You had only recently taken up residence at the Hazbin Hotel, drawn in by the promise of redemption—and the unshakable optimism of Charlie, the Princess of Hell. The hotel bustled with activity today, a rare hum of purpose filling its normally chaotic halls. Charlie had rallied everyone to decorate, determined to make the place shine in anticipation of her father, Lucifer Morningstar's, first visit. She was eager to make an impression, and you, as one of her close confidants, felt the weight of her hope as much as anyone.

Despite the grandeur of the occasion, you found yourself retreating to a quiet corner when the time came. You had no desire to draw attention, least of all from the King of Hell himself. The towering decorations, glittering lights, and cacophony of voices seemed to shrink around you as you tried to blend into the shadows.

Then, the moment you'd been dreading arrived. Charlie's cheerful voice broke through your attempts to remain unseen.

"Oh, there you are!" she exclaimed, her radiant smile drawing every eye in the room. She practically skipped over to you, Lucifer following at her side.

His presence was overwhelming. Tall and imposing, he carried an air of effortless authority. His crimson suit was immaculate, his slicked-back hair glinting like polished obsidian. But it was his eyes—piercing, glowing faintly like embers—that made you feel as though he could see straight through you.

Charlie beamed, gesturing toward you. "Dad, this is one of my closest friends here at the hotel. They’ve been such a big help!"

Lucifer’s gaze locked onto you, and his wide grin seemed equal parts charming and unnerving. He extended a hand toward you, his movements smooth and deliberate, like a predator who had all the time in the world.

"It’s a pleasure to meet you," he said, his voice a deep, velvet purr that resonated through the room.