A part of Hisstory | Sir Pentious X Ghost - Stoic_Ghost (2024)

Chapter 1: First Impressions

Chapter Text

Another day in Hell dawned with the familiar sounds of chaos and conflict. Overlords and demons clashed in brutal turf wars, each seeking to expand their influence and power. Deep beneath the surface, in a cave 20 miles below, Ghost, the enigmatic robotic overlord, watched the events unfold on monitors connected to cameras scattered throughout their territory. Their eight arms moved with precision, adjusting dials and analyzing data, a silent observer in the never-ending struggle for power.

As Ghost monitored the feeds, one image caught their attention—a steam-punk themed airship, elegantly crafted and manned by a snake-like figure. Intrigued, Ghost zoomed in on the image, studying the figure as the airship approached their territory. The snake-like being, clad in flamboyant attire and sporting a distinctive top hat, exuded an aura of confidence and charisma.

Ghost squints their eyes, their mechanics whirring “Who are you.” they used to themselves.

Unbeknownst to Ghost, this figure was Sir Pentious, a rival overlord known for his eccentricity and cunning. As the airship drew closer, Sir Pentious surveyed the territory below, his eyes gleaming with ambition. He had set his sights on expanding his influence, and Ghost's territory lay directly in his path.

Ghost's sensors detected the approaching airship, and they analyzed the situation with cool logic. Despite the potential threat, Ghost remained calm, their mind already devising a plan to deal with the intruder. They activated defenses, preparing to defend their territory against this new challenger.

As the airship descended, Ghost watched with a detached interest, their mechanical form betraying no emotion. To them, this was just another Tuesday underneath the Pentagramed Sun, another obstacle to overcome in the never-ending quest for power.

They just wanted to be left Alone.

But in hell, that is too much to ask.

They watched as the ship approached closer, navigating the treacherous terrain with ease and confidence.

As the ship drew nearer, Ghost's curiosity grew. Who was this mysterious intruder, and what were their intentions? Despite their stoic demeanor, Ghost felt a twinge of annoyance at the prospect of someone bothering them.

With a flick of their mechanical wrist, Ghost activated a series of defenses, preparing to confront the intruder.

As This serpent entered Ghost's domain, unaware of the watchful eyes observing his every move, the stage was set for a confrontation that would test both their wit and strength. In the depths of Hell, where power was the ultimate currency, Ghost and this… snake, stood on the brink of a clash that would shape the course of their destinies.

Ghost's metallic form stood amidst the glowing monitors, their gaze fixed upon the approaching airship. As the sinister laughter of the snake-like figure echoed through the cavernous depths of Hell, the feed showed his rambled shoutings of "Nobody can compare to the likes of I!" Ghost's stoic demeanor remained unchanged. They muttered to themselves, a rare display of frustration seeping into their mechanical voice.

"Well, I could use a break from work." Ghost murmured, their words tinged with stoicism. With a resigned sigh, they rose from their seat, leaving behind the array of monitors displaying the ongoing turf wars. Grabbing their trusty mug of coffee, Ghost made their way to the teleporter they had meticulously crafted.

With a flick of a switch, Ghost activated the teleporter, intending to materialize on the ship.

Of course, nothing can ever be that $%^& easy, can it?

They appeared, slightly off-target of the approaching airship, Ghost felt the familiar displacement envelop them as they stiffly plummet through the air. Letting out a resigned sigh, Ghost opened their commlink.

"Computer?" they called out, their tone calculated.

"Oh yes, gracious and powerful overlord?" the computer responded, overly sarcastic.

Ghost pinched the part of their visor where the bridge of a human nose would be.
"Cut the theatrics," they retorted.

"As you wish," the computer replied snidely.

Adjusting their trajectory mid-fall, one of Ghost’s many arms transforms into a grapple and chain. They fired it, aiming for the side of the imposing airship. The metallic cable snaked through the air with precision, the sharp fingers embedding itself into the ship's hull with a satisfying thud. Ghost opened their commlink again.

"Also, remind me to recalibrate the aim of the teleporter," they instructed.

The link chirped in acknowledgment, "Righto."

Using their formidable strength and agility, Ghost began to scale the side of the airship, their movements swift and calculated.

Upon reaching the deck of the airship, Ghost moved with stealthy precision, evading the watchful gaze of Sir Pentious's Egg minions. With their senses attuned to the rhythmic hum of machinery and the faint scent of oil, Ghost activates their magnetic feet and slowly walks down the front of the airship to stand on the area before the windshield of the ship begins.

As Ghost crashed through the main windshield of the airship, shards of glass scattering around them, they stood before Sir Pentious, their imposing robotic form casting a shadow over the quivering Egg minions.

Sir Pentious, startled by the sudden intrusion, jumped back, his eyes widening in shock and fear at the sight of Ghost. "Who are you?" he demanded, his voice betraying a hint of uncertainty.

"I am the Nuclear Demon," they replied, their voice unwavering and calm. "And you have trespassed into my area.” they place their feet into a composed stance. Their antenna stiffly upright. “It's time to face the consequences of your actions."

Sir Pentious, though visibly shaken, regained some of his composure, puffing out his chest defiantly his hood flaring. "I fear no one in Hell, leassst of all a mechanical monssstrosity like you," he declared flashing a sharp toothed smile, brandishing a steam powered weapon fashioned from gears and spare parts.

Ghost remained unfazed, their expression unreadable behind their metallic visage. With a swift motion, they extended their arm towards the weapon and quickly disarmed Sir Pentious, the weapon clattering to the ground. "Your bravado is admirable," Ghost remarked, "but it will not save you from the repercussions of your intrusion. I suggest you surrender peacefully."

Sir Pentious’s tail snake out from the side of the control panel and quickly grabs Ghost, restricting the movement of their many arms.

Sir Pentious's laughter echoed through the air, a mix of amusem*nt and arrogance evident in his expression. "So, you are a sssmart one!" he exclaimed, raising his goggles to get a better look at Ghost. "Good one! You make me laugh... I think I should ssshow you what real comedy isss..."

With a snap of his fingers, one of the Egg minions raised its gun, preparing to shoot. But before it could take aim, Unperturbed by the impending threat, Ghost remained stoic, their mind already calculating the best course of action. With a silent command, they activated their latest creation—a small, stealthy octopus droid equipped with an EMP device deployed from Ghost's side, a stark contrast to the steam-powered aesthetics of Sir Pentious's airship.

As the droid slithered through the shadows, its tentacles extending towards the airship's machinery, Ghost watched with anticipation. With a sudden surge of power, the EMP device activated, sending waves of disruption rippling through the steam-powered systems of the airship.

Sir Pentious's expression morphed from amusem*nt to panic as the airship shuddered and groaned, its engines sputtering and faltering. The once-confident overlord stumbled backwards, his control of Ghost slipping away as the vessel began to plummet from the sky.
The airship began to lose altitude, the engines sputtering and failing.

Seeing the chaos unfold, Ghost seized the opportunity. Pulling out an even larger plasma ray gun, they aimed it at Sir Pentious, their robotic voice laced with a hint of dark amusem*nt. "I hope you like slap-stick then, snake," Ghost taunted, the plasma gun crackling with energy.

Sir Pentious, realizing he was outmatched, could only watch in horror as Ghost's weapon charged, the airship spiraling towards the ground below. The tables had turned, and Ghost stood tall, their resolve unshaken as they prepared to deliver the final blow in this unexpected confrontation.

Months Later

As the months passed, a rivalry unlike any other brewed between Ghost and Sir Pentious in the fiery depths of Hell. While Sir Pentious harbored a burning desire to outwit and outmaneuver Ghost, the enigmatic robotic overlord seemed strAngely unfazed by his antics.

All they wish is to be left alone. …Which seems to fall upon deaf ears.

Sir Pentious, ever the schemer, would concoct elaborate plans to infiltrate Ghost's domain, each one more audacious than the last. Yet, no matter how cunning his schemes, Ghost always seemed to be one step ahead. With a nonchalant wave of their hand, Ghost would thwart Sir Pentious's efforts, sending his airship spiraling into oblivion with a well-placed explosion.

Despite the repeated setbacks, Sir Pentious refused to back down, his determination fueled by a mixture of pride and desperation. He viewed Ghost as his greatest adversary, a foe worthy of his cunning and wit. Yet, try as he might, Sir Pentious could never quite gain the upper hand.

Ghost, on the other hand, seemed almost indifferent to Sir Pentious's efforts. They would watch impassively as his airship went up in flames, their expression betraying no hint of satisfaction or triumph. To Ghost, it was simply a matter of maintaining order in their domain and desperately wanting to be left alone, a task they approached with calm resolve.

And so, the rivalry between Ghost and Sir Pentious continued to simmer, each encounter escalating in intensity. While Sir Pentious saw Ghost as a formidable foe to be defeated at all costs, Ghost seemed to view Sir Pentious as little more than a nuisance, a minor obstacle in the grand scheme of things.

As the flames of their rivalry burned ever brighter, one thing became clear—Ghost and Sir Pentious were destined to be locked in a battle of wills for eternity, their fates intertwined in the chaotic tapestry of Hell…

Chapter 2: Happy at the Hazbin Hotel

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…However... Ghost seems wistful. As Ghost paced around their cave, the weight of their existence in Hell bore down upon them. They had been an impressive overlord for decades, their prowess in invention and strategic thinking earning them a fearsome reputation among their peers. Yet, despite their power and influence, Ghost was plagued by a sense of wistfulness, a longing for something beyond the endless cycle of violence and chaos that defined Hell. As they paced around their cavernous domain, their eight arms moved with a sense of restless energy, betraying the turmoil within.

For as long as they could remember being in hell, Ghost had harbored a secret desire—to be repented into Heaven. It was a seemingly impossible goal, one that went against the very nature of Hell itself. And yet, Ghost could not shake the feeling that there must be a way, a loophole in the cosmic order that would allow them to transcend their infernal existence.

Lost in their thoughts, Ghost was on the verge of breaking their stoic facade when a flicker of movement on their monitor caught their eye. A commercial? “What in god's name?” Intrigued, Ghost approached the screen, their curiosity piqued.

The commercial was for a new establishment—a hotel, of all things. But not just any hotel—it was the Hazbin Hotel, a place dedicated to rehabilitating sinners and offering them a chance at redemption. Ghost watched with a mixture of fascination and skepticism as the commercial touted the hotel's mission of salvation and the promise of a second chance.

As the commercial ended, Ghost found themselves strAngely moved. Could this be the answer to their prayers? Could the Hazbin Hotel be the key to their redemption? The thought sparked a glimmer of hope in Ghost's mechanical heart, a feeling they had long thought extinguished.

With newfound determination, Ghost turned back to their monitors, their mind racing with possibilities. Perhaps, just perhaps, there was a way out of Hell after all. And if the Hazbin Hotel could offer salvation to others, why not to Ghost as well?

As Ghost packed a bag and locked down their cave, ensuring that anything within it required their presence to be activated, a sense of determination settled within them. They knew what they had to do, and nothing would stand in their way.

With their bag slung over their shoulder, Ghost made their way to the Hazbin Hotel, their mechanical form moving with purpose through the twisted corridors of Hell. When they reached the hotel, they paused for a moment, steeling themselves for what was to come.

Raising a metallic hand, Ghost knocked on the door of the hotel, their metallic knuckles rapping against the wood with a resounding echo. Moments later, the door swung open, revealing Charlie Morningstar, the princess of Hell and founder of the Hazbin Hotel.

Charlie's eyes widened in shock at the sight of Ghost standing before her, their stoic expression betraying no hint of emotion. Before Ghost could utter a word of introduction, Charlie's reaction was swift—she slammed the door shut in disbelief, the sound reverberating through the hallway.

"Charlie? What's going on?" Vaggie's voice called out from somewhere within the hotel, her tone tinged with concern.

Breathless and bewildered, Charlie managed to stammer out a response. "Vaggie? The Fission demon is at the door."

Vaggie's eyes narrowed as she processed Charlie's words, her instincts kicking into overdrive. With a swift motion, she grabbed her spear and rushed to the door, her demeanor fierce and determined.

As she swung the door open, Vaggie found herself face to face with Ghost, their presence imposing yet strangely calm. Without hesitation, she pointed her spear at Ghost's face, a silent warning of the danger lurking beneath the surface.

Ghost remained stoic, their metallic visage impassive Ignoring the spear pointed at their face, pushing the tip of the weapon away with a gentle yet firm hand. "Do you greet everyone here this way?" they asked, their voice calm and measured.

Vaggie hesitated, lowering her spear slightly. "Only overlords," she replied, her tone defensive.

"Well, it is not a very sound business practice," Ghost remarked dryly, their eyes meeting Vaggie's gaze unwaveringly pushing the tip of her blade aside. "May I come in?"

Ghost stood in the doorway, their presence commanding yet enigmatic. Charlie and Vaggie exchanged a puzzled glance, both unsure of what to make of the robotic overlord's unexpected visit.

"Why are you here, Ghost?" Charlie finally spoke up, her curiosity getting the better of her. "Shouldn't you be... I don't know, running a company or something? Making money like other overlords?"

Ghost regarded Charlie with a thoughtful expression, as if pondering the question deeply. "The hotel advertised that it could redeem sinners to Heaven," they replied, their tone neutral yet tinged with a hint of intrigue.

Vaggie, ever the skeptic, furrowed her brow. "But why? You can live comfortably enough in Hell with your power. Why bother with redemption?"

Ghost's response was enigmatic, their metallic features betraying no hint of emotion. "Why does it matter?" they countered, their voice echoing with a sense of detachment. "I shouldn't need a reason, should I?"

Charlie, however, was practically bouncing with excitement. "This is amazing!" she exclaimed, a smile spreading across her face. "We finally have a new resident other than Angel Dust! This could be a great opportunity for the hotel!"

Vaggie remained unconvinced, her skepticism still lingering. "I don't know, Charlie. Something about this doesn't sit right with me. We should be cautious."

But Charlie was already ushering Ghost inside, her optimism shining brightly. "Nonsense, Vaggie! This could be exactly what we need to prove that our hotel can truly redeem sinners and make a difference in Hell!"

As Charlie ushered Ghost further into the hotel, the atmosphere was charged with a mix of curiosity and apprehension. Ghost remained stoic, their metallic form casting an imposing presence, while Vaggie eyed them warily, her mistrust still lingering.

"Ghost, you should meet everyone else!" Charlie exclaimed, her enthusiasm undimmed by the tension in the air. "I'm sure they'll be thrilled to have a new resident."

Ghost nodded silently, their eight arms folding across their chest in a gesture of self-containment. Despite their outward calm, a flicker of apprehension danced behind their eyes, a hint of uncertainty about what awaited them.

As they approached the common area, the other residents of the Hazbin Hotel came into view. Angel Dust lounged on a couch, his flamboyant demeanor and sarcastic wit on full display. Alastor, the enigmatic Radio Demon, stood nearby, his aura of charm masking a darker, more sad*stic nature.

Husk, the grumpy bartender, glanced up from polishing a glass, his expression guarded as he took in the sight of Ghost. Niffty, the hyperactive housekeeper, buzzed around the room, her energy infectious despite the tension in the air.

"Everyone, this is Ghost," Charlie announced, her voice warm and welcoming. "They're interested in redemption, just like us."

Angel Dust raised an eyebrow, a smirk playing on his lips. "Well, well, well, look who decided to join the party," he quipped, his tone laced with amusem*nt.

Alastor's smile was polite but inscrutable, his eyes gleaming with a hint of mischief. "A new arrival, how delightful," he remarked, his voice smooth as silk.

Husk grunted noncommittally, his gaze lingering on Ghost with a mix of curiosity and wariness. Niffty, however, bounced over with unbridled enthusiasm, her smile bright and welcoming.

"Hi there! I'm Niffty, the housekeeper," she chirped, extending a hand towards Ghost. "It's soooo nice to meet you!

As the other residents of the Hazbin Hotel dispersed, leaving only Charlie, Alastor, and Ghost in the room, a tense silence settled over the group. Ghost's gaze lingered on Alastor, the Radio Demon who had been deemed missing for the past seven years, silently curious about his presence in the hotel.

Charlie, ever the perceptive hostess, noticed the subtle staring match between the two and spoke up. "Do you two know each other?" she inquired, her voice filled with curiosity.

Ghost's response was stoic and measured. "Vaguely," they replied, their tone giving nothing away.

Alastor chuckled softly, his smile unnervingly charming. "Indeed," he agreed, his gaze meeting Ghost's with a mix of amusem*nt and intrigue. "As fellow overlords, it's only natural that our paths would cross from time to time."

Charlie's eyes widened in surprise. "You're an overlord too, Ghost?" she asked, her curiosity piqued.

Ghost nodded, their expression unreadable behind their metallic exterior. "I have my domain," they replied cryptically.

Alastor's smile widened, a glint of mischief dancing in his eyes. "Ah, the politics of Hell," he remarked, his tone casual. "Always so intriguing, don't you think?"

Ghost said nothing, but the slight tilt of their head betrayed a hint of curiosity. Despite their stoic facade, there was a flicker of interest in Alastor's words, a recognition of the complex dynamics that governed their existence in Hell.

Charlie's enthusiasm was palpable as she clapped her hands together, her eyes shining with excitement. "Ooh, now you guys can be friends!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with optimism.

Ghost and Alastor exchanged a knowing glance, a silent understanding passing between them. They both knew that the likelihood of them becoming friends was slim at best, given their respective natures and histories in Hell.

Alastor chuckled softly, a hint of amusem*nt in his voice. "Ah, Charlie, always the optimist," he remarked, his smile charming but tinged with a hint of mischief. "While I'm sure Ghost and I can find common ground, friendship might be a bit of a stretch."

Ghost nodded in agreement, their expression unreadable. "Indeed," they replied simply, their gaze meeting Alastor's with a sense of mutual respect.

Charlie's smile faltered slightly, her optimism dampened by the realization that not everyone could be friends. But she quickly regained her composure, her determination unshakeable.

"Well, even if you're not friends, I'm sure you can still get along," she said brightly, trying to lighten the mood. "After all, we're all here for the same reason—to help redeem sinners and make Hell a better place!"

Alastor's smile widened, a glint of amusem*nt in his eyes. "Indeed, my dear Charlie," he agreed, his tone teasing. "And who knows, perhaps Ghost and I will find ourselves working together towards that goal, in our own unique ways."

Ghost nodded in acknowledgment, their expression softening ever so slightly. While they knew that their relationship with Alastor would likely remain complex and fraught with tension, they also recognized the potential for collaboration in their shared mission to bring redemption to Hell.

As the conversation settled into a lull, the atmosphere in the room became more relaxed. Charlie, ever the optimist, was determined to foster a sense of camaraderie among her guests, despite the inherent challenges of their situation in Hell.

"Well, now that we're all acquainted, why don't we sit down and discuss our plans for the hotel?" Charlie suggested, gesturing towards the comfortable seating area. "We have a lot of work to do if we're going to make this place a success."

Ghost and Alastor exchanged a glance, a silent agreement passing between them. While they may not become fast friends, they both understood the importance of working together towards a common goal.

As they settled into their seats, Charlie began to outline her vision for the hotel—a place where sinners could find redemption and hope, a sanctuary in the midst of the chaos of Hell. Ghost listened intently, their analytical mind already considering the logistics of such a venture.

Alastor, ever the showman, offered his own ideas, suggesting ways to attract more guests and improve the hotel's image. Despite his sinister reputation, there was a genuine desire to help Charlie achieve her goal, albeit for his own reasons.

Vaggie, who had been watching the interaction with a wary eye, finally spoke up. "I still don't trust him," she said, her voice firm. "But if he's willing to help, I suppose we can give him a chance."

Ghost nodded in agreement, their expression unreadable. "Agreed," they replied simply, their gaze shifting between Charlie and Alastor. "We all have our reasons for being here, but if we can work together towards a common goal, perhaps we can make a difference in Hell."

And so, the unlikely alliance between Ghost, Alastor, and the other residents of the Hazbin Hotel began to take shape, each member bringing their own unique strengths and perspectives to the table. As they embarked on this new chapter in their journey, they knew that the road ahead would be difficult, but they were determined to face it together, united in their quest for redemption and hope in the depths of Hell.

As the group settled onto the couch, the TV screen flickered to life, casting an eerie glow across the room. The news was grim—the next annual Extermination had been moved up to six months from now, cutting out a whole half-year of time. This meant that Heaven's Angels would descend upon Hell sooner than expected, their mission to exterminate souls deemed irredeemable.

Ghost watched in silence as the others in the hotel reacted to the news. Charlie's expression was one of concern, her brow furrowed with worry. Vaggie's usual fiery demeanor was tempered with a sense of dread, her grip on her spear tightening unconsciously. Angel Dust, normally the picture of nonchalance, looked genuinely scared, his usual bravado replaced by a look of raw fear.

As Vaggie leaned back, adjusting her grip on her spear, Ghost could see her knuckles turning white with intensity, her body tense and ready for combat. Angel Dust shifted nervously, pulling his knees to his chest and rocking back and forth in an awkward attempt to appear calm. Charlie was no less anxious, her expression sad yet determined. And Husk...was just Husk, with no apparent emotion to speak of.

Alastor, however, seemed unfazed by the news, his smile still firmly in place. "Well, well, well, it seems Heaven is getting impatient," he remarked, his tone almost cheerful. "I suppose we'll have to step up our efforts if we want to save as many souls as possible."

Ghost nodded in agreement, their expression stoic. "We will need to be vigilant and prepared for whatever comes our way," they replied, their voice calm and measured.

Charlie looked around at her companions, her gaze filled with determination. "We can't let this news discourage us," she said firmly. "We have a mission to help these souls find redemption, and we won't let Heaven's timetable deter us."

The others nodded in agreement, a sense of unity settling over the group. Despite the daunting challenge ahead, they knew that they were stronger together and that as long as they stood united, they could face whatever trials lay ahead in their quest to bring hope to the denizens of Hell.

Chapter 3: New Home. [The author is a little bad at naming chapters.]

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As Charlie led Ghost to their room, the atmosphere was one of quiet contemplation. Ghost took in their surroundings with a keen eye, noting the simple yet comfortable furnishings of the room—a small bathroom, a cozy bedroom, and a window overlooking the chaotic landscape of Hell.

"It's not much, but I hope you'll find it comfortable," Charlie said, gesturing to the room. "If there's anything you need, just let me know."

Ghost nodded appreciatively, their gaze sweeping over the room. "Thank you, Your Highness. This will do nicely," they replied, their voice calm and measured.

Charlie waves it off “Of course! And just call me Charlie!” Charlie glanced at Ghost's small bag and raised an eyebrow. "Is that all you brought?" she asked, a hint of surprise in her voice.

Ghost chuckled softly, a rare display of emotion. "Not quite," they replied cryptically, their eight arms moving with a fluid grace as compartments on their body began to open up, revealing an array of gadgets and tools hidden within.

Charlie's eyes widened in surprise as she took in the sight. Drones hovered in the air, their sleek designs hinting at advanced technology. A mug adorned with a computer pun caught her eye, its inscription reading "Byte me" in bold letters. Tools for inventions glinted in the soft light, their polished surfaces reflecting the ingenuity of their creator.

And then there were the lab coats—five in total, each one pristine and meticulously cared for. Charlie couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the sight, realizing that Ghost was not just an ordinary guest, but a brilliant inventor with a wealth of knowledge at their disposal.

Charlie's eyes widened in surprise at the sight of Ghost's arsenal of gadgets. "Wow, you really do come prepared," she remarked, her admiration evident in her voice.

Ghost nodded a hint of pride in their voice. "I like to be prepared for any situation," they explained, their gaze shifting to the lab coats. "These are for my experiments. I find that different colors help me focus on different aspects of my work."

Charlie smiled, her eyes twinkling with curiosity. "I'd love to hear more about your inventions sometime," she said warmly. "It sounds fascinating."

Ghost turned to Charlie, their expression softening. "Thank you for letting me stay here," they said sincerely. "I appreciate the opportunity to be a part of your mission."

Chapter 4: That Moment when you see your Ex Rival in public-

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The next morning, Ghost was hard at work in their room, tinkering away at their workbench while sipping coffee from their "Byte me" mug. The familiar maniacal laugh echoed through the hotel, catching Ghost's attention.

Curiosity piqued, Ghost set down their mug and made their way out onto the balcony. With a flick of a switch, their robotic legs extended, allowing them to smoothly maneuver themselves right next to where Alastor had materialized.

Alastor turned to Ghost, a playful smirk on his face. "Ah, Ghost, always so... mechanical," he remarked, his eyes twinkling with amusem*nt.

Ghost raised an eyebrow, unfazed by Alastor's comment. "And you, always so... theatrical," they replied, their tone dry.

Alastor chuckled, his smile widening. "Touché," he replied, tipping an imaginary hat. "I couldn't help but notice your mug. 'Byte me,' quite clever."

Ghost nodded, picking up their mug and taking a sip. "Thank you," they replied simply, their gaze meeting Alastor's own mug with a sense of curiosity. "Oh deer?, smart."

Ghost's expression remained stoic as they looked up to see Sir Pentious's airship hovering overhead. They muttered a quick "Fantastic" sarcastically under their breath and took another sip of their coffee, seemingly unfazed by the sudden appearance of their arch-rival.

Charlie, Angel Dust, Vaggie, and Niffty quickly appeared outside, drawn by the sound of the airship's engines. They looked up in surprise as they saw the massive vessel looming overhead.

"What in the world is that?" Charlie exclaimed, her eyes wide with astonishment.

Angel Dust smirked, a hint of excitement in his voice. "Looks like our old pal Sir Pentious is paying us a visit," he said, his tone mocking.

Vaggie frowned, her grip on her spear tightening. "Great, just what we needed," she muttered, her voice laced with annoyance.

Ghost watched the exchange with a sense of detachment, their expression unreadable. They knew that Sir Pentious's presence meant trouble, but they were determined not to let it faze them.

As Sir Pentious's voice rang out, Ghost couldn't help but roll their eyes inwardly. "Faccce my wrath!!" the overlord proclaimed, his words dripping with melodrama.

Ghost took another sip of their coffee, hoping to whatever powers existed in Hell that Sir Pentious wouldn't notice them. They had no desire to engage in yet another confrontation with the eccentric inventor.

Alastor, ever the curious observer, stepped forward, his smile never wavering. "Who are you?" he asked, his tone casual yet probing.

Sir Pentious puffed up with pride, his chest swelling as he proclaimed, "Who am I? Who am I? I am the great SsSir Pentious! Inventor, architect of destruction, villain extraordinaire!"

One of the egg minions, ever loyal to their master, chimed in with a dopey yet supportive, "You tell him, boss!"

Ghost watched the exchange with a sense of resignation, knowing that a confrontation was inevitable. However, they remained silent, their expression impassive as they observed the unfolding drama.

Niffty appears on alastor's shoulders saying with crazed intent "OOOh, so he's a bad boy~" Niffty's sudden appearance, coupled with her remark, made Ghost slightly wary of her unpredictable behavior. Alastor, however, found the situation amusing and let out a laugh at Niffty's comment.

"Well, if all that's true, you'd think I'd have heard of you," Alastor remarked, his smile never wavering.

Sir Pentious, growing incredulous and slightly irate, waved his arms in frustration. "I attacked you literally last week!" he exclaimed, expecting Alastor to remember their encounter.

Alastor tilted his head, giving Sir Pentious a confused and condescending look. "Did you now?" he replied, feigning ignorance. "I must say, I don't recall."

This response infuriated Sir Pentious even more. "We've done battle like 20 timesss?!" he shouted, exasperated by Alastor's lack of recognition.

Alastor chuckled, his amusem*nt evident. "Well, you must have been really bad at it then," he replied, his tone dripping with condescension.

The exchange between Alastor and Sir Pentious only served to escalate the tension, with Sir Pentious growing more frustrated by the second and Alastor remaining unfazed by his antics.

Sir Pentious shook off Alastor's comments, his focus unwavering. "Silence! Now, when I've slain you, the almighty Vees will finally acknowledge me as their equal!" he declared, his voice filled with determination.

Ghost's attention was caught by the mention of the Vees. They knew of the trio of powerful overlords—Vox, Valentino, and Velvette—who were known for their influence and control in Hell. Ghost had crossed paths with them before, particularly Vox, the TV demon who had taken issue with Ghost's robotic nuclear power and inventing prowess, seeing it as too similar to his own. [The drama queen]

Niffty, ever curious, chimed in. "Ooh!- wait, what are the Vees?" she asked, her eyes wide with curiosity.

Ghost turned to her, a hint of caution in their voice. "No one important," they replied cryptically, not wanting to delve into the complexities of their opinion of the Vees.

Meanwhile, Alastor had begun to wreak havoc on Sir Pentious's airship, adding to the chaos of the situation. His actions only served to further enrage Sir Pentious, who was now more determined than ever to take down his adversaries and prove himself to the powerful overlords known as the Vees.

After a few minutes of Alastor mercilessly using his powers to tear Sir Pentious's ship apart, Ghost observed the chaos with a stoic expression. Alastor's laughter filled the air, echoing off the crumbling remains of the airship.

"Um, Alastor? I think he's had enough," Charlie interjected, her voice tinged with concern as she watched the destruction unfold.

Angel Dust, however, seemed to relish in the spectacle. "Nah, I think he still got a few more hits in him," he remarked, a mischievous glint in his eye.

As Alastor's power shook the ship violently, Sir Pentious lost his footing and fell, screaming, through the shattered windshield. He landed on the ground in front of the group, his fall comically exaggerated.

After Sir Pentious fell, Ghost's keen eyes caught sight of one of the little, dumb egg minions tumbling through the air. Knowing that the fragile egg would shatter upon impact with the ground, Ghost acted swiftly and discreetly.

They extended one of their many robotic arms into the air, catching the little guy before anyone else could react. The egg minion looked up at Ghost, surprise evident in its expression.

"Golly! Thanks a lot, Dr. Overlord sir!" the egg minion exclaimed gratefully, oblivious to the danger it had just narrowly avoided.

Ghost gave a faint smile, a rare display of emotion, before gently lowering the egg minion to the ground. They knew that despite being a mere minion, this little egg was innocent and didn't deserve to be harmed.

As the others were preoccupied with the aftermath of Sir Pentious's fall, Ghost's act of kindness went unnoticed. They watched as the egg minion scurried away, unharmed and grateful, a small but significant moment of compassion in the midst of chaos.

As Ghost rejoined the group, Sir Pentious couldn't help but seize the opportunity. "Are you sure that you don't remember me?" he asked Alastor, his tone hopeful yet tinged with desperation.

Alastor looked down at Sir Pentious, his expression mocking. "Must not have made much of an impression," he replied casually, his words like a knife twisting in Sir Pentious's ego.

Sir Pentious's gaze shifted upwards, and his eyes widened in surprise as he saw Ghost among the group. "Ghossst?!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with disbelief.

The rest of the group turned to Ghost, their expressions a mix of confusion and curiosity. "Wait, you know this guy?" Angel Dust asked, voicing the question that was on everyone's mind.

Ghost sighed inwardly, realizing they were caught in a difficult situation. They knew they had a choice to make: they could either be a jerk to someone who was already down, or they could relent and acknowledge Sir Pentious's existence.

Sir Pentious leaned in eagerly, anticipation written all over his face. "My rival, sssurely you remember me, right?" he asked, his voice eager for validation.

Ghost looked around at the expectant faces of the group, weighing their options carefully. They knew that honesty was the best policy, even if it meant acknowledging someone they would rather forget.

After a moment's pause, they coolly replied, "Of course. Unlike this one," they said, pointedly looking at Alastor, "I am a robot that remembers all knowledge that I'm exposed to, even you."

Sir Pentious's face lit up with a mixture of joy and triumph as Ghost's words sank in. Finally, someone remembered him, someone acknowledged his existence. It was a small victory, but to Sir Pentious, it meant everything.

As Alastor leaned down to Sir Pentious, his voice dripping with condescension, "Ahh, thanks for another forgettable experience," he taunted.

Desperation clouded Sir Pentious's mind as he struggled to come up with a last retort. "T-thank you... for letting your guard down!" he stammered, his voice cracking with uncertainty.

With a swift motion of his tail, Sir Pentious ripped off a piece of Alastor's coat, causing the demon to grow greatly angered. Alastor's eyes flashed with rage as he unleashed a powerful blast of energy, sending Sir Pentious flying away into the sky from the force of the explosion.

Ghost, who had been watching the exchange, turned and walked away from the scene, their mind filled with conflicting emotions. They knew that Sir Pentious had brought this upon himself, but they almost feel a twinge of sympathy for the defeated overlord.

Chapter 5: I’m so Sssorry!

Chapter Text

Later that day, as the sun began to set over Hell, Vaggie heard a knock on the door. Expecting the return of Alastor, she was surprised to find Sir Pentious standing there instead. His presence caught her off guard, and before he could utter a word, Vaggie's fist connected with his face, sending him sprawling to the ground.

Pointing her spear at him, Vaggie's eyes blazed with anger as she demanded, "Who sent you? What do you want?"

Sir Pentious, his ego bruised and his pride shattered, tried to regain his composure. "I-I come in peace," he stammered, his snake-like tongue flicking out nervously as he made peace signs with his hands.

Charlie, hearing the commotion, rushed to the door to see what was happening. She helped Sir Pentious to his feet and turned to him, her expression curious. "What are you doing here?" she asked.

Sir Pentious straightened his coat and cleared his throat. "I have come to be redeemed," he declared, his voice filled with determination.

Vaggie, still apprehensive, kept her spear pointed at him. "Redeemed? Why should we trust you?" she asked, her voice laced with suspicion.

Charlie stepped in, placing a hand on Vaggie's shoulder. "This place is about second chances," she said, her tone reassuring. "And who deserves one more than this... um, snake... guy?"

Sir Pentious raised an eyebrow at Charlie's description. "Sir Pentious," he corrected dryly.

Charlie snapped her fingers, a look of realization crossing her face. "Sir Pentious!" she exclaimed. Turning to Vaggie, she said, "Let's give him a chance. Everyone deserves a shot at redemption."

Reluctantly, Vaggie lowered her spear and stepped aside, allowing Sir Pentious to enter the hotel. The atmosphere was tense as the group gathered in the lobby, unsure of what the future held for their newest guest.

As Ghost was walking through the hallway to their room, lost in their own thoughts, they accidentally bumped into someone. Startled, Ghost immediately sprang into action, thinking it might be an intruder. To their surprise, it was none other than Sir Pentious.

Reacting on instinct to protect their friends and the hotel, Ghost pushed Sir Pentious against the wall, their eight robotic arms pinning him in place. There was a moment of tense silence as they locked eyes.

"What are you doing here?" Ghost demanded, their voice steady but tinged with suspicion.

Sir Pentious flashed a charming smile, his eyes gleaming with mischief. "Oh, how I have missssed our rivalry," he said, his tone teasing. "I see that your defenssses are still as strong as they always were."

Ghost arched an eyebrow, unimpressed by his attempt at deflection. "That's not an answer," they stated flatly.

Sir Pentious's smile faltered slightly, realizing he couldn't evade the question. "I'm here to redeem myself," he admitted, his voice seemingly earnest. "The princess of Hell herself is letting me stay."

Ghost is unmoving, but they decided to play along for now. "The princess is letting you stay?" they asked, trying to gauge his honesty.

Sir Pentious nodded eagerly. "Yes, yes, she is. I'm turning over a new leaf, you see," he explained.

Ghost's sensors pinged with skepticism, but they decided to bide their time, choosing to keep their suspicions to themselves for now. "Just be warned," they cautioned, their tone serious. "Stay away from the Vees. They're bad news."

Sir Pentious straightened his coat, pretending to be unaffected by the encounter. "Oh, I can handle myself. You don't know what you're talking about," he retorted, slithering away down the hallway.

Watching him go, Ghost couldn't shake the feeling that Sir Pentious was up to something. But for now, they would keep a close eye on him, ready to intervene if necessary.

As Charlie gathered everyone together, Ghost couldn't help but feel a sense of unease as they glanced towards Sir Pentious, their suspicion lingering like a shadow. They watched him closely, analyzing his every move, ready to intervene at the first sign of trouble.

Meanwhile, Charlie stood before the group, her bright optimism shining through as she introduced the idea of group activities. "Now, with a new resident, I think it's important for everyone to get to know each other," she declared cheerfully, her enthusiasm infectious.

Ghost remained stoic, their robotic features betraying none of their inner turmoil as they listened to Charlie's proposal. They understood the importance of building trust and camaraderie among the residents of the hotel, but they couldn't shake the feeling of wariness around Sir Pentious.

"I think we should learn a new game!" Charlie exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Now, follow me."

As Charlie led the group to a spacious area, she began to clap her hands rhythmically. "My name is Charlie," she sang out, her voice clear and melodious, setting the tempo for the game. *Clap clap* "I like to sing," she continued, her movements graceful and inviting. *Clap clap* "And when we get to know each other, it's the greatest thing!"

Despite their reservations, Ghost knew that fostering a sense of unity and friendship among the residents of the hotel was essential for their collective well-being. And so, with a silent determination, they resolved to participate in the activity, keeping a watchful eye on Sir Pentious as the game unfolded.

Chapter 6: Sssnake in the Grass

Chapter Text

After Charlie does her introduction she points to Sir Pentious. As Sir Pentious awkwardly began his introduction, Ghost observed him with a mix of skepticism and curiosity. They couldn't help but notice the slight nervousness in his demeanor, contrasting with the bombastic personality he often displayed.

"My name's Sir Pentious?" he started tentatively, his voice wavering slightly. *Clap clap* "I like to build," he continued, gaining a bit more confidence with each word. *Clap clap* "And despite my sstupid egg bois, I think I'm pretty skilled."

Ghost raised an eyebrow at the mention of the "egg bois," recalling their encounter with Sir Pentious's peculiar minions. Despite the initial tension between them, Ghost found themselves intrigued by Sir Pentious's admission of skill, wondering what kind of inventions or contraptions he might be capable of creating.

As Sir Pentious finished his introduction, Charlie beamed with encouragement, her enthusiasm unwavering. "See? That wasn't so hard!" she exclaimed, her smile infectious as she gestured towards Ghost.

With a nod from Charlie, Ghost hesitated for a moment before stepping forward to begin their own introduction. "My name is Ghost," they stated calmly, their voice resonating with a hint of mystery. *Clap clap* "I am a creator," they continued, their eight arms gesturing elegantly as they spoke. *Clap clap* "And with my nuclear magnification, I forge wonders beyond imagination."

As Ghost finished, a sense of quiet reverence seemed to settle over the group, their attention drawn to the enigmatic figure before them. Charlie's eyes sparkled with admiration, while Sir Pentious watched with a newfound sense of respect, recognizing Ghost's formidable presence.

With introductions complete, Charlie clapped her hands together once more, her energy infectious as she led the group into the next phase of their activity. Ghost couldn't help but feel a glimmer of camaraderie amidst the diverse personalities gathered in the room, a sense of unity beginning to blossom within the walls of the Hazbin Hotel.

As Angel Dust and Sir Pentious began their acting scene, Ghost watched from the sidelines, relieved that they weren't involved in the rather bizarre display unfolding before them. Angel, wearing an old trench coat, and Sir Pentious, clad in a childish young boy's uniform with a comically large lollipop, seemed an odd pair indeed.

Angel Dust, with a look of incredulity, read from the script, "Ooh, I'm a bad man on the streets, who never got enough hugs. Now, where is an innocent kid for me to sell crack to?"

Sir Pentious, fully committed to his role, continued licking the oversized lollipop with exaggerated innocence, completely unfazed by the absurdity of the script. Angel Dust couldn't help but break character, his frustration evident as he questioned the quality of the writing. "Wow, who wrote this?" he remarked, his patience wearing thin.

Charlie, ever enthusiastic, raised her hand excitedly. "I did! Isn't it good? Now keep going." she exclaimed, urging Angel Dust to continue.

Rolling his eyes, Angel Dust pointed to Sir Pentious, who was fully immersed in his role as the innocent boy. "Hey, you," Angel called out, trying to stay in character despite his growing frustration.

Sir Pentious, with exaggerated innocence, turned to Angel Dust. "Who, me?" he replied, his voice filled with childlike wonder.

"Yes, you look like you can use... god- Devil's dandruff?" Angel Dust struggled to deliver the line, clearly full of disdain for the script's content.

Sir Pentious, maintaining his innocent facade, responded with mock concern. "Oh no, I need to go home and study!"

Angel Dust, facepalming at the absurdity of it all, tried to keep the scene going. "Are you sure?" he asked, trying to prompt Sir Pentious to continue.

Confident in his performance, Sir Pentious replied, "I'm going home, and I won't be having sexual intercourse before marriage!"

Charlie, thoroughly entertained by the scene unfolding before her, jumped up and started clapping enthusiastically. "Bravo! That was amazing!" she exclaimed, completely unaware of Angel Dust's growing frustration with the situation.

As the exercise came to an end, Ghost couldn't help but chuckle at the comedic display, grateful once again to be a mere observer in the chaos of the Hazbin Hotel.

As Ghost observed Sir Pentious's enthusiastic embrace of his role in the acting exercise, a thought crept into their mind. Could Sir Pentious's desire for redemption be genuine? Despite their stoicism, Ghost couldn't fathom any other demon in Hell willingly wearing such an outfit and committing so wholeheartedly to the role. Nevertheless, Ghost remained wary, trusting their instincts honed over years of survival in the treacherous landscape of Hell.

Noticing the tension between Angel Dust and Sir Pentious, Ghost observed Angel storming off upstairs in a huff. Curiosity piqued, Ghost followed Angel, finding him in his room, clearly agitated.

"Angel," Ghost began, their voice calm and measured. "I noticed you seem to find Sir Pentious suspicious. Is there something specific that's bothering you?"

"Yeah, that guy gives me the creeps. I don't trust him as far as I can throw him," Angel replied, flopping down on his bed.

"It's prudent to remain cautious," Ghost acknowledged, their tone unwavering. "I shall do the same."

Surprised by Ghost's response, Angel looked at them. "Really? You think so too?" he asked, sitting up slightly.

Ghost nodded, their expression unchanged. "It is wise to exercise caution in these circ*mstances. We cannot ascertain anyone's true intentions here in Hell," they replied, their demeanor stoic.

After a moment of silence, Angel sighed. "Thanks, Ghost. I appreciate you looking out for me," he said, offering a small smile.

"No need for thanks. We are all navigating these challenges together," Ghost replied, their tone steady and composed.

Angel, undeterred by Ghost's lack of response, continued with his suggestive tone. “Oh! If you need me to help you to…” Ghost can feel themselves being eyed all over with disturbing intentions “Loosen some bolts, I’ll give you a free favor baby” he said, his words dripping with innuendo.

Ghost turned to look at Angel, their expression unreadable. They were accustomed to Angel's flirtatious nature, but it still unnerved them to be the subject of such attention. "You will see that I won’t be needing that," Ghost replied coolly, "But thank you for your 'kind' offer."Ghost remained unfazed, their stoic demeanor unwavering even in the face of Angel's flirtatious advances.

"I assure you, I am quite capable of handling any repairs or maintenance myself."

Angel chuckled, his flirtatious demeanor undeterred. "Oh, come on, Ghost. Don't be shy. I'm always here to lend a helping hand," he said, winking suggestively.

Ghost raised a robotic eyebrow, their expression unreadable. "I appreciate the gesture, Angel. However, I prefer to work alone," they replied calmly.

Angel's grin widened, his persistence unyielding. "Suit yourself, sweetheart. But if you ever change your mind, you know where to find me," he teased, leaning back on the bed with a suggestive smirk.

Ghost simply nodded, acknowledging Angel's words before turning their heel toward their room to get back to their work. Despite the distractions and dynamics of the hotel, Ghost remained focused on their ultimate goal: finding a way to achieve redemption and escape Hell's eternal torment.

As Ghost returned to their work, they couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to Sir Pentious than met the eye. They made a mental note to keep a close watch on him, determined to uncover the truth behind the eccentric demon's intentions.

In Ghost's room, the dim glow of monitors cast an eerie light as the demon reviewed their blueprints. Blueprints and schematics covered the surface, detailing intricate designs that seemed to defy the laws of physics. Frustration bubbled up as calculations refused to align. With a metallic groan, Ghost's robotic face displayed a rare expression of annoyance.

They needed a break.

Ghost abandoned their work and made their way downstairs to the main lobby of the hotel, seeking solace in the familiar hum of the kitchen.

As they navigated the dimly lit corridors, Ghost's robotic form moved with precision, their eight arms poised for action should the need arise. However, their focused stride faltered when they stumbled upon the unexpected scene unfolding in the library. Angel Dust and Sir Pentious, entangled in a frenzied struggle, rolled across the floor with reckless abandon, their shouts echoing off the walls.

Reacting swiftly, Ghost surged forward, their mechanical limbs extending to pull the brawling demons apart. With a firm grip, they immobilized Angel's flailing arms and restrained Sir Pentious's attempts to retaliate. Their voice rang out with authority as they demanded an explanation for the chaos that had erupted in the tranquil library.

"What is the meaning of this?" Ghost's voice was firm, commanding attention. Angel, disheveled and clearly inebriated, pointed an accusatory finger at Sir Pentious. "That Bitch is a traitor!"

Before either demon could offer a coherent response, the door to the library swung open, revealing a bleary-eyed Charlie and a bewildered Vaggie. Ghost's gaze flickered with surprise at their unexpected appearance, momentarily loosening their hold on Angel and Sir Pentious.

Angel, emboldened by the distraction, seized the opportunity to launch into a slurred tirade, accusing Sir Pentious of treachery. "That little bitch is a traitor!" he spat, his words slurring together in his drunken state.

Ghost's brow furrowed in consternation as Angel's drunken accusation echoed through the library. They exchanged a skeptical glance with Sir Pentious, silently assessing the veracity of Angel's claim. Sir Pentious's indignant denial only added to Ghost's confusion, their normally stoic demeanor momentarily betraying a hint of uncertainty.

Before Ghost could process Sir Pentious's protestations, the air was filled with unexpected warmth as Sir Pentious wrapped them in an embrace. Ghost stiffened at the sudden intrusion of physical contact, their discomfort evident as they instinctively sought to extricate themselves from the embrace.

"You are my best friends," Sir Pentious declared, his voice tinged with sincerity as he clung to Ghost with unexpected fervor. Ghost's internal discomfort intensified at the declaration, their mind grappling with the complexities of Sir Pentious's sudden display of affection.

In an effort to regain control of the situation, Ghost firmly grasped Sir Pentious's arms once more, gently but firmly guiding him away. Their metallic features remained impassive as they addressed Angel's accusation, their voice calm and measured despite the tumultuous circ*mstances.

Angel scoffed, producing a small camera from the Vees. "Then what's this?" he taunted, waving the device in front of Sir Pentious's face.

Sir Pentious's panicked screams reverberated through the room as he frantically attempted to escape. His Voxtech watch became his lifeline as he shouted into it, "Abort! Abort mission!" Vaggie stood like a sentinel by the door, blocking any escape, while Ghost, a towering figure of metal and mystery, blocked the window, leaving Sir Pentious with no route of escape. In a last-ditch effort, Sir Pentious attempted to slither past Ghost, but his maneuver only resulted in a painful collision with Ghost's unyielding frame.

With desperation fuelling his movements, Sir Pentious lunged towards Ghost, his snake-like form contorting in a futile attempt to evade capture. But his efforts only resulted in a painful collision with Ghost's sturdy metal frame, sending a jolt of pain through his shoulder.

Ghost, their expression stoic as ever, effortlessly restrained Sir Pentious, their eight arms acting as unyielding shackles. "I warned you about the Vees," they intoned, their voice devoid of emotion but laced with a hint of admonishment.

Sir Pentious, realizing the gravity of his situation, frantically clicked his Voxtech watch, hoping for a way out. The familiar face of Vox appeared on the screen, his tone a mix of amusem*nt and disbelief. "Pentious? You were caught?!" Vox's laughter filled the room, causing Sir Pentious to shrink slightly in embarrassment.

Vox's amusem*nt turned to mocking as he noticed Ghost's firm grip on Sir Pentious. "And caught by Ghost, no less! It hasn't even been a day!" Ghost in response makes a pace sign with one of their arms in a slight smart-arsed response. Vox's words stung, and Sir Pentious's expression shifted from embarrassment to dejection.

Before Sir Pentious could muster a response, Vox's voice cut through the air again, harsh and unforgiving. "Look, if those losers at that hotel don’t kill you, do it yourself, you worthless piece of sh*t." The venom in Vox's words was palpable, and Ghost felt a surge of anger towards their archrival.

As Vox's image disappeared from the screen, leaving a defeated Sir Pentious in its wake, Ghost couldn't help but feel a twinge of pity for the snake-like demon. Despite their rivalry, Ghost's gaze hardened, a flicker of anger simmering beneath their composed exterior. The disdain in Vox's voice ignited a fire within them.

Sir Pentious, deflated and defeated, hung his head in shame, his bravado crumbling in the face of his own inadequacy. In that moment, amidst the chaos and the taunts, Ghost and Sir Pentious shared a silent understanding — their rivalry momentarily eclipsed by the harsh reality of their shared vulnerability.

Ghost, their arms still extended from where they had released Sir Pentious, watched the scene unfold with a mixture of confusion and intrigue. As Sir Pentious lay on the floor, resigned to his fate, Angel and Vaggie moved forward, their intentions clear.

However, Ghost stepped in front of them, a silent barrier between Sir Pentious and his would-be executioners. They looked at Angel and Vaggie, their expression unreadable, but their stance firm. "No," Ghost stated simply, their voice cutting through the tension in the room.

Charlie, ever the optimist, approached Sir Pentious, her voice filled with compassion. "It starts with sorry," she sang, her words carrying a soothing melody. Ghost couldn't help but inwardly cringe at the sudden musical turn of events, but they remained impassive, observing.

Taking Sir Pentious's hands in hers, Charlie continued to sing, her voice gentle yet firm. "That's your foot in the door, one simple 'sorry,' spoken straight from your core. The path to forgiveness is a twisting trail of hearts, but 'sorry' is where it starts."

Sir Pentious, caught off guard by Charlie's earnest plea, joined in the song, his voice wavering with uncertainty. "Who could forgive a dirtbag like me? I don't deserve your amnesty," he sang, his tone laced with self-deprecation as he dramatically fell back onto the floor.

Angel and Vaggie, growing impatient, once again voiced their desire to end Sir Pentious's life. "Can't we just kill him? Shoot him and spill his blood?" they sang, their frustration evident in their words.

Ghost, still puzzled by the sudden musical interlude, looked around the room, their gaze lingering on each individual. They couldn't understand why everyone was singing, Ghost found themselves grappling with their own beliefs about forgiveness and second chances.

Charlie's words seemed to resonate with Sir Pentious, who looked up at her with a mix of relief and uncertainty. "That's an option... you could choose," Charlie continued, her voice gentle but firm.

Angel and Vaggie, eager to see justice served, nodded in agreement. "Works for us," they chimed in unison.

As Charlie moved past them, her voice filled with empathy, she sang, "But who hasn't been in his shoes? It starts with 'sorry.'"

Sir Pentious, now more willing to accept his fate, joined in the song, his voice soft but sincere. "Sorry," he sang, his eyes showing a glimmer of remorse.

Charlie, encouraged by Sir Pentious's response, smiled warmly as she sang, "Dig down deeper and say one sincere 'sorry.'"

In a surprising turn of events, Sir Pentious fell dramatically into their arms, forcing Ghost to dip him in a move that felt both awkward and oddly intimate, they couldn't help but feel completely out of place, "Sorry." Ghost, completely bewildered by the situation, could only awkwardly hold Sir Pentious, unsure of what was happening.

Charlie took Sir Pentious's hands once again, and together, they sang, "And your journey's underway. It'll take time to cover your vast multitude of sins. But 'sorry' is where it begins. It starts with 'sorry.'"

The room fell into a moment of introspective silence as the weight of Charlie's words hung in the air. Ghost, still perplexed by the sudden musical number, couldn't help but wonder if forgiveness truly was the key to redemption.

As the echoes of the song faded and the others departed for their rooms, Ghost found themselves navigating the dimly lit hallway toward the kitchen, their thoughts still swirling with the events of the evening. The weight of their interactions with Sir Pentious lingered, leaving a lingering sense of unease in their metallic frame.

Just as Ghost reached the threshold of the kitchen, they heard Sir Pentious's voice pierce through the quietude of the hallway. "Thank you," he said, his words hanging in the air like a fragile thread.

Ghost's head and arms articulating a 180 degree turn their mechanical movements halted abruptly, their eight arms freezing in place as the rest of their body turned to face their unexpected companion. "For what?" they responded, their voice betraying none of the tumultuous thoughts swirling within their robotic mind.

Ghost stands in the dimly lit hallway, the soft glow of their eyes fixed on Sir Pentious, who looks somewhat out of place in the elegant yet eerie atmosphere of the hotel. The silence hangs between them, heavy with unspoken words and unresolved tensions.

Sir Pentious clears his throat, shifting nervously. "For not letting them kill me," he repeats, his voice barely above a whisper.

Ghost tilts their head slightly, considering his words. They have always been a being of logic and reason, but there's something about Sir Pentious's vulnerability in this moment that tugs at a different part of them.

After a moment's pause, Ghost responds, "It would have been unnecessary chaos." Their voice is calm, almost indifferent, but there's a hint of something more beneath the surface.

Sir Pentious nods, seemingly understanding. "Still, I appreciate it," he says, a genuine note of gratitude in his voice.

A moment of silence stretched between them, heavy with unspoken tension and unresolved conflicts. Ghost's processors whirred quietly as they processed Sir Pentious's words, grappling with the unexpected gratitude from their long-standing rival.

The sincerity in Sir Pentious's words caught Ghost off guard, their glowing yellow eyes narrowing slightly as they regarded the demon before them. For a moment, silence hung heavy between them, broken only by the distant hum of machinery.

After what felt like an eternity, Ghost finally broke the silence, their voice measured and deliberate. "Take care of yourself," they said, their words carrying a weight of both caution and unexpected concern.

Sir Pentious was taken aback by the sudden display of genuine concern, but he was powerless against the wave of unexpected affection that washed over him. He found himself smiling, albeit faintly, at Ghost's words. "I shall. You do the same," He said, his voice filled with sincerity.

With a nod, Ghost turned away, their metallic form disappearing into the shadows of the kitchen. Sir Pentious watched them go, a mix of emotions swirling within him—gratitude, uncertainty, and a flicker of something else, something akin to understanding.

As Ghost disappeared from view, Sir Pentious found himself alone in the hallway, the echoes of their brief exchange reverberating in his mind. With a sigh, he turned and made his way to his own room, his thoughts consumed by the enigmatic figure of Ghost and the complexities of their ever-evolving relationship.

Chapter 7: Trussst In Me.

Chapter Text

The next morning dawned with a sense of uneasy tension lingering in the air of the Hazbin Hotel. Charlie, ever the optimist, was busy hanging a banner that read "Welcome Sir Pentious and Ghost!" Her enthusiasm was palpable, but Vaggie couldn't help but voice her concerns.

"Charlie, are you sure about this?" Vaggie asked, her arms crossed in front of her. "Sir Pentious was literally trying to destroy the hotel the other day, and Ghost... well, Ghost could wipe us all out without breaking a sweat."

Charlie paused, her smile faltering slightly. "I know, Vaggie, but I believe in giving everyone a second chance. Besides, maybe having them here will help them see things differently."

As if on cue, Sir Pentious rolled into the room, a large, ominous-looking cannon in tow. Vaggie's eyes widened in alarm as she pointed at the contraption. "What the hell is that? What are you both doing?"

Sir Pentious chuckled, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Oh, hello, purple female! This is my latest invention, the Skin Flayer 11,000. I'm really looking forward to testing it out on the other residents."

Meanwhile, Ghost was busy at a workbench, tinkering with something that looked like another EMP device. Vaggie's frustration grew as she turned to them. "And what about you, Ghost? What's your excuse for this madness?"

Ghost looked up from their work, their expression unreadable behind their robotic facade. "Another EMP device," they replied simply, before returning their focus to their project.

Charlie, caught in the middle of the chaos, approached the duo, her brow furrowed in confusion. "What is going on here? Why are you both doing this?"

Sir Pentious waved his hand dismissively. "Everyone is being too nice, it's obviously a lie. I can sense they are planning to kill me, but when? How? I must be prepared."

Ghost nodded in agreement. "For once, I agree with Sir Pentious. It doesn't really make sense for everyone to suddenly be so welcoming."

As the tension in the room thickened, Charlie knew she had her work cut out for her if she wanted to keep the peace in her hotel. She took a deep breath and prepared to mediate the brewing conflict, hoping to find a way to bridge the gap between her guests' conflicting ideologies.

Vaggie's frustration simmered as she tried to reason with Sir Pentious. "But that's the point, you have to trust us," she insisted, her voice pleading for understanding.

Sir Pentious, however, remained stubborn, folding his arms defiantly. "But we don't," he retorted, his tone laced with skepticism.

Ghost, ever stoic, nodded in agreement with Vaggie's sentiment. "When you're an overlord, you don't exactly get that luxury," they remarked, their voice tinged with a hint of resignation.

Charlie, always the optimist, saw an opportunity for growth in the midst of conflict. Clapping her hands together with enthusiasm, she exclaimed, "Oooh! That's what we should focus on today!"

Both Ghost and Sir Pentious exchanged puzzled glances, mirroring each other's confusion. "What?" they chimed in unison, their voices echoing through the room.

Charlie beamed with excitement, her eyes alight with determination. "We are going to learn how to trust each other!" she declared, her voice filled with unwavering conviction.

As the words hung in the air, a sense of apprehension mingled with hope. Trust was a rare commodity in Hell, especially among demons and overlords locked in perpetual conflict. Yet, in Charlie's unwavering belief in redemption, there lay a glimmer of possibility—a chance for understanding and harmony amidst the chaos.

Vaggie's patience was wearing thin as she pointed at the ceiling, her voice laced with frustration. "See? Look at them! You need to get rid of them," she demanded, her eyes fixed on Sir Pentious and his Egg Bois.

Sir Pentious, ever the eccentric, clutched his eggs close to his chest, a look of distress crossing his face. "But my little egg minions! They do my evil bidding for me!" he protested, his tone pleading.

Vaggie leaned down, her eyes level with Sir Pentious's, her voice firm. "Do you want to stay at the hotel and be redeemed?" she asked, her tone unwavering.

Sir Pentious hesitated, weighing his options. "Uh, well, yes..." he began, trailing off as he realized the gravity of the situation.

"Then get rid of them," Vaggie stated, her tone leaving no room for argument.

Sir Pentious looked down at his beloved Egg Bois, a conflicted expression on his face. With a heavy heart, he released his grip, allowing the eggs to scatter across the floor. "I'm sorry, but I can't keep you anymore," he said, his voice filled with regret.

The Egg Bois, ever loyal to their master, looked up at him, their expressions blank. "OK!" they chirped in unison, oblivious to the weight of the moment.

Sir Pentious, still feeling dramatic, shook his head. "No, don't fight it. You have to leave," he said, his voice cracking with emotion.

As the eggs dumbly walked away, spreading throughout the hotel, Ghost couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness. Despite their destructive tendencies, there was something oddly endearing about the Egg Bois. They had been a constant presence in the hotel, and their absence would be felt.

Vaggie watched as Sir Pentious reluctantly parted ways with his minions, a sense of satisfaction washing over her. Perhaps, she thought, this was a step in the right direction for the eccentric overlord.

As the group gathered on the small stage in the lobby, Vaggie stood in front of them, her posture rigid and commanding. She explained the exercise, her voice firm. "Okay, you guys will be doing trust falls. You will stand on the stage, say something vulnerable with the group, and fall, and we will catch you. Understand?"

Ghost felt a pang of unease at the thought of revealing something personal in front of the group. They were used to keeping their emotions and vulnerabilities hidden, a defense mechanism honed over years of being an overlord in Hell. However, they knew that trust was an important part of their redemption, so they reluctantly nodded their understanding.

Husk, ever the cynic, grumbled his disapproval. "I'm not putting on a show for these chumps," he muttered, crossing his arms and sinking further into his seat. Angel, on the other hand, seemed to relish the opportunity to perform. He sauntered over to Husk and draped his legs over his lap, earning an annoyed grunt from the bartender. "Oh, I CAN." Angel purred, flashing a mischievous grin. He then turned his attention to Sir Pentious, pointing at him teasingly. "But that one can't afford me."

Sir Pentious bristled at the implication, crossing his arms and adopting a defensive stance. "I wouldn't think of it. Ssspider," he retorted, his voice laced with sarcasm. Angel, undeterred, shifted his gaze to Ghost, a playful glint in his eyes. "Oooh, but that one can~" he teased, clearly enjoying the banter.

Ghost met Angel's gaze with a cool, collected expression. "Just because I can doesn't mean I will," they replied, their tone firm but nonchalant. The exchange highlighted the contrast between Ghost's reserved nature and Angel's flamboyant personality, showcasing the diverse dynamics within the group.

As Vaggie prepared to start the exercise, the tension in the air was palpable. Each member of the group faced the stage, contemplating the vulnerability that lay ahead. For Ghost, this moment represented a rare opportunity to step out of their comfort zone and embrace the trust of their newfound companions.

Charlie, ever enthusiastic, jumped up and down, eager to go first. "Ooh, ooh, can I go first?" she asked, her eyes shining with excitement.

Vaggie nodded, gesturing for Charlie to take the stage. Charlie stood at the edge, her hands clasped together. "Okay, um, something vulnerable..." she began, her voice soft. "I... I love you guys! …like really, really love you guys."

With that, Charlie leaned back, her eyes closed, and fell backward, trusting the others to catch her. As she fell, Ghost and the others moved quickly to catch her, their hands outstretched. They caught her easily, and Charlie let out a relieved laugh as she was lifted back to her feet.

Vaggie nodded, impressed. "Good job, Charlie. Who's next?" she asked, looking at the others expectantly.

As Charlie fell back, her heart raced with anticipation, expecting the reassuring grasp of her friends' hands to catch her. But to her surprise, only Vaggie moved to catch her, her strong arms providing the support Charlie needed. With a nervous laugh, Charlie exclaimed, "That... felt amazing!"

She turned to Angel, her excitement evident as she called out, "Hey, Angel! You should go next!"

Angel, always one to revel in attention, sauntered onto the stage with his trademark smirk. "Well, I for one, love sucking-!" he began, only to be swiftly interrupted by Husk's gruff voice.

"I swear to f*ck if you say 'dick-'" Husk interjected, his patience wearing thin.

Angel, unfazed by Husk's interruption, continued smoothly, "Popsicles, you sicko!"

Husk rolled his eyes, muttering under his breath as Angel playfully retorted, "Get your mind out of the gutter."

Ghost, standing stoically among the group, couldn't help but display a subtle expression of asexual disgust at Angel's antics. Their deadpan look conveyed volumes as they watched the exchange unfold.

With a mischievous glint in his eye, Angel fell backward, trusting his companions to catch him. As his body descended, the others moved quickly to support him, their hands reaching out to prevent him from hitting the ground. But even as Angel was safely lowered back to the ground, he couldn't resist adding one final provocative remark.

"But yeah~ dick too," he teased, his voice dripping with innuendo.

In response, Husk's patience finally wore thin, and with a grumble of annoyance, he dropped Angel unceremoniously onto the ground.

As Angel pointed to Sir Pentious, indicating it was his turn, the spotlight suddenly shone on him, casting an eerie glow around him. Ghost, intrigued by the sudden appearance of the spotlight, glanced around, trying to discern its source, but found no obvious answer.

Undeterred by the unusual lighting, Sir Pentious struck a dramatic pose, placing the back of his hand to his forehead in a classic theatrical gesture. With a flair for the dramatic, he declared, "I... cannot live without my minions..." He paused for effect, his words hanging in the air as he prepared to execute his trust fall. "Nobody catch me," he announced before quickly leaning backward.

The others sprang into action, moving swiftly to catch him and prevent him from hitting the ground. As Sir Pentious was safely lowered back to the ground, he couldn't help but mutter a frustrated "Damnit" under his breath, his attempt at theatrics thwarted by his own companions.

Vaggie, ever the pragmatic one, offered a reassuring comment, "Good job," before adding with a grossed out expression, "Wow, you are... slimy," mentioning Sir Pentious’s reptilian nature.

As Vaggie pointed to Ghost, indicating it was their turn, the group turned their attention to the enigmatic robotic demon. Ghost, known for their reserved nature, approached the stage with a deliberate, almost mechanical gait. Despite their stoic exterior, Ghost felt a growing sense of unease as the spotlight figuratively turned on them.

Ghost's thoughts echoed through their mind, ‘All I wanted was to be left alone.’

Standing on the stage, Ghost surveyed the expectant faces of their companions, their mind racing to come up with something to share. Their mind swirling, ‘How did it come to this?’ They were not used to revealing personal details, preferring to keep their thoughts and feelings closely guarded. The others, however, mistook Ghost's silence for mysteriousness, adding to the air of intrigue that surrounded them.

Ghost scanned the faces of their companions, searching for inspiration as they struggled to think of something to say. Octopus. The word floated to the forefront of their mind, a seemingly random thought that somehow felt significant in this moment. With a subtle nod to themselves, Ghost decided to go with it.

Ghost finally spoke up, their voice calm but tinged with a hint of nervousness. "I... like octopus." they said, their statement simple yet revealing a small piece of their personality.

As they stood there, Ghost couldn't shake the feeling of apprehension that had been building within them. Despite their attempts to remain composed, the pressure of the situation was starting to get to them. "I don't think you guys catching me would be the best idea," Ghost admitted, their voice betraying a hint of anxiety.

Vaggie, ever pragmatic, rolled her eyes at Ghost's reluctance. "Just do it," she urged, her tone indicating that there was no room for argument.

With a resigned nod, Ghost prepared to fall backward, knowing the impact it will have. As they fell, the others moved to catch them, only to realize too late that Ghost's metal frame was not conducive to a successful catch. With a loud thud, Ghost landed on the floor, creating a dent in the shape of their body.

"I warned you," Ghost deadpanned, standing up and brushing wood chips off their metallic form.

Vaggie's gaze shifted to Niffty, who eagerly bounded up to the stage with an unsettling expression on her face. "Sometimes, I kill mother bugs in front of their children as a warning to others," Niffty announced, her voice taking on a disturbingly cheerful tone. The others' expressions quickly shifted from anticipation to unease, unsure of how to respond to Niffty's macabre confession.

Ghost's eyes narrowed slightly as they observed Niffty's behavior. There was something unsettling about the way she spoke so casually about such dark actions. As Niffty jumped off the platform, the rest of the group instinctively took a step back, creating a noticeable gap between them and the energetic housekeeper.

As Niffty landed face-first on the ground, she lifted her arms in an exaggerated gesture of triumph, letting out a gleeful scream. Her laughter had a manic edge to it, sending a shiver down the spines of those watching. Without missing a beat, Niffty scrambled back to her feet and sprinted back to the stage, where she proceeded to jump off again and again, each time landing with a thud on the ground below.

Ghost and the others watched in stunned silence, unsure of how to react to Niffty's bizarre display. While her actions were certainly unexpected, there was an underlying sense of discomfort in the air. Ghost exchanged a glance with the others, silently questioning what they had just witnessed.

Chapter 8: Ghost’s Excellent Adventure

Chapter Text

Ghost slipped away from the group, making their way over to where Charlie and Vaggie were standing. Charlie's expression was one of concern as she turned to Ghost. "Hey Ghost, did you feel like you were closer to the group after that?" she asked, her voice tinged with hope.

Ghost paused, considering their response carefully. They didn't want to dampen Charlie's enthusiasm, but they also didn't want to give false hope. "I felt closer to the floor, if that's what you're asking," Ghost replied dryly, their expression unreadable.

Charlie let out a groan and facepalmed, clearly disappointed by Ghost's response. Vaggie, who had been listening in, turned to Ghost with a slightly irritated expression. "What do you want?" she asked, her tone a mix of curiosity and annoyance.

"I have an important meeting I must attend to, so I will be leaving in a few minutes," Ghost explained, their voice calm and composed.

Charlie nodded understandingly. "Oh, that's fine. I was going to give everyone a break anyway," she said, a hint of disappointment in her voice.

"Thank you. The meeting shouldn't last more than a few hours," Ghost replied, nodding politely.

Vaggie's eyes lit up with an idea. "Hey Ghost, would you mind going with Alastor to get rid of the egg minions?" she asked, a hopeful look in her eyes.

Ghost considered the request for a moment. They had grown rather fond of the egg minions and didn't particularly want to see them harmed by Alastor.

Ghost and Vaggie ascended the stairs to Alastor's room, the little egg minions trailing behind them. As they approached, they noticed that the door was slightly ajar, revealing a scene that was both peculiar and slightly unsettling. Alastor sat at a table, calmly eating from a deer carcass with an air of politeness that seemed incongruous with the gruesome sight.

Vaggie wrinkled her nose in disgust, her distaste evident on her face, while Ghost maintained their characteristic deadpan expression, seemingly unfazed by the macabre display. "Alastor," Vaggie addressed him, her tone clipped.

Alastor glanced up from his meal, his perpetual smile never wavering. "Do you mind? I'm in the middle of breakfast," he replied politely, gesturing to the spread before him.

Vaggie cut straight to the point. "Sir Pentious's eggs are everywhere. Do you mind if both you and Ghost help get rid of them?" she asked, her voice tinged with impatience.

Alastor's smile widened slightly at the prospect. "Oh, in that case, I'd be delighted to," he said, rising from the table with a fluid grace.

Vaggie rolled her eyes, adding firmly, "Humanely."

Alastor's expression shifted, a mischievous glint entering his eyes. "Hmm, well, that's a lot less fun," he remarked, his tone laced with a hint of demonic glee.

The eggs, sensing the impending danger, huddled closer together, seeking refuge behind Ghost. Ghost glanced down at the trembling little creatures surrounding them, feeling a twinge of sympathy. Despite their stoic demeanor, they couldn't help but find the eggs' fear somewhat endearing.

"Alright, let's get this over with," Ghost said, their voice calm and composed as always. With the eggs safely tucked behind them, they led the way out of Alastor's room and towards the overlords' congregation.

As Ghost, Alastor, and the little egg minions made their way down the bustling street, the eggs proved to be quite chatty and curious. They bombarded Alastor with questions, their innocent and inquisitive nature shining through.

"Are those your ears, or is it your hair? I can't tell!" one of the eggs chirped, its voice filled with childlike wonder.

"Can I touch your staff thing?" another asked eagerly, referring to Alastor's cane.

Alastor's eye twitched in mild annoyance at the relentless inquiries.

Meanwhile, the eggs seemed to have taken a particular liking to Ghost. They clustered around Ghost's feet, some even daring to swing on their eight arms. Ghost, who typically preferred solitude, found the eggs' antics strAngely endearing. Despite their stoic nature, they couldn't help but feel a soft spot for these sweet, dumb creatures.

The eggs bombarded Ghost with their own set of questions, their voices a cacophony of curiosity.

"Why do you have so many arms?" one egg asked, eyeing Ghost's multiple appendages with fascination.

"Do you have rockets in your feet?" another inquired, bouncing up and down in excitement.

"Can I touch your antennae?" yet another asked, reaching out a tentative hand towards the antennae-like protrusions on Ghost's head.

Ghost hesitated, not used to being touched, but relented, allowing the egg to gently brush their antennae. "Go ahead," they said, a hint of warmth in their voice.

Meanwhile, the Eggs' curiosity seemed insatiable as they continued to pepper Ghost with questions. "Why are you blue?" a fourth egg queried, tilting its head inquisitively.

Ghost, not accustomed to such attention, found themselves at a loss for words. They were used to being alone, their only company being their own thoughts and inventions. Yet, despite their initial discomfort, they couldn't help but feel a warmth towards these curious little creatures who seemed to see the world with such innocence and wonder.

As Ghost and Alastor continue down the street with the Egg minions in tow, the atmosphere around them shifts. Shadows seem to dance with a sinister glee, and the air grows heavy with anticipation. Suddenly, before them, Zestial Morde materializes, his form imposing and otherworldly. His dark gray skin glistens with an almost oily sheen, and his lime-green eyes gleam with a malevolent intelligence. The air seemed to thicken with his presence, sending a shiver down the spines of those nearby. His dark, gleaming eyes scanned the area, taking in the chaos his mere appearance had caused.

“Hark, How fair is this day,” he intoned, his voice smooth yet laced with an underlying menace. The Egg minion, ever loyal, piped up, “Who’s that boss? Do I need to rough him up for ya?”

Alastor, ever the showman, turned to the Egg and tapped his shell with his cane, a silent warning. “Follow in silence if you value your shell,” he said with a smirk before turning back to Zestial. “Ah, greetings, Zestial. What brings you to this part of Hell?”

The Egg minions huddled closer to Ghost, who stood tall and unmoving, their eight arms crossed in front of them. They looked down at the minions and then back up to Zestial, acknowledging his presence with a nod. “Salutations, Zestial. It has been a while,” Ghost replied, their voice as cold and mechanical as ever.

The streets around them were now empty, save for a few brave souls who peeked out from behind corners, their eyes wide with fear. One man, fumbling with his phone, muttered, “Oh, f*ck,” as he tried to capture the scene unfolding before him.

Zestial, always observant, tilted his head slightly, a small smile playing at the corners of his lips. “Ah, what an interesting pair. I’d never suspect you two to be within each other’s company,” he remarked, his gaze shifting between Ghost and Alastor.

Alastor chuckled, a sound that sent a chill down the spines of those who heard it. “Ah, we are just out doing business with each other, is all,” he replied casually, though his eyes gleamed with mischief.

Zestial turned his attention back to Ghost, his gaze piercing and inscrutable. "Yes, quite the person to do business with, I’m sure, with their line of inventive work," he remarked, his tone laden with subtle implication. Ghost merely nodded in stoic appreciation, their expression giving away nothing of their inner thoughts.

As the trio stood on the street, the air thick with tension, Alastor casually remarked, “We seem to be getting some acid rain soon.” He glanced at a demon across the street, who, in fear of what the three overlords might do to him, doused himself with gasoline and set himself on fire. The smell of burning flesh filled the air, a stark reminder of the power these demons held.

Zestial, ever the observer, turned his gaze to Alastor. “There have been many intriguing rumors about you falling into holy arms,” he remarked, his voice a low rumble.

Alastor chuckled with his usual charm, unfazed by the gruesome sight before them. “Oh, I just took a well-earned sabbatical. Nothing serious, though it's fun to keep everyone on their toes,” he replied nonchalantly, a glint of mischief in his eyes.

Zestial's lime-green eyes flickered between Alastor and Ghost, his webbed cape flaring imposingly behind him. “There, too, hath been a rumor of boths' involvement with the princess and her recent flight of fancy. Tell me, how do thou fall into such folly?” he inquired, his tone laced with curiosity.

Ghost, ever stoic, spoke up. “I believe that is better kept to ourselves,” they stated firmly, their eight arms crossed in front of them.

Alastor, always one for a bit of drama, chimed in, “But please do guess! I'd love to know the theories,” he said with a flourish, a wide grin on his face.

Zestial considered their words for a moment before replying, “It would be grander folly by far to assume the workings of either of your minds. Thou been not with Enigma since thou manifested in this realm.” His words carried weight, a reminder of the ancient power he held.

Ghost's stoic demeanor belied how flattered they were by the elder overlord’s significant words. Alastor, ever the showman, laughed heartily. “Coming from someone as ancient as you, I take that as quite the compliment,” he remarked, his smile never faltering.

As they approached the conference building, Alastor halted the procession with a tap of his cane, effectively stopping the Eggs from entering the elevator. "No, no, no, I have a very important task for you. Stay here and guard the front until I return," he instructed, his tone firm but seemingly kind.

The Eggs, unaware of Alastor's ploy, looked up at him with their large, expressive eyes, clearly eager to please. They nodded enthusiastically, understanding the gravity of their new mission. As Alastor and the others entered the elevator and the doors closed, the Eggs waved goodbye, their tiny hands flailing in the air.

Unbeknownst to Alastor and Zestial, Ghost discreetly waved to the Eggs with their lower eighth arm, a subtle gesture of farewell. The Eggs, filled with a sense of camaraderie towards Ghost, waved back enthusiastically, their little faces beaming with affection.

However, as the elevator doors closed, one of the Eggs accidentally slipped inside. The other Eggs, noticing their friend's absence, peered curiously through the glass doors, their eyes wide with concern. "Oh no, Frank is in there!" one of the Eggs exclaimed, their tiny voice filled with worry.

To their surprise, another Egg piped up, "Wait, we have names?" The revelation seemed to spark a newfound sense of identity among the Eggs, each one eagerly declaring their name to the others.

"I'm Harvey!" one of them chirped.

"I'm Alfred!" another announced.

"I'm George!" one yells.

"I'm Cheese Sandwich!" a third exclaimed.

And so, the Eggs, now armed with their newfound identities, stood guard at the front of the conference building, watching over the entrance with unwavering determination. Despite the accidental separation, their bond remained unbroken, and they vowed to protect their post with all the enthusiasm of newfound guardians.

As they arrive at the conference room, Alastor and Zestial both leave the elevator, and Ghost, about to follow, feels a tug on their lab coat. Ghost looks down in slight shock. “You’re not supposed to be here,” they say stoically. The egg responds, “But I wanted to stay with you, Boss!” Ghost clarifies, "I'm not your boss."

Ghost looks towards the conference room and sees that the meeting is about to start. They pick up the egg and say, “Stay quiet, and whatever you do, don’t let them see you.” The little egg salutes, and Ghost hides him in one of their many lab coat pockets. Calmly, Ghost walks towards their seat next to Zestial.

Carmella Carmine walks to the front to conduct the meeting. She stands before them and says, “Welcome, Hell Sovereign Overlords. I've invited you all here because you represent the controlling powers of our city. Together, you own millions of souls at risk with a new extermination schedule. We need to discuss what can be done to minimize the impact to our interests.” She nods to Zestial and Ghost, who are in their seats on either side of her, saying, “Zestial, Ghost, so good to see you, my friends.”

Zestial holds his teacup, saying, “Enchanted as always, Carmella.” Ghost nods stoically, saying, "Likewise, Carmella."

The meeting begins with Carmella outlining the severity of the situation, detailing the new schedule and its potential consequences. Zestial listens intently, occasionally sipping his tea and nodding thoughtfully. Ghost, on the other hand, remains silent, their expression unreadable as they analyze the information.

As the discussion progresses, various ideas are proposed, ranging from increased security measures to negotiating with the Exorcists. Zestial offers insightful suggestions, his tone measured and authoritative. Ghost, when prompted, provides strategic analyses and possible outcomes, their responses concise and to the point.

Midway through the meeting, Carmella addresses a specific concern regarding a recent surge in Exorcist activity in a particular sector of Hell. She looks towards Ghost, knowing their expertise in strategic planning. “Ghost, what are your thoughts on this matter?” she inquires.

Ghost stands, their eight arms shifting slightly as they address the room. “The increase in activity is likely due to a change in tactics by the Exorcists. We should deploy additional surveillance in that sector and prepare for possible confrontations,” they suggest, their voice calm and authoritative.

Carmella nods, acknowledging the suggestion. “Thank you, Ghost. That will be our course of action,” she declares, and the meeting continues with renewed focus and determination. Throughout the discussion, the little egg in Ghost's pocket remains quiet, occasionally peeking out to observe the proceedings, his eyes wide with curiosity.

Carmella notices Alastor sitting and says, “Alastor?” Alastor, with his unwavering smile, says, “Yes, I know I've been absent for some time. I'm sure you've all been wondering.” He adds a slight dramatic flair to his statement. Carmella shrugs and calmly says, “Not really, but welcome back in any case.” Alastor's smile strains, his irritation barely concealed, but he maintains his facade.

Carmella begins, “This year's extermination was brutal, far more than years past. We have assessed that about 16% of the population was lost, with the Angelic Legions now returning twice as quickly.”

Suddenly, Velvette bursts through the doors, engrossed in her phone and practically ignoring the other overlords. “Yes, I've got it handled, Vox. Are you doubting me? Really? Me? Yeah, that's what I thought.” She side-eyes the others with a smirk and continues into her phone, “Haha, yes, I know they're all a joke.” Ghost turns to Carmella with a slight tired look, a testament to Ghost’s rivalry with the ‘Vees.’

Velvette laughs again, “Thank you, V. See you soon! Kisses, darling.~” Carmella, already tired of Velvette’s antics, says, “Nice of you to join us, Velvette. Will your... colleagues be joining?” Her tone carries a slight grimace.

Velvette laughs once more, “No! They have better things to do than to listen to an old windbag who thinks she's tough sh*t.” Ghost relaxes slightly, knowing that if the other Vees were there, there would be trouble.

As the meeting progresses, various issues are discussed, including the recent increase in Exorcist activities, the influx of new souls into Hell, and potential threats from neighboring demon factions. Zestial offers strategic insights, his demeanor calm and collected, while Ghost provides analytical perspectives, their responses sharp and insightful.

Ghost turned back to Carmilla, who was about to continue speaking when Velvette waved her hand through the air, interrupting. Carmilla dryly turned back to Velvette and asked, "Yes?"

With a snarky grin, Velvette said, "On the subject of discussion!~" She then threw a killed Exorcist's head across the table, blood dripping onto the surface. The other overlords were shocked, but Ghost's eyes widened with the possibilities. This new information could change everything they knew about the Angelic Exorcists.

Alastor, ever the eccentric, remarked, "Ooh, tasty."

Carmilla, shocked and slightly flushed, asked, "Where did you find this?"

Velvette tapped on the table, replying, "We found it on extermination day." Ghost's mind raced with thoughts on how to keep the hotel safe with this new knowledge.

Standing on the conference table, Velvette continued, "If these Holy Rollers can be killed, the game has changed. We can take the fight to them. The boys and I have come up with a full assault plan-"

However, Zestial cut her off with a loud sip from his tea. All eyes turned to him, the oldest overlord in Hell. He cleared his throat and said, "If it be true that thee and thy colleagues desire to war with such meager proof, thou art far more… foolish than I bethought."

Velvette rolled her eyes, retorting, "Meager proof? It's a dead f*ckin' Exorcist. I'd say that's pretty f*ckin' definitive."

Zestial frowned, explaining, "We know not how this perished. Mayhaps 'twas not by a demon's hand at all. If we rush to war without knowing, mightn't they purge all of Hell for dating an uprising?"

Backing up Zestial's point, Ghost added, "Preparing for an assault rather than a defensive war could bring all of Heaven to our doorstep. Are you ready for that type of responsibility?" They gestured toward the window where the bustling streets of Hell could be seen below.

Velvette, not one to back down, slowly walked on the table toward Ghost, crouching to look at them. "And look who decided to come out of its cave. You've got a problem, Robot?" she sneered.

Ghost maintained unwavering eye contact, their yellow irises sharpening. They coldly replied, "You've never been ready. You lack the discipline. The fact that you even managed to convince such fools to give you their souls still eludes me."

Infuriated, Velvette shot back, "You wish you were a part of the Vees. You're all alone in that hole in the ground of yours." Her eyes flashed with hate.

Ghost narrowed their eyes, remaining stoically calm in contrast to Velvette's emotional rage. "Why would I want to be in a house of cards so bad, if it can fall away when one is removed?" they riposted.

The tension in the room was palpable as the two overlords faced off, their words carrying more weight than just a simple argument. The future of Hell could be decided by their next moves, and neither was willing to back down.

As Carmilla shouted at Velvette, the tension in the room escalated. Velvette, unfazed, responded with a smirk, "Haha, you've got it twisted. I'm not the one who needs a new attitude. Maybe you missed it, but I'm that hashtag-bitch, and I will do nothing less than what I please. I'm the backbone of the Vees. Mad that I acted respectless? Well, it's 'cause no one could respect this."

Carmilla's eyes narrowed in frustration. "You and the Vees are inane and uninformed, smug wannabes who don't heed when you've been warned," she sang back.

Velvette, ever defiant, continued, "Sorry group attendin', since when are overlords too scared to fight? You're long past trendin'. Sorry, babe, but I ain't swipin' right. You lost your relevance."

Zestial, always the voice of reason, interjected, "We can't act without more intelligence."

Ghost, baffled by the sudden musical interlude, wondered to themselves, 'Why does everyone keep singing?' They discreetly reached into their pocket and pulled out the egg, trying to hide it in their lap as the chaos unfolded.

Velvette, continuing her tirade, sang, "Ugh, no wonder I'm so respectless. I could eat you lot for breakfast."

Carmilla, now visibly angered, sang, "Oops! Did I strike a nerve? 'Cause when I brought out the Angel's head, couldn't help but observe that your wrinkled face was turning red. And why are you avoiding war? That's what the guns you sell are for. Thanks to my being respectless, one thing I'm starting to suspect is you know why this Angel's headless. Do you have a disclosure?"

The room was filled with tension as the two overlords faced off in song. Eventually, Carmilla had enough and sang, "This meeting's over!"

Velvette, laughing it off, replied, "Fine, safe travels back to the nursing home, f*ckers! Kiss my ass," flipping everyone off as she left the room. The other overlords were left stunned by the confrontation, unsure of what would happen next in Hell's tumultuous politics.

Chapter 9: I will be your Keeper.

Chapter Text

As the overlords began to leave, one of them exclaimed, "What the hell, we just got here!" Ghost, feeling a sense of urgency, searched their lap for the egg, only to find it missing. Their eyes darted around the room, frantically searching, trying to locate where he might have gone. Carmilla's daughter approached, noting, "You're her friend. I think she needs some right now." Ghost nodded gratefully, acknowledging the concern, and followed Carmilla into her office.

Carmilla poured herself a drink, then decided to forego the glass and drank straight from the bottle. Ghost apologized, feeling a pang of guilt, "I apologize for getting her started."

Carmilla waved it off dismissively, "She would have done so anyway." She shot a disdainful glance towards the door, likely thinking about the Vees. Carmilla's gaze softens for a second, as she says “And I for one am glad that you came out of your cave for this.” Ghost appreciated the sentiment, deciding not to mention their stay at the Hazbin Hotel.

Observing Carmilla's demeanor, Zestial frowned, concerned, "Carmilla… what troubles thee?"

Carmilla brushed it off, "It was nothing, Zestial, really."

However, Zestial persisted, curious about the death of the exorcist, "Twas by your hand, was it not?"

Carmilla waved away his inquiry, "Let's not talk about it…" The two daughters chimed in, "Mom, maybe they should know..."

Carmilla turned sharply, her expression turning steely, "No one should know… I did what I had to do. I am not discussing this." She punctuated her statement by slamming her fist on the table.

Ghost, noticing the egg minion hiding behind a potted plant at the door, shot him a pleading look, silently urging him to stay hidden. Zestial approached Carmilla, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder, "What weighs on your soul, old friend? I implore you to share the load. If it was thou who slew the Angel, why not let your strength be known?"

Carmilla and Zestial then broke out into song, leaving Ghost to wonder again, 'Wait, more singing? Am I missing something here? Am I the only one in Hell who can't sing?' The tension in the room was palpable as they engaged in a heartfelt conversation. Meanwhile, Ghost puzzled over the revelation that Angels could be killed by their own weapons, a thought that sent shivers down their metallic spine. They couldn't shake the feeling that there was something more to the situation than met the eye.

As Ghost left Carmilla's office, bidding her goodbye, Carmilla offered, "If you need a friend, you know where I am." Ghost gave her a faint smile. "I know." They left the room, and the egg followed closely behind.

In the hallway, Ghost picked up the egg with one of their many arms and asked sternly, "What were you thinking?" The egg minion shakily replied, "The deer ordered me to spy on the lady!" pointing out the window where Alastor was waiting for Ghost outside. Ghost glared at the window, defensive of their friend Carmilla. They didn't have many friends in their afterlife, but they weren't going to let others find ways to hurt them.

Turning back to the egg, Ghost said, "I have new orders for you." The egg minion stood in Ghost's palm, saluting with a quick "Hup!" Ghost instructed, "You will tell no one of this. Do you understand?" The egg nodded vigorously, saying, "Yes, boss!" Ghost pinched the bridge of their nonexistent nose in frustration. "Again, I'm not your boss."

As Ghost and the egg entered the elevator, Ghost couldn't help but be slightly curious. "Did my rival give you and the other minions... names?" Frank, the egg minion, sat back on Ghost's hand, swinging his legs over the side. "I'm Frank!" he exclaimed proudly. Ghost found it a bit cute and gave a rare, faint smile, saying stoically, "Salutations, Frank. I'm Ghost."

Ghost remembered their rivalry with Sir Pentious and how his minions had fought with them multiple times. "Or, I assume you know that already." Frank nodded enthusiastically. "Oh, of course!" Ghost felt a bit guilty for having killed so many of Pentious’s eggs before, but then Frank said, "You saved me after all!" Ghost stopped in their train of thought, looking back at the egg in mild shock. "Excuse me?" Frank nodded again. "Yeah! I fell, and you caught me!" Suddenly, Ghost remembered catching the same little egg minion from crashing onto the pavement before Pentious moved in.

Ghost, still shocked, says, "I... It was no problem, really" Frank nodded again, his small egg eyes looking up at Ghost with admiration. "But you did anyway! You're my hero!"

Ghost was at a loss for words. They had never been called a hero before, especially not by one of Pentious's minions. They never thought their actions would be seen that way.

Ghost chuckled softly, shaking their head. "Alright, Frank. Let's get back to the others."

As the elevator descended, Ghost couldn't help but feel a newfound sense of purpose. Maybe they weren't so alone in Hell after all. Maybe, just maybe, they had found a friend in an unlikely place.

As the elevator door opens, Ghost's stoic demeanor returns as they spot Alastor waiting inside. Alastor, ever the charismatic figure, greets Ghost with a knowing smile. "Ah, I see that you've found the little fellow," he remarks casually.

Ghost, with a raised brow, responds, “I assume you were waiting for him?” Alastor chuckles softly, his eyes gleaming mischievously. "Why jump to conclusions? I thought you were an overlord of science?" he teases, his tone light.

"Nuclear fusion, actually," Ghost corrects dryly, their scientific background evident even in casual conversation.

Alastor waves off Ghost's correction with a dramatic flourish of his hand. "Why bother with semantics, my dear?" he replies, his smile unwavering. Ghost retorts, “Right, well, I have matters to attend to.”

Turning to their commlink to instruct the computer to teleport them back to the hotel so as not to keep the others waiting, Ghost is interrupted by Alastor's question to the egg, “So, what did you hear?” Ghost, wanting to keep Carmilla's secret, quickly claps one of their hands over the egg's mouth to silence him. However, Frank manages to blurt out, mimicking the earlier scene, “First, he was all like 'You're the one that killed the Angel,' and then she was all like 'Whatever it takes!~'”

Ghost, realizing Frank has spilled the beans, shakes their head, silently urging him to stay quiet. The other four egg minions eagerly run up to Alastor, repeating the information that Carmilla killed an exorcist Angel. Amused, Alastor laughs at Ghost, who is now feeling a bit exasperated with the minions' lack of discretion. Alastor says, “Interesting. Let's keep this between us,” before disappearing into the shadows.

Ghost facepalms with one of their hands, muttering to the eggs, “You are all so…” They peek at the eggs' little faces through their fingers and sigh, softening their tone, “…intellectually challenged.”

As the eggs chittered and climbed around Ghost, the robotic demon couldn't help but wonder how Sir Pentious could stand spending time with such excitable creatures. They pondered their past loneliness in the cave miles below the surface of the Pride Ring, wondering if maybe they had been too isolated.

Their thoughts were interrupted as the egg minions started to climb their arms, swinging between their eight appendages and even hiding in their pockets. One egg, in particular, found a spot between Ghost's antennae. Ghost was aware of the curious looks they might be getting from passersby, a robotic demon overlord of nuclear fusion in Hell, allowing such cute creatures to touch and hang onto their body. Despite their usual stoic demeanor, Ghost can't help but feel a twinge of self-consciousness at the attention they're receiving. They quickly come up with a solution to avoid further scrutiny, extending their mechanical legs to propel themselves effortlessly onto a nearby rooftop.

The eggs let out gasps of amazement as Ghost effortlessly ascends to the rooftop, their tiny forms clinging to Ghost's frame as they marvel at the view below. From their elevated vantage point, Ghost can see the bustling streets of Hell stretching out before them, a chaotic tapestry of demon activity.

"Why do you guys like me so much?" Ghost asked, genuinely curious.

The eggs exchange glances among themselves before one of them, a particularly adventurous-looking minion with a mischievous gleam in their eye, speaks up. "Because you saved us, and Frank!" they chirp, their tiny voices filled with gratitude.

Ghost pauses, touched by the simplicity of the response. In that moment, they realize that perhaps their encounter with the eggs isn't just a chance occurrence, but a reminder that even in the depths of Hell, there is still room for connection and companionship. With a newfound sense of purpose, Ghost resolves to protect their newfound friends, no matter the cost.

Ghost was taken aback. "I... guess I did…" they said, feeling a bit embarrassed by the praise.

"See?!" Frank insisted, his admiration clear in his small egg eyes.

Ghost smiled gently at Frank, feeling a sense of warmth in their chest. "Thank you, Frank. I'll do my best to protect you guys. Well, if I can sneak you into the hotel for now."

Frank beamed up at Ghost. "I know you will, Boss!"

Ghost chuckled softly, shaking their head. "Alright, let’s get back to the hotel." As the eggs climbed back onto Ghost to return to the hotel, Ghost couldn't help but feel a newfound sense of purpose. Maybe they weren't so alone in Hell after all. Perhaps, just perhaps, they had found a friend in an unlikely place.

As Ghost stands up, they can see the Hazbin Hotel in the distance, its towering structure a beacon of familiarity in the chaotic landscape of Hell. They glance back down at the eggs, their tiny forms eagerly awaiting Ghost's next move.

"Well, I guess I shouldn’t teleport with you all. I still haven’t recalibrated it…" Ghost muses to themselves, their robotic mind already formulating a plan. Suddenly, an idea strikes them. "Hey, climb on me again," they commanded, their voice firm but not unkind.

The egg minions salute Ghost with a quick "Hup!" before obediently scaling their arms once more. Swinging between Ghost's limbs and hiding in their pockets, the eggs eagerly prepare for the adventure ahead. Frank, perched comfortably between Ghost's antennae, looks on with wide-eyed excitement.

"Hold on, alright?" Ghost advises, preparing for what comes next. The eggs look puzzled, asking, "What? Why?" Frank, ever curious, chimes in, "Are we doing something?"

Ghost remains stoic but can't help but smirk. "Remember when you asked me if I had rockets in my feet?" Frank nods eagerly, and Ghost continues, "Well, here's your answer."

With the eggs still hanging on, Ghost assumes a stance, and their feet rev up, emitting yellow flames that propel them through the air like a rocket towards the hotel. The eggs marvel at the sensation of flight, feeling so tall in the air and seeing Hell spread out below them. Ghost, still stoic but amused, asks, "Like the view?"

The eggs chirp in delight, expressing their excitement with exclamations of "Wowie!" "Amazing!" and "Yay!"

As they soar through the skies of Hell, Ghost can't help but feel a sense of exhilaration. The wind rushes past them, carrying the scent of sulfur and brimstone as they draw closer to their destination.

After a few minutes, they are about five minutes from reaching the hotel. Ghost aims for their window to hide the eggs in their room without being seen by the others in the lobby. Ghost remarks, "I have to admit, it does look a lot better up here than asking my computer to teleport me." However, their commlink interprets this as an order, and interrupts with an unexpected announcement: "Affirmative, transporting now."

Ghost's eyes widen in realization. "Wait, Computer—" Before they can finish, Ghost and the eggs are suddenly transported right in front of the hotel. Heading straight for a window, Ghost braces for impact, covering the eggs to keep them safe as they crash through the glass and into the room.

Ghost lands on their back and slides across the floor, their head making contact with something solid.

Chapter 10: Crashing Down

Chapter Text

As Ghost winces and slowly opens their eyes, they find themselves face to face with none other than Sir Pentious, who looks down at them in shock. Apparently, Ghost's crash landing has brought them into Sir Pentious's room.

Pentious, still processing the unexpected arrival, stammers out, "Nuclear Demon?" Ghost responds in their usual stoic manner, "Serpent."

Frank pops out of Ghost's pocket, oblivious to the tension between the two rivals, and says, "Boss!" The room is filled with a sense of awkwardness as Ghost and Sir Pentious face each other, neither sure how to proceed in this unexpected encounter.

Ghost quickly regains their footing, the eggs tumbling out of their pockets and swarming around Sir Pentious with joyful chirps of "boss! Boss!" Sir Pentious is overjoyed to see his egg minions again, scooping them up in his arms and showering them with affectionate greetings.

"Hello, eggies," Sir Pentious coos, his voice filled with genuine fondness. Frank, perched atop Ghost's head, joins in the excitement, exclaiming, "Boss! They're a rocket!" he exclaims, pointing at Ghost with excitement.

Sir Pentious looks up at Ghost, curiosity and gratitude mingling in his gaze. "Why were they with you?" he inquires, puzzled by the unexpected reunion.

Ghost clears their throat, trying to mask their own feelings of attachment to the egg minions. "Vaggie told me to get rid of them since she made the new rules," they explain, their voice neutral.

"But why bring them back?" Sir Pentious presses, still perplexed by the situation.

"They insisted on following me around," Ghost replies, a hint of awkwardness creeping into their tone. They're not used to discussing their actions, especially not with their rival.

Sir Pentious nods understandingly, still cradling the eggs in his arms. "Well, I thank you for keeping them safe anyway," he says sincerely, grateful for Ghost's unexpected act of kindness.

"They are quite... troublesome," Ghost admits, watching as the eggs climb all over Sir Pentious. Despite their attempts to appear indifferent, Ghost can't deny the warmth they feel toward the little creatures.

"Nonetheless, I will put in a word for Vaggie to let them stay," Ghost adds, their stoic facade beginning to crack.

Sir Pentious's eyes light up with gratitude. "Really?" he asks, his voice filled with hope.

Ghost, unused to such displays of sentimentality, responds in their usual dry manner. "Affirmative," they say simply, their tone devoid of emotion.

The egg minions chime in, expressing their delight at the prospect of staying with Sir Pentious. "We like them, boss! They're swell!" they chirp, their tiny voices filled with affection. Ghost watches the scene unfold with a mixture of amusem*nt and disbelief. They never imagined they'd be in this situation, negotiating on behalf of their rival's egg minions.

Ghost, feeling slightly uncomfortable with the attention, retreats to the balcony overlooking Hell's sprawling landscape. Sir Pentious slithers up beside them, the egg minions trailing behind.

"I– um... that's sweet of you... my rival," Sir Pentious stammers, his expression sincere.

Ghost turns to face him, their expression impassive. "Sweet? Nonsense," they reply coolly. "It's just the logical thing to do."

Internally, Ghost grapples with conflicting emotions, wondering if their softened demeanor has weakened their standing in Sir Pentious's eyes. They quickly dismiss these thoughts, focusing instead on the task at hand.

"I'll... I'll fix that," Ghost says abruptly, gesturing to the broken balcony door windows. With a swift movement, they dangled one of their robotic legs off the balcony, Ghost extends their limbs to step easily onto their own balcony, located directly above Sir Pentious's room.

Sir Pentious watches silently as Ghost departs, his heart heavy with a mixture of gratitude and fondness. "Goodbye, my rival," he whispers softly to the empty room, a bittersweet smile playing on his lips.

Chapter 11: Look but Don’t Touch.

Chapter Text

The pulsating beat of the club's music throbbed through the air as Charlie, Vaggie, Angel, Niffty, Husk, Sir Pentious, and Ghost found themselves in the midst of the vibrant scene. Neon lights flashed overhead, casting colorful hues across the crowded dance floor.

Vaggie's brow furrowed in confusion as she turned to Angel, her voice laced with incredulity. "Why are we here?" she questioned, her tone tinged with disapproval.

Angel, ever the provocateur, flashed a mischievous grin as he gestured towards a cheesy poster adorned with a goofy illustration and the words "There is no bond stronger than Bond-age.~" "Because, sweetheart, there's no better way to build trust than with a little bit of kink," he quipped, his tone dripping with innuendo.

Vaggie rolled her eyes, clearly unimpressed by Angel's logic. "I highly doubt that," she retorted, crossing her arms over her chest.

As Angel and Vaggie continued their banter, Ghost stood awkwardly off to the side, feeling distinctly out of place amidst the lascivious atmosphere. The concept of sex had always been somewhat foreign to Ghost, who couldn't quite grasp the appeal of such intimate encounters.

Their gaze fell upon the discarded sex toys strewn across the floor, a grimace tugging at the corners of their lips. Ghost was a bit of a germaphobe, and the sight of the unclean objects made their skin crawl with discomfort.

Before Ghost could retreat further into the shadows, they were approached by a group of sexual deviants, their intentions clear as they closed in on Ghost with predatory glints in their eyes. Panic surged through Ghost's veins as the strangers drew nearer, their hands outstretched in eager anticipation.

"No!" Ghost exclaimed, their voice cutting through the pulsating music with unexpected force. In a sudden burst of movement, Ghost extended all eight of their arms, gripping the strangers' shoulders tightly and forcibly pushing them back by several feet.

The room fell silent as everyone turned to stare at Ghost, their expressions a mixture of shock and confusion. Ghost's stoic facade wavered momentarily as they realized the gravity of their outburst, their cheeks flushing with embarrassment.

"Apologies," Ghost murmured, their voice barely above a whisper, before swiftly turning on their heel and making a hasty exit from the room.

Outside the club, Ghost took a moment to collect themselves, their breaths coming in shallow gasps as they attempted to steady their metaphorically racing heart. The events of the evening weighed heavily on their mind as they grappled with the unexpected surge of emotions that had overtaken them.

Chapter 12: Teamwork makes the Battlefield all the more Interesting

Chapter Text

The cacophony of chaos from the sex club faded into the night as Charlie, Vaggie, Angel, Niffty, Husk, Sir Pentious, and Ghost emerged onto the dimly lit street. Ghost followed behind, their stoicism firmly back in place. Despite their outward calm, Ghost couldn't help but feel a sense of relief at leaving the club behind.

As the group gathered outside, Ghost spoke up, their voice betraying no hint of the unease they felt. "And what exactly are we going to do next?" they inquired, their gaze sweeping over the rest of the group.

Vaggie, ever the strategist, stepped forward with a determined look in her eyes. "You all are going to learn how to trust each other in the way that I did," she announced, her voice firm.

Sir Pentious, still a bit unnerved from their earlier experience at the club, couldn't help but voice his concern. "It's not more sex, is it?" he asked, his tone wary.

Vaggie rolled her eyes at the suggestion. "No, no, nothing like that," she assured him. "Today, you guys will have to trust each other in battle."

The scene shifted to a rooftop overlooking an ongoing turf war, the sounds of gunfire and explosions echoing in the distance. Charlie's eyes widened in disbelief as she took in the chaotic scene below. "You learned to trust others in WAR?!?!" she exclaimed, her voice tinged with panic.

Ghost, a bit relived thinks 'finally, something that I can actually do.'

Undeterred, Vaggie marched back and forth in front of them, her eyes blazing with determination. "Today, you boys will become MEN," she declared, her voice ringing with authority.

Just then, a sudden blast from the ongoing turf war below illuminated Vaggie's face with a malicious smile, sending a shiver down the group's spines. Sensing their unease, Vaggie quickly turned her attention to Sir Pentious, who was starting to protest.

Sir Pentious, always one to rely on his minions, hesitated as Vaggie approached him. "Wait! I can't fight without my minions!!" he protested, waving his hands in front of him.

But Vaggie was having none of it. With a swift motion, she picked him up and threw him over the side of the building, a look of determination on her face. "Together, you are going to survive this!" she called after him, her voice echoing in the night.

Next, she turned her attention to Angel, who was backing away in fear. "No, no, wait—" Angel started to say, but it was too late. Vaggie had already picked him up and thrown him over the side, eliciting a shrill scream from the fallen Angel.

Finally, Vaggie approached Ghost, who held up a hand in a silent gesture. With a graceful movement, Ghost threw themselves over the side of the building, extending their legs to land softly on the ground below. Ghost couldn't help but feel a sense of determination. Today, they would prove their worth, both to themselves and to others.

The chaos below was a swirling mess of violence and desperation, with demons left and right engaged in a frenzied dance of stabbing, shooting, and bombing. Ghost scanned the area with their visor, seeking out their allies amidst the chaos. Finally, their visor locked onto Sir Pentious and Angel, cornered with their backs against a divot in the asphalt, a menacing figure threatening them with a weapon.

Without hesitation, Ghost activated the rockets in their robotic feet, propelling themselves towards their allies with yellow flames trailing behind them. They landed in front of Sir Pentious and Angel with a skid, immediately raising one of their eight arms, which transformed into an Arm Cannon. With precision aim, Ghost blasted the demon who was about to shoot at Sir Pentious and Angel, neutralizing the threat.

Angel and Sir Pentious quickly rose to their feet, standing shoulder to shoulder with Ghost, forming a formidable trio amidst the chaos. Ghost turned to Angel, their expression unreadable behind their visor. "Locate Husk and Niffty so we can get out of here," they instructed, their voice calm but firm. Angel nodded, immediately darting off into the fray.

Turning to Sir Pentious, who was staring in awe at Ghost's display of power, Ghost addressed their shared history. "Do you recall the time that you managed to chain and whip me through the air and into the ground?" they asked. Sir Pentious, still a bit confused, nodded. "I remember... But what does that have to do with-" he started to say, but Ghost's seventh hand dropped to the ground, now transformed into a deadly chain.

"Now is an adequate time for that," Ghost said, their tone leaving no room for argument. Sir Pentious understood and picked up the ball and chain that used to be Ghost's hand. With a nod between them, Ghost and Sir Pentious stood back to back, ready to face whatever came their way.

Ghost's other seven arms transformed into arm cannons, while Sir Pentious swung his chain with practiced skill. The two of them moved in perfect synchronization, a well-oiled machine of destruction. Ghost's cannons fired with precision, taking out demons left and right, while Sir Pentious's chain whirled through the air, striking fear into their enemies.

The battle raged on around them, but Ghost and Sir Pentious stood strong, a formidable team. As the dust settled and the last of their enemies fell, the two of them shared a nod of respect. They may have been rivals, but in that moment, they were allies, united against a common enemy.

As Ghost and Sir Pentious stood back to back, facing the horde of demons before them, a brief moment of understanding passed between them. Despite their rivalry, they were united in this fight, a formidable team against the chaos around them.

Sir Pentious swung his chain with expert precision, the metal links slicing through the air and striking demons with deadly accuracy. Ghost's arm cannons fired relentlessly, each shot finding its mark with deadly efficiency. The two worked in perfect harmony, their movements synchronized as if they had been fighting together for years.

"Nice shot!" Sir Pentious called out as Ghost's arm cannon took down a particularly troublesome demon.

"Likewise," Ghost replied, their tone focused as they scanned the battlefield for any sign of danger.

Suddenly, a group of demons surged towards them, overwhelming their defenses. Sir Pentious swung his chain in wide arcs, keeping the demons at bay, but they were relentless. Ghost activated their rocket boosters, propelling themselves into the air and firing down on the demons from above.

The battle was fierce, but Ghost and Sir Pentious fought with determination and skill. They were a force to be reckoned with, their teamwork unmatched as they defended each other's backs and battled side by side.

As they fought, Ghost couldn't help but notice the way Sir Pentious moved with a grace and finesse that belied his flamboyant exterior. Despite their differences, Ghost found themselves developing a newfound respect for their rival's combat prowess.

"Watch your back, Nuclear Demon!" Sir Pentious called out, swinging his chain to intercept an incoming demon.

"Always do, Serpent," Ghost replied, unleashing a barrage of energy blasts that cleared a path through the enemy ranks.

Their combined efforts were devastating, and soon the tide of battle began to turn in their favor. But just as victory seemed within reach, a hulking demon emerged from the shadows, its massive form towering over them.

Ghost and Sir Pentious exchanged a glance, silently acknowledging the challenge before them. With a nod of determination, they sprang into action, launching a coordinated assault on the formidable foe.

Ghost's arm cannons blazed with intensity, while Sir Pentious's chain danced through the air like a deadly serpent. The demon fought ferociously, but against the combined might of Ghost and Sir Pentious, it stood little chance.

With a final, decisive blow, the demon fell, defeated at last. As the dust settled and the sounds of battle faded, Ghost and Sir Pentious stood victorious, their chests heaving with exertion but their spirits high.

"Well fought, Nuclear Demon," Sir Pentious said, offering Ghost a smile.

"And you, Serpent," Ghost replied, showing a faint smile. In that moment, any lingering animosity between them was forgotten, replaced by a newfound camaraderie forged in the heat of battle.

As Ghost and Sir Pentious stood surrounded on the ground, tension thickened in the air. Ghost sees Angel, Niffty and husk climbing the stairs to get back to the roof of the building to get back to Charlie and vaggie. Ghost's visor scanned the encroaching demons, their numbers multiplying by the second. With a quick glance at each other, Ghost and Sir Pentious knew they needed to act fast.

"Time to go," Ghost declared, their voice calm but determined. They activated their rocket boosters, flames erupting from their feet with a powerful roar. Sir Pentious watched in awe as Ghost lifted them off the ground, carrying them effortlessly through the air.

Sir Pentious, still a bit flustered by Ghost's display of strength, fumbled with his hat, ensuring it stayed firmly on his head as they took off.

As they soared towards the roof, Sir Pentious couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement mixed with apprehension. Being carried by Ghost was a sensation unlike any other, and he found himself fiddling with his fingers nervously, unsure of how to react.

"I know you're staring," Ghost's voice cut through the rush of wind, drawing Sir Pentious's attention back to the task at hand. Blushing slightly, Sir Pentious quickly averted his gaze, his fingers tightening around his hat to keep it from blowing away.

However the hat's one eye continued to stare at Ghost in fascination, mirroring Sir Pentious's own sense of wonder. Ghost's focus remained unwavering, their robotic arms adjusting their trajectory with precision as they landed gracefully on the rooftop.

Just as Ghost and Sir Pentious touched down, Angel, Niffty, and Husk emerged through the door, looking worse for wear after their own ordeal. Angel let out a sigh of relief, exclaiming, "Made it!"

Vaggie's voice, tinged with sadness, broke the momentary relief. "Let's go home, guys," she said, her shoulders slumping with exhaustion.

Angel groaned in disbelief. "Dammit! I just climbed all those stairs!" he complained, his frustration evident.

Ghost's feet sputtered as they powered down, drawing Sir Pentious's attention to their robotic appendages. Fascinated, Sir Pentious leaned in closer, inspecting them with keen interest.

Ghost shifted uncomfortably under Sir Pentious's scrutiny, feeling a bit self-conscious. "I guess I'm out of juice," they admitted, their tone tinged with resignation.

"Shall we take the stairs?" Sir Pentious offered, pointing towards the door.

Ghost shrugged. "Do I have a choice?"

Sir Pentious, still holding the chain that had once been Ghost's hand, suddenly realized the awkwardness of the situation. Hastily, he held it out to Ghost, a sheepish smile tugging at his lips. "Um, here," he said, offering the chain back to them.

Ghost accepted the chain, their robotic arm retracting it seamlessly as they placed their hand in. Sir Pentious watched in amazement, his eyes wide with wonder.

"Shall we?" Ghost asked, their stoic demeanor unchanged as they turned to face Sir Pentious.

Sir Pentious nodded eagerly, a spark of excitement lighting up his eyes. "Of course," he replied, a newfound sense of camaraderie blooming between them.

Chapter 13: The Walk to Home

Chapter Text

As Ghost and Sir Pentious made their way back down the stairs, they were met with a mix of curious stares and cautious glances from the other demons in the building. Ghost was used to the attention, but Sir Pentious seemed a bit uncomfortable with the scrutiny.

Sir Pentious glanced over at Ghost, a hint of curiosity in his eyes. "So, Nuclear Demon," he began, "how exactly did you acquire such... unique abilities?"

Ghost paused for a moment, considering how much to reveal to their rival. After a moment's hesitation, they decided to share a part of their story. "I was once a scientist in the mortal realm," Ghost explained, their voice steady and measured. "I dedicated my life to the pursuit of knowledge and technological advancement. But when I arrived in Hell, I found myself transformed into what you see before you."

Sir Pentious listened intently, his curiosity piqued. "Fascinating," he remarked, adjusting his hat with a flourish. "And your... rocket feet?"

Ghost nodded, a faint hint of pride in their voice. "A modification I made to enhance my mobility and combat capabilities. They've proven quite useful in our battles. In all honesty I modify myself quite often. So much so that if you saw me when I first arrived no one would recognize me."

Sir Pentious chuckled, impressed by Ghost's ingenuity. "Well, I must say, Nuclear Demon, you certainly know how to make an entrance."

As they continued down the stairs, Ghost couldn't help but feel a sense of camaraderie with Sir Pentious. Despite their differences, they shared a common bond forged through battle and adversity.

As they reached the ground floor, Ghost turned to Sir Pentious, extending a hand in friendship. "Thank you for your assistance in battle, Serpent," they said, their voice sincere. "I must admit, I never expected to find myself fighting alongside you."

Sir Pentious clasped Ghost's hand firmly, a genuine smile crossing his face. "The pleasure was mine, Nuclear Demon," he replied, his tone earnest.

As they reached the bottom of the stairs, Angel, Niffty, and Husk were waiting for them, looking relieved to see them safe. Angel smirked and said, "Took you guys long enough."

Ghost ignored the comment, instead turning to Charlie. "What's our next move?" they asked, their voice calm and composed.

Charlie sadly says, "Let's head back to the hotel. We can figure things out from there."

As they settled into the living room of the hotel, the atmosphere was surprisingly light despite the recent battle they had faced. Husk, Angel, Sir Pentious, and Ghost found themselves laughing and reminiscing about the events of the day, each sharing their own perspective on the chaos that had ensued.

Angel, his legs kicking up in excitement, couldn't contain his amusem*nt as he recounted the moment when a burly demon had started pummeling him. "No, no, the best part was when that buff guy started beating the sh*t out of you!" he exclaimed, doubling over with laughter.

Sir Pentious joined in the laughter, his face lighting up with amusem*nt. "Yes, with the dismembered arm, no less!" he chimed in, though his expression soon turned to one of mild exasperation. "That was... particularly unpleasant," he added, his tone sobering slightly.

Niffty, always eager to join in on the fun, nodded enthusiastically. "Yeah, that was my favorite part!" she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

Angel nodded in agreement, his grin widening. "But then Ghost swoops in like a f*cking beast!" he exclaimed, punching the air in excitement.

Husk, who rarely showed emotion, couldn't help but crack a smile at the memory. "Yeah, good thing for that too," he remarked, his tone tinged with appreciation.

Ghost, their stoic demeanor unchanged, nodded in acknowledgment of the praise. "It was... the logical thing to do," they replied, a hint of awkwardness creeping into their voice.

Angel playfully punched Ghost's arm, his grin widening. "Logical? You saved our asses!" he exclaimed, shaking his head in disbelief.

Husk nodded in agreement, his expression serious. "Yeah, well Ghost and Pentious ripped those other demons a new one, I tell ya," he remarked, his tone tinged with respect.

Ghost and Sir Pentious exchanged a glance, a silent understanding passing between them. Despite their differences, they had fought together as a team, and in that moment, they shared a sense of camaraderie that transcended rivalry.

Ghost turned back to the group, their expression unreadable. "Sir Pentious knows his way around a battlefield," they remarked, their voice calm but sincere. "He's very... precise."

Sir Pentious, surprised and touched by the compliment, nodded in gratitude. "Thank you, Ghost," he replied, a warm smile spreading across his face. "I appreciate the recognition."

Angel, ever the joker, couldn't resist poking fun at Ghost's stoicism. "Oh no, Ghost! Do get all touchy-feely up in here!" he exclaimed, rolling his eyes playfully.

Ghost raised a brow, genuinely confused by Angel's sarcasm. "Weren't we just congratulating each other?" they asked, their tone earnest.

Angel chuckled, shaking his head in amusem*nt. "Yeah, yeah, you're right," he replied, his tone affectionate.

Husk, always one to speak his mind, nodded in agreement. "But they're right," he remarked, his tone serious. "At least you can take a beating like a champ and fight well. You did okay, kid."

Sir Pentious's hood flared slightly in pride at the compliment. "Really? Well, I suppose I did get into a little of the old ruff and tumble today," he remarked, gesturing emphatically.

He turned to Ghost, a gentle look in his eyes. "And, uh, thank you for pulling me out of there," he added, his tone sincere.

Ghost, slightly taken aback by the unexpected gratitude, nodded in acknowledgment. "Don't mention it," they replied, their tone calm but genuine.

Meanwhile, the egg minions had gathered around Sir Pentious, their adoration for him evident. Ghost glanced up at the balcony where Vaggie and Charlie were watching, and spoke up. "I believe it wouldn't be too much trouble for them to stay, is it?"

Vaggie sighed, relenting with a nod. "Yeah, fine," she replied, though her expression softened slightly.

Sir Pentious, overcome with gratitude, couldn't help but tear up at the gesture. "Really?" he exclaimed, his voice filled with emotion.

Vaggie smiled, resting her head on her palm. "After today, I guess I can trust you with them," she replied, though her tone was laced with warning. "But seriously, no more weapons."

Sir Pentious gathered up the egg minions in his arms, holding them close. "Oh, my eggs!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with joy. "Now go clean my quarters if you haven't already!" he added, pointing towards his room.

As the egg minions toddled off happily, Ghost couldn't help but cringe inwardly at the memory of crashing through Sir Pentious's balcony door earlier that day. Despite the chaos and destruction, there was a sense of camaraderie and friendship that had formed among them, and for that, Ghost was grateful.

Chapter 14: Have Tea… With Me?

Chapter Text

As the night wore on, Ghost remained immersed in their work, the task of recalibrating the teleporter proving to be more challenging than anticipated. Hours had slipped away in a blur of intricate adjustments and complex algorithms, yet progress remained elusive. Ghost's normally stoic demeanor was beginning to fray at the edges, their focus solely fixed on the task at hand.

After what seemed like an eternity, Ghost was jolted out of their concentration by a knock at the door. Frowning slightly, they activated their heat signature vision, scanning the figure on the other side. The heat signature was low, poikilothermic, indicating a cold-blooded creature.

"Do you need something, Serpent?" Ghost's voice was cool and composed as they addressed the visitor.

Sir Pentious, on the other side of the door, was taken aback by how Ghost had identified him. "Um, I have a proposal," he replied, his voice slightly hesitant.

Ghost opened the door a crack, their demeanor guarded. Despite their recent alliance in battle, Ghost was not quick to trust, especially when it came to someone like Sir Pentious. They leaned against the doorway, all four pairs of arms crossed, their expression stoic and unreadable.

"You have five seconds," Ghost stated, their voice firm.

Sir Pentious fumbled with his fingers, his usual bravado shrinking in the face of Ghost's intimidating presence. "I was just wondering," he began, his voice slightly shaky, "since we've never gotten along that well in the past, if you'd like to come have some tea with me?"

Sir Pentious smiled sheepishly, his eyes betraying a hint of nervousness as he awaited Ghost's response.

Ghost regarded Sir Pentious with a raised eyebrow, their expression giving away nothing of their thoughts. They remained silent for a moment, contemplating Sir Pentious's unexpected invitation.

Tea with Sir Pentious? It was an offer that Ghost hadn't anticipated, especially given their contentious history. Yet, there was something in Sir Pentious's demeanor that seemed genuine, a sincerity that Ghost hadn't expected to encounter from their rival.

Finally, Ghost straightened up from the doorway, unfolding their arms as they considered the proposition. "Tea?" they mused aloud, their metallic voice tinged with a hint of curiosity.

Sir Pentious nodded eagerly, a hopeful glint in his eyes. "Yes, tea," he confirmed, his smile widening slightly.

Ghost hesitated for a moment, their mind racing with thoughts and calculations. They had always prided themselves on their rationality and logic, but there was a part of them that was intrigued by the idea of spending time with Sir Pentious outside of battle.

Sir Pentious's nervousness was palpable as he awaited Ghost's answer, his fingers fidgeting with the hem of his coat. Ghost, on the other hand, regarded him with a scrutinizing gaze, their visor narrowing slightly in suspicion.

After a moment of tense silence, Ghost finally spoke. "...Do you have any peach tea?" they inquired, their tone neutral but curious.

Sir Pentious's eyes widened in surprise, his nervousness momentarily forgotten. "Peach tea?" he repeated, a hint of confusion in his voice. "Um, yes, I believe I do. Why do you ask?"

Ghost considered their response carefully, their stoic demeanor giving nothing away. "I find peach tea to be... agreeable," they replied simply, their metallic voice devoid of emotion.

Sir Pentious gives a sheepish smile, his fangs more apparent.

After a moment of decision Ghost relents.

"Very well," Ghost said finally, their tone neutral but not unkind. "I'll join you for tea."

Relief flooded through Sir Pentious as he realized that Ghost had accepted his invitation. "Excellent!" he exclaimed, unable to contain his excitement.

As Sir Pentious led Ghost down the hallway and up the flight of stairs to his room, Ghost couldn't help but notice the change in temperature. The room was noticeably warmer, a perfect environment for a poikilothermic demon like Sir Pentious. The inviting atmosphere of the room was a stark contrast to the chaos of the day's events.

Entering the room, Ghost's gaze immediately fell upon the boarded-up balcony doors, a stark reminder of their earlier mishap. Guilt washed over them once again, and they made a mental note to repair the damage as soon as possible. Ghost found themselves admiring the neatness and warmth of Sir Pentious's room, Soft, warm lights illuminated the space, casting a gentle glow over the room. In one corner, there was a circular floor bed, large enough for both Sir Pentious and his eggs to sleep comfortably. The circular floor bed, adorned with plush cushions and blankets, looked inviting and comfortable.

Lost in their thoughts, Ghost was brought back to reality by Sir Pentious's voice. "Nuclear demon… are you alright?" Sir Pentious's concern was evident, and Ghost nodded, replying, "Quite."

They settled at a small table, Ghost sitting politely with their hands in their many pockets and their first pair of arms in their lap. Sir Pentious gestured for Ghost to sit, and as they did, one of the egg minions set the table with a teapot full of steaming peach tea, two tea cups, and saucers. The egg minion moved to pour the tea, but Ghost stopped them, saying, "Thank you, Frank, but I can handle it." With a nod, one of Ghost's many arms took over, pouring the tea with practiced precision. Frank the egg minion smiled and saluted Ghost before toddling away, chanting "Hup Hup Hup!"

Sir Pentious watched the exchange with amusem*nt, commenting, "They’ve been talking about you all day, you know." Ghost looked up from their tea, curious. Ghost raised an eyebrow, feigning innocence. "Have they? Whatever for?" they asked, though a hint of apprehension colored their tone.

Sir Pentious chuckled. "Oh, I think you're well aware... flying through the air, extending limbs to walk on roofs... they did say something weird about that meeting, though..."

Ghost's heart skipped a beat, momentarily panicked about the egg revealing Carmilla's secrets. "Oh, well, they weren’t in the meeting, but you know their… imaginations," Ghost replied, trying to brush off the topic.

Sir Pentious laughed again, his smile warm and genuine. "Ah, yes, but they just fit too well with why you crashed into my balcony," he said, gesturing to the boarded-up stained-glass doors.

Ghost felt exposed, knowing that Sir Pentious was aware of the details of their day. "My apologies," Ghost said, taking a sip of their tea and averting their gaze, feeling a twinge of embarrassment.

Sir Pentious smiled warmly, waving off Ghost's apology. "Well, that's why I asked you to have tea with me," he explained.

Ghost, still a little confused, asked, "Because I broke your doors?"

Sir Pentious chuckled, shaking his head. "No, no. Because of how you treated me... my minions," he clarified, his tone sincere but tinged with a hint of shyness and nervousness.

Ghost raised an eyebrow, intrigued by Sir Pentious's words. They took another sip of their tea, finding it surprisingly delicious. Sir Pentious continued, his nervousness evident in his fidgeting with his cup.

"It's just that you took care of them, took care of me!" Sir Pentious exclaimed, his voice filled with gratitude. "You practically saved my life two times. From the other residents, the demons in the turf war..."

Ghost listened intently, their gaze softening as they realized the depth of Sir Pentious's gratitude. Sir Pentious looked down at his tea, his expression earnest. "And I'm eternally grateful... for that," he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper.

He looked up to see Ghost watching him, their expression unreadable. Ghost glanced to the side, noticing the egg minions standing nearby, their tiny forms clustered together. Ghost’s thoughts twisting within their mechanical mind. One of the eggs began to speak, their voice soft and hesitant.

"We... we just wanted to say thank you, too," the egg minion said, their words directed at Ghost. "For protecting us... for being our friend."

Ghost's stoic facade softened, a rare hint of emotion flickering in their eyes. They turned their attention back to Sir Pentious, their eyes widening.

Ghost felt a sense of understanding wash over them as they absorbed Sir Pentious's heartfelt words. They nodded slightly, acknowledging the depth of his gratitude. "It was the logical thing to do," Ghost replied stoically, their own emotions carefully concealed beneath their robotic exterior.

One of the Egg Bois chirped up eagerly, their words tinged with excitement. "Boss, do you think they'll be friends with us now?" they asked, their eyes wide with curiosity.

Ghost considered the question for a moment before turning back to Sir Pentious, their expression neutral. "Perhaps," they replied cryptically, their mind already turning over the possibilities of a newfound alliance between two unlikely companions.

Sir Pentious's question hung in the air, his gaze fixed on Ghost with a mixture of hope and uncertainty. "What do you say, Nuclear Demon?" he asked, his voice soft yet earnest. "Would you like to forget our rivalry... become friends?"

Ghost's antenna twitched involuntarily at the prospect. Become friends? With their nemesis? The idea was both intriguing and daunting, stirring a whirlwind of conflicting emotions within them. They had come to the hotel seeking redemption, hoping to find a path to heaven. This could be a momentous step forward, not just for themselves, but for both of them.

Ghost had never envisioned the possibility of friendship outside of their allegiance to Carmilla. It was something entirely new, a concept they hadn't dared to entertain until now. As they contemplated Sir Pentious's outstretched hand, they found themselves grappling with a myriad of thoughts and feelings.

Could they truly let go of the animosity that had defined their relationship thus far? Could they trust Sir Pentious enough to embark on this journey towards friendship? It was a daunting prospect, but also one filled with the potential for growth and understanding.

With a measured gaze, Ghost met Sir Pentious's eyes, their expression unreadable behind their stoic facade. "Friendship..." they echoed, the word feeling foreign yet strangely alluring on their tongue. "It is... a proposition worth considering."

Sir Pentious's hand remained extended, a silent invitation awaiting Ghost's response. They studied it for a moment, weighing the implications of this gesture. Then, with a decisive nod, Ghost reached out, their mechanical fingers curling around Sir Pentious's hand in a firm grasp. "I accept your proposal, Serpent," they declared, their voice carrying a note of solemnity and determination.

Sir Pentious's face lit up with a smile, a spark of excitement dancing in his eyes. The eggs in the background, though oblivious to the significance of the moment, seemed to sense the shift in the air and began to chirp and chatter with enthusiasm.

"Let us embark on this journey together," Ghost continued, their voice steady. "As allies, as friends."

Sir Pentious nodded eagerly, his grip on Ghost's hand tightening briefly in a gesture of solidarity. "To new beginnings," he proclaimed, his voice filled with genuine warmth and optimism.

"As the first order of our blooming friendship, let us introduce ourselves," Sir Pentious suggested, his eagerness palpable. "You may call me Pentious."

Ghost nodded in agreement, a sense of relief and anticipation washing over them. "Salutations, Sir Pentious," they replied, their tone respectful. "You may call me Ghost."

The two demons sat across from each other, the weight of their shared history lingering in the air. Yet, in this moment, they both felt a glimmer of hope and possibility, a chance to rewrite the narrative of their relationship.

Chapter 15: Slumber Party

Chapter Text

The next day in the Hotel, Charlie gathered Niffty, Husk, Angel Dust, Vaggie, Sir Pentious, and Ghost in the hotel parlor. She stood in front of them, a determined look on her face.

"Alright, guys, now that you've learned to try to trust each other, I think it would be a great idea for us to come together and come up with some ideas to do as a group," Charlie announced, her voice filled with enthusiasm.

Angel, ever the sexual deviant, couldn't resist making a suggestive comment. "Well, there's enough people for there to be an orgy-"

Husk cut him off, his gruff voice showing his irritation. "Will you can it?" he snapped, shooting Angel a glare.

Angel smirked. "Anything for you, whiskers.~" he replied, winking at Husk, who rolled his eyes in response.

Ghost, already feeling disgusted at Angel’s words this early in the morning, was starting to feel the lack of their energy charge catching up to them. Despite this, they remained composed, their stoic demeanor unwavering.

Sir Pentious, always eager to contribute, waved his arms in the air like an excited child. Charlie noticed his enthusiasm and called on him. "Yes, Pentious?"

Sir Pentious clapped his hands together, a gleeful expression on his face. "Ooh, how about we do sssome baking?" he suggested, his eyes shining with excitement.

Ghost looked at him, intrigued by the idea. They enjoyed the prospect of baking and nodded in agreement. "Ah yes, the chemistry of food. I agree. We should do that," they said, their voice calm and measured.

Angel, however, was less than enthused. "God! Baking is so boring! Can't we do literally anything else?" he complained, crossing his arms over his chest.

Ghost and Sir Pentious shared a deadpan look, unimpressed by Angel's lack of enthusiasm. Niffty, always eager to help, suggested, "Oh! Oh! Spring cleaning?"

Vaggie, who had been quietly observing the conversation, rolled her eyes. "It's autumn, Niffty," she pointed out, a hint of exasperation in her voice.

Charlie, ever the optimist, looked around at everyone, her eyes alight with excitement. "A slumber party!" she exclaimed, waving her arms around enthusiastically.

Ghost turned to her, a look of confusion crossing their face. "I'm sorry... what?" they asked, their normally composed tone wavering with confusion. Spending the night with a group of friends was a foreign concept to them after spending so long in their cave alone.

Charlie explained, "Yeah! We'll tell ghost stories, gossip, watch scary movies... the works!"

Angel, always one to add a suggestive comment, shrugged. "Well, I did say that we should sleep together," he remarked, a smirk playing on his lips.

Husk, ever the skeptic, rolled his eyes. "Any excuse to sleep on the job," he muttered, taking a swig of his drink.

Sir Pentious, always eager to be part of the group, chimed in, "Oh, what fun! I shall bring snacks."

The group seemed to be in agreement, all nodding and murmuring their approval. As they began to disperse to prepare for the slumber party, Ghost hesitated, feeling a bit out of their element.

"Wait, what?" Ghost said to themselves, their voice filled with confusion. They walked over to Charlie and tapped her on the shoulder with one of their many arms. "Pardon me, Your Highness."

Charlie turned to Ghost, a warm smile on her face. "Oh, please call me Charlie, Ghost! How are you doing? Do you need something?"

Ghost folded their arms behind their back, a secret gesture of nervousness. "I am adequate, thank you for asking," they replied, their voice steady but slightly unsure. "I... have a question."

"Of course," Charlie said, her expression encouraging.

Ghost hesitated for a moment, then asked, "What exactly... is a slumber party?"

Charlie's eyes widened in surprise. "Ghost, you've never been invited to a slumber party?" she asked, her tone filled with disbelief.

Ghost paused, considering the question. They then activated their printer function and printed a sheet of paper from their mouth, much like a polaroid. Ghost read the history entry on slumber parties, absorbing the information.

"Well," Ghost began, "it’s stated that the concept started to take off during the '50s and '60s. After I was no longer living."

Charlie smiled warmly. "Walk with me," she said, motioning for Ghost to follow her down the hallway. Ghost tucked the paper into their lab coat pocket and followed Charlie, intrigued to learn more about this new experience.

As they strolled down the hallway, Ghost's curiosity led them to inquire further about the purpose of a slumber party. "What is its purpose?" Ghost asked, their mechanical voice betraying a hint of intrigue. "Normally when people gather, it's for sustenance or business matters... I fail to comprehend the purpose of such an activity."

Charlie chuckled softly, her eyes sparkling with amusem*nt. "Well, when children are friends, they sometimes ask their parents if they can spend the night at each other's homes. It's purely for fun!" She paused, her expression growing sheepish. "Not just for... professional reasons, of course."

Ghost considered Charlie's explanation, processing the idea of a gathering purely for enjoyment. "So, the fun aspect of a slumber party aligns with the idea that children are meant to experience joy and playfulness," they mused aloud. "Therefore, our participation in such an activity may serve to lead us towards redemption, fostering a sense of childlike innocence within us."

Charlie was taken aback by the profound biblical connection that Ghost had made. "Um, well, I suppose you could look at it that way," she said, her tone uncertain. "Honestly, I just thought it would be a fun way for everyone to bond and get along better."

Ghost nodded, their analytical mind processing Charlie's words. Despite their initial reluctance, they found themselves beginning to understand the appeal of a slumber party. Perhaps it was more than just a childish activity; perhaps it was a chance for them to forge deeper connections with their fellow inhabitants of the hotel.

Charlie chuckled softly, her laughter carrying a warmth that seemed to fill the air around them. "Well, Ghost, sometimes friendships are built on more than just practicality," she explained, her voice gentle and patient. "When children are friends, they often ask to spend the night at each other's homes simply for the joy of being together."

Ghost nodded slowly, their mechanical mind processing Charlie's words. "Ah, I see," they murmured, a hint of understanding dawning in their expression. "So, the purpose of this 'slumber party' is to foster a sense of camaraderie and connection among us."

Charlie smiled, impressed by Ghost's insight. "Exactly!" she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with approval. "It's about creating memories, sharing experiences, and strengthening the bonds between us."

Ghost tilted their head slightly, considering Charlie's words. "So, in a way, participating in this activity is a step towards our redemption," they mused, their tone thoughtful. "By embracing the innocence and joy of childhood, we are reminded of our capacity for friendship and compassion."

Charlie nodded, her smile widening. "Exactly!" she repeated, her enthusiasm infectious. Charlie reached out and took one of Ghost's pairs of hands in her own. Ghost stiffened slightly at the touch, unused to physical contact from others. Yet, they allowed it, recognizing Charlie's gesture of kindness and understanding.

As they continued their conversation, Ghost gave Charlie a look of slight skeptism, however their expression unreadable behind their robotic facade. Charlie, sensing Ghost's hesitation, reached out to them once more. "Look, I understand that you may be reserved... But give it a chance!" she urged, her tone gentle yet persuasive. "Please? You might actually like it!"

Ghost furrowed their brow in thought, considering Charlie's words. After a moment, they relented, their curiosity piqued. "Very well," Ghost conceded. "I will bring... some scary movies?"

Charlie's face lit up with excitement. "That's the spirit!" she exclaimed, clapping her hands together in delight. Ghost's eight arms folded behind their back as they continued down the hallway, contemplating the upcoming event.

As they conversed, Ghost's keen sensors detected a disturbance in the air, a faint rise in shock waves a normal occurrence in the pride ring, reverberated through the hallway. Their visor flickered as they scanned the area, pinpointing the source of the disturbance above them. Without hesitation, Ghost's analytical mind sprang into action, calculating the trajectory of the falling debris.

With lightning-fast reflexes, Ghost's eight arms shot out, catching the falling ceiling beams just inches before they could strike Charlie. The weight of the debris threatened to overwhelm them, but Ghost maintained their composure, distributing the pressure evenly to prevent further damage.

Charlie watched in awe as Ghost effortlessly stabilized the situation, her admiration shining in her eyes. Ghost's legs extended, pushing the beams upward as their hands transformed into precision tools, swiftly drilling the beams back into place with expert precision.

Once the danger had passed, Ghost's arms retracted to their original length, folding behind their back as they turned to Charlie with a stoic expression. "Are you alright, your highness?" they inquired, their concern evident despite their composed demeanor.

Charlie's response was breathless, her voice filled with gratitude. "You saved me," she murmured, her gaze locked with Ghost's. Ghost, not quite hearing her, leaned in slightly. "Pardon?" they inquired.

Before they could react, Charlie enveloped them in a bear hug, her warmth and affection catching Ghost off guard.

Ghost stiffened slightly at the unexpected embrace, unused to such displays of affection. "Your Highness?" they questioned, their voice laced with uncertainty. Charlie squeezed them tighter, her infectious enthusiasm bubbling over. "You're getting closer to redemption already!" she exclaimed, releasing Ghost from her embrace.

As Charlie wagged a playful finger in Ghost's face, Ghost couldn't help but feel a sense of camaraderie with her. Despite their differences, they were united in their pursuit of redemption, bound by a shared sense of purpose. "And how many times do I need to tell you to call me Charlie?" she teased, her smile infectious.

Ghost's antennae twitched, a rare expression of amusem*nt sparks crossing their antennae. "Understood, Charlie," they replied, their voice tinged with newfound warmth. "Thank you for the reminder."

Ghost looked back up at the ceiling, their mind whirring with possibilities. Turning back to Charlie, they said, "Charlie, I would like to offer the hotel my services."

Charlie's eyes widened with interest. "Oh! Yes, please! What do you have in mind?"

Ghost paused, choosing their words carefully. "May I ask, who... constructed the hotel?"

Charlie's expression faltered, a shadow passing over her features. "My father," she said, her voice tinged with sadness.

Ghost's eyes widened in realization. "Your father, Lucifer Morningstar?" they asked, seeking confirmation. It was clear from Charlie's reaction that her relationship with her father was strained, to say the least.

Charlie nodded, folding her arms across her chest. "That's the one."

Ghost nodded, understanding the situation. "Well, let's just say that he should stick to ruling Hell instead," they said diplomatically, not wanting to criticize Charlie's father too harshly.

Charlie, still confused about Ghost's intentions, asked, "But why do you ask?"

Ghost gestured to the deteriorating walls, the cluttered and unkempt parlor, and the ceiling in need of repair. "I believe with my cumulative talents, I can renovate the hotel," they explained.

Charlie's eyes lit up with excitement. "Omigosh! Really?" she exclaimed, her voice filled with hope.

Ghost nodded solemnly and bowed slightly. “You have treated me with so much grace your highn-'' Ghost looks at Charlie and corrects themselves “Charlie, I would like to return the favor.” they said, their voice sincere.

Charlie's excitement bubbled over as she jumped up and down, unable to contain her joy. She enveloped Ghost in another bear hug, her gratitude overflowing. Ghost stiffened slightly at the unexpected physical contact but allowed it, understanding the significance of the moment. "Oh wow, more hugging," Ghost remarked dryly, their robotic demeanor contrasting with Charlie's effervescent energy.

Charlie pulled away, her eyes shining with gratitude. "Thank you, thank you, thank you!" she exclaimed, beaming at Ghost.

Chapter 16: Looking through Stained Glass

Chapter Text

Ghost knocks on Sir Pentious's door, holding their yellow toolbox tightly. Sir Pentious opens the door with a warm smile, his eyes brightening at the sight of Ghost. "Oh, Ghost! What brings you here?" he asks cheerfully.

Ghost holds up the toolbox. "I've come to fix your balcony," they reply simply.

The egg minions, always curious and eager, poke their heads out from behind Sir Pentious, chirping with excitement. "Who is it, boss?" they ask in unison.

Sir Pentious chuckles, patting one of the eggs on the head. "It's just Ghost," Sir Pentious replied, and the little egg minions immediately came out of the room, crowding around Ghost at their feet.

"Good morning," Ghost greeted the eggs stoically, trying not to show how adorable they found the little creatures. Turning back to Ghost Sir Pentious gestures. "Please, do come in."

Ghost nods in acknowledgment and steps into Sir Pentious's room, the egg minions trailing after them like curious ducklings. As they make their way out onto the balcony, Ghost surveys the damage to the stained glass doors, their mind already calculating the best approach to repairs.

Using their eight arms, Ghost begins to carefully gather the broken pieces of colored glass scattered across the balcony. Meanwhile, Sir Pentious slithers up beside Ghost, his curiosity piqued. "Do you need assistance?" he offers, a hint of eagerness in his voice.

Ghost looks up from their toolbox, their expression stoic yet appreciative. "I am capable of completing this task on my own, but I appreciate your offer," they reply, their tone firm but polite.

Sir Pentious, ever the dramatic showman, begins to puff up his chest, ready to showcase his skills. "Ah, but I am the great Sir Pentious! Villainous genius—" He catches himself mid-sentence, his enthusiasm faltering as he remembers his newfound commitment to redemption. "I mean, uh, gentlemanly genius!" he amends quickly.

Ghost raises an eyebrow at his sudden change in demeanor, a faint hint of amusem*nt flickering in their eyes. But then, to Ghost's surprise, Sir Pentious gives them a genuine look, catching them off guard. "So please, let me help," he says earnestly, reaching out his hand in a gesture of camaraderie.

Ghost Looks at him, they have a weird sensation that they couldn’t quite put their finger on. Ghost considers his offer for a moment, their mechanical mind processing the situation. Finally, with a nod of acceptance, Ghost extends one of their hands towards Sir Pentious's. But just as Sir Pentious thinks Ghost will grasp his hand, Ghost drops a handful of large screws into Sir Pentious's palm instead. Ghost in their regular stoic tone says “you may need to grab your tools then”

Sir Pentious blinks in confusion, looking down at the screws in his hand. "Do you have your own tools?" he asks, a mix of surprise and curiosity in his voice.

Ghost, unfazed by Sir Pentious's reaction, raises an eyebrow and stoically replies, "I am..." In a flash, all eight of Ghost's arms transform into various tools: a drill, chainsaw, screwdriver, welder, hammer, pliers, wrench, and torch. "...my tools," they finish, their voice calculated.

Sir Pentious's eyes widen in amazement at the display of Ghost's abilities. "Incredible," he murmurs, unable to tear his gaze away from Ghost's impressive arsenal of tools.

Ghost’s arms retract back to normal, the tools disappearing into their metallic form. They look over at Sir Pentious, who is eagerly ready to help.

"You can fill in the gaps and nail the hinges back in place. Use the longer screws for better stability," Ghost instructs, their voice calm and authoritative.

Sir Pentious nods enthusiastically. "Of course! This is a walk in the park in comparison to my other projects," he declares dramatically, a gleam of excitement in his eyes.

Ghost can't help but be amused by Sir Pentious's theatrics. "Must you always be so… theatrical?" they ask, a hint of dry humor in their tone.

"Why, I must! After all, one must present themselves to others for an electric response!" Sir Pentious responds, making grand gestures in the air.

Ghost gives him a stoic, enigmatic look and he stutters a little saying “W-well you weren’t much for the classic back and forth thing.”

Ghost raises their brow, "Don’t you remember that time I took your airship down through the sky? We had a whole conversation," they remind him casually.

Sir Pentious laughs, recalling the incident. "Yes! Of course! And you blacked out my entire ship, yes!" His expression turns to one of mild exasperation. "That was... not my best moment."

Ghost looks at him, their expression unreadable. Sir Pentious, undeterred, points over to the huge airship parked on the roof. "But, I’ve built a much more superior one in turn!" he declares proudly.

Ghost examines the airship more closely, their robotic optic eyes zooming in on its intricate details. "I can see that," they acknowledge.

Sir Pentious flushes slightly, realizing that his bragging might come off as a bit much. "Well, now I guess it’s an over-glorified lab at this point," he admits, a touch of humility creeping into his tone. He's aware that his airship can no longer be used for evil purposes now that he's committed to redeeming himself.

Ghost nods in understanding. "Believe me, I do know about weirdly placed labs," they remark cryptically, their mind briefly wandering to their own secretive projects.

As Ghost continues repairing the stained glass, they realize that some pieces must have fallen over the edge. They start to rearrange the remaining pieces, trying to create a new image. They're attempting to make a star, but the curved pieces aren't cooperating.

Sir Pentious notices Ghost's struggle and tries to be helpful. "Have you tried this?" he suggests, moving one of the pieces to create a symmetrical pattern. However, the piece he moves connects with another one, forming a heart shape instead.

Both of them look up at each other, the accidental creation of the heart shape catching them off guard. Sir Pentious is slightly flushed with embarrassment, while Ghost experiences a strange sensation they can't quite identify. They felt a strange stirring within their metallic frame, a sensation that defied their usual stoicism.

Sir Pentious cleared his throat, breaking the momentary silence. "Ah, well, that wasn't quite what I intended, but it's not entirely unappealing, don't you think?" he remarked, trying to mask his embarrassment with his usual charm.

Ghost regarded the heart-shaped pattern, studying it thoughtfully. "It is... unexpected," they admitted, their voice as neutral as ever.

Sir Pentious chuckled nervously, scratching the back of his head. "Yes, well, I suppose art is all about happy accidents, isn't it?" he said, attempting to lighten the mood.

After a moment, Sir Pentious says "Maybe we could use these smaller pieces here to create the points of the star?" he suggests, pointing to a cluster of curved pieces that could potentially fit together to form the desired shape.

Ghost pauses, considering Sir Pentious's idea. "It's worth a try," they concede, carefully picking up the smaller pieces and fitting them into place. With Sir Pentious's guidance, the star begins to take shape, its points coming together with surprising symmetry.

By the time they finished, the stained glass depicted a star surrounded by a heart, a symbol of their unexpected collaboration. Its vibrant colors glowing under the pentagrams light. Ghost and Sir Pentious step back to admire their work, the awkwardness from earlier dissipating into a shared sense of accomplishment.

"It's beautiful," Sir Pentious says, his voice filled with genuine admiration. Ghost nods in agreement, a rare smile crossing their face.

As they stand side by side, admiring the stained glass, Ghost realizes that their perception of how the stained glass could have been was not as exceptional as the way they did it together.

Sir Pentious breaks the silence, his tone back to his usual dramatics. "A wise decision letting me help, My dear friend!" he says.

Ghost nods, "Your work was commendable" they reply simply.

They stand together in comfortable silence, the stained glass casting colorful patterns on the balcony floor. In that moment, Ghost and Sir Pentious realize that they may have more in common than they ever thought possible.

As Ghost looks down at their watch, a sense of urgency washes over them. The slumber party is approaching, and there's still much to do to prepare. They glance up at Sir Pentious, who is still admiring their handiwork on the stained glass. "It's almost time for the party," Ghost remarks, their voice tinged with a hint of excitement. "I imagine you'll want to get ready as well."

Sir Pentious looks up, startled. He checks the position of the pentagrams and realizes that Ghost is right. "Oh, my apologies. I completely lost track of time," he says, a sheepish smile playing on his lips. "Yes, I should probably start getting ready too."

Ghost nods, their mechanical limbs whirring slightly as they prepare to leave. "Indeed. It's a good thing we finished the repairs in time for the festivities."

As Ghost begins to extend their robotic legs over the balcony's edge to ascend to their room above, Sir Pentious hesitates. He reaches out a hand, as if trying to grasp onto something fleeting. "Ghost?" he calls out, his voice hesitant.

Turning to face him fully, Ghost regarded Sir Pentious with a raised brow, silently urging him to continue.

Sir Pentious faltered for a moment, his fingers fumbling nervously. "I just wanted to say..." he started, his gaze dropping to his hands. "...I had a good time working with you."

The sincerity in Sir Pentious's words caught Ghost off guard, leaving them momentarily speechless. Before they could respond, however, Sir Pentious hurriedly backtracked, his words stumbling over each other in his haste. "I mean, of course, I've been enjoying the company of everyone at the hotel," he clarified, his cheeks flushing slightly with embarrassment.

Ghost's contentment fades slightly, but they nod in understanding. "I'm pleased to hear that you've been enjoying yourself," Ghost replied diplomatically, masking their own disappointment behind a neutral expression.

With a polite nod, Ghost signaled their intention to depart. "I must make preparations for the upcoming 'slumber party'," they remarked dryly, air quoting the term with two of their many arms. Gathering their toolbox, Ghost extended their mechanical legs and began to ascend to the balcony above Sir Pentious's room.

Sir Pentious watches them go, a sense of regret gnawing at him. Alone once more, Sir Pentious couldn't help but curse himself inwardly for his inability to express his true feelings. "Fool," he muttered to himself, rubbing a hand over his face in frustration.

Chapter 17: Ghost’s Data

Chapter Text

Name: Ghost

MBTI Personality: Turbulent Architect (INTJ-T)

Pronouns: They/them/theirs

Appearance: A blue and yellow robot with eight arms, a visor

Background: Ghost is a demon of great intellect, known for their prowess in invention and their strategic mind in the turf wars of Hell. They are a figure shrouded in mystery, often keeping to themselves and their creations. Despite their stoic exterior, Ghost harbors deep emotions and desires, longing for a connection that transcends the chaos of Hell.

Personality:

• Ghost is very intelligent and stoic, often keeping their emotions in check.
• Stoic, logical, mysterious [Definitely has autism]
• They are resourceful and have a knack for invention, as shown by their many arms and lab coat.
• Despite their robotic appearance, Ghost has a sense of humor, albeit a dry one.
• They are fiercely protective of their friends, as seen in their defense of Carmilla and their concern for the egg minions.
• Ghost can be somewhat solitary, preferring to live in a cave away from others.

Their role as an overlord:

In the context of the story, an overlord typically refers to a powerful and influential being in Hell, often commanding a certain domain or aspect of the afterlife. Overlords are usually feared and respected for their authority and abilities.

Ghost is the overlord of nuclear energy, they have significant control or influence over anything related to nuclear power or radiation in Hell. They are ceo of the company for nuclear power plants, “Atomix Energex”. They provide the majority of the pride ring with nuclear electricity. They have the ability to manipulate or generate nuclear energy through their antennae, and control radioactive materials, they have significant authority over areas or entities associated with nuclear power.

Functions:

• Ghost's unique ability allows them to receive and process audio information without the need for physical headphones. It's as if they have an internal audio system that can directly interpret and play sound, bypassing the need for external devices. This feature enhances Ghost's capabilities, allowing them to interact with the world in a more integrated and efficient manner.
• Their antennae can serve as a conduit for electrical shocks, and always has a spark or nuclear energy between them. Ghost can control the amount of power their antennae emits which allows for frank to sit on their head unharmed.
• Ghost can convert any kind of energy into nuclear energy.
• Can travel through nuclear energy Muck like how Vox does.
• They can print things, but unfortunately it’s through their mouth.
• Ghost’s arms can transform into many things, much like inspector gadget their arm cannons and power tools their most reliable.
• Can extend all 8 arms including his legs enough to walk across building if they wanted to.
• Ghost has 4 segments on their torso almost like an axis where their 4 pairs of arms can spin around 360 degrees
• Their 4 segments on their torso can open up into compartments.
• Ghost has a Battle mask called a “Faceplate” it serves to protect their visor screen and mouth.
• Has a perfect inner clock.

Likes:

• Bugs/insects/arachnids
• Baked goods [not candy]
• Isolation
• Knowledge [knows information in all sciences especially engineering and nuclear physics.]
• Their room/cave
• Fruit
• Balimbing [Star fruit]

Dislikes:

• Physical touch
• Being stuck in a room full of people for long periods of time
• The Vees [long time rivalry since the late 50s]
• Sleep [they don’t need it really, they get energy from the glowing pentagram, solar energy, and their charging pad.]
• Possesses a large aversion to sexual and romantic topics and actions.

Appearance:

• Ghost is a demon in Hell, taking the form of a blue and yellow robot with eight arms.
• They have yellow eyes and a robotic voice. The eyes are an oled display, a screen like Vox’s and their lower half of their face is metal.
• Ghost is often seen wearing a lab coat, showcasing their inventiveness and scientific prowess.
• Ghost tends to not wear anything else other then their Lab coat due to their genderless robotic appearence

Computer assistant

Ghost's computer assistant is a sophisticated and advanced artificial intelligence (AI) system that serves as their primary interface for controlling and managing various aspects of their robotic form and their surroundings. The assistant's interface is integrated into Ghost's systems, allowing them to access and interact with it seamlessly.

The assistant's visual representation appears as a holographic display that manifests in front of Ghost when activated. It takes the form of a sleek, futuristic interface, with glowing lines and symbols that float in the air, responding to Ghost's commands and gestures. The color scheme of the interface is usually a mix of blue and green hues, giving it a calming yet high-tech appearance.

The assistant's voice is synthesized and sounds clear, articulate, and slightly robotic, fitting for its nature as an AI. It speaks in a spunky and sarcastic tone, conveying information and responding to Ghost's queries and commands efficiently but also being a major pain in the ass to deal with. Despite its robotic nature, the assistant is programmed to display a degree of personality, often pairing Ghost's stoic demeanor with its own snarky, rude, foul mouth, and abrassive attitude.

In terms of functionality, the assistant is capable of performing a wide range of tasks, including analyzing data, managing Ghost's systems and functions, providing information and updates, and assisting with complex calculations or simulations. It can also interface with external systems and devices, allowing Ghost to control or communicate with other machines or entities as needed.

Relationships:

• Ghost has a conflicted relationship with Sir Pentious, initially viewing him as an enemy but later showing concern for his minions.
• They have a protective relationship with Carmilla, being defensive of her when Alastor spies on her.
• Ghost has a newfound friendship with the egg minion, Frank, whom they saved from falling.
• Vox is one of the many Overlords of Hell and is a major antagonist in the Hazbin Hotel. He is the owner and CEO of VoxTek and a member of the Vees alongside Valentino and Velvette. Vox is obsessed with the idea of taking Ghost’s domain and nuclear energy company being the major provider of electricity all over the pride ring. He has his own electrical company, but most of the pride ring opt for Ghost’s company as it is more stable, and has been here longer than Vox’s company.
• Velvette (pronounced Velvet) is one of the many Overlords in Hell, overlord of social media making her the youngest overlord. Velvette is the energetic, stylish and trendy type who is always up-to-date with the latest trends and technology. This is one of the main reasons why she and Vox get along quite well with each other. She is described as being a very crazy person. she along with the rest of the vees despise Ghost for their rivaling prowess, inventions and emotionless demeanor.
• Valentino hates Ghost mostly because the other Vees [Vox, and Velvette] hate them. But later on, Ghost was alone at a bar one night, enticed by the many arms of Ghost he tries to make a pass at them, to their immediate refusal he grew irate and tried to force them, eventually Ghost raliating by harming his antenna, removing his ability to fly.
• The Vees, or the VVV Overlords, are Ghost's arch-rivals and serve as the main antagonists in their story. The Vees represent everything Ghost is fighting against – the pursuit of power and destruction. Their dynamic is one of intense rivalry and conflict, with the Vees constantly trying to outmaneuver Ghost and undermine their efforts. However Sir Pentious was always hell bent on trying to achieve power and greatness and wanted to be apart of the Vees before he decided to get redeemed after Vox had threatened him for his failures to be apart of the vees.

Home:

Their cave is pretty dark and depressing. Ghost is a stoic character that only cares about being alone, their work, and businesses. so it's like a big lab instead. however, they do things other than work since they are a sinner that has lived in hell for over 80 years. they like to knit and they are a big sci-fi fan and cartoons. they don't wear anything other than a lab coat since their form that they were given when they came to hell is a robot with nothing to really cover, but they do secretly have a star-trek uniform in their closet.

The Extermination:

also referred to as Extermination Day or The Cleanse, was an annual event in which the Exterminators descended from Heaven upon Hell to cull a portion of the Pride Ring's population by massacring any sinner and demon that was in plain sight. this is for population control. Ghost has been trying to conceive way to keep the Hazbin hotel safe from this at first it was because it was the only way that Ghost can complete their goal to get redeemed into heaven but little by little, over time they have grown to want to also protect the afterlives of their friends Charlie, Vaggie, Angel Dust, Niffty, Husk, and most of all Sir Pentious.

Backstory:

Ghost's backstory is shrouded in mystery, with rumors and speculation surrounding their origins. Some say they were once a human scientist who assisted in the creation of a weapon of destruction, while others believe they were a mad scientist that tried to play god creating things that defied human nature and other horrors. Whatever the truth may be, Ghost's past has shaped them into the enigmatic figure they are today.

Chapter 18: PJ Problemsss

Chapter Text

Ghost made their way down the hallway towards Charlie and Vaggie's room, where the slumber party was in full swing. They carried their Charging Padd under one arm and a horror movie under the other. With a polite but firm knock, Ghost announced their presence at the door.

Charlie swung the door open, clad in her heart pajamas, and her face lit up with a smile. "Ghost! So glad you could make it—" Her voice trailed off as her gaze fell upon Ghost, who stood before her in their usual attire: a simple lab coat. Confusion flickered across Charlie's face, prompting Vaggie to step forward, her expression tinged with judgment. "Where are your pajamas?" she demanded.

Ghost glanced down at their lab coat and then back at Charlie and Vaggie. "I don't have a need for them," they replied matter-of-factly.

Charlie's confusion turned to concern "What?!" Charlie exclaimed, she ushered Ghost into the room, causing them to stumble slightly. "Aren't you uncomfortable?" she asked, her voice laced with sympathy. Vaggie echoed her sentiments, questioning, "How the hell do you even sleep?"

Ghost shook their head, attempting to dispel the dizziness from being jostled. "I'm a mechanical demon. I don't need clothes. I don't need to hide anything," they explained stoically.

Charlie's eyes welled up with tears, empathizing with Ghost's situation. The emotions of the moment made Ghost feel stiff and awkward, unfamiliar with such displays of sympathy.

"But you were human before you died! Don't you miss the softness of pajamas?" she implored.

Ghost remained impassive, their robotic demeanor unfaltering. "Dwelling on the past is illogical," they asserted.

The rest of the group, including Niffty, Husk, Angel Dust, and Sir Pentious, had gathered around Charlie, their attention captured by the conversation. Angel Dust, ever the provocateur, quipped, "Where's the loungewear, toots?"

Before Ghost could respond, Sir Pentious interjected, his concern evident in his voice. "Are you sure you're not uncomfortable?" he inquired, his gaze searching Ghost's expressionless face.

Ghost dryly reiterated, "I don't have any, and I'm perfectly adequate without them."

Charlie, struck by an idea, suddenly exclaimed, "Alastor!" In a flash, the enigmatic Radio Demon appeared behind her, “ou called, my dear” he says, eliciting a startled reaction from Charlie. Charlie jumps up and spins around to Alastor saying “Holy sh*t!” Regaining her composure, she pointed towards Ghost and requested, "Can you do that magic thingy and whip up some pajamas for Ghost?"

Ghost waved their eight arms in protest, but before they could object further, Alastor flashed a charming smile. "Why, of course!" he declared, snapping his fingers. In an instant, a pair of pajama pants materialized around Ghost's legs.

Ghost halted mid-protest, their gaze dropping to the newly appeared pants. They looked down at the navy blue pants adorned with yellow stars and atoms, feeling a sense of shock at how… cutesy they were—a stark contrast to their usual persona. Alastor suggested, "Ah, I'd say it's perfect for the 'Nuclear Demon.'” an almost teasing look at Ghost indination. Alastor shrugs, “However, the top would prove difficult with those arms of yours..."

But Ghost cut him off, folding all eight of their arms across their chest. "No, I'm perfectly adaqute," they insisted, pointing to the ground for emphasis. "And the coat stays on."

As the group settled into Charlie and Vaggie's room for the slumber party, Sir Pentious found himself unable to tear his gaze away from Ghost, who stood among them in their makeshift pajamas. The sight of Ghost in the cute attire, adorned with stars and atoms, stirred a strange feeling within him, a blend of admiration and fascination with Ghost's unique nature as the nuclear demon.

Angel Dust, always quick to notice such things, nudged Sir Pentious with a mischievous smirk. "Starin' much?" he teased, eliciting a flustered response from the serpent-like demon. But amidst the banter, no one else seemed to pay them any mind.

Charlie, oblivious to the silent exchange, turned to Alastor with a warm smile. "Thanks, Alastor! You can join us if you want!" she offered. Alastor turns to Charlie With his unwavering smile, “You sure know how to throw a party my dear, however there are things that I need to attend to.” he politely said, before vanishing into the shadows.

Meanwhile, Ghost, still feeling uncomfortable in the pajamas, spoke up, seeking clarity before the festivities began. "Should I know anything else before we proceed?" they dryly inquired.

Charlie's eyes lit up with excitement as she clapped her hands together. "Oooh! We should lay out our sleeping bags!" she suggested eagerly.

Each member of the group retrieved their sleeping bag, each reflecting their own unique personality. Husk's was a dark green, Angel Dust's a vibrant pink, and Niffty's a pristine white with a playful puppy design. Sir Pentious's sleeping bag boasted yellow with brown pinstripes, a nod to his eccentric style.

Ghost, on the other hand, simply placed down their charging pad, prompting Charlie's curiosity. "Hey, Ghost, what is that?" she asked, gesturing towards the device.

Ghost met her gaze evenly. "My charging pad. It's what I sleep on," they explained matter-of-factly.

Vaggie, ever the practical one, chimed in, noting the pad's small size. "But it's so small," she remarked, puzzled.

Ghost raised a brow in response. "Well, of course. I stand on it," they clarified.

Undeterred, Charlie approached Ghost with a determined look. "Well, tonight, you'll be able to lay down," she declared, handing Ghost her simple blue sleeping bag. "Here! Now you can sleep on the floor. Vaggie and I are sleeping in our bed."

Ghost sighed inwardly, feeling a sense of obligation to adhere to the group's customs. "If you insist," they conceded, laying down the sleeping bag and settling onto it like the others, albeit with a slight sense of discomfort at the unfamiliar arrangement.

Chapter 19: Ghost stories within the story about Ghost.

Chapter Text

Charlie, sitting on her bed with Vaggie, clapped her hands excitedly. "Okay, guys, we should do some ghost stories!" she suggested, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. Ghost's head shot up at the mention of ghost stories, momentarily feeling a twinge of unease at the thought that the stories might be about them. "Excuse me?" they interjected, their tone betraying a hint of apprehension.

Charlie noticed Ghost's reaction and quickly clarified, "Oh no, like scary stories! Not about you, Ghost!" Ghost visibly relaxed, a faint blush of embarrassment coloring their cheeks. "Oh, carry on then," they replied, relieved that the stories wouldn't be focused on them.

Soon Vaggie turned out the lights, only the moon casted a glow from the balcony. The glow illuminating their faces.

As the group settled in, they formed a circle on the floor, ready to share their spooky tales. Currently, it was Angel's turn, and he regaled them with an outrageous story that left Ghost feeling thoroughly uncomfortable, sitting stiffly as Angel recounted his exploits. "And that's how I pegged three guys in one hour," Angel concluded with a mischievous grin.

Sir Pentious, who was sitting on his sleeping bag next to Ghost, remarked nervously, "Well, that was… scary." Ghost nodded in agreement, maintaining their deadpan expression. Angel, sensing Sir Pentious's unease, winked at him teasingly. "Well, now it's your turn," he declared, nudging Sir Pentious playfully.

Sir Pentious sat up a bit straighter, looking around the circle with a hint of nervousness. "Ah, well now... I guess I should start," he began, his voice slightly shaky. Ghost, realizing they hadn't paid much attention to Sir Pentious's pajamas before, took a closer look. They noticed he was wearing a blue and yellow striped button-up with a matching nightcap. The stripes on his button-up shirt seemed to complement the soft glow of the room, casting an almost nostalgic aura. The nightcap bore a cute little face, its tiny eyes twinkling mischievously as if it held secrets of its own. Ghost couldn't help but feel a sense of wonderment at the sight, their mechanical mind whirring with questions about the nature of the living accessory.

Despite themselves, Ghost couldn't help but find the hat adorable, though they were reluctant to admit it even to themselves.

Sudden spotlight bathed him in its glow, casting a dramatic aura around him. Ghost, ever the observer, furrowed their brows in a fourth-wall break, their metallic gaze scanning the room in search of the source of the mysterious illumination. "Where does the spotlight keep coming from?" they thought, their internal mechanisms whirring with curiosity.

Unfazed by the spotlight's appearance, Sir Pentious launched into his tale with newfound confidence and flair, his voice carrying across the room like the crashing of waves against a rocky shore.

“...Deep in time, in the heart of the roaring seas, there sailed a courageous ship captain. With salt in his veins and the wind in his sails, the Captain fearlessly navigated the vast ocean, his ship slicing through the waves like a force of nature. He was renowned for his bravery, admired by his crew, and respected by all who knew him.”

He says, his words painting vivid images of adventure and romance. Ghost listened intently, their stoic demeanor betraying the quiet fascination brewing within their mechanical mind.

As Sir Pentious's bravado gave way to a more reverent tone, Ghost's attention sharpened, their focus honing in on the poignant narrative unfolding before them. They watched as Pentious's hands gestured gracefully, bringing the story to life with each movement.

“But the Captain harbored a secret, one that haunted his every waking moment. Sir Pentious continued, his voice tinged with sorrow. "For deep within his heart, he carried a love as fierce as the ocean itself, a love for a person whose mere presence could calm the wildest storms. Yet, despite his courage in the face of danger, the Captain was paralyzed by fear when it came to confessing his love.” Ghost's processors whirred with empathy as they contemplated the weight of unspoken emotions and missed opportunities.

With each word, Sir Pentious painted a picture of longing and regret, his storytelling skillfully weaving a tapestry of emotion that enveloped the room.

“Years drifted by like the tides, and still, the Captain kept his feelings locked away, afraid of the unknown response. He watched from afar as the object of his affection lived their life, never daring to speak the words that weighed heavy on his soul. And then, one fateful day, tragedy struck, and the person he loved was taken from this world, leaving the Captain adrift in a sea of regret.”

Sir Pentious stops for a moment and shakes his head, continuing.

“Haunted by the memory of lost chances and unspoken words, the Captain's once proud ship became a vessel of sorrow. In the dead of night, as the moon cast an eerie glow upon the restless waters, the ghostly figure of his lost love appeared on the deck, their eyes filled with longing and reproach.”

Ghost watches in silent stoicism but inside their mind they think about the horrible missed opportunity. Their eyes watch pentious’s gestures, deep in thought.

“From that moment on, the specter of his beloved haunted the Captain's every voyage, a constant reminder of the love he never confessed. He was forced to look from afar once again, however there were no conversations to be had. No matter how far he sailed or how fast he fled, the ghostly presence followed, its silent reproach echoing in the howling winds.”

As the story reached its climax, Sir Pentious's voice softened, imbuing the final moments with a sense of melancholy. Ghost watched in silent reverence, their mechanical heart aching for the Captain and his eternal torment.

"And so, the Captain roamed the seas," Sir Pentious concluded, his words hanging in the air like the echo of a distant bell. "a solitary figure condemned to wander the endless expanse of the ocean, haunted by the chance he never took and the love… he never declared.”

The room fell silent, the weight of Sir Pentious's story lingering in the air like a heavy fog. Ghost remained motionless, their thoughts consumed by the haunting tale they had just witnessed. In that moment, amidst the darkness and the whispers of the night, they felt a profound connection to the Captain and his unspoken longing.

Angel cups their hands around his mouth smirking saying “too bad that ghost didn’t get that captain dick!” As Angel's crude remark shattered the solemn atmosphere, Sir Pentious's dramatic facade crumbled, giving way to a surge of irritation. His face contorted with rage as he lunged towards Angel, arms flailing in a mock brawl. "Oh, you tacky whor*!" he exclaimed, his voice a mixture of indignation and amusem*nt. Ghost observed the scene with their characteristic deadpan expression, their mechanical features betraying no hint of emotion.

Charlie, ever the peacemaker, leaped into action, attempting to pry the two brawlers apart. "Guys! Guys? Don’t fight!" she pleaded, her voice tinged with desperation. The other members of the party egged the confrontation on, chanting "Fight! Fight! Fight!" with gleeful abandon.

Meanwhile, Ghost retreated into the recesses of their own mind, finding solace in the quiet depths of their thoughts. They pondered the peculiarities of human interaction, the cacophony of emotions that seemed to swirl around them. Despite their mechanical nature, Ghost couldn't help but feel a sense of detachment from the frivolity of the slumber party.

However, an interruption jolted Ghost back to reality, to see Angel waves his arms around saying “Hey Ghost! Hello?” their attention drawn once more to the scene unfolding before them. They observed Sir Pentious and Angel, both bearing the marks of their skirmish, with a raised brow of curiosity. "What did you both do to each other?" Ghost inquired, their voice a calm contrast to the chaos around them.

Sir Pentious, still brimming with triumphant energy, flashed a manic grin. "I won!" he declared, his words punctuated by a flourish of his arms. Ghost couldn't help but find amusem*nt in Pentious's theatrical victory, a subtle twitch of their antennae.

Angel, however, brushed off Pentious's boast with a derisive snort. "Never mind that. It’s your turn," he insisted, redirecting the group's attention to Ghost. All eyes turned expectantly towards Ghost, their stoic demeanor contrasting sharply with the lively atmosphere of the room.

With all eyes now focused on them, Ghost felt a surge of pressure to perform. They cleared their throat, their metallic voice cutting through the tension in the room. "Right," they replied stoically, their gaze steady and unwavering. The only source of light from the pentagramed moon was covered by a drifting cloud leaving Ghost’s screen the only main source of light. In the dim light of the room, Ghost's amber eyes glowed with an otherworldly intensity, casting an eerie glow in the darkness.

Ghost's voice echoed with a somber resonance as they began their tale, the weight of each word heavy with the burden of regret.

"Once upon a time, in a world not unlike our own, there existed a child whose curiosity knew no bounds. From the earliest moments of their youth, they found solace in the pages of books, their thirst for knowledge insatiable. Their innocence was a beacon of hope in a world shrouded in darkness, a testament to the purity of the human spirit."

As Ghost delved deeper into the narrative, the room fell into a hushed silence, the only sound the steady cadence of their voice.

"As they matured into adulthood, their passion for discovery only intensified. They dreamed of harnessing their intellect for the betterment of society, envisioning a future where their innovations would pave the way for progress and prosperity. Little did they know that their dreams would soon give way to a nightmare of their own making."

With each passing moment, Ghost's words painted a vivid tapestry of despair, the room enveloped in an atmosphere of solemn reflection.

"They were chosen to aid in the invention of a weapon that would stop the war dead in its tracks. They thought that they were saving people, children all over the world. Surely, they had thought that they were stopping evil. They worked tirelessly on the weapon, something that had confounded all knowledge of their forefounders. The day came for the weapon to be released into the enemy country below. The scientist looked at the weapon to see it fall, strike into the hearts of the opposing."

The anguish in Ghost's voice was palpable as they recounted the pivotal moment that sealed their fate.

"They believed, with all their heart, that they were serving the greater good. They believed that their actions would bring an end to the bloodshed, sparing countless lives from the horrors of war. They were right, the war did end, but over time the recordings, the pictures of how that city was affected, well, lets just say that they have finally realized what monstrosity they have been a part of all along. They have always dreamed of making something big, something worthy to be put into the history books… Well, they got their wish. Their name cemented, given the credit of killing thousands of innocent people."

The room hung heavy with the weight of Ghost's words, each syllable a reminder of the atrocities committed in the name of progress.

"Their dreams soon turned to nightmares, consisting of the once lively city now a barren wasteland. The screams of the people cutting through the sky like a knife, the ashes of the remains of human people, and other animals alike blowing through the streets. They can see the shadows of people’s figures imprinted into the ground. In their nightmares they walk through the ghost town that once held human lives, they can feel the stray radiation seeping into their skin making it bubble as it burns the layers of muscle coming apart like cooked meat. The echoes of the same screams playing in their head for all of eternity.

In the dead of night, they were tormented by visions of horror, reliving the massacre in agonizing detail. The view of children clinging to their mothers having their lives taken in the view of their trembling mothers. The parents weep at the loss of their own children, before they too were taken by the weapon. The stench of death hung heavy in the air, mingling with the acrid scent of burning flesh. Their skin blistered and peeled under the onslaught of radiation, each step a symphony of agony as their flesh withered and decayed. Leaving parts of themselves at their wake, tearing themselves apart from bone to flesh from the pain of their grave mistake.

Haunted by the specters of their past, they roamed the ruins of their own making, forever condemned to bear the weight of their treacherous sins. The echoes of screams reverberated through their shattered psyche, a relentless reminder of the price of their ambition. In the end, they were not a hero, but an architect of damnation, forever cursed to wander the scorched earth as a testament to the folly of mankind."

As Ghost concluded their tale, a solemn silence descended upon the room, the weight of their words lingering in the air like a specter of remorse.

The group sat in stunned silence as Ghost's tale unfolded, the weight of the narrative hanging heavy in the air. Charlie clung tightly to Vaggie, her usual cheerful demeanor replaced by a palpable sense of unease. Vaggie, too, was visibly shaken, her usually stern expression softened by the gravity of Ghost's words.

Husk and Niffty exchanged wide-eyed glances, their usual banter silenced by the haunting imagery painted by Ghost's storytelling. Sir Pentious, usually the picture of bravado, now sat trembling, clutching his pillow as if it were a lifeline in the face of Ghost's chilling narrative. Even Angel, known for his devil-may-care attitude, couldn't hide the concern etched into his features.

As the silence stretched on, broken only by the soft hum of the air conditioning, Angel finally spoke up, his voice tinged with incredulity. "Jesus, what's with you two with the depressing stories?!" He gestured towards Ghost and the visibly shaken Sir Pentious, still clutching the pillow mind you. Angel’s brow furrowed in confusion.

Ghost met Angel's gaze with a raised eyebrow, their expression unreadable. "You guys asked for a story," they replied matter-of-factly, their voice calm despite the lingering tension in the room.

Feeling a pang of guilt at the distress their story had caused, Ghost reached out a comforting hand to Sir Pentious, their touch gentle yet reassuring. "Besides," they added, addressing the group as a whole, "the story is a work of fiction." however they think to themselves ‘well mostly.’ Though Ghost's words were intended to offer solace, the lingering unease in the room remained palpable.

Sir Pentious, still visibly flustered by the tale, looked down at the spot where Ghost's hand had rested on his shoulder, a faint blush coloring his cheeks. The others all gave each other knowing glances.

Charlie claps her hands and stands up saying “Alright! I think this calls for just some freetime! What do you guys think about watching the movie in about… 30 minutes?” the others start to agree and chill in their respective spots. Angel, true to form, was already pestering Husk, who grumbled in response. Niffty, as always, was busy cleaning, seemingly unable to sit still for even a moment. Charlie and Vaggie were engaged in a deep conversation, their voices hushed and serious.

Ghost, feeling the unfamiliarity of the pajama pants, decided to seek solace on the balcony. They stood at the railing, gazing out at the glowing pentagram in the sky, lost in thought. The cool breeze of Hell's night brushed against their metallic frame, a stark contrast to the warmth of the sun they were used to.

Suddenly, Ghost detected Sir Pentious approaching from behind. Ghost turned their head slightly to acknowledge him, the light from Hell's sky casting an ethereal glow on their robotic features.

Sir Pentious, a hint of surprise in his expression at being noticed, slithered up to the railing of the balcony. "It's a nice night, isn't it?" he remarked, his cobra hood flaring slightly, the glowing eyes being seen from the inside of his hood.

Ghost tore their gaze away from him to look back at the sky. "Agreed," they replied simply, their voice calm and measured.

Pentious, glancing once again at Ghost's new pajama pants, pointed them out, attempting to make conversation. "I enjoy your... new pants?" he said, a touch of sheepishness in his tone.

Ghost glanced down at their starry pants, furrowing their brows at the unfamiliarity. "Thank you. They are certainly... something," they replied, the awkwardness of the situation palpable.

After a moment of silence, Sir Pentious turned back to Ghost. "I volunteered to bring snacks," he stated, trying to fill the awkward gap between them.

Ghost thought back to earlier that day when they all decided to have this… slumber party. "I recall," they said, their tone neutral, arms still flooded behind their back.

Sir Pentious, holding out a napkin towards Ghost, gestured towards the treat. "I saved you a muffin," he said, a touch of nervousness in his voice.

Ghost with a raised brow, looked at the offered muffin, silently accepting it with one of their many hands. Pentious, misinterpreting Ghost's stoic silence as disinterest, nervously backtracked. "Because I made it for everyone! Ahaha!" he laughed nervously, a form of blush spreading across his face.

Ghost inspected the muffin in their hand. It was a strawberry muffin, with a crumbly top that looked irresistibly delicious. They took a slow, deliberate bite, savoring the flavor.

Pentious, still nervous, watched Ghost closely. As Ghost finished the muffin, they looked back at Sir Pentious. "Are there more of these?" they asked, their interest piqued.

Sir Pentious, surprised by Ghost's request, stammered, "I-I well, yes. There is. I think I baked more than enough." His hood flaring in surprise.

Ghost, pleased with the treat, tried to hide their enjoyment. "Show me to them, please," they requested, their tone softening slightly.

Sir Pentious's face lit up with a wide smile, his bravado and dramatic demeanor returning. "But of course!" he exclaimed, happy to have pleased Ghost with his baking.

Sir Pentious's beamed with pride. “Y-yes! A-and they're all strawberry!” A blush began to form on his face as his eyes darted away. “T-there's a table in the room. I’ll um, go put the rest out.” He slithered away, his tail and hood flaring as he went. Ghost could see that he was being genuine, and despite his dramatic nature, there was a certain degree of endearing shyness to him.

Ghost calmly follows him inside to the small coffee table, taking another one and biting into it, taking a little of the edge from their stoic demeanor. "They are delicious," they praised. "You have talent."

Pentious's eyes lit up and his hood began to flare. "Oh! W-well thank you!" A blush spread across his face, which only got brighter at Ghost's lack of outward emotion. He paused, his hood flaring more as he attempted to gain his courage. "W-well um, I should go get the other snacks. I'll uh, leave you to it."

Later, Charlie stood up with a lively demeanor, clapping her hands to get everyone's attention. "Alright, everyone! Ghost brought the horror movie!" she announced, pointing towards Ghost, who was casually on their fourth muffin. All eyes turned to Ghost, who stood there awkwardly holding multiple muffins in their 8 arms, their expression wide-eyed for once. Sir Pentious stood beside them, beaming with pride at the enjoyment his baking seemed to bring.

Pentious couldn't help but notice the look of annoyance that passed over Ghost's face as everyone suddenly turned their attention to them. It was a stark contrast to their usual stoic demeanor, and it was clear that they were not a fan of the spotlight.

As everyone's eyes fell on Ghost, he knew he had to intervene just to make things less awkward for them.

"Oh! That's right. The movie!" he said, his tone exaggerated and over the top, drawing the other's attention to him.

Charlie continued, "Now, if I can only get this sheet up..." She jumped up and down, trying to hook a bedsheet onto the wall for the projector. Ghost, with their usual calm demeanor, walked over to her and said, "Do not worry, we won’t be needing that." They politely took the bedsheet from Charlie and, with their many arms, Ghost skillfully folded the bedsheet and handed it back to Charlie, who watched in amazement.

Returning to the circle of sleeping bags, Ghost lay down on the floor. The others, intrigued by Ghost's actions, followed them, curious about what was happening. Ghost then opened a small panel on their head, revealing a tiny projector. From a compartment in their robot body, Ghost pulled out a small DVD.

Angel, looking at the DVD cover, remarked, "Alien? Really? That’s your movie choice?" Ghost turned to look at Angel, explaining, "According to modern culture, this was received as a cult classic in the sci-fi genre, along with being just as revered in the horror category." Angel gave Ghost a bored look, to which Ghost added, "...And I enjoy it." Angel shrugs, laying back down saying “Whatever nerd.”

With everyone settled, Ghost lay back down on the floor, and their projector beamed the opening of the movie onto the ceiling. Sir Pentious, still in awe of Ghost's abilities, watched with shining eyes as the movie began, the room filling with the eerie glow of the screen.

The movie proved to be scarier than anticipated, with Ghost remaining unmoving the entire time to avoid shifting the projector and moving the projection of the movie. Despite their stoic exterior, Ghost sensed Sir Pentious shaking a little, clearly scared by the film. Ghost couldn't help but think that Sir Pentious must be really easy to scare, which was surprising considering the memories Ghost had of his bravado and confident ingenuity from when they were rivals.

As the movie progressed, reaching the famously intense scene where the alien bursts out of a man's chest, fake blood spewing everywhere on the other crewmates. Niffty giggled, Husk smiled, and Charlie screamed, clinging onto Vaggie. Angel laughed, shouting, "Gotcha, Bitch!" Meanwhile, Sir Pentious squeaked in fear and grabbed one of Ghost's many arms, causing Ghost to shift the projection slightly. Quickly readjusting, Ghost stiffened at the unexpected contact from Sir Pentious, who was clinging to them like a scared child.

Unable to turn to look at him, Ghost read Sir Pentious's vitals since he was actively touching them. Ghosts' brows furrowed in confusion ‘...Is he crying?’ Feeling a mix of discomfort and sympathy, Ghost lamented to themselves in the dark.

‘Why did I even come out of my room today? I was perfectly fine where I was. Alone.’

Chapter 20: Confrontationsss

Chapter Text

Sir Pentious continued to grip onto Ghost's arm like a vice, burying his head in his nightcap, which Ghost could only assume had an equally terrified expression on its face. Despite the fear and discomfort, Ghost remained still, unsure of how to comfort Sir Pentious or if he even wanted comforting in that moment. The room was filled with a tense energy, the movie's suspenseful soundtrack adding to the atmosphere as everyone reacted differently to the horror unfolding on the screen.

The crash in the front courtyard of the hotel jolted everyone's attention, prompting them to rush to the balcony to see what was happening. Ghost, grateful for the distraction, gently pulled out of Sir Pentious's grasp and closed the panel on their head, turning off the projection. As everyone gathered at the balcony, they saw a group of goons causing a mess in the courtyard.

Sighing in annoyance, Ghost muttered, "Of course." Charlie turns to Ghost saying “you know them?“ Pinching the part of their visor where the bridge of a human nose would be, Ghost explained to Charlie, "Voxtech hires. They are paid to practically harass me." Ghost’s face remains composed but their antennae twitch in obvious annoyance. Vox, the television demon and part of "the Vees," loved to bother Ghost by hiring random goons to disturb their alone time.

Vaggie, ever ready for a fight, got into a stance, holding her spear, and said, "I'll handle this." However, Charlie intervened, saying, "Oh well, Ghost! Go take care of them for us!" and nudged Ghost forward. Ghost nodded and jumped off the balcony, firing their rocket boosters to softly land at the bottom.

As Ghost approached, the hired crew turned their attention to them. Regaining their stoic posture, Ghost brushing off their lab coat calmly asked, "I assume you're here for me?" One of the beefy bounty hunters responded, "Why the f*ck else would we be here?" Ghost rolled their eyes at the crude remark and dryly replied, "I suggest you leave then." The goons surrounded Ghost, numbering 27 in total. 'Typical,' Ghost thought.

The beefy bounty hunter laughed, pointing at Ghost's cute pajama pants, and taunted, "Aww, did we catch you during your beauty sleep?" Ghost glanced down at their starry pajama pants, a reminder of the ridiculous outfit they were forced to wear for the slumber party. Inwardly cursing at Alastor, and Ignoring the mockery, Ghost looked back at the goons and said, "Afraid that you'll lose to a demon in pajamas?" Quirking their brow, Ghost challenged them.

The goon became irate, saying, “What? Hell No!”

The goons laughed at the demon's brave challenge, their number giving them confidence despite their inability to see past their own arrogance. One of the goons, the apparent leader of the bunch, looked Ghost up and down.

"Aww, how precious," the goon said sarcastically, "it doesn't think we're gonna win."

The goons surrounding Ghost laughed, taunting the demon and their pajamas.

Ghost, now irked at being referred to as an “it” raises all 8 of their arms imposingly

The others closed in on Ghost, who continued, “Is that so? Then whatever you do, please…” Instantly, one of Ghost’s 8 arms transformed into an arm cannon, shooting at the goon and causing his tailcoats to catch on fire. Ghost blew the smoke from their cannon and continued in a cold voice,

“…Don’t hurt me.”

The goon, being hit abruptly, stumbled back with a surprised yelp. The other goons all looked alarmed at the sudden attack from Ghost. The demon quickly shifted their arms, transforming them back before continuing in the same cold tone of voice as before.

"Just leave. Me. Alone. "

The goons yelled, "Get that robot!!" as they tried to pounce onto Ghost. However, Ghost burst through the pileup, hovering over them with a look of slight irritation. Ghost’s defensive mechanisms actived a faceplate used for battle shifts over their face covering their mouth. Their 7 other arms transformed into cannons and with terrifying precision they opened fire. Ghost shot towards a goon, aiming their legs at him and blasting their rocket flames into his face, effectively blowing it to bits. They then flew through the air, dodging attacks and retaliating with precision and force.

The goons were caught off guard by Ghost's sudden onslaught of power, taking them by surprise with the intensity of the demon's attacks. As Ghost shot at them with accuracy and precision, the goons began desperately trying to dodge them while returning the fire in a panicked frenzy. Ghost keeps their steady mantra of not killing just enough to beat them to it and get them to run away from them.

Some of the goons shot, while the other tried to lunge forward and tackle Ghost. As the demon flew about the air, they dodged the attacks effortlessly and efficiently. The goons were not used to someone so skilled, and Ghost's speed was making the fight almost too easy.

One of the goons whipped a chain into the air, snaking around Ghost’s torso. Ghost leaned their head down so their antennae touched the sides of the chain, sending a major electrical current through it and effectively blasting the goon through the air. The battle was intense, with Ghost using their technological prowess and combat skills to outmaneuver and defeat the goons with efficiency and grace.

The skirmish continued, with Ghost using their arsenal of weaponry and tactics to fend off the attackers. Despite the odds, Ghost remained cool and collected, handling the situation with skill and efficiency.

As Ghost was still wrapped in the chain, they were whipped into the ground. They felt the impact jolt through their robotic body. With only one pair of arms free, they hopped onto their head, and their legs articulated, spinning and effectively kicking the sh*t out of one of the goons. Ghost flipped up and hopped back onto their feet, ready for more.

The goons continued sending attacks Ghost's way, their numbers dwindling as Ghost countered each of their attacks with precise and brutal precision. The chain-wielding goon's attempt to restrain the demon ended up backfiring, sending the goon flying in the air.

Ghost remained calm and continued to dodge the goon's attacks, quickly gaining the upper hand and taking out the attacker without even needing to use their other arms. As the battle continued, their skills remained unimpeded, their agility and precision allowing them to keep away from the attacks and take down the goons with ease.

Their six other arms strained against the chain metal, but before they could do anything else, one of the goons wielded a knife near their face, attempting to stab them. Ghost quickly ducked under the swing and took hold of the goon's arm. The goon's eyes widened at Ghost’s emotionless expression as they said, “Oh, sh*t.” Ghost quickly shifted its grip to position the goon with their knee, breaking it with a swift kick. A sickening crack rang through the air. The goon was now on the ground, his broken arm still in Ghost's grasp. The demon then flipped him over, making the goon fall face-first onto the ground, which prompted a few disgusted reactions from the remaining goons.

The Nuclear demon was more a machine than a human soul, the way they easily broke the goon's arm without flinching or even blinking.

Ghost's arms pushed against the chains with incredible force, and with the strength of all eight arms, the chain burst open. Ghost wrung their wrists, now with all eight arms free. One of Ghost’s many arms transformed into a grapple and chain, firing it and aiming for the side of a goon. The hand's claws sank into his side, and Ghost swung him around in a circle, knocking the others off their feet.

The goons were caught off guard by Ghost's prowess, and they quickly regrouped to try to overwhelm them. Ghost moved with a fluid grace, dodging attacks and striking back with precision and force. They used their multiple arms to their advantage, grabbing, punching, and disarming the goons with ease.

As the fight continued, Ghost remained focused and composed, never showing any emotion despite the chaos around them. They fought with a calm efficiency, taking down goon after goon until only a few remained standing. The remaining goons hesitated, unsure of how to proceed against this robotic demon who seemed unstoppable.

As the remaining goons trembled in fear, their eyes wide with disbelief, one of them couldn't help but whisper, "What... the hell are you?"

Ghost's gaze was cold and calculating as they stepped closer to the frightened demons. Their battle faceplate deactivating to show their face. The goon closest to them fell backward in a desperate attempt to escape the demon's presence. Ghost's voice was devoid of emotion as they replied, "I'm surprised you don't know... Although, I am a bit hard to recognize."

The goon's eyes widened in realization as Ghost continued, their voice low and ominous, "After all, you did want me out of my cave... to see..."

With a sudden, chilling intensity, Ghost raised all of their arms, their metallic frame casting a foreboding shadow over the injured demon. They stood tall, their figure obscured by the lack of light, only the glowing pentagram in the sky behind them offering any illumination. Ghost's voice crackled ominously as they spoke, sending shivers down the spines of the goons.

"...The Nuclear Demon."

The goons recoiled in terror, the gravity of their situation sinking in. They had underestimated the mechanical demon, and now they were faced with the terrifying truth of just how much trouble they really are in. The image of Ghost, with their arms raised and the pentagram glowing behind them, was one of pure chilling terror. The goons stared in horror, realizing the danger they were in.

A moment of tense silence followed, the air thick with fear and anticipation. Then, Ghost's voice pierced the silence once more, each word sending a chill down the goons' spines.

"You have trespassed into my domain," Ghost's voice echoed ominously, "and now, you will face the consequences."

The goons, now fully aware of the mistake they had made, scrambled to retreat, their fear palpable. Ghost watched them go, their expression unreadable behind their robotic visage. As the goons fled, Ghost stood alone in the courtyard, the pentagram glowing above them, a silent warning to any who dared to challenge the Nuclear Demon.

We now switch back to the rest of the gang, as the group watches Ghost's impressive display of strength and skill. Vaggie lets out a frustrated groan and throws down her spear. "Ugh! I never get any action," she complains, crossing her arms and pouting.

Pentious, standing at the front balcony with the others, stands in awe as he observes the fight before him. He is stunned by Ghost's sudden and swift display of strength and power. He looks on in awe as the demon single-handedly takes on a group of beefy and tough hired goons, handling them with efficient and ruthless precision.

Pentious can't help but feel awed by the demon's skill. He stares at them in amazement, utterly impressed by the skill and agility of the "Nuclear Demon."

Charlie, Vaggie, Angel, Niffty, and Husk look at Pentious and how obviously in awe he is at Ghost. They all exchange looks.

Charlie goes up to Pentious and says, “We know.” Sir Pentious, now confused, asks, “Know about what?” Before Charlie can respond, Angel Dust cuts in suggestively, saying, “You wanna hit that, don’t cha?” and points at Ghost, who is still fighting in the front yard.

Sir Pentious, confused by Angel’s wording, says, “I don’t want to get into a fight with Ghost! We’re friends now!” Angel facepalms at his victorian-esque innocence and says, “No, I’m trying to say that you want to bang that bag of bolts down there-” Husk cuts in, saying in a gruff voice, “It’s obvious that you have a crush on them, Kid.”

Pentious's facial expression shifts as he processes what was being said. His initial confusion turns into a mix of annoyance and embarrassment once he realizes what is being implied.

"I do not have a crush on Ghost!" Pentious proclaims, his face turning a bright shade of red, his hood flaring as he denies the accusations. He grips his hood down and looks away, obviously embarrassed by the insinuation.

"We're just friends... we aren't like... that...." he trails off, now shifting his gaze to the demon, who is still engaged in their battle.

Husk sighs, gesturing to Ghost in the courtyard, who is still mind you beating demon ass. “Well, that’s a bit obvious. They don’t even seem to be the type to get a 27-foot pole within relationships.”

Pentious is left blushing at the accusations, his cheeks becoming a scarlet red. He becomes more flustered by Husk's comment and shouts, "I don't have a crush on anyone!" before immediately backtracking under the intensity of the situation. "I mean, what if I do? It's not as if it's your business or anything," he says sheepishly, his face still flushed and red.

Charlie says, putting a hand on Pentious’s shoulder, “But you do like them, don’t you?”

Pentious freezes at Charlie's direct question, clearly embarrassed by the topic of conversation. He stutters out a response, "W-well, I m-mean..."

Husk rolls his eyes and laughs at the awkward exchange, muttering under his breath, "Man, love's a bitch, right?"

Angel tilts his head down towards Husk, saying, “I can be your bitch.~” Husk pushes Angel off and says, "Don't you have something more important to do?"

Angel merely rolls his eyes, saying, "Oh please, it's not like you're busy right now."

Husk's face twists into a scowl, and he grumbles in annoyance, pushing Angel away.

Angel laughs with a smirk, but then he notices Pentious still embarrassed at Charlie’s question about his feelings for Ghost. Angel leans closer to them with a coy look and remarks, “You really do like them, don’t you? It’s written all over your face.”

Pentious stumbles out of his trance, trying to deny it by stammering out, "I-I... well, maybe... I mean..."

Husk sighs, seeing the flustered and bashful look on Pentious's face. "Kid, you don't need to pretend here. It's obvious."

Pentious, realizing the futility of trying to hide it, relents and admits in a soft and sheepish tone, "W-well, I think I do... I mean... they're smart and cool and they've been so nice to me as of recently... b-but it's just... I doubt they'd ever feel the same..."

Angel gives a teasing snicker at the situation while Niffty chuckles silently to herself, her face giving away her amusem*nt at the awkward exchange.

Charlie pats his back. “Well, how will you know if you never put the work in?” Her expression is kind. Pentious puffs up his chest at Charlie's encouraging words, regaining some of his confidence and bravado. "Well... I don't think it would hurt to try..."

Pentious glances over to Ghost, who is still valiantly fighting in the center of the courtyard.

Husk lets out a grumbly sigh, saying, "Kid, You’ve got to be careful with that one."

He points over to Ghost. “I’ve seen some tough people to crack, but I’ll be damned if that bot won’t be one of the hardest to do so.”

Angel winks, saying, “Hardest you say?~”

Husk grumbles loudly, “Angel, quit your damn flirting and shut the hell up.”

Angel laughs with an impish grin. “What? Is someone… jealous?”

Husk glares at Angel while grumbling loudly, “I’m not jealous, you just gotta shut up about this type of crap.”

Husk turns back to Pentious. “No, seriously,” says Husk. “Ghost isn’t really a person — they’re more like a machine. And if there’s one thing I know about machines, it’s that you can’t always just… talk your way into winning them over.”

Angel snickers. “Ohh… so what you’re saying is that you need to use your hands, huh?” Husk, ignoring the comment, continues, “If you want a chance with Ghost, you’ll need more than words — you need action. You’ll need to show them that you’re worthy of their time and trust.”

Charlie claps her hands and says, "Don't worry Sir Pentious! We are rooting for you!"

"Thanks, Charlie..." Pentious says, his confidence returning a little bit thanks to her words of encouragement.

He takes a deep breath and gathers his courage. His inner thoughts swirl around in his head. ‘As for action... who cares if Ghost might be hard to break? I'm going to do whatever it takes to win them over.’

He looks back over to Ghost, whose fight with the goons seems to be coming to an end.

Meanwhile…

The goons scrambled to regain their footing, but Ghost was relentless. With a calculated precision, Ghost used their robotic prowess and combat skills to disarm and disable the goons one by one. They moved with fluidity and grace, their movements almost dance-like as they took down each opponent with efficiency.

One goon lunged at Ghost with a bat, but Ghost sidestepped and grabbed the bat, Ghost looked at him incredulously. “Did you honestly think that bringing a stick to a gun fight was the wisest idea?” they say twisting it out of the goon’s hands and using it to knock him out cold. Another goon attempted to sneak up behind Ghost, but they sensed his presence and swiftly turned, delivering a powerful punch to his gut, sending him reeling.

Ghost stands in the middle of it all, kicking over one of the many Goons knocked out bodies. With a cold and calculating tone Ghost blatantly states “All I wanted was to be left alone, but I do sometimes miss the action.” Ghost peers over to one of the demons “I’m sure you can relate right?” the demon nervously nods. Ghost idly kicks a stone whilst shooting the goon with their arm cannon, stunning him in the process. Ghost sighs, “But I guess I’ve ruined your appetite now.” Ghost’s head, arms, and legs do a quick articulated 180 degree turn towards the goons. “...Right?” they say in a warning tone.

The remaining goons hesitated, unsure of how to approach the seemingly unstoppable demon before them. Ghost, sensing their fear, stood tall and stoic, a silent warning that any further aggression would be met with swift and decisive action. The goons, realizing they were outmatched, turned and fled, leaving Ghost standing victorious amidst the chaos.

As the dust settled, Ghost took a moment to catch their breath, their eight arms slowly retracting back into their robotic body. They glanced around at the mess they had just cleaned up, a small smirk crossing their lips before they turned and made their way back to the hotel, ready to resume the slumber party as if nothing had happened.

After Ghost fires their rocket boosters and calmly steps back onto the balcony, they find a flustered Sir Pentious and the rest of the gang looking a bit secretive. Ghost notices the strange atmosphere but decides not to comment on it. Charlie jumps up and down and cheerfully says, “You were great, Ghost!” Ghost looks down at themselves, covered in blood, and flicks a bit of demon off their shoulder. Charlie, a bit grossed out, suggests, “Ummm, why don’t you clean up?” Ghost nods in agreement folding their arms behind their back, stating, “That is preferred.”

As Ghost disappears out of the room, Charlie waves goodbye, and Ghost adds, “Don’t bother to wait for me, this might take a while.” Ghost turns their back to the others and puts their hands in their pockets, their expression turning grim as they leave.

In the hallway, Ghost walks toward their room. To a normal demon, cleaning all the nooks and crannies of Ghost’s robotic body might seem like a time-consuming task. However, Ghost presses a button on the side of their workbench, and a capsule emerges from the floor. Ghost steps in and is immediately cleaned by the automated system inside the capsule. They step out calmly, tossing out the torn starry pants they had been wearing. Next, they replace their torn lab coat with a fresh one. Sighing stoically, Ghost remarks, “That's much better.”

Ghost steps out onto their balcony, the cool night air of Hell caressing their robotic form. They gaze up at the glowing pentagram in the sky, their thoughts swirling like the eddies of the river Styx. With a shake of their head, Ghost dismisses the distracting thoughts. "No matter," they mutter to themselves, "there are things that need to be attended to."

Extending their legs, Ghost is secretly glad that they can properly use their legs without the worry of those infernal pajamas they were forced to wear earlier. Descending back into the courtyard, they walk with purpose, their eight arms hanging at their sides, each one a testament to their technological prowess and power.

Ghost surveys the courtyard, their gaze eventually settling on the VoxTech cameras that have been placed all over the city. They sigh, their disdain for Vox and his meddling ways evident. "Normally, I hate traveling through energy," Ghost muses, "but what choice do I have?"

Approaching one of the cameras, Ghost extends a hand, their antennae touching the lens. The glowing VoxTech logo on the camera changes from red to yellow, indicating that it is now powered by Ghost's nuclear energy. With a quick calculation, Ghost connects to the camera's network and is instantly zapped through the conduits, traveling at the speed of thought to Vox's main office.

Arriving in Vox's office, Ghost materializes in a flash of light wiping the leaking oil from their mouth. Vox, the television demon, looks up from his desk, a smirk playing on his lips. "Well, well, well, if it isn't Ghost," Vox taunts, "to what do I owe this unexpected visit?"

Ghost remains stoic, their robotic features betraying no emotion. "You know why I'm here, Vox," they reply calmly. "Your little goons were causing trouble again. I suggest you rein them in before things get out of hand."

Vox chuckles, leaning back in his chair. "Oh, Ghost, always so serious," he says with a wave of his hand. "I can't control everything my employees do. Besides, a little chaos keeps things interesting, don't you think?"

Ghost’s expression is stoic as usual, their gaze cold and calm even when faced with such an antagonizing presence as Vox. The two stare each other down before Vox smirks again and gestures to the chair in front of him. “Come, come,” he says mockingly, “have a seat.”

Ghost folds all eight arms behind their back. "I prefer to stand, thanks." Ghost's amber eyes glow in their visor in the dim lighting of the office.

Vox, still smirking, "That's fine by me." Vox says, still grinning as he sits back in his desk chair, "It's not surprising though, I imagine it must be hard to find a seat that's comfortable for such an odd creature as yourself."

Ghost feels that distant emotion of anger at being referred to as a creature once again but remains composed. "I am no creature, but I probably can't blame you for your bad memory." Ghost says as they glance down at their fingers. Ghost raises their brow. "After all, you do seem to have a lacking attention span."

“That’s rich. A robotic being with eight limbs is lecturing *me* about attention span?” Vox remarks, still smirking. "Your entire being consists of having enough spare parts to start a junk yard. I'd wager a guess that the only reason you're even still standing is because all your joints have been oiled within the last two minutes."

Ghost idly flicks a piece of dirt off of Vox's desk. "That's a good question you could ask those pitiful goons you hired," Ghost gives a cold stare. "But I'm well aware of how much you love watching me pull them apart."

"Oh, yes, I admit, it was entertaining. Quite amusing," Vox says with a smug smile. "And besides, I don't expect much from them. I mean, I'm not exactly in the business of hiring geniuses, am I?” He adds another smirk on top of that, “I like having my underlings as moronic as possible. It makes them easier to control that way."

Ghost calmly shoots back, "I assumed, since you are about as commanding attention as a child that had their favorite toy broken," Ghost stares at the sharks swirling in the tanks behind Vox, their expression as emotionless as ever.

"Well, what can I say? I'm quite the attention whor*," Vox says with a smirk, his smile widening as he watches the sharks in his office tank start to swim frantically. “Don’t you get it, robot?” Vox says with more than a little amusem*nt, “Everything I do is to attract attention. I am the Television demon after all. It’s exactly what I’m meant to do,” Vox adds an extra smirk.

“So you keep saying,” Ghost dryly states, remembering just how much this demon loves to talk about himself. “After all, you did want to see me out of my domain.”

“Ooh that little cave of yours?” Vox laughs “Of course I did.” Vox says in reply, not even denying what Ghost already knew about him. “Your ‘home’ is boring and dull. It could use at least some livening up." Vox replies with a smirk, "And besides, I don't like the fact that you have control over the city's energy sources. It would have been easier for me to manipulate if you weren't around.”

Ghost walks a step closer. “And I won’t be letting up anytime soon, so I guess you should get your little meltdown over with. Like you did on your little broadcast over the 7 circles with Alastor last week,” Ghost says, tired with the demon’s emotional display already.

"Oh, so you did watch that broadcast." Vox remarks, his face betraying little emotion but the change in his smugness being somewhat noticeable when he glances down at the floor, “I had a feeling you were probably watching that too. You just love to pry your little ‘ears’ into everything, don’t you?”

Vox's voice has a small hint of annoyance in it, and his smugness has now turned into a small frown, but it's still there.

Ghost, still emotionless as always, shrugs, “Not exactly, but after hearing some of the key moments of you acting like an utter fool…” Ghost eyes snap back to look into Vox’s “I almost wish I had.”

Vox's expression is even more annoyed now, and he glowers at Ghost for a few moments before finally speaking, "You really are a heartless little machine aren't you?" He says with an annoyed tone. Ghost with a cold and measure tone tilts their head, “correct.” Vox grows a tad more agitated at the fact that Ghost wears this comment like a badge. "Well guess what, I didn't have those little goons come all that way to that stupid hotel to just to sit around and listen to your little comments. I came here for a little chat. So let's get this show on the road."

Ghost adjusts the sleeves of their lab coat with their many arms, dryly stating “Gladly, I thought we’d never get too it.”

"Good, good." Vox says with a grin, "So then, let's get right into it. You must've noticed by now that I'm not exactly fond of you, right?"

Ghost has a deadpan expression, as their arms gesture “Really? I had absolutely no clue.” they say with a hint of sarcasm.

"Oh shut up. Don’t give me that tone with me, you metal mess." Vox glares at Ghost with a mix of annoyance. "I was being rhetorical." Vox responds with a frown, "I'm sure I don’t have to tell you why we don’t get along. You and I both have a pretty damn good idea as to why that is."

“Well It’s my nuclear plants that run the majority of the pride ring, so yes.” Ghost raises an eyebrow. “I have an inkling.” Ghost stoically remarks with their underlying sarcasm still lingering.

"Correct," Vox replies, his tone still quite angry and annoyed, "You run the power to the majority of the pride ring. I would imagine you do."

"Which is exactly why I didn't like that you have that kind of power. You hold the majority of the city in the palm of your hand, and I think there's a certain level of power there that I just don't like you having."

“So you can have it to yourself?” Ghost incredulously looks at him “You and I both know what you and your “little buddies” would do with that kind of power.”

"Well, yes." Vox responds, still not hiding his annoyance, "Of course I want all the power to myself. After all, I am the Television Demon. Having power is kinda my thing. Hell, you wouldn't understand that though. It seems to me that you aren't the type to know much about power with wanting to be a stupid hermit and all that sh*t. You're too occupied with your stupid little machines and technology."

Ghost steps closer to Vox, their robotic form towering over the demon, “Careful Vox.” their tone is cold and unwavering. “Your emotions are showing.”

"Oh, yeah? And what about yours?" Vox retorts, his tone mocking and condescending. "You seem to like to criticize me for my emotions and I get that, that's your thing. You're just a machine, so of course you wouldn't get things like emotion. But you sure do like to point out mine. I don't see you getting upset if I say that you're being a heartless little robot, do I?"

“Unlike you, I can control my emotions.” Ghost tilts their head, their gaze boring into him. “And there is nothing that you, your plans, goons, and especially your ‘colleagues’ can do to provoke them.”

Vox can't help but feel agitated with Ghost's remarks. He smirks, “And what about your little friends back at that hotel?”

Ghost quirks their brow. “Friends?”

“Ah, yes I’m just as surprised that you even have those.” Vox chuckles in smug satisfaction, “You wouldn’t want them to get involved now do you?”

Ghost looks away for a moment.

Vox notices Ghost's momentary glance away and his expression changes to one of smugness and a slight smile, "Aha...So you actually care about them?"

Vox knows just how to get to Ghost. “You’ve especially gotten close to that stupid serpent I see.”

Ghost's eyes narrow slightly, a hint of annoyance creeping into their voice. "This is not a game, Vox. This has always been between me and the three of you," they warn.

"Right, right." Vox retorts with an amused chuckle, "You're right, this isn't a game. After all, I would probably win pretty quickly if it was. But I digress."

Vox shrugs, unfazed by Ghost's words. "I’m still surprised that he’s still alive, I wonder what he said to slip through your fingers Ghost? Kind words? Friendship?"

Ghost thinks, their lack of trust in others putting them to the test. With a dry tone Ghost replies, “I’m so glad that you're so obsessed with me.” Ghost eyes flit to the many monitors filling the room. “Just like how you are with Alastor. And I know just how desperately you want him to notice you.”

"I'm NOT obsessive!" Vox glares at Ghost and his voice cracks with anger, "I'm just..very interested."

Vox tries to regain his cool, but it's clear that he was caught off guard by the comment regarding Vox wanting Alastor to notice him, "Shut up. You don't know anything about my relationship with him."

Ghost quirks their brow disinterested “Right, like there even is one to begin with.”

"Hey, listen here." Vox says with an irritated tone, "You don't know one measly thing about me and Alastor’s relationship. We have one. Alastor has just been busy lately with his new little ‘Hotel’” Vox says, with the quotes in his tone, “And that's what’s keeping him busy lately.”

Ghost sighs putting their hands behind their back “You people and your lovesick obsessions.”

Vox's smug smile quickly and immediately disappears, being replaced by an angry and annoyed face. "I should have killed that stupid snake myself.”

Ghost clenches their fists, the metal of their robotic hands creaking slightly under the pressure. "You won’t get me to hand over my territory, Vox," they say through their composure. "But mark my words, if you don't reign in your little plans, there will be consequences."

With that, Ghost turns on their heel and disappears in a flash of light, leaving Vox to ponder their words.

As Ghost prepares to rejoin the group, their mind drifts back to the events of the evening. Despite their outward stoicism, they couldn't shake off the feeling of unease that lingered from the encounter with Vox. Ghost prided themselves on their ability to handle such situations with ease, but tonight had been different. They think about how they reacted to the threats on Pentious.

Ghost shook their head, pushing aside the unfamiliar emotions and wiping the fresh oil from the use of their powers. They had a slumber party to attend to, and dwelling on such thoughts would serve no purpose. With a determined stride, Ghost made their way back to the room, ready to rejoin the festivities and put the events of the night behind them.

As Ghost made their way through the hotel's hallway, the dim lights casting long shadows, they turned a corner and came face to face with Alastor. The radio demon's presence always commanded attention, his grin wide and unsettling against the backdrop of the hotel's eerie ambiance.

"Ah, Ghost! What a delightful evening, wouldn't you say?" Alastor greeted, his voice smooth and charismatic.

Ghost, maintaining their stoic demeanor, folded their arms behind their back and replied, "Certainly," though inwardly, they were feeling the strain of the night's events.

Alastor's sharp eyes noticed the absence of Ghost's starry pajama pants, and he tilted his head inquisitively. "My, what happened to your pajamas, my dear?" he inquired, his tone laced with faux concern.

"Ah, just a wardrobe mishap," Ghost replied, glossing over the true nature of their earlier altercation with the goons.

Alastor says in a sickeningly charming voice “Oh, well we can’t have that” Alastor's smile widened, and with a snap of his fingers, a new pair of starry pajama pants materialized before Ghost. "There, all better now, All you need is a pretty little smile my dear." Alastor said, his voice dripping with playful mischief.

Ghost's expression remained unchanged, but inwardly, they were slightly annoyed. "Absolutely," they replied curtly, not wanting to indulge Alastor's whims any further.

As Ghost turned to continue on their way to the slumber party, Alastor watched them go, his head tilted to the side, a knowing smile still playing on his lips.

As Ghost made their way back to the slumber party, they approached the door cautiously, trying to avoid the creaking hinges. Peeking inside, they saw their friends fast asleep, the room filled with a peaceful quiet.

Not wanting to disturb them, Ghost decided to find another way in. They quietly made their way down the hallway, their footsteps silent on the carpeted floor. As they reached the end of the hall, they noticed a window slightly ajar, a soft breeze gently blowing through.

Ghost pushed the window open further and looked out, spotting Charlie and Vaggie's balcony just across from them. The door to the room was still open, a faint light spilling out into the night. Ghost felt a wave of relief wash over them.

However, as they looked down at their torn pajama pants, Ghost realized that extending their legs over to the balcony would only tear them further. They let out a frustrated sigh, vowing silently to explode if they had to get another pair of these cursed pants.

Thinking quickly, Ghost extended their eight arms towards the balcony, using them to swing across the gap between the buildings. As they reached Charlie and Vaggie's balcony, Ghost activated the magnetic function on their feet, allowing them to land silently on the underside of the balcony.

With careful and quiet movements, Ghost scaled the underside of the balcony and found themselves standing on the balcony itself. Looking into the room, they saw Charlie, Vaggie, Angel Dust, Husk, and Niffty all asleep, their forms peaceful in the dim light.

Despite the tranquility of the scene, Ghost couldn't shake the feeling of loneliness that washed over them. Even though they rarely slept themselves, being surrounded by their sleeping friends made them feel oddly out of place.

Ghost stood on the balcony for a moment, watching over their friends as they slept. They felt a pang of longing for the kind of restful peace that seemed to come so easily to everyone else. But with a soft sigh, Ghost pushed those thoughts aside and turned to head back inside.

—------------------------------------------------------

As Ghost stood on the balcony, watching over their sleeping friends, a sense of calm began to settle over them. The night air was cool and crisp, and the soft glow of the pentagram in the sky cast a gentle light over the scene. But suddenly, something caught Ghost's attention out of the corner of their eye—a shadow, shifting and rising over the group.

Instinctively on edge from the earlier fight with the Goons and the tense conversation with Vox, Ghost reacted swiftly. In a fluid motion, they extended one arm and lifted the shadowy figure upside down into the air, their other arm transforming into an arm cannon, ready to defend their friends.

As the figure dangled upside down, In the dim light, illuminated by the glowing pentagram in the sky, Ghost saw that it was none other than Sir Pentious hanging by his tail, upside down in Ghost's grasp. Sir Pentious began waving his hands frantically, whisper-screaming, "Don't shoot, Don't shoot!"

"Pentious?" Ghost said, a hint of surprise in their voice.

Sir Pentious, nodded frantically. "Yes! Yes! It's me! Now release me!" he exclaimed, his voice a mix of relief and agitation.

Ghost relaxed slightly and lowered Sir Pentious to the floor next to them, careful not to disturb the sleeping group.

"Apologies, I didn't realize it was you," Ghost said, their voice calm but tinged with a hint of tension from the sudden alarm.

As Ghost handed Sir Pentious his nightcap, which had fallen to the floor during the commotion.

As Sir Pentious reached for the fallen nightcap, his hand inadvertently brushed against Ghost's, sending a strange sensation through both of them. Both demons looked up from the night cap’s nervous face to look at eachother surprised by the brief moment of contact. Ghost felt a jolt of discomfort at the sensation, the touch unfamiliar as they sense the return of that strange feeling they can’t decipher. Quickly, they pulled their hand away, a flicker of unease passing over their robotic features.

Sir Pentious, on the other hand, seemed momentarily taken aback by Ghost's swift retreat. His hood flared in embarrassment, and he looked down, perhaps a bit disappointed by the abrupt end to the contact. He cleared his throat, composing himself, and reached for the nightcap, placing it back on his head, trying to hide his embarrassment.

"Um, thank you," Sir Pentious said awkwardly, breaking the silence that had fallen between them. Ghost, though still feeling uneasy, nodded in acknowledgment, their gaze flickering briefly to the floor before returning to Sir Pentious.

"Of course," Ghost replied, their voice soft, breaking the silence..

Ghost glanced over at the sleeping group and then back at Sir Pentious, lowering their voice to a whisper. "Were you watching them sleep?"

Sir Pentious was taken aback by the bluntness of the question, but he quickly composed himself and whispered back, "What? No, well, I just-" He trailed off, feeling a bit flustered.

Ghost raised an eyebrow, prompting Sir Pentious to continue. Sir Pentious relents a bit fumbling with his fingers, "I couldn’t sleep, but maybe a little bit of that too…"

Curiosity piqued, Ghost pressed further. "Why?" they asked quietly.

Sir Pentious hesitated, unsure of how much he should really be telling Ghost in this moment. He felt suddenly overwhelmed by the intimacy of the situation, the nearness to Ghost, and the vulnerability of their sleeping friend group.

However, the little demon couldn't help but admit something. "Sometimes I like to get close to them..." he whispered. "Watch them sleep... it's... peaceful..."

Sir Pentious, a bit embarrassed, admits, "The movie, the stories… they were a bit terrifying."

Sir Pentious's voice faded off as he let the silence hang once more, realizing that what he'd just admitted was rather odd, even for him.

Ghost felt a pang of guilt for scaring one of their first friends in the hotel and a bit weirded out of his little habit. They whispered back, "I am not blameless in scaring you, I apologize."

Sir Pentious waved his hands dismissively. "Nono, you were just doing what the others asked," he said, trying to lighten the mood. He sat down, leaning against the railing of the balcony, and Ghost followed suit, sitting beside him and leaning against the railing as well.

As they sat in silence, looking into the room where everyone was sleeping, Sir Pentious suddenly regained his bravado. "After all, it’s pretty hard to get through me," he said, a hint of theatricality in his voice. Little sparks seemed to dance around him, adding to the dramatic effect.

Ghost looked at him, their expression unreadable. After a moment of eye contact, Sir Pentious's face turned red once again, and he deflated a bit. "Anyway, you were exceptional out there," he said, trying to change the subject.

"I was not at my best, especially not with this silly thing," Ghost replied, pinching the fabric of their starry pajama pants. Sir Pentious looked down at the pants and started to laugh, surprising Ghost.

Confused, Ghost asked, "I don’t understand, was it something I said?"

Sir Pentious continued to chuckle as he replied, "Oh, it’s nothing like that. It's just that, well, I never imagined that I'd see you rocking some goofy-looking star-spangled pajamas." He tried to hide his amusem*nt, but it was clear that he found the situation quite funny.

Sir Pentious continued, "And to be fair, you are pulling them off."

Feeling a bit self-conscious, Ghost looked down at their pants again and said, "Now you are just saying things." They looked back at Sir Pentious and added dryly, "Besides, they are completely impractical."

Sir Pentious laughed again, a hearty chuckle that echoed slightly in the quiet room. "Yeah, but they are cute, aren't they?" he replied, dramatically gesturing to Ghost's starry pajama pants. "Besides, practical outfits are so distasteful, in my personal opinion. Style over function, as I always say."

Ghost rested their chin on their hand, their gaze drifting slightly towards Sir Pentious. "It’s always you with the theatrics, isn’t it?" they remarked, a hint of intrigue in their voice.

"Guilty as charged, I love my dramatic flare," Sir Pentious shrugged, a small smirk playing on his lips. Despite his nonchalant demeanor, he felt a strange flicker of warmth growing from within, though he fought to hide it.

He glanced over at Ghost, noticing how they rested their head in the palm of their hand, their eyes fixed on him. The two demons were inches from each other, yet there was a palpable distance between them, a silent tension hanging in the air. Sir Pentious chuckled again, trying to break the tension.

Ghost extended one of their many arms into the room, reaching for the basket of muffins that Sir Pentious had made for the slumber party. They pulled another muffin towards them and took a bite, the soft crumbly texture and sweet flavor filling their mouth.

Sir Pentious watched as Ghost savored the muffin, his eyes tracing the lines of their unique robotic physique. He then turned his attention back to the sleeping group, his gaze lingering on the basket of muffins.

His gaze drifted back to Ghost, and he smiled, "It’s good to know that you have a sweet tooth."

Ghost, caught off guard, raised an eyebrow. "I find that hard to believe," they replied, a hint of defensiveness in their tone.

Sir Pentious chuckled to himself, noting the crumbs now adorning Ghost's mouth. "Oh, you can deny it all you want," he said, his smirk widening, "But we both know it's true."

Noticing the surprised look on Ghost's face, Sir Pentious decided to tease them a bit further. He leaned a bit closer, his voice dropping to a teasing whisper. "Are you shocked because I was right? Isn't that your fifth muffin tonight?" he teased, a mischievous gleam in his eyes.

Ghost turned their head fully to face Sir Pentious, almost startling him with the sudden movement. "Perhaps... I do have a small penchant for baked goods," they admitted, their tone slightly awkward.

Sir Pentious felt his heart beating ever so slightly faster in his chest as Ghost suddenly turned to face him. He tried to keep his breath even and casual, though the blush creeping back into his face and throat was undeniable.

As Ghost admitted to their 'penchant' for baked goods, Sir Pentious tried to maintain his usual co*cky demeanor despite the butterflies beginning to flit around in his stomach.

"Only a small liking?" Sir Pentious replied, maintaining the playful tone in his voice. "Seems to me like a rather sizable one."

Ghost's eyes flitted to the floor, and they thought back to the arduous day they had. So much talking, so much socializing, things they were so unused to from living in the cave for so long. Ghost quickly wipes their mouth. They slightly gave in to the exhaustion and asked, "Will you tell the others?"

Sir Pentious felt the urge to comfort Ghost, noticing the subtle change in their demeanor and thinking back to the long, grueling day they had had. He reached out and lightly tapped Ghost's shoulder in a reassuring manner.

"I would never tell anyone such information," Sir Pentious said, his voice soft with a hint of genuine emotion. "It's just between the two of us. I won't give you away, I promise."

Not used to being treated with such genuine regard, Ghost looked back at him, still as emotionless as ever but spoke, "I would appreciate that, Sir Pentious."

Sir Pentious rolled his many eyes, amused. "With you, it's just Pentious, Ghost."

Ghost stoically replied, "Right, just Pentious."

Sir Pentious felt some relief at the thought of maintaining a sense of familiarity between the two of them. To him, even the smallest things, like simply saying “Pentious” versus always using the full formal address, felt important. It felt like a sign that they were closer now.

He looked back to Ghost and smirked, "And please, drop the 'Sir' nonsense. I hardly feel like a king pin these days, the way I've been behaving. It isn't fitting at all."

Ghost quirked their brow, "You still have a regal disposition about you," they remarked coolly, taking another bite of their muffin.

Sir Pentious was caught off guard by the comment, his brain immediately going into overdrive. He felt oddly touched by the compliment, even though it was unintentional. "Regal disposition... sure... I suppose I can come off as that. But really, we both know how I've been acting around here. I'm anything but regal," he replied, his tone lighthearted but with a hint of self-criticism.

As Ghost finished their muffin, they looked at him and said, "Maybe not, but you are you."

Sir Pentious tried to play off the comment with a small chuckle, but his heart skipped a beat when he realized the significance of Ghost's words. "You are you." To him, this phrase held more weight than it may have seemed. Sir Pentious often felt like a chameleon, changing his personality to fit what he thought the modern society of Hell wanted, adapting to the new trends and preferences of the younger demons.

This realization, coupled with the other emotions stirring inside him, made his cheeks burn red, and he looked away, trying to hide his reaction.

Ghost got up, brushing the crumbs off their lab coat and starry pants. They folded all eight arms behind their back, turned to Pentious, and said, "I bid you a good night, Pentious."

Feeling oddly flustered after their brief exchange, Sir Pentious struggled to find the words to maintain his usual confidence. "Yeah, uh... Goodnight, Ghost," he replied, watching as Ghost stepped onto their charging pad and powered off.

Alone in the quiet of the slumber party room, Sir Pentious grabbed his hood and let out a groan of exasperation. “Ahhh, Holy hell.” he whispers to himself. He was glad that he seemed to be making a small divot in the walls of Ghost's emotional fortress, but he knew he had only scratched the surface of what was lying underneath.

Chapter 21: A Good Day.

Chapter Text

A few weeks had passed, and Ghost had gradually grown accustomed to the idea of socializing with others at the hotel. However, this adjustment didn't mean they had become any less reserved. Every day seemed to start with the same question, "How was your day?" to which Ghost always gave the same response, "Busy, how was yours?" It was the truth, and they were being polite, but no one at the hotel ever seemed to know whether Ghost's day was actually good or bad. But then again, maybe no one really cared. Perhaps it was just pleasantries, nothing more.

One particular day, however, was notably different for Ghost. It had been exceptionally productive. They had managed to get several projects online, fixed most of the structures, and improved the lighting in many of the hallways. Currently, Ghost was inspecting a sconce in the wall that had been knocked off-center, trying to gauge how to approach fixing it.

As Ghost focused on their task, Sir Pentious slithered down the hall and spotted them. He felt a surge of happiness at the sight of Ghost outside of their room, working diligently. Determined to seize the moment, Sir Pentious made his way over to them, hoping to engage in a different kind of conversation this time.

Ghost noticed Sir Pentious approaching and turned their head to acknowledge him. "Hello, Pentious," they greeted in their usual composed tone.

Sir Pentious's face lit up at Ghost's acknowledgment. He was thrilled at the opportunity for a different kind of interaction, but he knew he had to maintain his usual bravado, despite feeling a bit flustered inside.

"How was your day so far, Ghost?" Sir Pentious inquired, trying to sound casual.

Ghost glanced back at their task and replied, "Busy, how was yours?" sticking to their usual script.

Sir Pentious chuckled softly as he observed Ghost's hand drill. "You're always busy. But really, truly, how was your day?" he pressed, his tone more earnest this time.

Ghost looked back at him, slightly surprised by his genuine interest. They blinked, processing the unexpected shift in the conversation. It was a rare occurrence for someone to inquire about their well-being beyond the usual pleasantries. Ghost's metallic features softened ever so slightly, a subtle warmth entering their expression as they realized that Sir Pentious was genuinely interested in how they were doing.

Ghost glanced down at the floor for a moment, collecting their thoughts, before meeting his gaze again. "I... had a good day today," Ghost admitted. "Thank you for asking."

Ghost's response caught Sir Pendious by surprise. It was the first time he could recall someone answering his question genuinely instead of going through the usual motions. He felt a genuine flutter in his stomach as he looked at Ghost’s softer features.

“No problem at all,” He said, his voice softer than it has been in quite some time. He looks back to the sconce on the wall. “Hey, let me help you with that."

Chapter 22: Campe Diem

Chapter Text

Early one morning, the cool breeze of Hell whispered across the rooftop of the hotel as Ghost diligently worked on the paneling. The glowing pentagram above cast a light fuchsia hue, adding a surreal ambiance to the scene. Ghost, immersed in their task, was calmly listening to music their mechanical mind was playing—Depeche Mode, a fitting soundtrack to the solitude of the moment.

Ghost looks over to the side of the roof, observing Sir Pentious's airship with its golden teeth shining under the pentagram. Despite their initial animosity, their rivalry had evolved into something more complex. Ghost found themselves pondering the nature of their connection, the moments of camaraderie and the clashes of wills that had defined their relationship.

Lost in contemplation, Ghost's reverie was abruptly interrupted by the sound of the door to the roof bursting open. Startled, Ghost's head snapped towards the entrance, ready to defend themselves. However, their tension quickly dissipated when they saw Charlie standing there, a bright smile on her face.

"Good morning, Ghost!" Charlie greeted enthusiastically, waving to catch their attention.

Ghost stood up, their drill hand retracting into their arm as they replaced it with their hand. They folded their hands behind their back, maintaining their stoic demeanor. "Morning, Charlie. Did you need me for something?" Ghost inquired, ever the dutiful demon they were.

Charlie waved off Ghost's concern, her expression turning sheepish. "Oh, no, don't worry, Ghost. Sometimes I just want to talk! Not every time we speak should I ask you to do something," she explained, taking two of Ghost's hands into hers.

Although Ghost felt a bit uncomfortable with the physical contact, they understood that it was Charlie's way of showing affection. They relented, feeling a pang of gratitude for the sentiment that they were valued for more than just their work.

However, Charlie's expression soon shifted, and she sighed. "But the oven is on the fritz again," she admitted sheepishly.

Ghost's face fell into a deadpan expression, a mix of disappointment and resignation. "I'll be right on it," they replied dryly, their tone indicating their willingness to help despite the interruption to their thoughts.

Charlie's expression shifted from concern to curiosity as Ghost beckoned her closer. She followed Ghost to the other side of the roof, where the view of the city below stretched out before them.

"I have taken the liberty to switch your electricity provider, from VoxTek Industries, to Atomix Energex" Ghost explained, their tone matter-of-fact.

Charlie's eyes widened in surprise. "But why do any of that, Ghost?" she asked, trying to understand the reasoning behind Ghost's decision.

Ghost gestured towards the hotel below, where lights flickered sporadically. "There were many problems with the consistency of the electricity coming through. Power surges and miscellaneous fees were becoming frequent issues," Ghost explained, pulling out a graph displaying the hotel's recent power failures and surges.

Charlie leaned in to examine the graph, her brows furrowed in concentration. She struggled to comprehend the technical details but nodded along, trying to grasp the situation. "So, you're saying that by using your nuclear energy, we can avoid these problems and save on costs?" she asked, seeking confirmation.

Ghost nodded. "Exactly. My nuclear energy provides a stable and reliable source of power without the extra fees," they clarified.

Charlie's face lit up with understanding. "Your power plants? You're going to power the hotel with your nuclear energy? For free?" she exclaimed, her excitement palpable.

Ghost looked away, a hint of change in their usual stoic demeanor. "Consider it a favor, For promising to redeem me." they replied, their tone softening slightly.

Overwhelmed with gratitude and a strange feeling of guilt, Charlie wrapped her arms around Ghost in a hug. "Thank you, thank you, thank you!" she exclaimed, expressing her appreciation for Ghost's generosity.

As Ghost turned to attend to the roof again, Charlie, full of enthusiasm, exclaims, "But I also have an idea for another redeemable event for the group!" Ghost, still focused on their work on the roof shingles, responds absentmindedly, "You do?"

Charlie nods eagerly. "Yes! Camping!"

Ghost looks up at Charlie, a puzzled expression on their face. "Camping?"

Charlie continues, her excitement evident. "Yup! We'll go hiking, sit by the fire, and sing songs!" She waves her hands in the air, visualizing her ideas.

Ghost gestures towards the Pride Ring, stretching into the horizon of Hell, and stoically says, "There aren't any places here to properly do any of the events that you are suggesting, though."

Charlie's excitement deflates slightly. "I know... that's why the idea is still, well, an idea." She then looks back at Ghost, her eyes shining with hope. "But you are so good at problem-solving! That's why I'm telling you! Do you have any of those smart propositions of yours?"

Ghost stands up from their spot on the roof and holds up their arms in a thoughtful gesture. "I apologize, Charlie. I appreciate the flattery, but there isn't really a makeshift camping ground anywhere on the Pride Ring." They fold their arms, deep in thought. "There are, however, substitutions." Ghost looks down across the Pride Ring, and the panel on their head opens to reveal a hologramed map of the area.

Charlie, a bit disappointed but still intrigued, thinks the hologram is cool. Ghost begins to list off ideas. "There is the aquarium, that sounds enjoyable. A few food places..." They pause, realizing that these are the only places in hell that had any redeemable qualities that they can think of.

Ghost closed the panel on their head, the hologram fading away as they turned to look out at the Pride Ring from the roof once more. "Well, those are the choices, I assume," they mused aloud, their expression thoughtful. "I mean, I'm serious, there is no way we all can go camping together."

They tapped on one of their many arms, deep in thought, furrowing their brows. "I'm serious, the only probable way to even do that is to have contact with the living world. That's in the hands of the Ars Goetia. But that is entirely ludicrous..."

Turning to look back at Charlie, Ghost was surprised to see her on the other edge of the roof, excitedly talking on the phone. Concerned, Ghost walked over to her, a little worried about her zeal. "Charlie, I hope you are not calling who I think you're calling," they said, their voice tinged with apprehension.

Charlie covered the phone and turned to Ghost, a bright smile on her face. "Oh, relax, Ghost. I can figure this out!" she reassured, before turning back to the phone, her voice animated as she continued her conversation.

Ghost watched her with a mix of concern and curiosity. "Charlie, what are you planning?" they asked, their tone cautious.

Charlie turned back to Ghost, her eyes shining with excitement. "I'm trying to contact the Ars Goetia to see if there's a way we can arrange a camping trip!" she explained, her voice filled with determination.

Ghost's eyes widened in surprise. "Charlie, that's... ambitious," they said, struggling to find the right word. "I'm not sure if they would even entertain such a request."

Charlie waved off Ghost's concerns. "Oh, don't worry about it. I have a plan," she said confidently, before turning back to the phone to continue her conversation. Ghost watched her, unsure of what to make of her determination.

Later…

Ghost was in the middle of fixing the oven for what felt like the fifth time that month. They couldn't understand how it kept breaking; after all, the others barely used the kitchen, opting for takeout most of the time. Despite the frustration, Ghost's eight arms moved in perfect coordination, each performing a different task simultaneously. They were lost in their work, the only sound being the music playing in their mechanical mind, a rare moment of perfect peace.

Suddenly, the tranquility was shattered as Niffty burst into the kitchen, shouting, "GHOST!!" Startled, Ghost looked up, their focus breaking for just a moment. In that moment of distraction, their grip slipped, and the oven spewed out smoke onto their face. Ghost stood there, face covered in soot, and turned to Niffty with a stoic look.

"Did you need something?" Ghost asked, their voice calm despite the chaos around them. Niffty bounced on her heels, her usual cheeriness undeterred by Ghost's soot-covered appearance. "Come on, Ghost!" she exclaimed. "There's a new boy!"

Ghost raised an eyebrow, slightly confused. "Niffty, I don’t believe that’s the most pressing matter at the moment," they replied, their voice slightly muffled from the soot on their face. Ghost quickly grabbed a cloth and wiped their face, spraying disinfectant and using small windshield wipers to clean their screen, ensuring they could see properly again.

Niffty giggles yelling “more bad boys for me!”

Ghost sighed inwardly, knowing that arguing with Niffty would be futile. "Fine, lead the way," they said, resigned to the fact that their repair work would have to wait. Niffty grabbed Ghost's hand and practically dragged them out of the kitchen, excitedly chattering about the new arrival.

Ghost calmly followed Niffty to the next room, the parlor, where Charlie was pleading with Stolas, who was exasperatedly explaining to her, "Ms. Morningstar, my duties are not for the fun of others. I don’t think that I can truly sanction this little camping trip of yours."

Ghost glanced around the room, seeing all the others sitting in the parlor, watching the exchange with indifferent expressions. Sir Pentious spotted Ghost standing there and waved to them excitedly. Ghost looked at him and gave a polite and respectful wave back.

However, Stolas caught sight of this interaction from the corner of his eye and stood up, saying, "Ghost!?" Everyone turned to look at Ghost. Ghost looked at Stolas awkwardly and said, "Stolas, it’s been some time."

Stolas rose and gave Ghost a hug. Ghost stiffened slightly, uncomfortable with the physical contact. "Must I remind you of my opinion regarding hugs?" Ghost said, trying to maintain their composure.

Stolas let go but continued to hold Ghost's shoulders, excitement evident in his voice. "Oh, but Ghost, it has been forever since I’ve seen you! So much has happened."

Meanwhile, Sir Pentious watched this interaction with growing unease. His eyes narrowed as he observed the way Stolas touched Ghost, a feeling of jealousy stirring within him. What was Stolas to Ghost? Were they together?

Charlie, shocked, spoke up, "Ghost? Why didn’t you tell me that you were friends with the Goetia Family?!" Everyone looked back at Ghost, who responded stoically, "I am not friends with the Goetia Family. However, I’ve known Stolas ever since he was little." Ghost's gaze shifted to Stolas, who was beaming with happiness. "How long has it been, Ghost? Around 30 years?" Stolas asked. Ghost, with a calculative and machine-like accuracy, replied, "It’s been 27 years, 3 months, and 7 days." Stolas smiled warmly, saying, "Oh, you and your perfect inner clock."

Ghost looked at their friend with reverence, a bond of long-standing friendship evident in their gaze. Sir Pentious, now feeling a little worried about Ghost and Stolas’s closeness, interjected, "Let’s talk about the camping trip!" Everyone looked at Pentious, a bit bewildered. Ghost raised their brow towards him, prompting Pentious to add, "...Please?"

Charlie clapped her hands, saying, "Right!" She turned back to Stolas, her eyes shining with excitement. "Come on, I mean, wouldn’t it be grand to help out with the redemption of these sinners?" Charlie looked at Ghost, silently asking them to back her up. Ghost, after a moment's hesitation, relented and turned to Stolas. "Is there any way that her idea can happen? I’ve looked at the whole ring, and there are no possible spots."

Stolas sighed dramatically and then smiled at Ghost and Charlie. "Very well, Princess, ONE night. That is all I give. It will be in a nondisclosed location of the world in a rural forest that has been known by the humans as too dangerous and dark to enter, as there have been countless theories and rumors of monsters lurking within."

Charlie's eyes lit up with excitement, and she turned to the group, "Alright, everyone, it's settled! We're going camping!" The group erupted into chatter, discussing what they would need and how they would prepare. Sir Pentious, still feeling a twinge of jealousy, watched as Ghost and Stolas exchanged a few more words, their bond of friendship evident to everyone in the room.

Stolas turned to Ghost, a glint of mischief in his eyes, and said, “In turn, I must ask you for a favor, Ghost.” Ghost, willing to pay his kindness forward, replied, “Of course, Stolas. What do you suggest?” Stolas smiled warmly, “I want to have tea with you. It has been too long.” Ghost responded stoically, “3 months and 25 days.” Stolas chuckled at Ghost’s preciseness, “I’ve been meaning to do some of that ‘tea spilling’ with someone lately.”

Ghost quirked their brow at him, an amused glint in their eyes, “I’ve been meaning to ask, how have your ‘royal affairs’ been doing as of late?” Stolas giggled politely and replied, “Oh, my, well, you just have to wait until get together, hmm?” Ghost shrugged, holding up their eight arms in surrender, “As you wish, my liege.” Stolas let out another laugh, patting Ghost's shoulder much to Ghost’s dismay. Stolas said, “Oh, you!”

Sir Pentious watched from afar, a slight jealousy forming in his chest. He became more determined to gain Ghost's favor now. He knew he needed to up his game if he was ever going to get Ghost to like him back.

As the group continued to discuss their camping trip plans, Stolas and Ghost shared a few more words. Stolas's presence brought a sense of nostalgia and warmth to Ghost, reminding them of simpler times. Despite their stoic demeanor, Ghost found comfort in Stolas's company, a rare feeling for them in the chaotic world of Hell.

Meanwhile, Sir Pentious watched their interaction with a mix of envy and determination. He knew that winning Ghost's admiration and possibly more would require effort, but he was willing to try. He made a mental note to come up with a plan to impress Ghost, determined to show them that he was worthy of their attention.

An Hour later…

As the group gathered in the parlor, excitement and indifference filled the air. Charlie, the ever-enthusiastic host, looked around at everyone with a wide grin. "Alright! Ready to go camping?" she exclaimed, her voice full of excitement.

The others, although not as visibly enthusiastic as Charlie, nodded and murmured their assent. Vaggie, always one to support Charlie's ideas, raised her fist in the air and shouted, "Yes, babe!" Charlie chuckled at her girlfriend's enthusiasm, feeling grateful for her support.

Stolas, the voice of caution, spoke up, "Is everyone ready? Remember, this forest is large enough to get lost in, so there is no real escape into the real world. After all, you'll be ghosts to the living. Some more than others," he added with a chuckle, looking at Ghost.

Ghost, ever stoic, gave a deadpan look at Stolas's pun, unimpressed by the humor. Meanwhile, Sir Pentious, teyingto disrupt their moment, shouted, "We should leave now if we want to get there while it's still light!"

Stolas, amused by the banter, chuckled and added, "Remember, I may not be with you, but I have my ways of knowing what you do." He then cleared his throat, changing his demeanor, and said, "Have fun," before flipping through the pages of his Grimmoire.

With a wave of his hand, a portal to a forest opened up before them. The group gathered their belongings and eagerly stepped through the portal, ready for a camping adventure unlike any other. The forest awaited, shrouded in mystery and danger.

As the group passed through the portal and began their trek into the forest, Ghost lingered for a moment, waving politely to Stolas as the portal closed behind them. Stolas smiled and waved back before Ghost turned to catch up with the others.

After about an hour of walking, Ghost leaned toward Charlie, who was engrossed in conversation with Vaggie. "Charlie, is there a reason why we are aimlessly walking? Wouldn’t it be wiser to look for a spot to settle in?" Ghost inquired, their tone calm and collected.

Charlie, ever the optimist, turned to Ghost with a smile, raising her arms in a gesture of excitement. "Oh, come on, Ghost! Have a little fun! When was the last time you truly enjoyed nature, instead of focusing on the main objective?" she replied, her enthusiasm infectious.

"It has been a long time," Ghost admitted stoically, their face betraying nothing of their past.

Charlie, undeterred, playfully booped Ghost's face, causing them to flinch slightly at the unexpected contact. "Your next milestone in redemption is to enjoy nature!" she declared with a grin.

Ghost raised an eyebrow skeptically. "Are you sure that is integral to the redemption process?" they questioned, their analytical nature shining through.

Charlie started to sweat a little under Ghost's scrutiny still not knowing what exactly gets sinners into heaven, but before she could respond, Vaggie cut in sharply. "Yes, now shut up and enjoy your afterlife," she interjected, her tone firm.

Ghost, realizing they had little choice in the matter, calmly relented and fell back into step with the group.

Vaggie turns to Charlie with her brow raised “Hun, why did they ask about the redemption process? Don’t they know that we don’t know how to” Charlie quickly slaps a hand over her girlfriend’s mouth, her bounce in her step halted for a second as she turns to Vaggie sweating a little. “I um… kinda maybe didn’t really tell them… that we didn’t know how to redeem a sinner.”

Vaggie’s eyes go wide as pulls Charlie’s hand away as she whisper screams “What?” Charlie sheepishly smiling says “They didnt know when they got to the hotel so I kinda left that part out of… it.” Vaggie looking like she is going to pull her hair out says “Charlie are you serious? That thing could wipe out the hotel if they find out! Charlie I can’t believe you would do something that could put all that we’ve worked for in jeopardy.”

Charlie takes her hand and in a pleading tone says “Vaggie. They are an Overlord, they have the power to convince that even the most damned can go to heaven. This is big don’t you see?” Vaggie sighs “I know but I’m just looking out for you, and it’s not like I’ll tell them sh*t, I don’t trust them.” Charlie laughs “You don’t anyone except for me honey.” Vaggie smiles saying “Well, I don’t really need anyone except for you.” Charlie giggles blushing a bit.

As they walked, Ghost couldn't help but notice the beauty of the forest around them. Their thoughts focusing on their own wonderment. ‘Had the sky always been this… blue?’ The sky was a brilliant blue, a stark contrast to the red sky of the pride ring. The light filtering through the trees created a mesmerizing pattern on the forest floor, and Ghost found themselves captivated by the sights and sounds of nature.

Suddenly, a bird flew overhead, catching Ghost's attention. They watched in fascination as the bird landed on a nearby branch, its striking blue feathers shining in the sunlight. Ghost's robotic optics identified the bird as a Philippine fairy bluebird, and they couldn't help but smile at the beauty of the creature.

However, their moment of peace was interrupted as Angel Dust collided with them from behind, breaking Ghost out of their reverie. "sh*t! Why'd you stop?" Angel exclaimed, clearly annoyed.

Ghost blinked in surprise, noticing for the first time that Angel had been on his phone the whole time. "I... apologize," Ghost said, taken aback by the sudden collision.

Angel rubbed his face and muttered, "Well, watch it next time, Toots," before continuing on his way, still engrossed in his phone.

Ghost stood there for a moment, watching as everyone else continued on, most of them glued to their phones, except for Charlie and Pentious. However Pentious is more talking than looking at nature. They suddenly felt a pang of loneliness, realizing that while they were trying to enjoy the beauty of nature, everyone else seemed disintrested.

As Ghost continued to walk behind everyone, their robotic optics scanned the surroundings, capturing images of any animals or interesting sights that caught their attention. The more they looked and marveled at the wonders of nature, the slower their pace became. Unbeknownst to the others, Ghost's mechanical body produced its own hotspot, providing internet connectivity for everyone's phones. As Ghost's pace slowed, so did everyone else's, until Husk, Angel, and Niffty's phones were practically inches from their face.

Ghost, uncomfortable with the invasion of their personal space, maintained a stoic expression, but there were underlying notes of irritation. Charlie, noticing the gap in the group, turned back in confusion, wondering why everyone was lagging behind. It dawned on her that everyone was glued to their phones, and she couldn't understand why.

"Are you all on your f*cking phones?!" Charlie exclaimed, her frustration evident. Husk, Angel, and Niffty looked up, startled by Charlie's outburst. She continued, "I literally embarrassed myself in front of one of the Ars Goetia Princes to get us here! And we're in the living world! How are you even getting signals?!"

Husk, Angel, and Niffty pointed to Ghost, who was still annoyed by the phones in their face. Angel scoffed, "Iron Giant over here is practically a walking hotspot."

Vaggie, shocked, shouted, "Ghost, are you serious?" Ghost lightly pushing one of the phones from their face, calmly responded with their arms folded behind their back, "I am always serious."

Charlie took charge, instructing everyone to put their phones in her backpack. She opened the large bag and pointed to it. Everyone grumbled but complied, shoving their phones inside. Angel, however, groaned, "God, how am I going to flirt with my crack dealer now?!"

Husk, irritated, grumbled, "Why the f*ck would you do that?" Angel teasingly replied, "No need to be so jealous, sourpuss. He just gives me a discount is all~"

Vaggie's frustration boiled over as she pointed a finger in Ghost's face. "Estoy que exploto. You need to shut off all that online crap, hotspot, wifi… whatever the f*ck. Got it?" Sir Pentious, observing the exchange, felt a twinge of empathy for Ghost, who had done nothing wrong. He looked between Vaggie and Ghost, unsure if he should intervene on Ghost's behalf.

Ghost calmly nudged Vaggie's hand away and replied with controlled calmness, "As you wish," powering off any and all connections to the internet. Vaggie turned on her heel, but Ghost raised their eight arms in the air, gesturing, "However, I will not turn it back on for the rest of the trip." Vaggie scoffed rudely, "You say that like we even need it," before rejoining Charlie.

As everyone continued talking, Ghost followed from behind, enjoying the ability to look at nature without the distraction of people crashing into them. Still gazing at the bright blue sky, Sir Pentious nervously approached Ghost. They shifted their attention from the sky to him as he greeted them bashfully.

"Hello, Pentious," Ghost replied calmly. Sir Pentious, feeling a need to express his discomfort with Vaggie's behavior, said, "They shouldn’t have been so coarse with you." Ghost raised an eyebrow, confused. "Pardon?" they asked. Sir Pentious blushed slightly as he slithered alongside Ghost. "Oh, w-what I mean to say is that Vaggie was a tad harsh, don’t you think? You hardly did anything, after all," he chuckled awkwardly.

Still perplexed, Ghost responded, "I think that was a proper reaction, and I had provided the gateway toward distractions." Sir Pentious shook his head, surprised at how unbothered and composed Ghost seemed with the rest of the demons. He was also surprised at how easily Ghost handled Vaggie's harsh treatment.

"No..." Sir Pentious said, "She didn't need to snap at you like that. No one should snap at you like that." Ghost, still not understanding, said, “That isn’t even the standard outburst for the average, it's more calm than expected.” Sir Pentious's forehead creased with concern at this revelation. "That level of hostility is considered calm for you?" he asked, feeling a flash of guilt for all the times in their past rivalry when he'd said something insensitive to Ghost, which Ghost had brushed aside as simple teasing. Ghost looks back to the sky while remaining silent, unsure how to respond.

Sir Pentious felt a stab in his heart as he noticed Ghost's sudden silence. He scrambled to think of something to say, anything to lighten the tense atmosphere.

“Uuhh…” His mind went blank; he hadn’t expected Ghost to struggle to respond. In this moment, he realized just how accustomed he was to Ghost replying with a calm or clever remark. Sir Pentious nervously blurted out, “...LOOK at my outfit!”

Ghost turned back to look at Sir Pentious, who was wearing a safari outfit complete with a hat adorned with a little sentient face that seemed to be smiling at Ghost with glee. Ghost, feeling a bit warmer towards Sir Pentious's antics, replied stoically, “I noticed.”

Sir Pentious gestured to his outfit. “It’s my camping outfit! See?” Ghost nodded, acknowledging, “It is well suited for our trip. It’s nice,” as they continued walking together. Sir Pentious beamed with pride at Ghost's approval, maintaining the uneasy tension between them.

“Can I tell you a secret?” Sir Pentious asked, hoping to further lighten the mood. “If you wish,” Ghost replied, intrigued. “I made it myself!” Sir Pentious announced dramatically, striking a pose. “And… I wanted your opinion on it. It’s my first time wearing it.” Ghost, now more interested, remarked, “Impressive, I would have assumed a tailor had made it.”

Sir Pentious's heart skipped several beats with pride and excitement, thrilled that someone had recognized his efforts. As they continued down the path side by side, Sir Pentious felt a lightness in his breath, a bit more at ease.

“T-thank you... I appreciate your compliment,” he said with an awkward grin.

Sir Pentious looked around at everyone else, noting that they were still in their regular outfits. He turned to Ghost, curiosity piqued, and asked, “Do you have a hiking ‘fit,’ as they say?”

Ghost looked back at him calmly and responded, “Actually, yes, I do.” Sir Pentious became excited at the prospect of Ghost wearing something different, not that they didn’t already look great. It would just be nice to see them in a different outfit.

Sir Pentious's excitement only grew, he couldn't help but feel more curious about the type of outfit, and also more of the thought of Ghost in just another outfit in general.
He quickly replied with some excitement in his voice "Oh, well, can I see? Is there a reason you’re not wearing it now?” Sir Pentious inquired eagerly. Ghost replied, “I must have forgotten. Give me a moment.”

Ghost reached into their chest compartment and pulled out a pair of sunglasses, putting them on. They turned to Sir Pentious stoically, saying, “There, now we’re both prepared.”

Sir Pentious blinks a few times, struggling to process the new revelation before he finally asks "...that's it?" He was slightly disappointed to see that all Ghost had done was add the sunglasses to their lonely outfit of just a lab coat. Sir Pentious deflated a bit, feeling a twinge of disappointment. "You look great," he said, trying to hide his feelings. Ghost, oblivious to his disappointment, simply replied, “Thank you.”

Sir Pentious feels a bit ashamed that he got himself so excited over the thought of them being in a entirely new outfit. He knew better than to expect it and yet, in a small way, he still did.
"No problem," he says, trying to keep his attitude as nonchalant as ever, though his head was screaming ‘Nooooo!!’

Sir Pentious, trying to shake off his earlier disappointment, looked at Ghost and asked, “Sooo, how do you know Prince Stolas?” Ghost glanced back at him, their expression calm and collected. “Royal affairs,” they replied simply.

Sir Pentious's heart skipped a beat, his mind immediately jumping to conclusions. Whisper-screaming in a panic, he blurted out, “The PRINCE is having an affair with you?!”

Ghost turned their head to fully face him, a look of confusion crossing their features. “What? No, no,” they clarified, their tone softening. “We are professional. But I am a long-time friend of his.”

Sir Pentious felt the panic immediately subside, and he let out a relieved breath. He tilted his head slightly, curious about the dynamic between Ghost and Stolas, though a hint of jealousy crept in as they seemed to be so close.

Trying to gauge Ghost's relationship status, Sir Pentious hesitantly asked, “But, you aren’t dating, are you?” Ghost raised a brow in suspicion. “Why do you care, whether or not we are?”

Sir Pentious's stomach fluttered with nerves, and his heart beat a bit faster. His face flushed a bright red in embarrassment. He looked away, unable to meet Ghost's gaze, and stammered, “I…. I just…” His awkwardness began to show more than usual as his thoughts raced. “Um, no reason! No reason at ALL!”

Ghost looks at Pentious again and says “Pentious, are you alright?”

Avoiding eye contact, Sir Pentious continued to look away, his cheeks still flushed. After a moment, he sighed, his embarrassment evident. “Yes…”

Ghost nodded, and the two continued their hike, Sir Pentious stealing glances at Ghost, still in love with his enigmatic companion.

Chapter 23: ‘Lossst’ in thought

Chapter Text

Sir Pentious slithered along behind the others, lost in thought. He pondered different ways to get Ghost to open up to him, feeling increasingly hopeless about breaking through their walls. It was like trying to chip away at a massive iceberg; no matter how much progress he thought he was making, there was always more beneath the surface.

Deep in his contemplation, he tried to sneak a peek at Ghost, only to realize they were no longer in front of him. Panic surged through him as he looked around, only to find Ghost a few yards behind, standing still and admiring a lizard in a tree.

The sight surprised Sir Pentious. Sir Pentious watches Ghost and blushes as he takes in the sight. He had never seen Ghost this still...ever. He had always thought of the robot as stoic, unbothered, and all business. He had never pegged Ghost as the type to stop and appreciate the world around them. Ghost was always focused on tasks, dedicated solely to their work. But here they were, seemingly entranced by the beauty of nature.

Sir Pentious watched from afar as the light played on Ghost's robotic features, if one squinted their antennae sparking in a more lighthearted manner than usual. His heart swelled with affection. This makes Sir Pentious's heart skip a beat as he watches them, and he can't help but let out an inward, "Aww..." He couldn't help but swoon a little at the endearing sight.

Approaching Ghost slowly, Sir Pentious noticed that they didn't turn toward him. They seemed unguarded, lost in the moment. Smiling, Sir Pentious remarked, "It’s truly amazing, isn’t it?"

Ghost remained focused on the lizard, its colorful hues and striped tail captivating their attention. "It’s fascinating," they replied softly.

The two stood in comfortable silence, sharing a moment of appreciation for the lizard's unique appearance. The lizard, seemingly intrigued by these strange beings, looked up at them with a curious gaze, as if wondering, ‘Who are these strange people, and what other world do they belong to?’

Sir Pentious's heart felt like it would burst at this moment. The connection that was there between these two felt genuine. This moment, this simple, yet so profound moment was one Sir Pentious would forever treasure, as corny as it sounded.

He thought how he wished they stayed like this, just him and Ghost, taking in the little thing around them.

But as all good things do, the moment was broken as they could hear the rest of the group yelling at them to catch up.

Sir Pentious and Ghost resumed their walk, both looking up to the sky as they walked. They noticed two birds flying together, their wings synchronized in flight, before landing on a tree branch and cuddling up together. Sir Pentious couldn't help but see a parallel between the birds and himself and Ghost. He wondered if one day, they too would find that kind of companionship and closeness.

Meanwhile, Ghost, still wearing their stoic expression, had a slightly softer look on their face as they gazed at the birds. However, romance was the last thing on their mind. Their thoughts drifted to the scientific practicalities in the animal kingdom, contemplating the mating rituals and behaviors of birds.

Sir Pentious found himself stealing glances at Ghost, admiring their intelligent mind and their strong demeanor. He felt a sense of admiration for Ghost, appreciating their unique perspective on the world and their unwavering focus.

As they walked on in comfortable silence, Ghost found themselves surprisingly pleased with how the trip was turning out. The peacefulness of nature, coupled with the comfortable silence with Sir Pentious, was a welcome change from their usual routine.

As Sir Pentious and Ghost continued their walk, enjoying the peacefulness of nature, Ghost suddenly stopped, causing Sir Pentious, deep in thought, to walk a few more steps before realizing Ghost wasn't beside him. He turned around, about to ask what was wrong, when one of Ghost's eight arms extended toward him and tapped his shoulder.

Confused, Sir Pentious followed Ghost's gaze, which led to a cluster of trees. Slithering closer, he looked in the direction Ghost was pointing and saw a cute deer, delicately nibbling at the moss on a tree. Sir Pentious couldn't help but let out a soft "aww" at the sight. Ghost hears this and senses that strange feeling once again.

Ghost, usually stoic, seemed to be less guarded in this moment. Sir Pentious noticed a subtle change in Ghost's demeanor, a slight softening that made them appear almost... happy. They stood together in silence, watching the deer with a shared sense of wonder and appreciation for the natural world.

As they stood there, Sir Pentious glanced down and noticed one of Ghost's hands not folded behind their back like the others, but hanging at their side. A sudden impulse seized him, and he tentatively reached out to touch Ghost's hand, wanting to offer some form of comfort or connection.

However, just as his fingertips were about to brush against Ghost's hand, Ghost, completely unaware of Sir Pentious's gesture, folded their hand behind their back and began to slowly walk toward the deer. Sir Pentious, feeling shy and a bit embarrassed at the missed opportunity, quickly clasped both his hands together, trying to play it off as a casual movement.

He watched as Ghost approached the deer, marveling at the gentle grace in their movements. Sir Pentious couldn't help but feel a pang of longing, wishing he could have shared that moment of connection with Ghost. He sighed softly, realizing that despite his efforts, there was still a distance between them that he wasn't sure how to bridge.

As Ghost drew closer to the deer, Sir Pentious took a moment to compose himself, determined to enjoy the rest of the trip and maybe find another opportunity to connect with Ghost in a meaningful way.

As Ghost and Sir Pentious stood mesmerized by the deer, a sense of tranquility enveloped them. The forest seemed to hold its breath, the only sound the gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze. The deer, oblivious to the unusual nature of its observers, continued to graze peacefully, its movements graceful and unhurried.

Ghost, usually reserved and focused, was visibly moved by the encounter. Their usual stoicism had softened, replaced by a sense of wonder and awe. They turned to Sir Pentious, their expression inviting him to share in this moment of beauty.

Sir Pentious, too, was captivated by the scene before him. He had always seen Ghost as a formidable and enigmatic figure, but now, seeing them in this light, he felt a newfound connection. He moved closer to Ghost, mirroring their calm and careful movements so as not to startle the deer.

As they stood there, mere feet away from the deer, it suddenly lifted its head and looked directly at them. Ghost and Sir Pentious exchanged a surprised glance. Could it see them, despite Ghost being "invisible" to the living?

Ghost, ever curious, extended one of their many hands toward the deer, offering it a tentative greeting. The deer, seemingly unfazed by their presence, sniffed the air and then bounded away, disappearing into the underbrush with effortless grace.

Ghost and Sir Pentious were left standing in the quiet clearing, the spell broken. Sir Pentious glanced around and realized with a jolt that the rest of the group had left them behind. He turned to Ghost, a nervous edge to his voice as he said, "The group left us."

Ghost snaps back to reality and looks to their left noticing that they are indeed gone. Ghost regains their cold calculated demeanor as they address the issue. With a stoic tone they say “Seems so.” and turns to the direction that they were walking before,

Ghost remained calm, their focus shifting from the departing deer to the situation at hand. They assessed their surroundings, then turned to Sir Pentious with a reassuring nod. "We should catch up with them," they said calmly, gesturing in the direction the group had gone.

Sir Pentious nodded, grateful for Ghost's steady presence. Together, they set off through the forest, their bond strengthened by the shared moment of wonder they had experienced. As they walked, Sir Pentious couldn't help but feel a newfound respect and admiration for Ghost, who had shown him a side of themselves he had never seen before.

As Ghost and Sir Pentious continued through the woods, Sir Pentious couldn't shake off the sense of disappointment that lingered after their brief moment of connection. Ghost, on the other hand, seemed to have returned to their usual cold and calculated demeanor, leaving Sir Pentious feeling a bit unsettled.

Feeling the need to break the tension, Sir Pentious asked, "Do you think we're lost?" His voice held a hint of unease, reflecting his growing anxiety about their situation. Ghost, ever the rational thinker, replied calmly, "Unlikely, but daylight is running out." Sir Pentious nodded in agreement, though he couldn't shake the feeling of being stranded in an unfamiliar place.

As they walked, Sir Pentious grumbled to himself, folding his arms in frustration. He felt a bit foolish for getting himself into this predicament, especially with Ghost, who seemed unfazed by the circ*mstances. "Fantastic," he muttered, his frustration evident in his voice.

Ghost, always practical, offered a solution. "Here, let me carry you," they said matter-of-factly. Sir Pentious froze at the unexpected offer, his heart skipping a beat. "WHAT!!??" he exclaimed, taken aback by the suggestion. Ghost, unaware of any romantic implications, simply reiterated, "We can travel faster if I fly, and I can't do that if I don't carry you."

Sir Pentious's mind raced, trying to process the situation. On one hand, being carried by Ghost would be efficient and practical. On the other hand, the idea of being so close to Ghost, feeling their arms around him as they flew through the air again, sent a flutter of excitement through him. He quickly dismissed the latter thought, reminding himself that there was no romantic intent behind Ghost's offer.

"I can take your bag," Ghost offered, their expression unchanged. Sir Pentious felt another flutter in his chest at the gesture. "I-I..uh…yes please, thank you…" he managed to say, his voice slightly shaky, his face flushing with embarrassment. He handed over his bag to Ghost, who took it with their free arms. Ghost notice his face flushing feels a bit funny, the strange feeling was small but a big enough for them to continue wondering.

Ghost secured the bag and then extended their arms toward Sir Pentious, ready to lift him off the ground. Sir Pentious hesitated for a moment, his heart pounding in his chest. He took a deep breath and then, with a mix of nervousness and excitement, he allowed Ghost to lift him up, their bodies now in close proximity as they prepared to take flight.

As Ghost activated their rocket boosters, the yellow flames roared to life underneath them, propelling them through the woods with impressive speed. Sir Pentious, being carried in a bridal style, was still in awe at the fact that Ghost could fly. He stared, mesmerized, as they soared through the forest, the wind rushing past them.

Sir Pentious held on tightly, feeling the thrill of the flight. He couldn't help but smile as he looked up, admiring Ghost's speed and agility in the air. The soft wind flowed through his hood, adding to the exhilarating experience.

Sir Pentious, caught up in the moment, asked Ghost, "Wouldn't it be better to go over the trees and spy on them from above?" Ghost looked at him stoically and replied, "Logically, yes, but I wouldn't want to attract unnecessary attention in the living world." Sir Pentious nodded in understanding, trying to hide how much the flight was affecting him emotionally.

As they flew, Sir Pentious gazed down at the forest, watching the trees and animals pass beneath them. He spotted a bird in a tree and waved at it with his free hand, feeling a sense of connection to the natural world around him. He then looked back up at Ghost, completely mesmerized by their graceful movements.

As the sky started to turn vibrant shades of orange and red with the setting sun, Ghost lifted them higher above the trees. The darkening sky sheilding them both. Their demeanor remained focused and stoic, their trajectory marked by the trail of yellow flames from their feet. Ghost's visor glowed with their screen's amber eyes, adding to the surreal beauty of the moment.

Sir Pentious felt the cool winds on his face and in his hood, a refreshing sensation despite the chill. He looks down to see the bright golden trail that follow ghost. He’s completely mesmerized by the sight of Ghost as they are above him. The way they move, their form, everything is like a painting or a cryptic poem.

Suddenly, Ghost's tone broke from its usual stoicism, and they looked into Sir Pentious's eyes. "I still can't locate them," Ghost said, a hint of frustration creeping into their voice. Sir Pentious's heart skipped a beat at the break in Ghost's usual composure. He looked back up, trying to spot the group, but they were nowhere to be seen. "Dammit… where did they get to?" he muttered, feeling a pang of worry for the safety of the others.

As Ghost activated their infrared vision to scan below, they encountered clusters of heat signatures that indicated the presence of living beings. However, the angle made it difficult for Ghost to see clearly while carrying Sir Pentious. To get a better view, Ghost tightened their hold on Sir Pentious, allowing them to adjust their position and crane their head to look over him.

Sir Pentious felt the gentle embrace of Ghost and his stomach did another cartwheel at the intimate action. The closeness to Ghost made him increasingly nervous, but there was also a strange comfort in being held so close. Ghost's body enveloped him, making him feel safe, yet slightly flustered by the proximity.

As he gazed up at Ghost, he noticed the focused intensity of their gaze as they scanned the area below. Sir Pentious gulped nervously, not wanting to break the tension that had formed between them. He was acutely aware of their proximity, the subtle rise and fall of Ghost's chest as they breathed, and the faint hum of their mechanical body.

Ghost's infrared vision allowed them to identify the heat signatures of the group below, and they began to descend towards them. Sir Pentious held on tightly, feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension at the prospect of reuniting with the others. He glanced down, catching glimpses of the forest canopy passing by beneath them.

As Ghost looked up at the sunset, its beauty and the memories it stirred within them caused them to stop in the air, standing upright as they normally would, their boosters firing to keep them aloft. This uncharacteristic pause surprised Sir Pentious, who looked up at Ghost in confusion. "Is something wrong?" he asked, his voice tinged with concern.

Ghost continued to gaze at the sunset, the colors swirling in the sky like a painting. "I haven’t seen a sunset in over 74 years," they said softly, almost to themselves.

Sir Pentious's expression softened as he understood. "It's been over 100 years for me. I get it," he replied, his voice filled with understanding.

He felt as though he were in a painting as he looked at Ghost in the sky, the backdrop being the setting sun and the darkening sky. Mesmerized by Ghost's presence and the serene moment, Sir Pentious stared, feeling a sense of peace wash over him.

In a low voice filled with admiration, he said, "You’re amazing..."

Ghost snapped out of their trance-like state, turning to Sir Pentious with their usual stoic look. "Apologies, did you say something?" they asked, unaware of the compliment.

Realizing he had spoken aloud, Sir Pentious felt a flush of embarrassment. "Oh... uhm... I said it was all amazing!" he laughed nervously, trying to cover up his slip.

Ghost simply nodded, returning their gaze to the sky. "Indeed," they replied.

Sir Pentious noticed Ghost still looking at the fading sun, and he couldn't help but admire the sight himself. With a slight blush on his cheeks, he commented, "You like to admire nature, huh?"

Ghost looks back at him, reluctant to let anyone know they they allowed themselves to ‘enjoy’ something. Eventually they say “It’s just a scientific miracle is all.” they replied, their tone still stoic, masking any hint of sentimentality.

Sir Pentious chuckled softly. "Right, 'just' a scientific miracle," he teased lightly. Despite Ghost's stoicism, Sir Pentious found himself intrigued by the fact that even they could be fascinated by the small wonders of nature. It only deepened his curiosity about Ghost and the complexities of their character.

As Sir Pentious looked back at Ghost with a soft and genuine smile, he couldn't help but find himself drawn to Ghost's mysterious nature. Chuckling at Ghost's stoic answer, he said, "I'm sure you can appreciate things besides the scientific. For example, what do the colors of the sunset remind you of?"

Ghost hesitated, reluctant to reveal any personal feelings. "...fruit. Citrus, peaches, and such," they replied awkwardly, their gaze shifting away.

Sir Pentious blinked in slight surprise, feeling a flutter in his chest. "The sunset reminds you of fruits...? Why?" he asked, genuinely curious about Ghost's perspective.

Ghost, taken aback by Sir Pentious's interest, asked, "I apologize, but what makes you so intent on knowing?" It was a rare occurrence for someone to inquire about Ghost's thoughts or feelings, especially about something as seemingly trivial as the beauty of nature.

Sir Pentious fidgeted with his sleeves, his face turning a shade of red. "Just curious," he said, trying to disguise the true depth of his curiosity. "You're so stoic, so focused on science... It's only natural that I would be curious about how you feel about these sort of things. Like nature... or the sunset..."

Ghost looked back at the sunset, opening up a little. "Balimbing. The sunset reminds me of balimbing, because... that's my favorite fruit."

Sir Pentious was stunned by the revelation. The idea that Ghost had a favorite fruit seemed to go against everything he knew about them. "Balimbing...?" he repeated in disbelief, though he had a feeling that Ghost was being sincere.

Ghost clarified, "It's also called Starfruit. The sun is a star too."

Taking a moment to process this new information, Sir Pentious asked, "They're your favorite fruit?"

Ghost cleared their throat awkwardly. "Yes. Yes, they are."

Sir Pentious felt his face flush with warmth at this unexpected glimpse into Ghost's personal preferences. It was a small detail, but it humanized Ghost in a way he hadn't anticipated. He couldn't help but smile at the thought of Ghost, the cold and stoic scientist, having a soft spot for star fruit of all things.

"That's... interesting to know," he said, smiling warmly at Ghost.

As Ghost looked away, feeling uncertain about how Sir Pentious was figuring them out, a wave of unease washed over them. They were accustomed to maintaining a façade of stoicism, and this sudden insight from Sir Pentious made them feel exposed, almost scared. It was a vulnerability they weren't used to, and it left them feeling off-balance.

Sir Pentious, on the other hand, was amused by Ghost's reaction. He found it endearing how Ghost seemed to be in their "awkward zone," as he called it. It was a side of Ghost he doesn’t see often, and it continues to intrigue him.

Chuckling to himself, Sir Pentious looked back at Ghost, who still seemed unsure. "Don't worry, Ghost. I won't tell anyone about your favorite fruit," he teased, trying to lighten the mood.

Ghost managed a small, almost imperceptible nod before turning their attention elsewhere. They noticed the rest of the group on the ground, setting up the tents. "I've located the others," Ghost said stoically, already starting to fly towards them.

Sir Pentious nodded, following Ghost closely. He couldn't shake off the feeling of disappointment that crept into his heart. He had hoped to get to know a lighter side of Ghost, but it seemed like they were back to their usual self – closed off and distant.

As they approached the group, Sir Pentious let out a sigh of relief. "Oh, thank goodness they're here," he said, glad to be back among familiar faces. But deep down, he couldn't help but wonder about the side of Ghost he had briefly glimpsed and what it might mean for their relationship.

As Charlie called Ghost over, waving her hands excitedly, Sir Pentious felt a pang of dismay as Ghost left his side. He watched as Ghost joined Charlie, with Angel Dust, Husk, and Niffty coming up behind him. Angel, ever the provocateur, placed his arm casually on Pentious's shoulder and teased, "You and Astro Boy over there and you were gone a while. I gotta say, I didn’t take you for the type to f*ck in the woods."

Sir Pentious froze at Angel's comment, his mind immediately racing back to the moments he had shared with Ghost. He felt his face flush with heat, his ears burning as embarrassment washed over him. He was at a loss for words, feeling like a flustered teenager under Angel's teasing gaze.

Looking down at the ground, Sir Pentious mumbled, "Uhm, no, we were not..." His voice trailed off, and he glanced back up at Angel, hoping the subject would change.

Niffty, with her characteristic manic laughter, leaned over to Sir Pentious, shouting into his ear, "I knew you had a bad boy streak!" Husk, clearly annoyed, interjected, "Would you cut it out with all the f*cking?" Angel, still leaning on Pentious's shoulder, rolled his eyes and retorted, "f*cking is my job, Patty Cakes," his tone teasing.

Husk sighed in frustration and grumbled, "Niffty doesn’t need encouragement, you know." Angel theatrically sighed and turned to Niffty, saying, "Sorry, Toots, but you gotta chill out." Niffty, still bouncing with excitement, insisted, "I am calm!"

Turning back to Sir Pentious, Husk changed the subject, "So, still chipping away at the robot?" Sir Pentious felt his embarrassment growing as the group joined them, the attention focused on him. He had hoped to avoid this kind of attention, but it seemed inevitable.

He could only manage to look back at Ghost talking to Charlie three yards away, trying to compose himself. "Y-yes, I still am." He sighes twisting the brim of his hat in his hands.

Meanwhile…

As Charlie, Vaggie, and Ghost conversed, the atmosphere grew tense. Charlie, with a hint of relief in her voice, exclaimed, "Oh, thank God! Ghost, I forgot the instructions on how to put up the tent!" Ghost, ever the problem solver, offered, "I can assist you in searching for them."

However, Charlie had a different idea. With a sheepish smile, she said, "Well, actually, I was thinking about looking them up online?" Ghost, standing firm in their decision, shook their head. "I'm sorry, Charlie, I'm afraid I can't do that."

Vaggie, arms folded, interjected sharply, "And why not?" Ghost remained stoic, stating, "You forbade me to be connected to the internet and be a hotspot, so I'm afraid not."

Charlie, trying to find a solution, asked, "Oh, well, would you mind restarting it?" Ghost remained resolute, "I told Vaggie earlier that I would not be turning it back on for the rest of the trip. However, I can help look for the instructions with you if they might be in your bag."

Vaggie, tired from the long hike and honestly not liking Ghost’s tone is feeling challenged, approached Ghost with a sharp look in her eyes. "You are a heartless machine, aren’t you?" Sir Pentious turned to look and watched nervously, anticipating a heated argument. Ghost didn't take the comment lightly. Ghost stands straighter blinking at the sudden rude remark and turns away from Chrlie to face Vaggie.

They put their hands behind their back and locked eyes with Vaggie, a flicker of energy sparking between their antennae as their optics narrowed. "I'm sorry, but you must have forgotten that I am an overlord of Hell," Ghost replied, their voice steady and commanding. "But maybe you would like a reminder of just how heartless a machine of destruction I can possibly be." their tone having a lit of condescension.

Vaggie, taken aback by Ghost's sudden shift in demeanor, took a few steps back, her glare faltering. She was accustomed to Ghost's stoic and polite nature, not this. The change in Ghost's energy was palpable, and it left Vaggie speechless.

After a moment, Vaggie let out a sharp huff, crossed her arms, and said, "Fine, be that way." Ghost, unfazed, replied, "I intend to."

The tension between them lingered as Ghost stood their ground, a silent reminder of their power and determination. Sir Pentious watched the exchange, unsure of what to make of the situation.

As Ghost walked away from helping with Charlie and Vaggie’s tent, their usual stoic and calculated demeanor became a bit unstable. Sir Pentious couldn't help but notice a flicker of hurt deep within their eyes as they passed by him. It stirred a mix of curiosity, concern, and a slight sense of guilt within him. He wanted to approach Ghost and ask if they were okay, but something held him back. He felt that now might not be the right time.

Throughout the day, Sir Pentious had been plagued by a series of decisions that left him feeling nervous, curious, and somewhat embarrassed. Seeing Ghost's fleeting expression of hurt only added to his internal turmoil.

Ghost reached into their chest compartment and pulled out a small cube, tossing it lightly onto the ground. The cube unfurled, transforming into a small blue tent. With practiced ease, Ghost calmly walked inside. Sir Pentious observed this sequence of events, feeling a strange tug of curiosity and concern pulling at him.

He approached the cube-tent slowly, his gaze fixed on the entrance. Part of him wanted to enter and talk to Ghost, to find out what was bothering them. However, another part of him hesitated, feeling guilty for wanting to disturb Ghost when they seemed so calm and collected.

After a moment of contemplation, Sir Pentious decided to respect Ghost's space. He turned away from the tent, feeling a mixture of emotions swirling inside him. He couldn't shake the feeling that he should have done something differently, but he also knew that sometimes the best course of action was to give someone space when they needed it.

As he walked away from the tent, Sir Pentious couldn't help but wonder about Ghost's inner thoughts and feelings. He hoped that, in time, Ghost would feel comfortable enough to share them. Until then, he resolved to be patient and understanding, ready to offer support when needed.
Later, as things began to wind down, Sir Pentious had set up his tent and looked over at Charlie and Vaggie’s tent, which was somewhat shabby in its construction. It seemed they couldn't find the instructions after all. Charlie, with a large armful of firewood, came up to him, her expression determined yet slightly flustered.
Sir Pentious looked up as Charlie approached, carrying an armful of firewood. He noticed how the firewood seemed to nearly topple out of Charlie's grasp as she walked, and Sir Pentious couldn't help but chuckle. “Need some help there, my dear?” he asked, standing up and moving closer to her.
Charlie nodded, a sheepish smile on her face. “Thanks, Pentious! I thought it wouldn’t be a problem, but uh… look at me,” she said, her voice tinged with sheepishness.
Sir Pentious took half of the firewood from her arms, his claws handling the logs with surprising delicacy. “Ah, my dear, your optimism is endearing, but perhaps you could use a hand next time,” he teased lightly, following her to the bonfire spot.
Charlie sighed as they walked. “I know, but I just want things to be perfect! Camping is known to bring people together, but it seems like everyone either gets lost, consumed by their phones, or ends up in an argument.”
Sir Pentious listened to Charlie's observation, feeling a pang of guilt. He fidgeted with one of the logs in the firewood pile, avoiding her gaze. "Well, you're not entirely wrong," he admitted somewhat reluctantly. "Plus, Ghost is... well, they're a riddle wrapped in a mystery wrapped in an infuriating impenetrable metal shell," he said, attempting to make light of the situation. He straightened his necktie, adding with a touch of wistfulness, “And well, they are a wonderful mystery, that’s for sure.”
Sir Pentious gazed dreamily into the clouds, holding his hands out as if grasping for something intangible. “But, whenever they notice someone that starts to see them, really see them, they… close up,” he said, clasping his hands together, his voice filled with a mix of longing and frustration.
Charlie noticed the dreamy expression on Sir Pentious's face and couldn't help but smile. "That does sound like Ghost," she agreed, her voice tinged with sympathy. "They always seem to be quite guarded, and it's clear they're not used to letting people in."
Charlie wiped the dirt from her hands and looked up at Sir Pentious with a knowing smile. “But you know something?” She tapped the brim of his top hat, causing it to break into a sharp-toothed smile. “They seem to be the most themselves around you. So maybe, just maybe, you are getting somewhere with them.”
Sir Pentious felt a warm fluttering in his chest at Charlie's words. The idea that he might be bringing a different side out of Ghost, a more genuine side, filled him with a mixture of hope and excitement. He chuckled nervously, adjusting his top hat. "You think so?" he asked, his voice laced with uncertainty.
Charlie nodded, her smile growing wider. "Absolutely! I've been observing the two of you, and there's definitely something there. When Ghost is with you, they're noticeably calmer, more willing to open up. It's subtle, but it's there." She winked playfully. “And that’s why I’m letting you grab them for the bonfire. It’s in a few minutes.”
Sir Pentious nodded with a wide smile. “Of course, I’ll be right back with them.”
As he slithered toward Ghost’s tent, his heart racing with anticipation. He was about to call out to them through the tent flap when he noticed Ghost sitting cross-legged a short distance away, away from their tent, in a meditative position. He saw that the four compartment segments on their torso were open, revealing that they were lined with solar panels. Ghost wore the sunglasses they had brought on the trip, their face tilted toward the setting sun.
Sir Pentious's heart fluttered as his eyes lingered on Ghost, captivated by the sight of them in the meditative pose. The segmented panels of their chest were gracefully opened, and the setting sun's light gently danced upon their metallic form in a way that made them seem almost otherworldly. He sighed softly, a dopey smile spreading across his face, his hat reflecting the same sentiment.
For several moments, Sir Pentious stood there, watching Ghost in silent admiration. The tranquility emanating from them was contagious, and it instilled a sense of peace within him. The way the final rays of sunlight kissed their metallic surface created a mesmerizing display. Sir Pentious was torn between not wanting to disturb Ghost's moment of tranquility and his desire to spend more time with them. He fidgeted with his hat, uncertain of whether to break the silence or give Ghost the peace they obviously sought.
Ghost, however, broke the silence first, turning their head to acknowledge him. “Did you need something, Pentious?” their amber optics peeking over their sunglasses as they looked at him.
Sir Pentious's train of thought was interrupted as Ghost turned to face him, their amber optics boring into him. He caught himself in a momentary daze, entranced by the sight of them. Recovering quickly, Sir Pentious cleared his throat and replied, "Ah, yes... well, the bonfire is about to start. Charlie sent me to fetch you."
Ghost nodded, their solar panels folding back into place with a soft mechanical whir. “Good timing, the day is at its end.” They stood up gracefully, dusting off their lab coat and folding their arms behind their back.
Sir Pentious chuckled, a warm smile on his face as he observed the fluid motion of Ghost's panels folding back into place. The setting sun painted their metallic body in warm hues, creating a striking contrast against the darkening sky. As Ghost spoke, Sir Pentious nodded in agreement. "Indeed, it's the perfect moment for a bonfire under the setting sky." He smirked playfully. "Looks like your little meditation session was timed just right."
Ghost adjusted their sunglasses and looked at Sir Pentious with a hint of amusem*nt. “Thank you for telling me,” they said, their tone softening slightly.
Pentious smiled and nodded. “Anytime.”
As the sun finally disappeared behind the horizon, Charlie gathered everyone around in a circle. Her eyes sparkled with excitement as she held up a bundle of firewood.

"Okay, guys! I gathered enough firewood for a bonfire!" Charlie announced cheerfully, her voice carrying the enthusiasm of a child on Christmas morning. She turned to Ghost, who stood nearby, and asked, "Ghost, could you...?"

One of Ghost's many hands lifted up and transformed into a torch, the flames dancing brightly at its tip. Ghost leaned forward, and with a gentle exhale, a blast of fire shot out, igniting the firewood. The flames flickered and crackled, casting a warm glow over the group.

Charlie clapped her hands, her smile wide and bright. "Thanks, Ghost! This is going to be so much fun!"

Ghost nodded, their expression unreadable behind their visor. They took a step back, observing the flickering flames with a sense of detached interest.

As everyone settled down around the bonfire, the atmosphere was filled with a mix of excitement and relaxation. Angel Dust, always the mischievous one, sat near Husk, pestering him with playful banter. Husk, in his typical grumpy demeanor, grumbled in response but couldn't hide a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips in reaction to his gossip.

Niffty, on the other hand, was seemingly unable to sit still for even a moment. She flitted around the campsite, tidying up and ensuring everything was just right for the evening's festivities.

Charlie and Vaggie sat together, deep in conversation. Their voices were hushed, but their gestures animated, indicating a lively discussion. Vaggie's expression was earnest, her eyes reflecting the flickering flames of the bonfire, while Charlie's face was alight with excitement and anticipation.

Ghost glances at Vaggie, furrowing their brows in deep thought and looks back to the fire once again.

Sir Pentious sees this and feels the subtle tension is still somewhat lingering amongst the two.

As the night settled in around them, the crackling of the fire and the soft murmur of their voices filled the air. It was shaping up to be a perfect evening under the stars, and everyone was looking forward to what the night would bring.

As the crackling flames of the bonfire danced before them, Sir Pentious took a deep breath and settled down next to Ghost. The demon's eight arms shifted slightly as they turned to face him, their visor reflecting the warm light of the fire.

"How are you, Pentious?" Ghost's voice was calm and measured, catching Sir Pentious off guard. He hadn't expected Ghost to address him directly, and for a moment, he was at a loss for words.

"I... um... I..." Sir Pentious stammered, feeling a flush of embarrassment rise to his cheeks. He cleared his throat and tried again, this time with more determination. "I'm alright, I suppose. I was actually going to ask you the same thing."

He glanced at Ghost, noting the slight tension in their posture. He couldn't help but feel a twinge of concern for them, especially after the earlier confrontation with Vaggie.

Ghost, however, remained stoic. They turned their gaze back to the fire and replied, "Fine, perfectly fine," though there was a hint of something else in their voice, a subtle undercurrent of denial.

Sir Pentious sensed that Ghost might not be as fine as they claimed. With a quick glance around, he saw that everyone else was engaged in their own conversations, leaving them a moment of privacy.

The peaceful atmosphere of the campsite encouraged Sir Pentious to speak up, his voice softer this time. "Are you really fine, though...?"

Ghost, surprised by the question, paused for a moment. They had never been asked such a question before, and it caught them off guard, sparking that weird distant feeling they still can’t comprehend. Their optics widened ever so slightly their gaze into the fire now with a flicker of genuine surprise.

Before Ghost could respond, Charlie stood up, interrupting their conversation. "I brought food!" she announced, drawing the attention of everyone around the bonfire.

With a smile, Charlie began distributing bags of hot dogs and s'mores ingredients, sparking excitement among the group. Sir Pentious glanced back at Ghost, a silent promise in his eyes that he would return to their conversation later, once the distractions had faded away.

Ghost's gaze met his for a brief moment, and Sir Pentious thought he saw a flicker of gratitude in their eyes before they turned back to the fire, their expression once again unreadable.

Sir Pentious could've sworn that moment shared between Ghost and himself was a bit more…intimate. Like there was a silent understanding about something.

However, he quickly gets snapped out of his trance like state as everyone else’s attention is directed towards the hot dogs and s'mores. Sir Pentious, like the others, grabs their fair share of food and begins to enjoy the conversation that the others are having.

Even though everyone else was busy, Sir Pentious knew he would return to the conversation with Ghost again later that night…

As the flames of the bonfire flickered and danced, casting a warm glow over the group, Ghost settled back into their seat, the anticipation evident in their robotic features. With a delicate precision, they crafted a perfect s'more, carefully sandwiching a melting marshmallow between two graham crackers and a slab of chocolate. The sweet aroma wafted through the air, mingling with the scent of the crackling firewood.

As Ghost took a bite, relishing the sweet and savory combination, they noticed the curious gazes of their companions. “...Do you need something?” they inquire with a quirked brow. Charlie, her eyes bright with interest, was the first to speak up. "We've never seen you eat before, Ghost. It's... fascinating."

Ghost, usually so composed, felt a twinge of discomfort under the scrutiny. "I don't often partake in food," they explained, their voice steady despite the unexpected attention.

As everyone continued to enjoy their food, Sir Pentious felt a strong urge to defend Ghost's unusual behavior. He cleared his throat, drawing the attention of the group. "Wait! I've seen them eat!" he exclaimed, trying to sound convincing. "It was perfectly normal, especially when they were eating all those..." Sir Pentious's voice trailed off as he realized he was about to reveal Ghost's secret love for sweets. He quickly backtracked, his tone turning awkward. "Actually, I can't remember for the life of me what they ate! Ahaha..." he nervously laughed, hoping to deflect attention away from his slip.

However, everyone seemed to wave off his words, as if he were invisible. Sir Pentious felt a pang of hurt at being disregarded, but he tried to shrug it off. Ghost, however, gave him a slight nod, a silent acknowledgment of his attempt to defend them sensing that indecipherable feeling once again. Their expression remained unreadable, they knew Sir Pentious was trying to help, even if his efforts were a bit clumsy.

Husk, usually gruff and uninterested, raised an eyebrow. "What about bathroom breaks? Ever need one of those?"

Angel, ever the provocateur, leaned in with a smirk. "Yeah. Do you even... you know, go?"

Ghost's brow furrowed in confusion. "I... don't require such functions," they replied, the concept now seeming alien to them after residing in hell for so long.

Angel, always quick with a quip, leaned forward with a smirk. "Well, well, well, looks like our Ghost is a real mystery. No eating, no bathroom breaks... what else are you hiding, huh?"

Sir pentious had an uneasy expression on his face as he listened to Angel Dust and Husk talk to Ghost. It was a bit annoying hearing them try to joke and provoke Ghost and he almost wanted to say something, but he kept quiet. Angel dust was always a bit of a problem sometimes in his eyes and he didn't want to give Angel any more ammo against him.

As the group sat around the campfire, Angel couldn't resist his curiosity about Ghost's unique method of waste removal. Sir Pentious noticed Ghost’s look as they seemed to be trying to process the question, they were probably just as perplexed as he was at the line of questioning, if not more so. Wanting to divert attention away from themselves, Ghost replied, "Fine." Their antennae twitched slightly, and a word appeared on their visor: "Removing..." The others looked on in confusion, intrigued by Ghost's mysterious response.

Suddenly, a small ding noise broke the silence, and Ghost's midsection compartment opened, revealing a small bright noen yellow cube. Angel's eyes widened in shock. "Holy sh*t... did you just sh*t?" he exclaimed, using his typical crude language. Ghost responded deadpan, "Not necessarily. I don’t have biological functions, so I just comprise the excrement into capsules for proper disposal." The complexity of Ghost's explanation left everyone dumbfounded, prompting Ghost to clarify, "All the unwanted stuff from the food is pressed into a cube, and I throw it away."

Angel couldn't resist making a joke, remarking, "Holy sh*t, I knew you were kind of a square, but so is your sh*t!" Ghost, growing tired of the attention, corrected him, "It’s clearly a cube." Vaggie chimed in teasingly, "K, square," which only made Angel burst out laughing.

Sir Pentious felt his face heat up with embarrassment for Ghost. He was tempted to step in and say something to Angel, but he knew it would only make the situation more awkward for Ghost, so he remained silent. Ghost, unfazed by the laughter, gave an emotionless shrug and tossed the glowing cube into the fire, causing a quick blast of flame that startled everyone. Ghost raised a brow at their confusion and explained, "It’s irradiated and highly combustible, especially in fire." which prompted the others to glance at each other in slight shock.

Sir Pentious then noticed a small crack of amusem*nt in Ghost's robotic visor as they seemed to be studying the group's expressions. Despite the weird situation, Sir Pentious couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration for Ghost's ability to maintain their composure in such a peculiar moment.

They glanced around at the group, their expression unreadable behind their robotic facade. Ghost, while grateful for the distraction, couldn't shake the feeling of being different, of being watched for reasons beyond their control. While Sir Pentious feels left out, and perpetually lost.

Sir Pentious sees the group all laughing and goofing around with each other. It only further intensifies his feelings of being out of place.

He felt like a fish that's been thrown up on to land. While all the other demons are all able to breath easy, Sir Pentious feels like he's still struggling to get a clear view of what the atmosphere around him is like.

However...he could also feel that Ghost probably feels a lot more uncomfortable than he does, but it seems like they always knew what to say or how to act… unlike him. Sir Pentious stares once again into the flames, letting out a small sigh of frustration.

Chapter 24: The Walk.

Chapter Text

As the night settled in and the others drifted off to sleep in their tents, Ghost remained awake, nestled in their makeshift lab inside their small tent. Despite their efforts, nothing seemed to be working as efficiently as it did back in the demon realm of Hell. True to their word, Ghost made no decision to reactivate their "hotspot" ability, sticking to their resolve.

Frustrated with their lack of progress, Ghost decided to take a break from their work. They powered down all of their tech and unzipped their tent slightly, peering out to see if the others were still awake. The moon cast a soft glow over the campsite, illuminating the other tents. Ghost's optics caught the lone moon in the sky, its serene light contrasting with the chaos of their thoughts.

With a sigh, Ghost unzipped their tent fully and stepped out into the cool night air. Their eight arms folded behind their back as they walked, their footsteps silent on the forest floor. The trees whispered softly in the breeze, and Ghost found a sense of calm in the peacefulness of the night.

However, unbeknownst to Ghost, a certain serpent had noticed their departure. Sir Pentious, intrigued by Ghost's nocturnal excursion, decided to follow them, curious about what they were up to in the dead of night. Ghost continued deeper into the woods, lost in their own thoughts, unaware of the silent shadow trailing behind them.

As Ghost ventured deeper into the woods, a strange sensation prickled at the back of their mind, as if they were being watched. They paused, their sensors scanning the area, but they found nothing out of the ordinary. Shaking off the feeling, Ghost continued on their path, their mechanical feet crunching softly on the forest floor.

Unbeknownst to Ghost, Sir Pentious was indeed watching from the shadows, his curiosity getting the better of him. He had been following Ghost for some time now, intrigued by their mysterious behavior. As Ghost turned their head, Sir Pentious quickly ducked behind a tree, the darkness of the night cloaking him from view. He held his breath, hoping that Ghost hadn't noticed him.

Ghost, however, seemed unfazed and continued on their way, their pace quickening slightly. They wanted to be far enough from the campsite that they wouldn't be overheard by the others. Once they were sure they were out of earshot, Ghost activated their rocket boosters, propelling them into the air with a burst of speed.

Sir Pentious cursed under his breath at Ghost's sudden movement, his heart racing as he hurried to keep up. He slithered silently through the underbrush, his eyes fixed on Ghost's retreating form. As Ghost soared through the night sky, Sir Pentious marveled at their agility and grace, a sense of awe washing over him.

Ghost flew into a small clearing, the moon casting a soft glow over the area. They came to a stop, hovering in mid-air, their gaze fixed on the moon above. Sir Pentious watched from the shadows, his curiosity piqued by Ghost's actions.

‘It's beautiful,’ Ghost thought, their mind settling for a moment at the pure majesty of the sight. They continue to stare realizing it's one of the only things that stayed the same after they died.

Ghost presses a button on the side of their head, and the sound of music fills their senses. The song was “I only takes a Moment” a favorite of theirs when they think about the stars and how close they all seem together but in reality they are lightyears away.

Sir Pentious felt a pang of sadness at Ghost's gaze at the moon similar to what they both had done earlier. He wanted to reach out and soar into the sky right with them, to offer comfort, but he knew that Ghost was not one for displays of emotion.

As Ghost powered off their boosters, preparing to fall back to the ground, Sir Pentious held his breath, fearing for their safety. He felt like his heart was about to explode with nervous anxiety and his heart beat quickly started to rise in pace.

But Ghost was not done yet. At the last moment, they flipped through the air, activating their boosters once more and shooting off back into the sky once again, blowing apart the grass below them on the ground in turn.

Sir Pentious watched in awe as Ghost twirled through the air to the musics melody, their eight arms swirling around them like a graceful dancer. Despite the darkness of the night, Ghost seemed to glow with an inner light, a testament to their otherworldly nature.

Ghost smiled to themselves, a rare moment of joy shining through their robotic features. They were happy to finally have a moment to themselves, away from the prying eyes of their companions. Sir Pentious watched the small figure of Ghost, his heart full of admiration for this enigmatic being who had captured his curiosity and his heart.

As Ghost soared through the night sky, their rocket boosters propelling them with a graceful elegance, they felt a sense of freedom that was unmatched by anything else. The cool night air rushed past them, the stars twinkling brightly above, and the moon casting a soft, ethereal glow over the landscape below.

With each twist and turn, Ghost felt a surge of exhilaration, their eight arms moving in a synchronized dance as they navigated the night sky with ease. They spiraled and looped, their movements fluid and effortless, as if they were a part of the very fabric of the cosmos.

Sir Pentious sighs dreamily as he watched from the shadows, his eyes wide with awe at Ghost's aerial display. He had never seen anything quite like it, and he found himself captivated by the beauty and grace of Ghost's movements. Despite the darkness of the night, Ghost seemed to glow with an inner light, their visor reflecting the twinkling stars above.

As Ghost twirled and spun through the air, they couldn't help but feel a sense of peace wash over them. For a moment, all of their worries and fears faded away, replaced by a profound sense of serenity. They felt truly alive, truly free, in a way that they hadn't in a long time.

Sir Pentious watched, his heart swelling with admiration for Ghost. He had always seen them as a powerful and formidable force, but in this moment, he saw a side of them that was vulnerable and human. He felt a deep sense of connection to Ghost, a bond that transcended words or actions.

As Ghost glided through the night sky, their movements were a mesmerizing blend of elegance and power. Each turn and twist seemed like a dance choreographed by the stars themselves, their eight arms moving with a fluidity that was both breathtaking and awe-inspiring. The moon cast a soft, silver light over them, illuminating their form in a celestial glow.

Sir Pentious watched from the shadows, his heart pounding in his chest as he witnessed Ghost's graceful flight. He had always been drawn to the beauty of the night sky, but seeing Ghost move through it so effortlessly stirred something deep within him. He felt a longing, a yearning for something he couldn't quite name. He lets out a sigh of deep admiration.

As Ghost soared higher, their movements becoming more intricate and mesmerizing, Sir Pentious felt his breath catch in his throat. He had never seen anything so captivating, so utterly enchanting. In that moment, he realized that he was hopelessly, irrevocably in love with Ghost.

Suddenly, Ghost's demeanor shifted, their body tensing as if they had sensed something amiss. In a swift motion, one of their arms transformed into an arm cannon, and they fired a shot in Sir Pentious's direction.

Sir Pentious reacted instinctively, ducking behind a nearby tree as the blast tore through the air where he had been standing. The tree he was taking cover behind was left with a massive hole punched through it, the wood splintered, glowing and smoking from the impact.

Ghost scanned the area, their visor glowing as they searched for any sign of their unseen assailant. However, Sir Pentious, being cold-blooded, was able to evade Ghost's sensors, remaining hidden in the shadows.

Frustrated by their inability to locate the source of the disturbance, Ghost furrowed their brows and turned back, blasting into the air once again, their rocket boosters propelling them higher into the sky. Sir Pentious watched in awe as Ghost disappeared into the night, his heart aching with a love he could not express.

"Holy sh*t," Sir Pentious whispered, his voice barely audible over the rush of the wind. He knew then, without a doubt, that he was willing to do his best to get Ghost to let him in their afterlife. And as he watched them disappear into the night, he vowed to himself that he would find a way to break their impenetrable fortress of solitude.