Some asked about the new currency and if these new changes will disrupt current plans. They were informed that, for now, the new currency will be implemented as planned, with the expectation that things will likely change again at some point in the future. Suggestions for a currency for Purgatory were also made and taken into consideration.

One question that arose was toward Alastor, regarding his status. Alastor happily told them that he was not only redeemed, but ‘upgraded’ to full angel. A new type of angel in fact: a redeemer. He stated that he was informed that in time there would be more like him, all former sinners whom decided to accept the role. Whether or no they would have the same abilities as he, he did not know.

“Ex-excuse me…” a familiar voice asked. By then the crowd was mostly gone and they were preparing to wrap up.

They looked and more then one mouth dropped open in a bit of surprise.

It was Lute.

She was in tattered clothing of a freshly spawned sinner. Her hair was now black, eyes white with red irises and grey and purple dragon-like scales covering her skin. While she had both arms again, she only had one, grey and purple tattered dragon-like wing and a short dragon-like tail.

“I...I was wondering if I could...help some how,” she was saying, looking quite uncertain of herself with the way she was rubbing her arms and looking away. “Maybe security? There’s going to be folks that will want to cause trouble, after all and...well...I know I have a lot to make up for….”

Lucifer looked up at Alastor, whom had stiffened slightly. This was the first time he’d seen Lute since Niffty was killed by her hand….

Everyone was looking at Alastor in fact, waiting to see how he responded.

His ears were back and Lucifer could see the conflict in his eyes. He slipped a hand into his and when Alastor looked down at him, he smiled and gave him an encouraging nod.

Alastor then inhaled sharply and exhaled, before his ears went forward and expression softened. “Yes you do, but acknowledging that is the first step toward your own redemption,” he said softly, placing his free hand on her shoulder. “And we will be happy to assist you on your journey. So of course! We’d be happy to have your help! Your experience should prove quite valuable.”

Charlie and Vaggie then stepped forward and put their on hands on her shoulders, the other Hotel staff nodding as Lucifer added his own hand to the pile.

Lute looked at them all in surprise, tears welling up in her eyes.

“Thank you.”

Redemption was for everyone….

...so long as they want it.

Chapter Text

His hands were shaking. There was a tightness, a pressure, in his chest. His stomach felt like it was tying itself into knots.

Today was the day. Their wedding...in less than an hour!

Alastor was in a tent that had been set in front of the Hotel to serve as a dressing room. He was staring at himself in the mirror. He was dressed in his full wedding attire, but it still didn’t feel...real. But it was actually happening.

And he was scared.

He had faced and destroyed Overlords many times his senior. Stood up to literal gods and nearly lost his life...his soul...for it. Had been bullied, tortured and beaten, yet still came out stronger.

Yet here he was scared of saying a few little words.

Alastor laughed at he absurdity of it all. From what he was feeling from Lucifer through their soul link, Lucifer was going through something similar. And it would be even more absurd for him as he had been married before!

Or perhaps not. The concept of marriage hadn’t existed yet back when Lucifer and Lilith married. For all he knew their marriage was more symbolic than literal.

Regardless! Alastor felt comfort in knowing Lucifer was anxious as well.

As for where his beloved was…Lucifer had his own ‘dressing room’ for the time being: the whole ‘don’t see each other before the actual wedding’ tradition. How silly considering they woke up in the same bed this morning!

“Hey, Al, it’s almost time,” Vox’s voice called out. “Are you ready?”

Alastor turned to look at him and smiled. “As can be,” he replied. “Feels...silly...being nervous about something like this...considering….”

Vox had laughed and put a hand on his shoulder. “Yeah, it’s weird like that,” his old friend agreed. “I’m sure you’ll do fine! I’m more worried about Velvette at the moment….”

“Is she still complaining how our new bodies ‘messed up’ our outfits?” Alastor queried with a raised brow.

“Yep, though more on Lucifer than you,” Vox sighed with an eye roll. “I mean...it’s not like the wings are going to be out for the whole ceremony, if at all!”

“I’m not as knowledgeable on the whole ‘color theory’ bit, but one would think his new wing colors would fit the greens of our attire better then the red.”

Vox just shrugged helplessly at that.

--

Short timer later

Alastor never thought he’d be doing this ever in his life, or after-life, but here he was.

Walking down the aisle, hand in hand with the one he was about to marry. On either side of the alter was Vox and Asmodeus, both with happy smiles on their faces. On Asmodeus’ side was Charlie, Vaggie and Cherri in their Maid of Honor and Bridesmaid outfits respectively., though he could tell Cherri looked uncomfortable in that get up. Beside them Husk and Angel looked dashing in their matching suits.

At the center of the alter stood a gold and white sheep, which he knew was actually Father, whom had chosen a form to not give away His true nature.

The seats on either side were filled. Everyone they had invited (whom still lived) had come, Heaven and Hell residents alike. Alastor could see Sir Pentious and Selene among those seated. Lilith, Akos, Sera, Emily, Rosie and his parents were in the front row.

Dammit, his mother and Akos were already crying! Alastor had to look away to keep the tears from forming in his own eyes. He had to keep his composure!

They stopped before the alter, Alastor nearly having an panic attack when he remembered they were getting married by fucking God Himself! He took a deep breath to calm himself as he and Lucifer turned toward each other, holding each other’s hands. They looked at each other in the eyes as spoke their vows, the weight of anxiety slowly being replaced by joy and happiness.

Th exchange of rings…

...followed by the kiss finally sealed it all (it had been tempting to dip Lucifer during the kiss, but he opted to behave himself).

The cheering that came after was almost deafening. The hug his mother gave him after crushing.

It was worth every moment. All of it.

And now, they have a reception to finish preparing for and to attend.

--

Purgatory

Purgatory was much like Earth with it’s blue sky and plant life. All very basic, but that would change over time. Lucifer was happy that he would play a role in it’s development. Hell had been built up with Lilith out of spite and anger. Here...it would be out of love and hope.

Moving the reception here had been last minute call, but it had felt appropriate. It gave them a lot more freedom and space to work with. Thanks to magic, the things that had already been set up in the palace gardens were easily relocated. Everything else was quickly set up with the aid of same magic.

Soon it everything was ready. Though Akos noticed the...modification to the dance floor.

“Brother...why is this...flint stone?” they were asking, poking at it.

He and Alastor looked at each other. “Iiiits only temporary, Sy,” Lucifer replied sheepishly. “Just for the first dance...so it will be changed to something more...appropriate after.”

Akos’ eyes were narrowing as they loomed over them. “What are you two planning?” they demanded.

“Something special for the first dance,” Alastor stated with a tight smile. “Can’t say more else it would spoil the surprise!”

“It’s nothing dangerous!” Lucifer quickly added. “Already put the necessary resistance wards on the grass and so on….”

They watched as Akos pointedly looked at a small collection of fire extinguishers that were sitting close by. “Planning on literally starting a fire, eh?” they remarked.

“Oh this fire was always burning!” Alastor quipped patting his and Lucifer’s chest.

Akos’ had raised brow, then their eyes widened when they got Alastor’s hint. “Of fucking course!” they groaned, rubbing their face. “Should have known you two would want to put on a show. Just...try not to burn down purgatory as a result….”

“Don’t worry we took every precaution!” Lucifer said as Akos sighed and walked away to aid in transporting the guests to the location.

Soon the reception area was bustling with guests and he and Alastor got ready to do their dance.

“Hey, Al,” Vox said walking up. “I...wanted to double check this was right for your first dance song.” The Media Overlord showed the track list.

“It is!” Alastor confirmed. “I know it’s not my usual style of music but it’s for a special occasion!”

Vox was looking at the dance floor, then apparently noticed the fire extinguishers. “Ooooh boooy…,” he breathed, though he had a slight smirk. “This should be...entertaining.”

“We certainly hope so!” he and Alastor said in unison.

---

Moments later

Everyone was present and waiting. He and Lucifer had stripped down to their vests, shirt and pants and changed out their boots for this performance. Alastor could see the anticipation and a hint of confusion on many faces as they approached the dance floor side by side. It was so hard to keep a normal smile on his face instead of a smirk.

When the sound of metal on stone reached everyone’s ears, many perked up and others looked even more confused. Alastor thought he caught Husk saying ‘oh no…’: at that, he couldn’t help but let a slight smirk slip onto his face.

Once they were in position, Alastor nodded to Vox, whom started the music.

The way everyone jolted in shock when the karaoke version of Billy Joel’s ‘We Didn’t Start the Fire’ started playing nearly made him laugh out loud, but he contained himself and focused on the dance.

They tapped dance to the beat and to one of their own making, just as they had practiced, Lucifer’s steps the higher note to Alastor’s. The pair circled around each other, then passed each other forwards and backwards, sparks flying with almost every foot movement, especially with the brushes and scuffs. They moved like they owned the floor, like they were one. For the final ‘chorus’ they held hands and spun each other around in a mix of tap and ballroom dancing, before finally ending back to back, each with one foot out and one arm in the air, the fingers of their hands lightly intertwined.

The music ended. Silence as they held their pose for a moment, both panting heavily. Then…

Applause.

He and Lucifer straightened up and bowed to everyone, before facing each other and kissing. Alastor caught Vassago calling for an ‘encore’.

Ha ha, not for a while!

They stepped off the floor, Lucifer changing it to a normal dance platform as more ‘traditional’ dance music started to play, inviting the guests to dance.

“You boys look like you could use a refresher after that one,” Beelzebub remarked, handing them both drinks. “Those were some fantastic moves, you two!”

“Thanks, Bee,” Lucifer said as they both look a long drink after they accepted the cups of fruity beverage. It wasn’t something Alastor would normally drink, but it was still refreshing.

They mingled with the guests for a bit and ate some food. Eventually a familiar face approached them.

“Uncle Al!” Selene said, the young doe smiling wide.

“Selene!” Alastor greeted happily as he scooped her up into a hug. “So good to see you!”

“You to, Uncle Al,” Selene bleated as she hugged him back. “I...I have good news!”

“Oh? What is that, my dear?”

“Well, I can’t you ‘uncle’ anymore, but instead I get to call you ‘big brother!” Her smile was big, wide and happy.

Alastor blinked at her confused. He looked at Lucifer, whom also looked confused, before they both looked at Marie and Joseph, whom were approaching.

“From the look on your face, she told you,” Joseph remarked with a chuckle. “Your mother and I had been thinking of adopting some of the younger winners up in Heaven that didn’t have a family to wait for.”

“And once we heard this poor girl’s story, we had to just snap her up,” Marie stated. “Show her how real parents are supposed to be!”

Alastor’s shock melted away to joy and he hugged Selene again, tears in his eyes. “Well now, welcome to the family little sis!” he told her. “Now, to forewarn you, ma can be harsh, but she’s fair!”

“You sure about that?” Lucifer muttered, his husband’s arms folded across his chest.

“What was that, boy?” Marie said with a stern look.

“Nothing ma’am!” Lucifer replied, quickly, going stiff. Both he and Selene laughed.

--

A couple of hours later…

The reception continued with more talking, dancing, eating and drinking. Things started to wind down, guest had to start leaving. One last slow dance for those remained and Alastor could feel it himself that it was time to go as he and Lucifer danced.

He could feel it in his gut, that warmth the grew and bloomed as he held his husband close and looked deep into his eyes. From the look in his eyes and he smile on his face, he knew Lucifer could feel it as well. They both had to resist letting their hands roam into places that wouldn’t be appropriate in a public space.

Once the song had stopped, they bid their farewells and portaled back to Hell, to the Royal Palace. There they let their hands start to roam, each kiss deeper than the last, as they headed for the master bedroom. Their clothing didn’t last long once the bedroom door had shut behind them.

Nearly a week of pent up desire, some forced, some willfully restrained, rose to the surface nearly all at once. The heat in their bellies intense as they stroked, kissed, and nipped each other’s bodies as they made their way to the bed.

Alastor felling onto the bed backwards, Lucifer climbing on after him, straddling him. His husband hovered over him for a moment, their respective members hard and twitching, eager, waiting, before Lucifer leaned down and kissed him deeply. Then trailed kisses down his jawline, to his neck, down to his chest and finally his belly, his hands doing sinful movements to his sides and flanks as he went.

“Luci...please…,’ Alastor begged.

“I know, darling,” Lucifer told him softly as he left his legs, giving him easy access, Alastor now feeling his fingers around the base of his tail, making him moan. “I can’t wait any longer either….”

However, there was no rushing, no roughness, in the lovemaking that followed.

After all….

...why rush, when it was only the first day of what would be an eternity together?