The Riddle Of Magic

Chapter 38: Velichor and Vice

"Can we... help you?" Alastor's business partner asked their sudden guest, her fair manner far sweeter than his own dismissive sneer.

"Good morning, Princess!" Vox smiled wide at her, though it was as fake as his face. "I was in the neighborhood and thought I might stop by to chat! I just felt so bad about that nasty business in the Colony yesterday, I wanted to reach out about it!"

"The shadows don't speak about what they eat," the Radio Demon hissed. "Get lost."

"If you wish to make amends, then I can support that," the blonde demoness replied, tugging at Alastor's hand as she gave him a sideways glance.

Of course she wanted to play nice; but the deer demon had no intention of it. Not today, not with this prick. "You can send us a written notice, you have our address. Good day!"

He tried to shut the door but the princess shifted, moving her foot in the way. "Al, please. I want to know exactly what happened in Cannibal Colony. It's in the interest of the Hotel as well as my kingdom!"

She was disappointed in his response, he could tell. Charlie pulled her fingers free from his, and Alastor wondered if the other Overlord had spied their joined hands. He suspected as much from how the insufferable TV's digital smirk widened.

"There's nothing to discuss!" the Radio Demon replied, twirling his cane. "Valentino threw his strength against mine and found it wanting."

Vox's pixilated face shifted as he gave a slight pout, a current of electricity buzzing through the wires on his tophat. "Come on! We used to have such fun talks, didn't we, Al?"

The deer demon's hackles rose instantly, but Charlie reacted before he could snap back.

"There's nothing fun about destruction being rained on my people!" the Princess of Hell snarled, gold shimmering in her eyes.

The other Overlord stiffened, a ripple of wary static crossing his features in his surprise.

On second thought, this might prove entertaining after all!

"Well," Alastor sneered, leaning on his cane. "Would you like to offer your apology in person, or via letter?"

The TV Demon's digital brow twitched. "You're inviting me in?"

There was a thud behind them as Angel Dust fumbled his phone. The spider demon snatched it up, staring at them with worry.

The other demonesses had retreated back to the couches, and the whole group watched them warily.

The princess moved out of the other Overlord's way to grant him access, backing into Alastor's arm. Using the opportunity, the deer demon settled his palm against the curve of her lower back.

Tread cautiously, dear. Mind your words!

He didn't often use Transfer with her, considering her rocky emotional state after her breakup; not wanting to subject himself to the potential torrent of her misery. Besides, getting close in that fashion when the blonde demoness was so vulnerable seemed a recipe for disaster.

Her will was strong, and he could feel the heat of her consternation as plainly as the warmth from her back.

Why are you antagonizing him? It's as if you want to start a fight!

Despite her harsh words, a lightness bloomed in Alastor's chest at the sudden feeling of closeness. He had missed this, he realized, focusing hard to avoid that feeling being broadcast to the half-demoness at his side.