Infernal Rivalry - The Clash Of Vox And Alastor

Chapter 14: The First Of Many

(Alastor's POV)

As I walk into Vox's room to wake him up, I'm met with a slightly unexpected sight. He's lying in bed, only partially covered by the duvet, wearing nothing but his boxers. I can see his chest, a mixture of metal and flesh, and for a moment, I'm taken aback by his exposed appearance. I don't really know what I expected him to look like, make sense, he is part Tv. "Morning, Vox", I greet him with a smile, trying not to let my surprise show. "Time to rise and shine". Vox's eyes snap open at the sound of my voice, and I notice his screen glitching slightly as it he sits up abruptly, pulling the duvet up to cover himself more fully. "Alastor! You—um, you should knock next time", he stammers, his cheeks flushing with embarrassment. "I-I'm just in my boxers". "Ah, my apologies", I say quickly, feeling a twinge of guilt for catching him off guard. "Didn't mean to startle you. Just wanted to make sure you're up and ready for the day". He nods, still looking flustered, and I give him a moment to compose himself before making my exit, giving him some privacy to get dressed. As I step out into the hallway, I make a mental note to be more considerate of Vox's privacy in the future. As Vox joins me downstairs, I offer him a warm smile and a cup of coffee. He seems a bit off, perhaps still rattled from our earlier encounter in his room, but his mood brightens when I mention our plans for the day. "Morning again, Vox," I greet him cheerfully, gesturing to the coffee on the table. "Help yourself". He takes the coffee with a grateful nod, the corners of his lips twitching up into a small smile. "Thanks, Alastor. So, what are the oh so important plans we have for today" he replies, his voice tinged with nervous sarcasm. I lean back in my seat. "Well, I was thinking, today's the day we properly start on your journey to becoming an overlord". His eyes widen with a mix of excitement and apprehension, his curiosity piqued. "Really? Today?". I nod, a mischievous glint in my eye. "That's right. We're going to get you your first soul". Vox's expression shifts from uncertainty to determination, his resolve firming. "I'm ready", he declares, a newfound sense of purpose evident in his voice. "Let's do this".

As we step out of the house and begin our walk, I turn to Vox with a curious glance, noticing the lingering unease in his demeanour. "So..." I begin, keeping my tone casual. "You seemed a bit off last night. Feeling any better today?". Vox gives a slight shrug, his expression a mix of apprehension and uncertainty. "Yeah, I guess", he replies, his voice lacking its usual confidence. "Just had a lot on my mind, you know?". I nod understandingly, falling into step beside him as we make our way down the sidewalk. "Well, if you need to talk about anything, I'm here", I offer, hoping to provide some reassurance. "Today's about getting you started on this path, but your well-being is just as important". He offers a small, appreciative smile in response, and I feel a sense of relief wash over me. Whatever is troubling him, he can talk to me about it if he wants, but that's up to him. "Where are we off to, Alastor?", Vox asks, his tone tinged with curiosity. I flash him a mischievous grin. "Ah, the Doomsday District," I respond, my voice tinged with excitement. "It's where the desperate souls roam free". Vox raises an eyebrow, a hint of apprehension in his expression. "Sounds... ominous", he remarks. I chuckle. "Oh, it's not so bad", I assure him, patting his shoulder reassuringly. "Just your average apocalyptic neighbourhood". As we stroll through the bustling streets of the Doomsday District, Vox glances around warily. "You sure about this, Alastor? This place gives me the creeps, it's worse than Cannibal Town!". I laugh, "Relax, Vox. Just keep your wits about you and your hand on your wallet", I advise with a wink. "And don't make eye contact with any demons offering suspicious deals". Vox nods, his expression a mix of nervousness and determination. "Got it. I'll try not to get us into any trouble", he replies, attempting to muster up some confidence. I clap him on the back reassuringly. "That's the spirit! Now let's go get you a soul", I quip, earning a reluctant grin from Vox as we venture deeper into the heart of the district.