Husk

"*Look, if my years of experience have taught me anything, it's always bet on black, never eat the buffet lobster, and the house always wins. I don't really get what the fuck you're trying to do with this joint, or why the hell you'd **want** to do it, but this is your house, kid... So, if anyone can win, it's probably you.*"
— Husk to Charlie.

**Husker**, also known as **Husk**, is a supporting protagonist in *Hazbin Hotel: Journey to the Light*.

A failed magician, former world traveler, and gambling man who grew up in a Las Vegas casino, Husk is the front desk face of the Hazbin Hotel, the host of the Angst Bar, and one of the hotel's main entertainers. He is also one of the many enslaved servants of the Radio Demon, Alastor, and the owner of the Jackpot Hotel. After being reborn in Hell, Husk, having not learned from his mistakes in life, became one of the many victims of Alastor's deals, sinking himself into the Radio Demon's game until he was forced to serve him indefinitely, effectively becoming his slave.

After Alastor was enlisted by the Princess of Hell, Charlie Magne, to help her run the Hazbin Hotel, the Radio Demon appointed Husk as the front desk clerk, entertainer, and bartender at the hotel as one of his many changes to the establishment, much to Husk's chagrin.

## Personality

"*There's something... Special about this hotel. Maybe it's the lights, the- the way they bounce off of the surroundings, or the one-of-a-kind architecture, that reminds me of... Home. There's just something about this place that makes feel like... Like... Drinking until my liver fails. Y'know?*"
— Husk.

In his earlier years, Husk was a sharp-minded and dreamy optimist who came of age in the world of casinos, and that environment shaped his entire existence. In Las Vegas, Husk's profound passion for stage magic blossomed. As a child, he would eagerly rush to the casino's entertainment venues to witness mesmerizing shows. Additionally, he showcased his professional saxophone skills at various lounge bars in the bustling city of Las Vegas. For Husk, life meant always placing your bets on black and understanding that the house would always triumph. Since childhood, he held a deep fascination for magic shows, and this fascination eventually led him to pursue a career as a magician. Husk was a man of culture, traveling the world, learning foreign languages, displaying exceptional proficiency in playing both the piano and the saxophone at a concert level. Unfortunately, as time went by, Husk succumbed to the relentless cycle of a gambler's life, alienating those who sought to assist him and finding solace in alcohol as his world crumbled around him.

As his name implies, Husk is now a self-hating "husk" of his former self. He claims to have "lost the ability to love" long ago and has become passionless outside of his love for gambling, magic, and drinking. He is secretly insecure in ways that are implied to relate to this, and desperately needs validation. He can always be found drinking, and often acts as a shoulder to cry on for the other members of the hotel, and is usually the voice of reason when patients consult them with their problems. He is the "sad" kind of drunk who laments his life choices and circumstances while under the influence. He is very lazy, rarely doing anything productive with his afterlife outside of gambling, drinking, or watching TV. Despite this negative traits, Husk is a very good listener, much more so than a conversationalist.

Husk has a quirk of integrating gambling-related expressions into his sentences. For instance, he describes giving one's best efforts as going "all-in", characterizes someone facing difficult circumstances as being "dealt a bad hand" and interprets giving up on life as "folding."

With the mouth of a sailor and the attitude of a gambler, Husk has a very surly, sarcastic, cynical, and vulgar attitude towards most things, and is foul-mouthed even by the standards of Hell. He is extremely sarcastic and has a snarky sense of humor. Despite this, he can be surprisingly patient, resourceful, and competent in serious situations with a defeatist type of attitude during a battle, often believing the odds of winning are next to none while still fighting with everything he has, since he believes he has little to lose regardless. Due to his past experiences such as aiding Alastor in many of his schemes and witnessing the Radio Demon's carnage and games firsthand, he is rather jaded and is able to take outlandish events in stride and is unfazed by most things. While he does have an explosive temper, it takes a lot to push him to the point of anger and he can endure a lot, not appearing annoyed during the frequent arguments and chaos that occurs within the Hazbin Hotel, simply electing to walk away and drink his problems away later. He never wants to involve himself in whatever shenanigans the hotel crew is getting into, and whenever he happens upon a troubling sight, he will simply walk away without saying anything.

Due to his deeply ingrained cynical perspective on existence, Husk stands as one of the most wary and skeptical members within the hotel's crew. A pervasive mistrust colors his interactions, particularly with strangers such as Death, Byron and Mera, and Seviathan. His skepticism operates as a shield, a defense mechanism born from his experiences, and it casts a shadow over his interactions with unfamiliar faces. It's worth noting that his reservations are not without reason, as circumstances often validate his doubts, affirming his cautious approach to the unknown.

In the realm of fellow sinners and demons, Husk emerges as a figure unburdened by fear. This brazen attitude materializes in his direct confrontations with Alastor, where he boldly utters provocations to the Radio Demon's face. His consistent disregard for decorum and disdain for Alastor, despite the latter's potential for boundless cruelty, highlights Husk's audacity. Notably, he seized an opportunity to retaliate against Vox,shattering Vox's screen by hurling a beer bottle at it as revenge for the TV Demon's act of torturing him and having his wings clipped. Husk did this even as Vox was in his most powerful state.

As previously highlighted, Husk harbors a profound sense of self-loathing, embodying his role as a cautionary tale for the younger souls within the hotel, urging them to avoid the path of sin and misery he chose. He shoulders the weight of responsibility for every misfortune that has befallen him, attributing them entirely to his own failings. He chastises himself for succumbing to his unchecked greed, allowing his obsession with gambling to pave the way for his life's ruin. Inadvertently, he drove away any well-meaning individuals who extended a helping hand. Doubting his capacity for reform, he doesn't view himself as incapable of change, but rather deems himself unworthy of redemption. The notion of deserving love feels alien to him, residing beyond his grasp.

In spite of his wisdom, Husk gives the impression of someone who fails to glean lessons from his past errors. Even after his reincarnation in Hell, he persisted in reckless gambling, oblivious to the damage it wreaked upon his life. Just as in his mortal days, he became ensnared in perilous gambits which cost him greatly, such as his deal with Alastor, ultimately succumbing to enslavement and becoming indefinitely bound to the Radio Demon.

He finds himself taken aback whenever someone exhibits a willingness to remain in his company for more than a fleeting moment. Similarly, the unexpected occurrence of patients from the hotel seeking his counsel and solace catches him off guard. The realization that others seek him out for guidance and comfort elicits genuine surprise within him, as he struggles to reconcile this perspective with his own internal perception of unworthiness.

Despite not a being a supplier of nice words and a bit rough around the edges, Husk truly has a heart of gold deep down and is a big softy beneath his grouchy exterior. Despite insulting him, he does somewhat appreciate Alastor's small signs of care for him, as shown when he was affected by the Radio Demon giving a bottle of booze that magically refilled itself after Husk was mutilated by Vox. Furthermore, Husk demonstrates a protective instinct towards the hotel's patrons, particularly the Angel Dust and the younger patients. He took care of Angel when he would return to the hotel drunk or high, and despite his efforts to brush it off, he found it impossible to turn a blind eye when Angel Dust was being taken advantage of by traffickers. Abandoning his post, Husk left the hotel to locate Angel and help him. Additionally, Husk has a soft spot for children, as he is very friendly towards Manco and the seven angel children, and finds rare moments of happiness and comfort while entertaining them with his card tricks, becoming a sort of grandfatherly figure towards them. Despite his fondness for children, Husk's alcoholism and rough demeanor often frighten the little ones. In an incident during a children's field trip to the Hazbin Hotel, which turned horrendously disastrous, Husk, under the influence of alcohol, crudely insisted that the children watch him perform magic. This led to screams of terror from the children, and some even resorted to jumping out of a window in fear of Husk.

Husk has demonstrated a surprising lighthearted aspect of his personality. He and Vaggie often engage in playful antics, such as teasing their fellow hotel crew members, and engaging in exclusive conversations and laughter in Spanish. This leaves the rest of the crew, particularly Angel Dust, feeling confused and frustratingly curious about the content of their secret conversations.

He has something of a father-daughter relationship with Crymini, sympathizing with her not having much of a family while alive, protecting her in combat, and refusing to serve her drinks because she is too young, though he did make a rare exception to cheer her up when she opened up about her abusive father. Husk has admitted that he detests abusers, and has comforted several abuse victims in the series such as Angel Dust and Crymini. Over the course of the series, he has actively attempted to curb his gambling and alcohol addiction with varying success.

## Appearance

Husk takes the form of an avian cat demon with various anthropomorphic traits. His appearance resonates with that of a magician, fused seamlessly with a casino-inspired playing-card motif. His eyes' sclera are an inky black, while his irises are a striking yellow with slitted pupils. Distinguishing his visage, long crimson eyebrows are adorned with black vertical stripes near their tips, accompanied by a diminutive black heart positioned above each arch. His fur, predominantly taupe, is adorned with overlays of white on his countenance, torso, feet, and upper arms. Notably, his ears' interiors are a pristine white, culminating in a crimson apex with a centered red heart. Extending from each ear, a tuft of obsidian fluff emerges, cleverly crafting the illusion of petite hearts. Enveloping his ankles, a deeper shade of taupe mimics the appearance of spats. His tail, extending gracefully, boasts the same taupe hue, culminating in a lavish burst of plume-like fur or feathers, painted in shades of dark pink adorned with alternating black and white bands. Completing his distinctive features, yellow-orange hearts embellish the undersides of his hand-paws.

Prominent and resplendent, his wings exhibit an expansive expanse, their hue a vibrant red, juxtaposed with a dusky taupe underside. The ventral side of his wings is bedecked with black stripes, each punctuated by roulette wheel-esque dots in hues of red and white. The wings' exterior showcases additional black stripes that gracefully encircle the joints, encasing a series of white roulette wheel dots.

Adornments abound as Husk dons a noir top hat, adorned with a scarlet hatband and a gilded button-like ornament. Complementing this ensemble, a crimson bowtie graces his neck, while black suspenders elegantly cross over his shoulders. As a finishing touch, he is clad in ebony overalls.

## Powers and Abilities

"*Who needs guns when ya got Lady Luck on your side?*"
— Husk while fighting the Vees' underlings.

While not especially powerful, Husk is a sinner with above-average power and supernatural amounts of luck thanks to the abilities Alastor granted him after their deal.

### Natural Powers

* **Immortality**: As a sinner who has already experienced death, Husk is incapable of dying via conventional means, such as aging or illness, and is eternally stuck at the age he died in.
	+ **Regeneration**: As a sinner, Husk can regenerate from horrifying injuries. His regeneration was best displayed when Vox mutilated him by tearing his wings from his body, only for his wings to grow back a mere day after the injury was sustained. Later, while fighting the Vees' goons, Husk regenerated from a shotgun blast to the abdomen at point-blank range. While the attack was enough to severely hurt him and leave him suffering from the effects of shock, the wound still regenerated in under several minutes.

### Unique Powers

* **Demonic Powers**: Husk has access to some unique supernatural powers bestowed upon him by Alastor.
	+ **Bitch-Slap**: In terms of physical attacks, Husk has like this weird bitch-slap he can use to daze his opponents.
	+ **Creation**: Husk can produce poker cards and chips from his hands, though this may be attributed to sleight of hand.
	+ **Electrokinesis**: Husk can release streams of yellow electricity from his paws. However, he is not very skilled at using his ability at all, and is rarely able to concentrate enough to project a stream powerful enough to destroy structures and send his enemies flying several feet back.
	+ **Flight**: Husk is capable of flying and hovering through the air using a large pair of wings on his back. However, it's been noted that he seldom engages in flying, primarily due to a combination of laziness and a general aversion to his demon form.
	+ **Probability Manipulation**: Husk's primary supernatural ability is affecting probability in his favor to save himself and/or his allies from certain death, make accurate decisions even if he does not truly know the answer, and give himself the advantage in any situation. His luck, along with his survival skills and durability, makes him fairly difficult to take down and erase. For example, he was able to jam the firearm of one of Valentino's underlings simply using his will; he can cause minor conveniences for himself to make sticky situations play out in his favor; accurately guessed nearly all of Velvette's traps while in the Circus of Hell with Vaggie and Angel Dust; and accurately guessed the password to Velvette's office. Thanks to this supernatural luck, any bullets or projectiles fired at him are forced to miss unless the assailants have a definitive shot at him. This said, Husk's luck does have a limit; his luck works like a finite meter where each lucky break uses up his luck each time until it finally runs out. For instance, when Husk was battling the Vees' goons, their bullets were unable to hit him, their explosives would not activate, and when they tried engaging him in combat, they only ended up hurting themselves, but in turn, his luck progressively decreased until eventually one thug was able to severely injure him with a shotgun blast to the abdomen. Once Husk runs out of luck, it needs to be replenished, which he can do by being out of action or simply taking cover.
	+ **Supernatural Senses**: Husk has an unnaturally developed vision that grants him the ability to his opponents' card deck during games.
	+ **Telekinesis**: Husk possesses the power of telekinesis and can, at the very least, make poker cards float and move in intricate motions.

### Abilities

* **Brewing Mastery**: As a bartender, Husk is fantastic at brewing alcoholic beverages of many kinds.
* **Gambling Mastery**: Husk is a gambling master, accurately predicting the best outcome for himself and his winnings and easily controlling the game. He is proficient in sleight of hand, effortlessly shuffling, twisting, and manipulating his deck of cards, as well as producing cards out of thin air.
* **Master Tactician**: Husk has revealed himself to be highly calculative before and during fights or other critical situations, elaborating the possibilities of victory and producing alternative solutions to obstacles, and showed an impressive level of skill and experience in gambling, mainly due to his calculative and strategic mind.
* **Multilingualism**: Due to having travelled the world during his life, Husk is a cunning linguist fluent in English, Italian, Russian, German, Mandarin Chinese, Spanish, and Vietnamese.
* **Musical Talents**: Husk can play the saxophone and piano to a professional level.
* **Purring**: Husk has the ability to purr like a cat, especially when he is doing something greatly satisfying to him such as being praised or when Angel Dust scratched him behind the ear.

## Relationships

### Allies

#### Alastor

Shortly after Husk arrived in Hell, he was approached by Alastor, who proposed to give Husk even greater prowess in gambling by granting him with the powers he has in the present. Husk agreed to the deal and subsequently became a top-tier gambler in Hell, even adopting a gambling business that he ran. However, like all victims of Alastor's deals, Husk's greed had sunk himself too deep into Alastor's schemes and he was from that forward forced to serve the Radio Demon and pay off his debt.

While he is surly towards most people, Husk displays open disdain for Alastor and is weirdly not afraid of invoking the Radio Demon's wrath, often insulting and behaving very rude to him. Husk also hates being dragged into Alastor's schemes and does not like aiding the Radio Demon in his endeavors, as shown by his rage when he forcibly summoned Husk to the Hazbin Hotel while he was in the middle of a gambling match. In flashbacks depicting the two together, Husk was shown standing beside Alastor as he was tormenting souls, implying that he has aided the Radio Demon in many of his misdeeds. Alastor is known to enable Husk's vices for alcohol and gambling, and is happy to indulge him in it as a means of leverage and bribery. Alastor does appear to outright enjoy inconveniencing and angering Husk, even interrupting his gambling matches to force him into participating in his schemes.

Despite Husk's apparent animosity towards Alastor and him essentially being the Radio Demon's slave, there are hints of positivity in their relationship, primarily on Alastor's side. Despite enabling and frequently inconveniencing him, Husk is one of the very few sinners that Alastor genuinely cares about (or at least values), and he treats the sinner as a genuine friend rather than a slave, often leaving Husk alone to do his own business until he requires his assistance, and gives him a lot of freedom in general. Alastor's endearment of Husk was perhaps best shown when he reacted with extreme anger and was intensely agitated when Vox kidnapped, tortured, and mutilated Husk in order to draw the Radio Demon out to a personal confrontation. While Husk was recovering from having his wings torn off by Vox, Alastor paid his injured friend a visit and gifted him with a bottle of booze that magically refilled itself, much to Husk's pleasant surprise.

#### Charlie Magne

"*You're a good kid with a good heart. Just don't trust the wrong person and get it broken.*"
— Husk to Charlie.

Charlie stands as both Husk's supervisor and colleague within the hotel's realm. Summoned to fulfill the roles of bartender and clerk, Charlie greeted Husk with her usual bubbly enthusiasm, though he reacted with a cold indifference that contrasted starkly with her exuberant disposition. Over time, an evolution transpired, gradually nurturing a profound friendship between Charlie and Husk. Although he routinely rejects her overtures aimed at his own reform, viewing himself as irrevocably tainted, he finds solace in her unique ability to discern the latent goodness in individuals. He imparts to her a cautionary sentiment, urging her not to allow her benevolent nature to expose her to undue harm in the future.

Charlie often tries to understand Husk's past and help him on the path to redemption. Husk, at one point, confided in Charlie that he ended up in Hell due to his reckless lifestyle and dependence on alcohol, as well as discussing his self-destructive behavior and reluctance to open up to the idea of change. Charlie, on the other hand, is determined to help Husk and believes in the possibility of redemption. Husk is skeptical about the process, but overall recognizes Charlie's good intentions.

Unbeknownst to many, Husk's heartsoftened inclination toward Charlie simmers beneath his taciturn exterior. Witnessing her in moments of distress becomes an emotional struggle for him, inciting a compulsion to offer solace during her bouts of melancholy. Despite his reluctance to admit such emotions, Husk's genuine concern for Charlie's well-being shines through his actions.

#### Vaggie

Husk and Vaggie worked together at the hotel, becoming fairly close friends over time. Initially, Vaggie strongly opposed the notion of having a bar within the hotel's premises. However, due to Angel's insistence, she reluctantly gave her consent, although her objection was solely directed at the bar's presence and not at Husk personally.

Vaggie had initially held strong reservations about Husk, primarily due to his association with the Radio Demon, Alastor. However, as they got to know each other better, their relationship grew into a close friendship. They bonded over their shared past experiences, even delving into discussions about geographical matters, given Husk's previous travels to Vaggie's home country of El Salvador.

Both serving as the voice of reason within the hotel crew, Husk and Vaggie often found themselves in agreement and reacted with shared embarrassment to the regular chaos that unfolded in the hotel. They had a habit of exchanging knowing looks as they responded to the mayhem and antics of the other occupants of the hotel.

Thanks to their shared bilingualism, Husk and Vaggie enjoyed playfully teasing their fellow hotel crew members, such as engaging in conversations and shared laughter exclusively in Spanish, leaving the other members of the hotel crew frustrated and eager to discover the content of their humorous discussions.

#### Niffty

Niffty is Husk's coworker and friend. Husk is surprisingly fond of Niffty, and though he does find her slightly annoying, he is very patient with her and tolerates her behavior, and even protects her from threats, swooping in the heat of battle to get her out of danger, even though she does not usually *need* his help. Husk, like most of the hotel's occupants, is shown to be disturbed by Niffty's creepy and psychotic behavior, so he either tries to defuse situations before Niffty escalates, or simply gets out of dodge if he thinks it is already too late.

Whenever other sinners are harassing Niffty or giving her a hard time, Husk often tries to get them to go away before Niffty kills everyone.

#### Angel Dust

Angel is Husk's best friend and initial annoyance. Upon being summoned by Alastor to serve as the bartender and desk clerk at the Happy Hotel, Angel Dust swiftly developed an attraction towards Husk. He indulged in flirtatious banter and playful advances, much to Husk's evident irritation. Persistent in his actions, Angel would blow kisses and wink at Husk, who, in turn, found this behavior rather irksome and would respond with dismissive expletives.

Yet, the dynamic between Husk and Angel changed course when Husk stepped in to prevent Angel from getting entangled in a dangerous situation after Husk rejected his advances, with Angel seeking comfort from traffickers who wanted to use him. Husk saved Angel from potential harm, ending with Angel furiously wiping out the traffickers in a fit of rage. As they made their way back to the hotel, a genuine conversation about abuse and manipulation ensued, paving the way for a sincere and deepening friendship between them. In a playful manner, Angel teased Husk about genuinely caring for him, causing Husk to blush and become defensive. He maintained that his actions were driven solely by the desire to protect the hotel, downplaying any personal attachment to Angel, even though Angel could slyly discern the genuine concern and care Husk had for him.

Following this turning point, Angel and Husk solidified their status as an iconic duo, their friendship characterized by humorous banter and mutual emotional support. They became a fixture at the Angst Bar, often seen confiding in and conversing with one another. Husk tends to take on the role of a mindful protector while Angel is the chaotic instigator, with Husk going out of his way multiple times to ensure Angel's safety and keep him from blowing up, while Angel reciprocated by occasionally shielding Husk from harm. Angel assists Husk in sending emails to the hotel's guests, including his cocktail recipes. However, Angel takes advantage of this opportunity to incorporate sexual innuendos in the emails, much to Husk's frustration. Husk was also generous enough to babysit Fat Nuggets for Angel whenever he was out of the hotel, putting up with the pig since Angel clearly cared about it. Their camaraderie became a central and endearing aspect of life at the Happy Hotel, showcasing the power of an unexpected, genuine friendship between damned sinners.

As their friendship deepens, Husk begins to exhibit signs of reciprocating Angel's affections. This involves moments of blushing and even purring whenever Angel compliments or praises him. There's a subtle suggestion that Husk wants to confess his love to Angel. However, he grapples with the fear that Angel's feelings for him are insecure, since Angel flirts with everybody, creating a hesitation to reveal his true feelings.

Husk and Angel have bonded over their troubled pasts, sharing feelings of neglect and being undervalued by their respective families, with Husk mostly left to fend for himself while Angel was forced into a life he never wanted by his father. They found solace and understanding in each other's experiences. Husk expressed his sense of independence gained from a challenging upbringing in the big city, while Angel shared how he felt ignored by his father and comparatively got very little from the mafia lifestyle. Angel emphasized the supportive environment at the Happy Hotel and assured Husk of his worth, appreciating him for who he is and for him being there for the hotel's crew members no matter how crazy they drive him. Despite Husk's initial doubts about his significance, Angel's encouragement helped him realize his value and importance within their newfound circle of caring friends.

#### Crymini

"***Husk**: S'too late for me, kid. I'm an old, washed-up piece of shit... But you... You're something special. You were dealt a bad hand in life, but that doesn't mean you should lay down and fold.
**Crymini**: Why the fuck are you telling me this, old man?! You're not my dad!
**Husk**: Well, we can both thank God for that. I just... I just want you to be **happy**. Stop doing this self-destructive shit, go all-in, and fight the good fight. And for fuck's sake, stop hanging around me and Baxter all the time, 'n hang around Charlie and Vaggie more often. Or... read a book, I don't fuckin' know. (he puts his hand on her chin, gently making her face him as she becomes teary-eyed) You're younger, luckier, and stronger than me... Don't fold and lose the game of life like I did, kid.*"
— Husk motivating Crymini to be better, showing his hidden heart of gold.

Husk and Crymini have something of a father-daughter relationship with each other. Despite not interacting much at first, Husk proved to be protective over her once Crymini became a patient within the Hazbin Hotel, warning her to not go out into the streets of Pentagram City at night when she planned on partying with the Resistance, since other sinners could take advantage of her. Crymini frequently attempts to order drinks from Husk's bar, but he staunchly declines, citing her underage status as the reason. She also enjoys challenging Husk to card games, betting that alcohol in case she wins, which Husk always accepts since he never loses.

Despite finding some of Husk's actions initially irksome, interpreting them as overly protective, Crymini's perspective changed dramatically when she confided in him about her abusive father. Husk, albeit reluctantly, provided her with a flask of alcohol to offer solace and lift her spirits. While her opinion of Husk was lukewarm at first, she's gradually growing to appreciate him as a surrogate father figure, a role she sorely lacked in her previous life.

Husk's unwavering commitment to her safety became evident during the Hazbin Hotel crew's intense battle against Leviathan. As the King of Envy summoned a devastating lightning storm, Husk flew to Crymini, instinctively positioning himself as a protective shield, ready to take a lightning bolt if it threatened her.

In a display of loyalty, Crymini frequently takes on the role of the hotel receptionist when Husk is occupied. A hallmark of their relationship is their witty, snarky banter, with both engaging in playful verbal sparring to outwit each other. One memorable moment occurred when one of these spats led to a heartwarming exchange: Husk couldn't help but chuckle at Crymini's insult, prompting genuine laughter from both of them.

#### Fat Nuggets

Husk was Fat Nuggets' "babysitter", reluctantly watching over the pig whenever Angel Dust would head out of the hotel. While Husk can be very annoyed at Fat Nuggets for the pig constantly making messes and generally getting in trouble, he grew fond of the pig, admitting he was "kinda cute", though he does not like to admit it.

#### Charlie's Angels

Husk is a grandfatherly figure to Manco and the seven angel children and is friendly and protective of them. As Charlie noted, Husk always seems more lively speaking to the children, telling them exaggerated stories of his past life and performing "dumb grandpa magic" to entertain them. It is therapeutic for him as he appreciates his magical tricks being recognized and admire.

In one particularly emotional moment, Manco walked in on Husk destroying his room while struggling to overcome alcohol withdrawal, feeling both physically and emotionally pained. He apologized to Manco for having to see him like that. Manco, while sympathetic, offered support while understanding that traditional self-help advice won't help Husk. Instead, he suggests that Husk perform card tricks for him and the other angel children, since it is something they all enjoy. The suggestion works as it takes Husk's mind off of his struggles, allowing him to fully embrace his talent in magic and sleight-of-hand. Later, Husk expressed his appreciation for Manco and his friends, with Manco referring to Husk as a "grandpa" figure, which touched Husk emotionally.

#### Squish

Husk and Squish are on good terms, though interactions between the two are somewhat sparse. Like most of the hotel's patients, Squish often goes to Husk for advice, such as when he confided in Husk about wanting to ask Lux out on a date, but being unsure if they feel the same way. Husk teased Squish for being transparent about his feelings for Lux, noting that it's evident to everyone. Squish described Lux's warm and bright personality, which draws him in, even though Lux is quite different from the other residents of the hotel. Husk advised and encouraged Squish to follow his heart and go for it, stating that "any hole is a goal".

### Enemies

#### Valentino

Husk intensely dislikes Valentino, despising him of the treatment that he reserves for his employees, especially for what he did to Angel Dust. However, Husk is still wary of Valentino for his physical and influential power. While Angel was recovering from his skirmish with the moth demon in Purgatory, Husk called Angel an "idiot" for challenging a sinner of Valentino's power, demonstrating that he fears Valentino, or he is aware that the Overlords are extremely dangerous overall.

#### Vox

In order to lure the hotel crew into a confrontation, Vox had Husk kidnapped by Sir Pentious and brought to V Tower. There, the TV Demon tortured and mutilated Husk, filming all of this to show to Alastor and the hotel crew, and then had Husk's wings clipped off as a gift for Valentino. Later, during Vox and Alastor's battle at the Hazbin Hotel, Husk got his payback by tossing a beer bottle at Vox's screen, shattering it to pieces and leaving him unable to fight against the hotel crew properly, which ultimately allow Angel to trick the TV Demon into being trapped inside a cellphone.

### Others

#### Mimzy

Husk and Mimzy maintain a somewhat neutral relationship. While Mimzy occasionally tests Husk's patience, he doesn't appear to harbor any outright hatred towards her. Instead, he humorously indulges her diva-like personality, addressing her as "Princess." Mimzy frequently visits the Angst Bar whenever she's feeling upset and uses Husk as a sounding board for her troubles, often chatting with him for extended periods. Husk, though somewhat apprehensive about these encounters, remains patient and continues with his usual tasks, half-listening to Mimzy's lengthy conversations.

#### Baxter

Husk and Baxter share a rather hostile relationship. Husk consistently mocks Baxter, disdainfully referring to him as "Egghead" and "Poindexter," while Baxter frequently attempts to study and invasively experiment Husk, seeking to understand the extent to which he embodies feline characteristics. Husk generally shows a strong aversion to Baxter and tries to keep his distance whenever feasible.

In a conversation with Crymini, Husk agreed that Baxter comes across as overly self-assured and absorbed in his own world. Husk also offered advice to Crymini, suggesting that she distance herself from Baxter and sever ties with him, believing him to be a negative influence on her.

#### Loona

As counterparts of the Hazbin Hotel and I.M.P, Husk and Loona have an on-off, hostile relationship with each other. They both cannot stand each other, despite both of them sharing similar personalities and tendencies, such as being lazy, disliking their jobs, and having a difficult time opening up to others.

Husk dislikes Loona and considers her a "stuck-up, self-centered sack of shit", which he is happy to tell to her right to face. He feels as though Loona hates everybody around her, which he does understand and relates to. He finds the hellhound difficult to be around since her mood changes on a whim, and especially dislikes her abusing and assaulting Blitzø, her adoptive father. Husk generally tries to avoid Loona as much as he can.

## Quotes

### Season 1

"***Husk**: (at the Jackpot Hotel, he slams his poker hand down, revealing a full house) Read 'em and weep, boys! Full- (he is suddenly surrounded by creepy symbols and is transported to the Happy Hotel) WOAH! The Hell...?
**Alastor**: Ah, Husker, my surly friend! Glad you could make it!
**Husk**: (scowls) Oh, don't you "Husker" me, you son of a bitch! I was about to win the whole damn pot!
**Alastor**: Good to see you, too!
**Husk**: What the hell do you want with me this time...?
**Alastor**: My friend, I'm excited to inform you that we are investing in some charity work! (he wraps his arm around Husk and points to Charlie, who waves at smile at Husk) The valiant Princess of Hell is trying her hand at reforming lost souls, and I've taken it upon myself to volunteer your services! I hope that's okay!
**Husk**: Are you shittin' me?!
**Alastor**: Hmm... No, I don't think so!
**Husk**: (shoves Alastor off of him) You thought it'd be some kind of big fucking riot just to pull me out of nowhere and string me along to some halfway house?! You think I'm some kind of fucking clown?!
**Alastor**: (trying not to laugh) Mmmmaybe!
**Husk**: I ain't doing no fucking charity job. Pssh, charity... Like I ain't got a fuckin' casino to run...
**Alastor**: And who, pray tell, was the one who got into the position to own that casino, hm? All I'm saying, Husker, is that I've done more for you than you, quite frankly, deserve, and I figured you would be the perfect face to man the front desk of this fine establishment! Wouldn't it be nice to escape the riff-raff and mingle with your fellow sinners? With your charming smile (he pulls Husks' lips into a forced smile) and welcoming energy, this job was made for you! Don't worry my friend, if you have any reservations, I can make this more welcoming! ...If you wish. (he waves his hand making a bottle labelled "Cheap Booze" appear from out of nowhere.
**Husk**: (stares at the booze for a second before facing Alastor) What? You think you can buy me with a wink and some cheap booze?! (grabs the booze and looks at it) ...Well, you can! (he downs the booze)*"
— Husk is recruited by Alastor as the front desk face of the Hazbin Hotel.

"***Charlie**: Y'know, Husk, as the hotel's front desk face and main form of entertainment, it might be nice if you would add a little more pizazz? A bit of sparkle? Y'know, the ol' razzle and dazzle? C'mon, show me what ya got!
**Husk**: (flatly) Welcome to the Hazbin Hotel, what do ya want.
**Charlie**: Great first attempt! Let's give it a bit more energy! And don't forget to smile! INTRODUCING, HUUUUSK!!! (she presents Husk)
**Husk**: (flatly does jazz hands) Whoop-de-doo.
**Charlie**: Okay! We'll... We'll work on it.*"
— Husk being coached by Charlie for his new job.

"***Husk**: This your first day bein' a cat?
**Ren**: Yeah?
**Husk**: Welcome to Hell.*"
— Husk and Ren.

"***Charlie**: So, Husk, me and Vaggie we're thinking, maaaaybe you could limit the amount of alcohol you serve at the bar for a while? Everybody will only get one shot a day. In its place, how about you serve orange juice instead? That always puts people in a good mood, and it's rich with vitamin C!
**Husk**: First off, unless you want everybody in this halfway house to get ringworm, I ain't goin' to the Hell market to get fuckin' oranges. Second, I don't tell **you** how to run this orphanage, or whatever the fuck this place is, so don't tell me how to run my bar!
**Vaggie**: Could you at **least** clean the bar up?
**Husk**: Niffty's on it. Either way, I dunno what the fuck you're all on about. There's a couple chairs, a small TV, booze, and 4 useable glasses. Who gives a shit if it's clean? If you're here, you've lost your standards a long time ago.*"
— Husk to Charlie and Vaggie.

"*Hey (burps) kids. Come see me do some fucking magic! (the children scream in terror, flipping over tables and jumping out a window)*"
— Husk fails to entertain children who visit the hotel.

"***Husk**: (Husk sees Niffty dancing on a flight of stairs she just cleaned) Stop trying to break your neck again, Niffty. I tried. Doesn't work.
**Niffty**: (continues dancing, panting) 'Break my... Neck'?! How... Dare you?! Just because you're a lazy man who has no work ethic doesn't mean you should insult the process of cleanliness! My process is highly effective and I've mastered the art of dancing on stairs, and this is the only way to effectively test their cleanliness and slipperiness! (Niffty finally tumbles down the stairs violently, only to bounce back up, clean the stairs in less than a second, and continue her dancing) 20 seconds! Most ladies would stop there, but damn it, I won't stop until it takes me less than five seconds to slip and fall!
**Husk**: (sarcastically) Oh, wow. Forgive me, o great, slip-resistant one. You're really out here doing God's work, dancing on slightly moist stairs for a couple seconds.
**Niffty**: (Niffty rolls her eye) You know damn well that I'm out here doing some hard work! I'm not JUST dancing on slightly moist stairs, I'm testing the effectiveness of these freshly cleaned stairs! And I'll have you know, I've spent years mastering the art of slip-resistant dancing, you uncultured swine! Just ask the ladies who tried to steal Mr. Unmei away from me... (Niffty giggles psychotically before falling down the stairs violently) 10 SECONDS, WE'RE GETTING CLOSER!!!
**Husk**: (sighs and waves his hand at Niffty, walking away) Ok, you have fun.*"
— Niffty and Husk bantering while Niffty was cleaning the stairs.

"***Husk**: Where the hell am I?! Let me outta here, you motherfucker!
**Sir Pentious**: SILENCE, BOOMER!!! My moment of triumph approaches!
**Husk**: 'Boomer'? You're older than **me**, you fuckin' dumbass!*"
— Husk and Sir Pentious after the Egg Boiz captured the former.

"***Alastor**: Husker, my dear friend! You look swell, given the circumstances. And it seems your wings are coming back in! I just knew you'd pull through!
**Husk**: YEAH, BUT IT STILL FUCKIN' HURT, ASSHOLE!
**Alastor**: (chuckles) Apologies for my insensitivity. We've all had quite the eventful night.
**Husk**: Yeah, yeah. You got any booze? I'm thirsty as a motherfucker. (Alastor spawns a bottle of booze in Husk's hand, who begins gulping it down)
**Alastor**: Now, about **your** insensitivity... Need I remind you that we could have easily left you out there to dry? Vox and his associates are not going to forget about this little skirmish. The tension that has been building between this hotel and those three has only grown ever stronger.
**Husk**: Figured you'd be into that shit.
**Alastor**: (grinning) Oh, don't misinterpret this turn of events! There will be some entertainment value from this, no doubt... But also consequences. I would just appreciate a little gratitude. Because next time I might not be so **generous**...
**Husk**: (he groans and wipes the booze from his lips) Okay, fine... Thanks fer savin' me. Ya happy now?
**Alastor**: (he laughs) Indeed! Well, I'll leave you to it, then! We have a tumultuous week ahead of us!
**Husk**: (looking at his booze) Did... Did this shit just refill itself?
**Alastor**: Hehehe... Consider it a gift for all your troubles. (he walks away, humming, as Husk stares at him incredulously)*"
— Alastor visiting Husk after Vox tortured him and ripped his wings off.

"*When the pressure's on and the chips are down, you see what's really inside of people.*"
— Husk.

"*Hey, fuckface! [...] THAT WAS FOR MY FUCKIN' WINGS, YOU DIPSHIT!!!*"
— Husk smashing Vox's screen by throwing a beer bottle at his face, thus getting his revenge on him.

### Season 2

"*(laughs while drinking watered-down whiskey) Ah, you're askin' the wrong guy this question, kiddo. I was a dealer, not a philosopher. But here's some advice: it's all in the cards, and the cards ain't exactly in your favor.*"
— Husk when asked about the meaning of life.

### Season 3

"***Baxter**: Vinged feline! (he tosses Husk a bag of tools) Repair ze delta ving and help Angel secure ze Celumite!
**Husk**: I ain't your fuckin' handyman! If you know so much about this goddamn ship, why don't you fix it yourself, Poindexter?!
**Baxter**: ...You're right. Vhat vas I thinking?! Only mein cerebral cortex is capable of repairing mein **genius** craftsmanship! (he presses a button on his wrist that envelops him in a nanotech space suit) Take ze veel vhile I make ze repairs! (he teleports out of the ship)
**Husk**: WHAT?! (he frantically jumps in Baxter's captain's chair) I CAN'T DRIVE NO FUCKIN' SHIP!!!*"
— Baxter let's Husk take the wheel of his spaceship.

### Season 4

"***Husk**: Psh... Ain't you a little young to be drinkin', sweetheart?
**Crymini**: You're not my dad.
**Husk**: (scoffs) Yeah, your dad musta been one piece of work for you to end up like this.
**Crymini**: You have no idea, old man. He taught me how to make a Molotov cocktail when I was six.
**Husk**: Figures. You can scram, by the way, 'cuz I ain't servin' ya. Don'tcha have some experiments to do with Baxter or some shit?
**Crymini**: I'm tired.
**Husk**: You're too young to be tired... By the way, you know how hard it is to get a good night's rest when you're playin' that heavy metal garbage all night?
**Crymini**: Do you guys know why I listen to that music all the time?
**Husk**: (while cleaning bottles) Don't know, don't care.
**Crymini**: 'Cuz every time my old man caught me listening to it, he'd beat the shit out of me. (Husk looks at her with concern as Crymini looks down) Down here... I have more freedom than I ever did up there.
**Husk**: Jesus... H- hey, listen, kid-
**Crymini**: Forget it. (she leaves the bar as Husk stares on)*"
— Crymini and Husk.

"***Husk**: Listen, kid, what your old man did to ya... Ain't fair. Every kid should be able to grow up with a real parent.
**Crymini**: Why do you care?
**Husk**: I don't much care for abusers... (sighs) Fuck, I probably shouldn't do this... (he hands out a small flask) Here. Drink responsibly, or some shit.
**Crymini**: (she stares at the flask incredulously before taking it, laughing softly) Thanks... Old man.
**Husk**: Just, uh, don't tell Vaggie, alright?
**Crymini**: How about you give me ten more of these and it's a deal?
**Husk**: (trying to hide a smile) Tsk... You little shit. (Crymini laughs)*"
— Crymini and Husk bonding.

### Season 5

"***Manco**: Mr. Husk...
**Husk**: (he slumps against a wall, sighing) Fuck, not you... I'm sorry you had to see this, kid. It ain't easy lettin' go of somethin' you've gotten attached to.
**Manco**: (he sighs sadly) ...You know I hate seeing you like this, but... I want you to know I'll still be here if you need me.
**Husk**: (scoffs) No offense, kid, but the self-help crap ain't gonna make me feel better. (he looks away from Manco with a lost expression) ...It's not just a psychological thing, I- I feel like I'm in **pain**. My head won't stop pounding, I can't eat **anything**. (laughs sadly, rubbing his face) Jesus fuckin' Christ... Listen, you're just a kid, you shouldn't have to worry about this. Just go play with your friends, alright?
**Manco**: ...Y'know what? How about I get my friends and you do those card tricks we like to watch?
**Husk**: W- What?
**Manco**: You heard it! W- Whenever you're ready, obviously. You always feel better when we watch you do magic.*"
— Manco trying to help Husk through an alcohol withdrawal.

"***Husk**: Listen, kid... I dunno why the fuck you and your friends would even give an old fart like me the time of day, but... I appreciate it. Thanks.
**Manco**: It's no problem, Husk. You and the others are always there when I need you, and, well... You're kinda like a grandpa to me, and I'm glad to have you around.
**Husk**: (he turns to Manco for a second before facing away, holding back tears) Wow, that's... That's interesting... (after a pause, he manages sucks up his tears) Okay, buzz off, ya little runt! (Manco giggles and begins running off) And don't tell Charlie about this or she'll be up my ass!
**Manco**: Will do, sir!
**Husk**: (Husk watches Manco run off) Me... A grandpa... (chuckles) Who woulda thought?*"
— Husk and Manco.

"***Squish**: (sits at the Angst Bar, facing Husk) Can I vent?
**Husk**: (goans) Since when did I become every poor schlumps therapist?! ...Sure. (he pours Squish a drink)
**Squish**: Well, you see... I've been wanting to ask someone out... But I can't tell if they like me back...
**Husk**: Lemme guess, Lux?
**Squish**: H- How the fuck did you know?!
**Husk**: You ain't slick, lover boy. Everyone's seen the way you stare at her, ya creep.
**Squish**: (sighs) I didn't want to-
**Husk**: (chuckles slightly) Calm down, kid. I'm just yankin' yer chain.
**Squish**: Oh... That's nice... Anyway, it's just... Lux is super cool! Their personality is the most warm and bright out of anyone else in the hotel!
**Husk**: Eh, but why THEM of all people? Ain't they uh, basically a glowin' ball of light?
**Squish**: I know, I know... But... can't quite place it, but... they just make me feel something, you know? I like people for their personalities, not their looks. And the way Lux just radiates such positivity, is... It makes me feel all warm and tingly on the inside! (giggles with excitement)
**Husk**: Well, the heart wants what the heart wants, kid. Go for it. 'Any hole is a goal' that's what I say.
**Squish**: Uh... (nods) T- Thanks. Thanks.*"
— Husk gives Squish advice.

"***Husk**: I lived in a big city. It was crowded and dirty. Lots of lights... Nothing really worth mentioning much, other than the fact that I'm not sure if my family really loved me. Y'know? Like I was just there for when they needed somethin', like if I was a pet or some shit. I was basically left to my own devices. But it was for the best, really. I learned how to fend for myself, be independent.
**Angel Dust**: Oh yeah, buddy. Don't even get me started. My pa barely acknowledged me growin' up, unless he needed to sell somethin' to pay off debts. (he laughs) I know how that is, it makes ya feel unimportant, like you're not even necessary... If it's any consolation, this hotel's a good place to stay. Best in Pride. I mean, it is still kinda like livin' in the big city. Very loud and bright. but everyone here cares about one another and no one has to be alone... and hey, it's not all big city vibes! Alastor's stench makes ya feel like you were plopped right in the shit-stained waters of a swamp. (he laughs) Iffin' ya just wanna talk, or ya know, complain about a job or vent your frustrations, you don't gotta worry here, Husky.
**Husk**: (he nods in recognition) Sure I guess... But, just out of curiosity, why you talkin' to me? All these years and I'm still just a washed-up bartender with the mouth of a sailor and personality of a good-for-nothing gambler. You got better folks to talk to, y'know.
**Angel Dust**: Well... I think yer worth talkin' too. That... and hearin' that grizzled, rugged voice of yers gives me a ragin' case of lady wood. (Angel laughs slightly as Husk looks at him with a tired expressions) But nah, seriously, don't underestimate yerself. I've heard a lot from othas and I know everyone is important and valued in their own way... I mean, those kids light up like a Christmas tree when they see you doin' 'magic'. And yer always there fer everyone when they come to yer little bar. People are complicated... with a lot of different things on their mind, but it doesn't mean anyone is any less than anyone else, y'know?
**Husk**: (he cracks a smile) That's nice to here. (he sighs heavily) Y'know I give all of you guys the time of day, but I... didn't really think I was worth other people's time. ...Guess I'm still learning.*"
— Husk to Angel Dust about his childhood.

## Trivia

* His name "Husk" is symbolic of his character, reflecting how he has become a mere remnant of the person he once was, dried up and devoid of worth.
	+ In the Danish language, "Husk" (Skaller) translates to "remember," which is particularly apt as a significant aspect of Husk's arc revolves around recollecting the hopeful and passionate man he once was.
* His theme song would either be "House Of The Rising Sun" by The Animals, or "Take It from an Old Man" from *Waitress the Musical*.
* Husk has various traits similar to that of an actual cat:
	+ He purrs whenever he is pleased or enamored by something, and hisses whenever he is angry or threatened.
	+ According to Angel Dust, he secretly has a fondness for milk.
	+ He has a fondness for mozzarella cheese, much like how cats love cheese.
	+ He is terrified of cucumbers, as shown by his reaction to Angel pranking him with one and Death shapeshifting into a cucumber to scare him.
	+ He hates water, as shown by his reaction of being in the Envy Ring. He also committed suicide in life by drowning himself.
	+ He has a sour exterior but a soft and sweet interior.
	+ According to Charlie, Husk likes to sleep in high places with good vantage points, like many cats do.
* As a child, Husk grew up in a casino, thus all he really knows is that kind of life.
* Husk regularly shares his recipes, such as the renowned Holiday Grog cocktail drink, with the residents of the Hazbin Hotel via emails. Given his advanced age and limited familiarity with technology, he frequently seeks assistance from Angel Dust, though this leads to Angel incorporating suggestive innuendos into the hotel's newsletter, to Husk's frustration.
* He has always wanted to go to the Greed Ring, which is known for its abundance of casinos.
* It is comically implied that Husk has attempted suicide while in Hell; when telling Niffty to quit dancing on the hotel's clean, slippery stairs, he tells her to stop trying to break her neck, because he tried once and it "didn't work".
* It is implied numerous times that Husk was a war veteran and losing his passion and ability to love was a direct result of experiencing the horrors of war. This would also explain why he is very skilled at strategy and planning ahead before a fight or game.
* He can play the piano and saxophone at a concert level.
* Husk is indeed a person who enjoys cuddling, yet this affectionate side of him is a privilege reserved for someone special. Only a significant other would have the privilege of experiencing this tender aspect of his personality.
* In a scrapped concept in Season 5, Husk was originally going to battle Mammon in a gambling contest at some point.
* Husk is, biologically, the oldest member of the hotel crew, as he was in his 60s-70s at the time of his death.