Infernal Rivalry - The Clash Of Vox And Alastor

Chapter 15: Broadcast O'Clock

(Alastor's POV)

I stir from my slumber, my head throbbing slightly from the remnants of the alcohol. As I slowly open my eyes, I find Vox gently prodding me, his expression a mix of amusement and concern. "Hey there, sleepyhead", he says, a teasing grin playing on his lips. "You told me to wake you up after an hour or two. I think you might have slept through a bit more than that". I groan softly, lifting my head from his lap and blinking blearily. "Well, I guess I needed it", I mumble, rubbing my temples to ease the dull ache. "Besides, you are rather comfy to lay on". Vox chuckles, his laughter echoing in the room. "Yeah, well, don't get used to it" he quips, his tone playful. "You were snoring like a freight train. I had to check if there was an earthquake happening". I shoot him a mock glare, feigning offense. "Hey now, I'll have you know that's just the sound of a deep sleeper enjoying a peaceful rest", I retort. "You should be honored to witness such a symphony of relaxation".

"Speaking of sounds", Vox says, his tone shifting to a more serious one, "it's almost time for your radio broadcast. You should head to the studio". I nod slowly, the remnants of sleep still clinging to my mind. "Right, the studio", I mutter, pushing myself up from the sofa and trying to shake off the grogginess. "You're coming with me this time, remember". As we make our way through the house to the back where the studio is located, Vox glances over at me, concern evident in his metallic gaze. "You feeling alright? Still a bit fuzzy from the nap?". I chuckle softly, rubbing my eyes to clear them. "Just a little groggy, but I'll survive", I reply, giving him a reassuring smile. "Nothing a strong cup of coffee won't fix". The studio is a cozy space, filled with various old fashioned recording equipment. I settle into the familiar surroundings, feeling a sense of comfort wash over me. Vox helps me adjust the microphone and checks the sound levels while I gather my thoughts for the broadcast. I forget that he's experience with these things, being a TV host in his past life. "You ready?" he asks, his voice tinged with excitement. I take a deep breath, nodding with determination. "As ready as I'll ever be", I reply, feeling a surge of anticipation coursing through me. "Let's do this".

With Vox's support, I begin the broadcast, taking a deep breath, I lean into the microphone, my voice projecting with confidence. "Greetings, sinners of Hell", I begin, my tone commanding attention. "It's your favorite radio demon, Alastor, here to grace your airwaves once again". As I settle into the familiar rhythm of hosting, weaving tales of chaos and mischief for my captive audience, I can feel the energy of the broadcast pulsing through me. The thrill of the live performance electrifies the air, and I revel in the opportunity to entertain and inspire fear in equal measure. "Tonight, my dear listeners, I have a special treat for you," I continue, my voice taking on a mischievous lilt. "Joining me in the studio is a guest unlike any other—a rising star in the infernal hierarchy, a demon to watch out for". Turning towards Vox, who stands by my side with a grin, I gesture for him to speak. "Say hello to our listeners, Vox," I prompt, a playful twinkle in my eye. Vox's face lights up with a wide smile, his metallic voice taking on a new level of confidence. "Hello, sinners" he addresses the unseen audience, his tone calm yet authoritative. "It's a pleasure to be here with Alastor tonight".

As Vox's words echo through the studio, I can't help but feel a sense of satisfaction wash over me. With each broadcast I do, I'm reminded of the power of my voice and the influence I wield over the denizens of Hell. And now with Vox by my side, channeling his past life as a TV host, I know that together, we'll continue to make our mark on the infernal realm. Throughout the broadcast, Vox remains by my side, offering encouragement and occasional commentary, his presence serving as a reassuring anchor in the whirlwind of live radio. As the final segment draws to a close and the outro music fades out, I can't help but feel a sense of accomplishment wash over me. Turning to Vox, I offer him a grateful look. "Thanks for your help" I say sincerely. "Think you'll need to be a regular guest". Vox returns the smile, a glint of pride shining in his metallic eyes. "Anytime, Alastor", he replies warmly. "You nailed it out there, glad I finally got to witness one of your broadcasts!".

As we settle back into the cozy confines of the living room, a deck of cards materializes on the coffee table between us. With a mischievous gleam in my eye, I suggest involving my shadow in the game, curious to see how it fares against us mere mortals. Vox chuckles, ever the good sport, as he shuffles the deck with practiced ease. "Well, this should be interesting", he remarks, his voice tinged with amusement. With a flick of my wrist, I deal out the cards, the shadow hovering ominously nearby, its presence casting an eerie glow over the room. As the game progresses, it becomes clear that my shadow is not to be underestimated, effortlessly outmaneuvering us at every turn. I shoot Vox a playful grin as he contemplates his next move, his brow furrowed in concentration. "Looks like you've got some stiff competition, my friend", I tease, gesturing towards the shadow with a flourish. He lets out a mock sigh of defeat, shaking his head in disbelief. "I swear, this shadow has the luck of the devil", he quips, a wry smile playing at the corners of his lips.

As the game draws to a close, it's abundantly clear that my shadow reigns supreme, its victory secured with a flourish of darkness. We exchange bemused glances, marveling at the unexpected outcome, before breaking into laughter at the absurdity of it all. Truly, there's never a dull moment in the infernal abode we call home. "Looks like the shadow's the reigning champion tonight," I remark with a chuckle, gathering up the cards and reshuffling them for another round. He nods in agreement, a playful glint in his eye. "Indeed. Who knew shadows were such formidable opponents?" he muses, his tone lighthearted despite his apparent defeat. My grin widens, unable to resist a smug comment. "Well, it is my shadow after all. Guess it's just reflecting my brilliance," I joke, playfully nudging Vox as I gather up the cards for another round. He chuckles, shaking his head in mock disbelief. "Ah, so that's the secret behind its unbeatable skills" he replies, his tone dripping with playful sarcasm. "I'll have to remember that for next time". With a shared laugh, we dive back into the game, the competitive spirit driving us to outwit each other and, hopefully, my shadow. Despite Vox's valiant efforts, it seems my shadow has an uncanny knack for coming out on top, much to our amusement and frustration.

As we continue our game, the drinks flow freely, adding to the jovial atmosphere that permeates the room. I can't help but chuckle at the irony of indulging in more alcohol so soon after my drunken nap, but I quickly dismiss any concerns with a wave of my hand.
"I suppose I shouldn't be drinking again so soon after my little nap" I quip, flashing Vox a mischievous grin. "But hey, the broadcast was a hit, so I think we deserve a little celebration, don't you?". Vox laughs, raising his glass in agreement. "Absolutely", he replies, his own glass clinking against mine. "To successful broadcasts and unbeatable shadows!". As the night progresses and the drinks flow freely, Vox decides to take control of the radio, aiming to keep our spirits high with some upbeat tunes. However, his attempts to operate the device prove to be more challenging than expected, resulting in a comical display of button pressing and knob turning. Amused by his struggle, I can't help but laugh at the sight, finding his determination endearing. With a mischievous glint in my eye, I decide to lend a helping hand, snapping my fingers in a theatrical gesture. Instantly, the smooth and sultry notes of jazz fill the room, creating a lively atmosphere.

As the music fills the air, I find myself swaying to the rhythm, my voice joining in with the melody. Vox, caught up in the infectious energy of the moment, grins and reaches out to grab my shadow, pulling it into an impromptu dance. Together, we move to the music, lost in the joyous celebration of the night. He grasps my shadow's hand and twirls it around the room, I can't help but chuckle at the sight. The shadow, normally a silent observer, now dances with a newfound energy, mirroring Vox's movements with surprising grace. With each spin and sway, Vox's laughter fills the air, his infectious joy spreading like wildfire. I watch from my seat, my smile widening as I enjoy the spectacle before me. There's something strangely heartwarming about seeing Vox dance with my shadow, a reminder of the unexpected moments of camaraderie and connection that can arise between unlikely companions. As the music plays on and the night stretches on, I find myself content to simply watch, savoring the warmth of the moment and the company of a newfound friend.