Chapter 11 : A Bit Of Role-Play

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(Alastor's POV)


"Alastor, how do I become an overlord like you?" Vox asks, his voice curious. I'm taken aback by the question, an unusual sense of pride swelling within me at the thought of Vox wanting to follow in my footsteps. "You want to be an overlord?" I reply, unable to hide the surprise in my voice. I didn't think he was going to want that; he seems like such a timid young man. "Well, well, well, it seems I've myself a protégé". He nods eagerly, his screen slightly flickering. "Yes, I do" he confirms, his voice filled with determination. "I want to learn from the best". My grin widens at his enthusiasm, a sense of excitement building within me at the prospect of guiding Vox on his path to power. We would be a force to be reckoned with. "Well then, you've come to the right place" I reply, my tone brimming with confidence. "But first, we'll need to gather you some souls to work with". His eyes lighten up at the mention of it, his excitement matching my own. "Let's do it" he says eagerly, his voice full of determination.

Vox's excitement fills the air as he jumps up from his seat, ready to embark on his journey to becoming an overlord. "So, where do we start?" he asks eagerly, his screen flickering with anticipation. I pause for a moment, considering the best approach to take. "Actually, we will stay here for the next step" I reply, my tone serious. "Before you can start collecting souls, we need to work on you first". His expression shifts from excitement to confusion, "What do you mean?" he asks, his voice tinged with uncertainty. I sigh, knowing that what I'm about to say might not be easy for him to hear. "Well, let's just say... you came across as a bit timid and nervous" I explain carefully, trying to soften the blow. "And in Hell, especially as an overlord, charm is going to be your best weapon. Right now, you're a little lacking in that department". Vox's screen flickers with annoyance and I can't help but smirk at his reaction. "Are you saying I'm not charming?" he retorts, pointing at himself, a hint of playful defiance in his voice. I raise an eyebrow, "Let's just say there's room for improvement" I reply coyly. "But don't worry, with a little guidance from yours truly, you'll be charming the pants off everyone in Hell in no time". Vox lets out a dramatic sigh, his screen displaying a playful glint. "Well, I suppose I'll just have to trust your expertise then, won't I?" he replies, a grin spreading across his face.

"Okay Vox, how about we try a little role-playing exercise?" I suggest, eager to help improve his confidence. Vox looks a bit hesitant, but he nods in agreement. "Sure, sounds like a plan", his voice slightly wavering. "Great! So, here's the scenario: I'll play the part of a newly arrived sinner in Hell, and you'll be the seasoned overlord trying to strike a deal with me". I explain, setting the scene, "think you can handle that?". He nods, though he seems a bit embarrassed by the idea. "I'll give it my best shot" he says, trying to sound confident. I give him an encouraging smile. "You've got this, Vox. Just be yourself". He cocks his head slightly at me, "I thought that was the issue in the first place" he retorts. I roll my eyes "Just remember, charm is key" I reply. "Greetings, newcomer. I am Vox, one of the esteemed overlords of Hell" he says, trying to sound confident. I, playing the part of the clueless sinner, responding with a hint of sarcasm. "Oh, an overlord, huh? So, what's that, like a demon with a superiority complex?" I joke, poking fun at his role. He chuckles nervously, trying to maintain his composure. "Ah, well, you could say that" he replies, attempting to steer the conversation back on track. "But trust me, my dear, being in my favour comes with its perks. Power, riches, anything your heart desires...". I interrupt him with another sarcastic remark. "Oh, anything you say? Can you get me out of this fiery pit of torment?" I quip, playing up to the role of the sceptical sinner. He hesitates for a moment, unsure of how to respond. "Well, uh, not exactly..." he stammers, his small bit of confidence wavering. I continue to push his buttons, making rude jokes and sarcastic comments that throw him off his game. Despite his best efforts, Vox fails to convince me to sell my soul.

As we continue with our role playing, I can see Vox trying his best to maintain his composure, but my sarcastic remarks and jokes are starting to get under his skin. "Come on, Vox is that the best you've got?" I taunt, pushing his buttons further. Vox's patience wears thin, and I can see him starting to lose his temper. "Look buddy, I'm trying to help you here, but you're not making it easy", he snaps. I notice sparks flickering from his Tv screen as his temper flares, momentarily surprising me with its intensity. Now that, that is interesting. I definitely have something I can work with here. I raise an eyebrow, impressed by his sudden burst of emotion. "Oh, getting a bit hot under the collar, are we?" I continue to tease, enjoying Vox struggling to keep his cool. But as quickly as he lost his temper, he takes a deep breath and regains his composure. "Sorry. Alastor. I guess I let myself get carried away" he says, sounding genuinely remorsefully. I give him a reassuring smile. "No worries, Vox, just keep a deep breath and try to stay focused. You've got this". With that, we continue our role-play and I can see him putting in extra effort to maintain his confidence and charm.

As we delve back into another scenario, I maintain my character as the clueless newcomer to Hell, while Vox embodies the charismatic overlord. "Greetings, I am Vox, one of the esteemed overlords of Hell" he begins. He likes saying that line, doesn't he. I play along, but this time, I give him some subtle hints and reminders as we go along. "Excuse me, sir, but what exactly is an overlord?" I ask, feigning ignorance. Vox, fully embracing his role, responds smoothly. "Ah, my friend, an overlord is a very powerful figure here in Hell. We have the ability to offer protection, wealth and power to those who align themselves with us". I nod along, playing my part, "Protection, wealth, power... sounds intriguing. But what could an overlord like yourself offer someone like me?" I inquire. "With me as your ally, you'll have the assurance of safety and protection at all times" he explains, emphasizing the importance of his role as an overlord. I offer a supportive nod, acknowledging his adaptation. "That better" I say, pleased with understanding. "Keep that in mind as we continue". With my reminder fresh in his mind, he continues the role-play with renewed focus, ensuring that his message of protection and security comes across clearly to me, the pretend sinner. As he navigates the scenario, I observe his progress, confident that he's grasping the nuances of his newfound role with each interaction.

Vox leans back, a mischievous glint in his eyes as he suggests, "Why don't you give it a try, Alastor? Show me how it's done". Amused by Vox's challenge, I decide to humour him. "Fine, let's give this a go", I reply with a smirk, accepting his invitation to demonstrate. With a flicker of confidence, he gestures for me to take the lead. "Show me what you've got, Alastor" he says, his tone tinged with playful scepticism. I step into the role. "Greetings, newcomer" I begin, my voice dripping with a blend of charm and authority. "I am Alastor, known as the Radio Demon in these parts. And you are?". The imaginary newcomer, portrayed by Vox, responds with a hint of defiance. "Oh, just a lost soul passing through" he retorts sarcastically. Undeterred by his attitude, I continue. "Well, lost soul, I can offer you great things in exchange for a small price – your soul". Vox, still in character, counters with a smirk, "Oh, is that so? And what exactly are these 'great things' you speak of, Radio Demon?". I reply, "Power, influence, protection – you name it. All yours in exchange for your loyalty", my words lace with a persuasive charm as I try to win him over. His sarcasm persists as he responds, "Wow, sounds like quite the offer. But forgive me if I don't jump at the chance to sell my soul to the 'Radio Demon'". I chuckle, unfazed. "Ah, but you may find that deals with demons like me often lead to unexpected rewards" I counter, my tone dripping with persuasive allure. "Think it over. You might just find it's an offer you can't refuse, especially here in Hell. It can be a cruel place", my voice taking on a sombre tone. "But fear not, for under my protection, you'll find safety amidst the chaos". He seems to consider my words before finally relenting. "Alright, Alastor" he concedes, "I'll accept your offer of protection. It seems like I could use all the help I can get in this place". "A wise decision, my friend" I respond.

With a playful grin, I jest. "Ah, finally admitting defeat, are we? I told you; Vox, charm and persuasion are essential skills for an overlord". He chuckles, "Alright, alright, you win this round, Alastor. You certainly know how to work your magic". We continue our role-playing exercises, exploring different scenarios and honing Vox's skills until the late hours of the night. Despite his initial hesitations, he is showing remarkable improvement, displaying a newfound confidence and finesse in his interactions. As the night wears on, we finally decide to call it a day, both satisfied with Vox's progress.

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