As Lucifer's gaze swept across the room, the assembly bowed in unison. He strode through the crowd, his movements fluid and deliberate, and settled onto his throne, crossing his legs with an air of quiet authority. Charlie took her place beside the vacant Queen's seat, her eyes fixed on the festivities. With a languid gesture, Lucifer signaled for the celebrations to resume.

  Charlie watched, mesmerized, as the demons danced with abandon. She felt an overwhelming urge to join them, her feet tapping out the rhythm. Lucifer's eyes locked onto hers, a hint of amusement dancing in their depths. "Charlatan Morningstar," he said, his voice low and inviting, "shall we dance together?" Charlie's eyes met his, and she bowed her head graciously. "I would be honored, Your Majesty." Lucifer's smile was radiant as he took her hand, and together they glided across the dance floor. Their movements were a perfect harmony of elegance and beauty, captivating the attention of every demon in the room. Okami's gaze, in particular, remained fixed on Charlie, his eyes burning with an intensity that bordered on obsession.

  As the final notes of the music faded away, Charlie curtsied low before Lucifer, her movements a testament to her growing poise. Lucifer's smile was warm with approval as he inclined his head. "Princess Charlatan, do not limit your enjoyment to just one partner. The night is young, and the music is still playing. Dance with whomever you desire."

  Okami's eyes locked onto Charlie, his intentions clear as he set his wine glass down. However, before he could make his move, Alastor swooped in, his dark eyes gleaming with mischief. He bowed low before Charlie, his voice dripping with charm. "Your Majesty, would you do me the great honor of dancing with me?" Charlie's cheeks flushed a delicate pink as she extended her hand, and Alastor's lips brushed against her skin in a gallant kiss. Their eyes met, a spark of tension flashing between them.

  But before things could escalate further, Lucifer's voice cut through the music, his tone firm. He snapped his fingers, and Charlie was instantly seated back in her chair. "Enough dancing," he decreed, his eyes glinting with a hint of amusement.

  Charlie rose from her seat, her movements fluid and deliberate. Lucifer's eyebrows arched in surprise, his eyes narrowing slightly as he watched her. Alastor's gaze, on the other hand, sparkled with amusement, a sly smirk spreading across his face.

  Charlie descended the steps, her hand extended to Alastor. The room fell silent, all eyes fixed on the unlikely pair as they began to dance. Alastor's voice was low and teasing as he spoke, his words barely audible over the music. "I didn't know you had the courage to defy His Majesty." Charlie's step faltered for a moment, but she recovered quickly, her voice firm and confident. "I wanted to dance. So I did."

  Lucifer's eyes flashed with anger, his jaw clenched in a growl. But as he gazed at Charlie, he saw the genuine joy in her laughter, the carefree sparkle in her eyes. His expression softened, and he restrained himself from intervening, allowing the dance to reach its conclusion.

  As the final notes of the music faded away, Alastor's lips brushed against Charlie's hand in a gallant kiss. They bowed to each other, their movements gracious and synchronized. The room erupted into applause, the demons cheering and whistling in appreciation of the charming display. Lucifer's eyes never left Charlie's face, a mixture of emotions swirling in their depths.

  Okami's gaze remained fixed on Charlie and Alastor as they danced, his eyes burning with a fierce intensity. His hand clenched around the stem of his wine glass, the delicate crystal shattering beneath his grip. The shards dug into his palm, but he didn't flinch, his attention still riveted on the pair.

  Meanwhile, Volentino was in his element, dancing with a succession of female demons who giggled and flirted with him. However, his roving eye landed on one particular demon who captivated him. She had hair like spun gold and eyes that shone like emeralds in the firelight. Volentino's smile faltered for a moment as he stared at her, his usual charm and confidence wavering.

  He approached her, his eyes locked on hers, and asked, "May I have the pleasure of this dance?" But instead of accepting, the mysterious demon merely flipped her golden locks over her shoulder, a sly smile playing on her lips. She winked at Volentino, her green eyes sparkling with mischief, leaving him stunned and intrigued.

  Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.

  Volentino's eyes remained riveted on the mysterious demon, his mind reeling from the audacity of her wink. He was entranced, his usual suave demeanor forgotten in the face of her captivating smile. But before he could regain his composure, she turned and glided away, leaving him standing alone, feeling bewildered and intrigued. The sound of her laughter, like the tinkling of crystal, lingered in the air, teasing him and leaving him wanting more.

  Vox rolled his eyes as he watched Okami and Volentino, then sipped his wine before making his way to the Princess, who had just finished dancing with Alastor.

  As Vox bowed before Charlie, the lights seemed to converge around him, highlighting his chiseled features. "Your Majesty," he said, his voice low and smooth, "would you graciously bestow upon me the honor of a dance? I would be eternally fortunate to share this moment with you." The female demons surrounding them couldn't help but blush at his captivating words and striking appearance.

  Charlie's gaze, however, remained icy, her expression unreadable. Vox's smile faltered for a fleeting instant, but he swiftly recovered, his lips curling into a cunning smile. Charlie's slender hand extended, and she said, "The pleasure would be mine, Mr. Vox."

  Vox's hand settled on the small of Charlie's back, his fingers subtly guiding her as he took her hand in his. He drew her closer, his breath whispering against her ear, "You are breathtaking, Your Majesty." With a fluid motion, he twirled her, his lips brushing the back of her hand in a gallant kiss.

  Lucifer's gaze narrowed, his eyes blazing with a fierce inner light, as he watched the scene unfold.

  On the other hand, Veggie approached the gates of Heaven, where a woman of breathtaking beauty extended her hand in welcome. Veggie bowed deeply and said, "Your Majesty, I bring a message from Hell: Princess Charlatan Morningstar will not be coming to Heaven, as decreed by the king." The woman's laughter echoed, a melodious sound, as she replied, "Oh, Veggie, you poor dear. Charlie is my daughter. Lucifer's attempts to keep me bound were ultimately futile; I escaped his grasp. He's... pitiful."

  Veggie said, "Your Majesty, I believe the king of Hell recognizes me." Lilith's eyes narrowed as she grasped her chin thoughtfully. "Did Charlie mention something to you?" Veggie remained silent, prompting Lilith to smile resolutely. "Very well, I'll retrieve her myself."

  Charlie took her seat, and Okami executed a precise bow. "Your Majesty," he said, "I shall now present the inquiries submitted by the inhabitants of Hell." With a discreet nod, Lucifer indicated his assent.

  Charlie's gaze swept the assembly, searching for Veggie, but she was absent. Alastor appeared at her side, his voice low and reassuring. "Your Majesty, please do not concern yourself. I shall ensure the questions are duly recorded." Okami stepped forward, his expression solemn. "The predominant inquiry, posed by numerous souls, is thus: 'How can one attain redemption after passing into the afterlife?'"

  Charlie rose from her seat, and the cameramen from Vox swiftly began recording her. Anticipating this question, she had prepared a thoughtful response. With conviction, she spoke:

  "Citizens of Hell, I'm aware that redemption may seem elusive to you, but I implore you to trust in its possibility. If God had intended for you to suffer, would He not have denied you the gift of choice? Instead, you possess the capacity for self-determination, the ability to shape your own destiny. Is this not, in itself, a testament to the chance for redemption? Remember, God loves you."

  Charlie noticed the demons' skepticism and chose to elaborate. "I firmly believe there's a path to Heaven, as exemplified by the story of Adam, the first man. After being cast out, he sought forgiveness, and ultimately, he was forgiven. I anticipate your doubts: 'How can one who has taken lives and committed numerous wrongdoings be forgiven?' Yet, as God assures us, He will forgive all transgressions. His love encompasses all humanity."

  Vox's smile broadened as he rose from his seat. "Your Majesty, with your permission, I'd like to pose a question in response to your answer." Charlie nodded, granting him leave. Vox continued, "While it's true that God loves all His creations, don't you think you're overstating the case? God is indeed merciful, but He is also fierce and unyielding. Consider the example of Lucifer, the greatest Archangel and once a favorite of God's. He was cast out, and to this day, remains unforgiven."

  Charlie's gaze faltered, unsure of how to respond. Vox, awaiting her answer, suddenly found himself facing Lucifer's piercing stare. Vox's Adam's apple bobbed as he swallowed hard, intimidated.

  Lucifer's voice was low and measured. "Let me address your question, Vox. God never forgave me because I never sought forgiveness. His mercy is reserved for those who genuinely desire to change their ways."

  Lucifer's eyes seemed to bore into Vox's soul. "If Adam had not demonstrated a willingness to obey and learn from his mistake, he would not have been forgiven. Redemption is not a guarantee, but a possibility for those who truly seek it."

  Lucifer's tone turned solemn. "So, I caution you, Vox: if you seek redemption, consider your intentions carefully. A mistake can be forgiven, but repeated defiance will only lead to unforgivable sin."