Infernal Rivalry - The Clash Of Vox And Alastor

Chapter 16 : Not Ready

(Vox'S POV)

As I slowly awaken, the first thing I notice is the warmth of Alastor's body pressed against mine. Blinking sleep from my eyes, I take a moment to register our proximity, surprised by the realization that we must have fallen asleep together on the sofa. Despite the fog of sleep still clouding my mind, I find myself strangely content to remain in this position, relishing the unexpected intimacy of our closeness. I take a moment to study Alastor's peaceful expression, the gentle rise and fall of his chest as he breathes in the quiet of the room. There's something undeniably comforting about the sight, a sense of tranquility that washes over me and banishes the lingering traces of sleep from my mind. Although I can't quite recall how we ended up in this position, I feel a sense of ease and familiarity settle over me as I lay there beside him. It's a rare moment of respite in the midst of the chaos and uncertainty that often defines our existence in the underworld, and I find myself unwilling to disturb the fragile peace that surrounds us.

As I continue to watch Alastor's peaceful slumber, a strange sensation washes over me, causing my screen to flush with a subtle pink hue. It's a curious reaction, one that I can't quite explain, but in this moment, I find myself unable to tear my gaze away from him. Just as I'm lost in the mesmerizing sight of his sleeping form, Alastor begins to stir, his movements signaling the slow return to wakefulness. Panic courses through me at the realization that he's about to awaken, and I quickly avert my gaze, hoping to conceal the blush that now tinges my screen. As Alastor starts to rouse from his sleep, I feign nonchalance, pretending to be engrossed in some inconsequential detail of the room. My heart races with anticipation, unsure of how he'll react to finding me watching him so intently. Will he be amused by my apparent fascination, or will he find it unsettling?

As Alastor gradually opens his eyes, his gaze falls upon our entangled forms, and a faint blush spreads across his features. I observe the subtle shift in his demeanor, noting the slight flattening of his ears, a telltale sign of embarrassment. Despite my initial apprehension, it seems that he hasn't noticed my earlier scrutiny, much to my relief. "Ah, well, this is quite the predicament, isn't it?", Alastor chuckles awkwardly, attempting to diffuse the tension with his trademark charm. "Seems we've gotten ourselves into quite a tangle here". I nod in agreement, a sheepish grin tugging at the corners of my lips. "Indeed, it appears that way", I reply, struggling to suppress a nervous laugh. "I suppose we must have drifted off... we did drink a-lot".  Alastor nods, his expression still tinged with a faint blush. "Yes, it seems that way", he concedes, his tone laced with a hint of embarrassment. "Well, no harm done, I suppose. Just a bit of friendly proximity". I nod in agreement, relieved by his casual response. "Right, just friendly... proximity," I echo, hoping to downplay the awkwardness of the situation. "Shall we... untangle ourselves, then?".

As Alastor rubs his head, clearly feeling the effects of our impromptu celebration from the previous night, I can't help but sympathize with his hangover. Surprisingly, I feel relatively unaffected, my own heart still fluttering from the proximity we shared while sleeping. He rises from the sofa and stretches, I suggest the idea of venturing out alone to procure another soul, wanting to prove myself capable without his assistance. It's a small act of independence, a chance to assert my own agency in this unfamiliar realm. "Perhaps I should venture out on my own today", I propose, mustering up the courage to embark on this solo endeavor. "It might be a good opportunity for me to... test my skills, so to speak. Plus, it's high time I proved I can handle this on my own". He regards me with a thoughtful expression, nodding in agreement. "A splendid idea, my dear Vox", he replies, his tone supportive despite the lingering effects of his hangover. "I have every confidence that you'll succeed admirably. Besides, a bit of independence never hurt anyone".

With a sense of determination fueling my resolve, I rise from the sofa, ready to embark on this solitary mission. Though I can't deny the apprehension stirring within me, I know that this is an important step towards asserting myself in this world that is still so new to me. I navigate the bustling streets of the underworld; my senses attuned to the sights and sounds of this unfamiliar realm. I soon come across a sinner who appears downtrodden and desperate. Seizing the opportunity, I approach with cautious determination, my digital gaze fixed on my target. "Excuse me, friend", I begin, my voice resonating with a deceptive charm. "I couldn't help but notice that you seem to be in a bit of a bind. Perhaps I could offer you a way out".