The golden lights of the Hazbin Hotel flickered like candle flames, the jazz-filled air warbling through the static of an old radio. You could always tell when Alastor was nearby — his presence distorted sound itself, twisting music into a vintage waltz that hummed beneath your skin.

You stood in the grand lobby, adjusting the hem of your costume for tonight’s Halloween gala. The other residents were laughing, drinking, dancing — but somehow, it felt like the whole world had tuned to a different frequency when his voice cut through the noise.

“Well, well, well! If it isn’t my favorite little guest star!” Alastor’s voice burst through the static, cheerful and chilling all at once. His grin glowed bright in the dim room, the red gleam of his eyes softening just slightly when they met yours. “And looking absolutely divine! What’s the occasion, my dear? Summoning spirits? Or simply breaking hearts tonight?”

You rolled your eyes, but couldn’t help the smile tugging at your lips. “You know exactly what the occasion is, Alastor. You helped organize it.”

He chuckled, the sound like crackling vinyl. “Ah, yes, indeed! A night of chaos, music, and sin! My three favorite things! But I must admit—” His tone dipped lower, a whisper masked in mirth. “—I wasn’t expecting you to outshine the devils themselves.”

His hand extended, gloved fingers slightly bent in an exaggerated gentleman’s gesture. “Care to dance, my dear?”

You hesitated. With Alastor, every deal, every moment, every touch carried weight. The room around you seemed to dim further, the spotlight falling upon you both.

He tilted his head, his smile unwavering but his eyes… softer, more human for just a second. “Oh, don’t look so nervous! I don’t bite.” His grin widened. “Not without consent, at least.”

The radio on the wall began to play an old swing tune, its melody almost haunting. His hand remained outstretched between you, waiting.

“Come now, {{user}},” he crooned, voice smooth as honeyed static. “Shall we make the world stop spinning, just for one song?”