Infernal Rivalry - The Clash Of Vox And Alastor

Chapter 6 : Time For An Outfit Change

(Alastor's POV)

As I wake from my slumber, I immediately sense that something is amiss. My shadow, usually a presence by my side, is nowhere to be seen. Frowning slightly, I rise from my bed and make my way downstairs, a sense of unease gnawing at the edges of my consciousness. As I reach the end of the hallway, I notice my shadow standing outside Vox's room, its form looming ominously in the dim light of the hallway. "What are you doing?" I demand, my voice sharp with irritation. My show turns to face me, its features shrouded in darkness. It offers no explanation, only a silent stare. With a sigh, I motion for it to follow me downstairs, hoping to resolve whatever strange behaviour has taken hold of it. As I wait for Vox to wake up, I find myself engaged in a silent conversation with my shadow, reprimanding it for its disobedience. "You know better than to wander off like that" I scold, my voice twinged with frustration, 2 we have a guest in the house, and it's important that we respect their privacy". My shadow offers no excuse, no explanation for its behaviour. It simply hangs its head, a silent acknowledgment of its disobedience. My shadow remains silent, its presence a stark reminder of the responsibility I bear as its master. Sighing heavily, I turn my attention to breakfast, hoping to distract myself from the lingering tension in the air. As I set about making French toast and brewing coffee, the rhythmic motions offering a sense of solace amidst the chaos.

As I focus on preparing breakfast, the sound of footsteps on the staircase catches my attention. Turning towards the source of the noise, I see Vox descending the stairs. "Good morning, sleepy" my tone warm, as I greet him with my usual smile. Vox returns the greeting, though I can sense a hint of uncertainty in his demeanour, "Morning, Alastor" he replies. I motion for him to take a seat at the table, where I've already set out plates and utensils. "Please, have a seat" I say, gesturing towards the empty chair beside me. "Breakfast will be ready shortly". Vox nods in gratitude, taking a seat at the table as I continue to work on the French toast. The aroma of cinnamon and vanilla fills the air, mingling with the rich scent of freshly brewed coffee. I serve up generous portions of French toast and pour steaming cups of coffee for both of us. "Here you go" I say, sliding a plate and a cup across the table towards him. Vox nods his thanks, his lighting up at the food in front of him, as he takes his first bite of the French toast, I watch him with a sense of satisfaction, glad to see him enjoying the meal.

As we continue our breakfast, I decide to lighten the mood by suggesting a plan for the day. "Vox, how about we go out shopping later today?" I propose, "I think it's high time you got yourself a new outfit". Vox looks up from his plate, his expression curious. "A new outfit?" he repeats, a hint of surprise in his voice. "But why?". I chuckle softly, shaking my head "Well, let's just say your current attire is... unique" I reply with a teasing grin. "I think we could find something a bit more fitting for a demon of your stature". Vox's eyes widen in mock indignation "Are you saying I'm not smart enough to dress myself?" he retorts, his tone playful. I raise an eyebrow "Of course not", I reply, matching his playful tone, "I'm simply suggesting that a fresh look might do wonders for your image". He rolls his eyes at me, "I don't have any money, given that I literally spawned here yesterday" he says. I wave off his concern with a wave of my hand, "Don't worry about that, Vox" I reassure him, "I've got that covered". He flashes me a grateful smile.

As we walk into the bustling streets of Hell, I notice the curious and scared glances from passersby as they take in our unusual duo. Vox seems to shrink slightly under the scrutiny, his posture betraying a hint of self-consciousness. I place a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Don't worry, Vox" I say with a reassuring smile, "They're just not used to seeing demons with such impeccable taste" I joke. He offers me a grateful smile, his confidence slightly bolstered by my words. Together, we make our way through the crowded streets. Arriving at a nearby suit shop, I hold the door open for him, gesturing for him to enter ahead of me. As we step inside, a wave of nostalgia washes over me, the familiar scent of fine fabrics and polished leather filling the air. I glance around at the rows of impeccably tailored suits, each one more exquisite than the last. "Well, what do you think?" I ask, turning to face him with a grin. Vox looks around the shop, his eyes lighting up with interest. "I've never really had the chance to choose my own suit before2 he admits, his voice tinged with excitement. We set about exploring the racks of suits, Vox tries on suit after suit.

As he sifts through the array of suits, his eyes land on one in particular – a sleek navy ensemble that catches his attention, one that resembles the style of my own suit. With a satisfied nod, he holds it up for closer inspection, excitement dancing in his eyes. "I think I've found the one" he says, his voice filled with certainty as he admires the navy suit. I glance over and chuckle at his choice. "Ah, going for the navy, are we?" I tease, a playful grin on my face. "Trying to copy my style, are you?". Vox laughs, shaking his head in amusement. "I'll have you know, I have impeccable taste" he retorts, his tone light-hearted as he holds the suit against himself, envisioning the final look. I join in his laughter. "Well, if imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, then I must be quite the trendsetter" I quip, giving him a playful wink. With a sense of satisfaction, Vox decides to go with the navy suit, eager to embrace his newfound style.

As we leave the suit shop behind, our next destination looms on the horizon. Cannibal town, home to the infamous overlord Rosie, one of my closest friends. I lead the way, Vox by my side as we navigate through the winding streets of Hell. "So, where exactly are we going?" Vox asks, his curiosity eating away at him. My grin turns mischievous as I reply "We're off to Cannibal Town to meet a very dear friend of mine". Vox's eyes widen in horror at the mention of the town. "Cannibal Town? What the fuck is that?" he asks, his voice tinged with disbelief. I chuckle at his reaction, enjoying his surprise. "Oh, don't worry. It's not as bad as it sounds", I assure him. "Um... why is it called that?" he nervously asks me. "Well, Vox, it's where the cannibals live", I explain. Vox's shock is palpable as he rubs a clawed hand over his face in disbelief, "Cannibals?". I smile at him, "Yes, but trust me, you have nothing to worry about".

As we arrive at Cannibal Town, I watch Vox's face as he takes in the sight before him. Instead of the grim, foreboding place he had imagined, Cannibal Town is a charming, old-fashioned town straight out of a bygone era. His jaw practically drops as he takes in the quaint streets lined with colourful houses and busting market stalls. "I... I wasn't expecting this" he stammers, his disbelief evident in his voice. I chuckle at his reaction, patting him on the back reassuringly. "Welcome to Cannibal Town, Vox" I say with a large grin. He follows me as we make our way to Rosie's emporium, the building stands out with its quaint façade, adorned with colourful signs and welcoming lights. As we step inside the air is filled with the sound of laughter and chatter. The interior is cozy and inviting, filled with shelves stocked with all manner of curious trinkets and oddities. "Here we are, Rosie's Emporium" I announce, gesturing around at the bustling shop. "Let's find Rosie and introduce you, shall we?".