Hazbin and Helluva Shorts III

Down with Valentino

Working at Porn Studios had its own share of miseries. But, of course, nobody thought of what went on behind the curtains. The customers were just there for a good show and drinks. Angel Dust was a crowd favorite. Not only did he work the pole like nobody else. But he could sing and had the best wardrobe in the company. If only that's how it was behind the scenes. From the beginning, his boss Valentino had been cruel and controlling. It wasn't just him, either. All the employees were treated like this from the moment they signed up.

Angel made up his mind. This had gone on long enough. Using some time off, he crashed at an odd hotel that had recently sprung up last week. Apparently, the owner was Princess Charlie herself. She had established this hotel hoping to rehabilitate demons and grant them a place in Heaven. How laughable. But the promise of free rent and food had been what attracted him. So, Angel checked in for the week and made himself comfortable. It was cozier than expected. And everything was new and clean.

Over the week, Angel got to know the staff. First was Charlie, the founder, and owner. The hotel had been her dream since childhood. She showed him around and was a delight to talk to. Second was Vaggie, the manager and second in command. He found her bossy and uptight. They didn't get along well. Next was Alastor, Charlie's business partner and co-owner from the shadows. He dealt with the more unsavory matters and kept to himself. Despite his off-putting demeanor, the two became friends. They often talked over drinks at the bar. Speaking of the bar, Husk wasn't much of a talker unless it was about drinking or magic tricks. Angel befriended him as well. As far as food and housekeeping, Niffty was in charge. She was small but knew her way around a broom and a filling meal. However, she was also a little disturbing. Angel made a note to himself regarding her cooking. He loved Italian cuisine.

On the last day of vacation, Angel asked Alastor for a favor. He wanted to eliminate Valentino. He didn't have to give a reason. This was Hell, after all. Without any questions, the two drove to Porn Studios. Alastor sought out Valentino and pretended to be interested in promoting the establishment on the radio with an excellent presentation. And he fell for it. He asked Alastor to return after closing to talk in greater detail. Until then, Angel was on stage and telling his coworkers in the background. Alastor surveyed the place and found the perfect place to set the trap. Now they had to do was lure Valentino to his death.

As night fell, the shows ended. Angel and Alastor got into position as the last performer bowed, and the curtain closed. Valentino was in his office finalizing next week's entertainers and musical numbers. As he was wrapping up, Alastor knocked and let himself in. His signature smile was glowing in the dim lighting from the hallway. Valentino welcomed him in. Playing his part, Alastor walked in and patiently waited for him to finish. In the meantime, Angel waited outside around back. There was a storage shed for various props and other things. He quickly cleaned up. All the while, his headset was tuned into Alastor's radio staff.

The two didn't have to wait long until it was game time. Alastor suggested they take a stroll while discussing his business offer. Angel was listening as they strode down the cobblestone path that circled the studio. Alastor slowed down, pretending to admire the foliage, and commented on the gardening upkeep. Rarely pleased by the small things, Valentino thanked him. Alastor smiled and gave his comrade the signal. Angel sprung his ambush. The overlord was caught by surprise. Before long, he was dead. Angel couldn't wait to tell his coworkers. Without hesitation, Alastor drew a large hunting knife. The next thing Angel knew, he was missing his head. But he looked better without it. Alastor put the head into a sack and tossed it to his accomplice. Trophies were nice. As for the rest of the body, a late-night meal never hurt.