Hello everyone! I'm letting you all know that I have a second job so I might not be able to update as much as I like. But understand I will get these out as soon as I can!
I want to again thank Beer for his suggestion! I already had plans for this chapter to focus on Elli and Vox's "not" date. I'll explain more in my end notes. No spoilers! So let's get onto the chapter!
Vox tells Elli the truth about his rivalry with Alastor. But another battle is brewing that they are unaware of...
Chapter 6: The Battle Begun
Vox had to admit that the cafe wasn't as bad as he thought. There was no demon meat in the pastries (Thank Satan!), and the coffee was pretty good! He had purchased a breakfast sandwich along with his coffee. It was mostly due because he hadn't eaten anything all day and he was starving! The whiff of the food reminded him of his empty stomach, despite the earlier shock of cannibalism from earlier. Elli had gotten a croissant and an Éclair with her tea. She wasn't very enthusiastic about coffee. Something else it seems that she and Alastor were different on. He took a sip of his coffee.
"So uh... how are you managing?" He asked. "With...being down here and working for Rosie?"
"I'm adjustin' well." Elli responded. "I'm very grateful fer Rosie. She gave me a job, found me a home wit' de hotel, and she led me ta my little boy! I'm eternally grateful for her."
The TV demon nodded. He was making some small talk in order to help himself ease in his conversation about his and Alastor's rivalry. But he was having such a hard time trying to find the words. How could he begin? He didn't want to bring it up abruptly. Should he just wait for her to ask? Damn it! Why was this so hard? Why was he so nervous about this? He was going to tell her the truth! It should be easy! So then why couldn't he just say it?
"How's Vark doing?"
Vox blinked, having gotten lost in his thoughts. If it was one thing that he did love to talk about, it was his precious shark-puppy! A smile split onto his screen.
"Oh Vark is doing amazing! I taught him a new trick! How to play futbol!"
"Football?" Elli giggled. "My, that must really be fun!"
"Oh yea! He loves chasing after the ball every time I kick it. Though I'm still trying to get him to not knock over the goal-post each time we make a goal."
The doe-demon nodded. She did enjoy how happy that he got when talking or playing with Vark. She had to admit that she really did like the shark-dog. She did learn from Angel Dust that he and Valentino, the spider's Overlord, had an on-again-off-again relationship. While she personally haven't been in a romantic relationship since she was a teenager, she did have many friends who did get married. So she would often listen to their problems and be as helpful as she could be.
"How are you 'nd Valentino doin'? Angel told me ya two were datin'."
Vox blinked. He was surprised that she would bring up Valentino Though he shouldn't be surprised as he had heard the spider-demon calling her "Ma".
"Oh we've... not been together for a while. Val is..."
He stopped unable to form words. The moth Overlord was a lot of things. Controlling, abusive, insufferable, but he couldn't exactly unleash all of his emotional baggage on her. At least, not right now. Not when their relationship was still fragile. Plus, his and Valentino's last break-up was... he couldn't say it was mutual because it was done over a fight. He couldn't remember what it was over now that he thought about it. It's been smoothed over, but they had not hooked up again. What could he say?
"Val is... difficult, sometimes. We're currently not together."
The doe-demon nodded. She did not know the circumstance of his relationship with his ex. So she was not equip to give him some helpful romantic advice. But she could be was a listening ear.
"I'm sorry 'bout that sugar. Must be pretty hard on ya."
He just shrugged.
"It's Hell. Of course it's going to be hard. Romantic relationships aren't meant to be healthy ones like up in Heaven or Earth. But I guess every- well, I can't say everyone, but a majority of people want to believe that they can find that right one, despite being down here."
She nodded. She took a sip of her tea as she hummed, glancing around.
"I've not been down here for very long, Vox. But from what I can see, there is still some good down here. It just takes finding it. When I speak ta my patients, most of 'em had already lost hope or doubt things'll get betta'. But they will. Life, even de Afterlife, of course, ain't gunna be easy. 'Nd lots of folks ferget about that. We fall into habits, 'nd let it control us. But we can't let it. Or else we will loose who we really are."
It was such a profound and insightful statement. And it deeply touched the Media Overlord. He interpreted it that if he waited and worked hard enough, he would eventually earned her trust and love. Feeling more confident, he decided to finally tell her.
"Elli, I need to tell you something very important."
She turned her attention back over to him. Tilting her head slightly.
"Yes?"
He took a breath to calm himself down. He wasn't going to spin the narrative into his favor. Not when he really wanted to gain her trust back. He circled his finger around the rim of his cup, feeling anxious.
"It's... about mine and Alastor's rivalry. How it all began."
Her eyes widen in surprise. She was not expecting this. But she didn't want to interrupt him, so she nodded, taking a sip of her tea as she wanted for him to continue.
"I died in 1956. But I didn't physically meet Alastor until 1961. It was that meeting that changed everything..."
1961
Vox had learned to adapt quickly to being in Hell since he died. Hosting a game show in the middle of a thunderstorm probably wasn't the greatest decision that he had made. Getting electrocuted by a TV that was struck by lightening was a truly painful experience. Now he was in Hell. Granted, he was still surprised despite knowing that he wasn't exactly the greatest person alive.
When he first arrived, he had learned quickly that being an Overlord was the way to go. And being the ambitious guy that he was, rose his way to the top. Befriending Valentino and Velvet in the process. But there was another demon that he was hoping to impress. Alastor the Radio Demon. The guy, from what he could tell, was very hard to track down. Hell! He had missed every single Overlord Meeting with Lucifer that Vox had attended so far! Which was every single one of them!
He found it both terrifying and admirable that the Radio Demon was so bold to ignore mandatory meetings from the King of Hell himself. He was hoping to meet with him. He did admire the guy for being able to lay claim over so many Sinners. He heard so many terrifying and admirable things about him. The Radio Demon was a charming guy. Witty, cunning, powerful. He's captured the citizens of Hell's hearts and minds in both respect and fear. He too, wanted that. And with him being the Media Demon? To have both Radio and TV working together? They would be unstoppable!
It was time for another Overlord meeting. And at the moment, Alastor had yet to arrive. Vox was silently praying that the allusive demon would finally come. Lucifer hadn't started the meeting yet. Waiting to see if the only missing Overlord was going to show. He looked over at Rosie.
"Rosie, Alastor will be showing up today, correct?"
She gave a small nod. Keeping her cool, despite the King of Hell speaking to her. Vox had no idea how she could keep calm.
"I made sure to call him before I left. I made it abundantly clear that his tardiness will not be tolerated and that your patience is wearing thin. But I am not his mother, so I cannot just go and grab him by his ear to drag him here."
The King hummed. Vox wasn't sure if he got the funny mental image of Rosie dragging Alastor by his ear like he did. Apparently, Alastor was one of those demons that still had ears. He didn't know if it was a good thing or not. He was about to ask a question when the door swung open. Everyone turned their heads to see a sillhoute standing in the door way. The figure's eyes snapped open to reveal that they were glowing red. Sharp yellow teeth formed into a smile. The figure stepped out to show an incredibly thin man, with gray skin, with red bob-styled haircut with... deer-like ear turfs? Huh. Strange. And he had antlers. Oh, he was a deer demon. He were a red pinstripe jacket with matching red pants with black... boots? Heeled boots? He wasn't sure. He wore a red monocle resting on his right cheek, just below his right eye.
"Hello everyone! So sorry for the late arrival! I know you find my lack of presence questioning, but I ensure you, I was incredibly busy! So much entertainment that I could not past!" He laughed before giving a small sigh. "Oh the naive fools."
Vox was surprised to hear the radio filter over his voice. He thought that was just the radio it self. But it looks like it was part of his actual voice. Hell was such a strange place.
"You're late. Again." Lucifer told him. "And you've missed several meetings."
"Then maybe you should revoke my Overlord status." Alastor told him, his grin stretching wider.
The king snorted but said nothing. Vox looked at Velvet and Valentino for information.
"Al doesn't take his Overlord duties seriously." The doll demon explained.
The new Overlord nodded. Alastor seated himself next to Rosie. Who whispered something sharply in the deer demon's ear. Vox couldn't tell if he was bothered by what she said or not. His smile never went down. Vox couldn't wait to get Alastor alone after the meeting. He had a whole presentation ready for him! There was no way that he couldn't say no! Right?
After the meeting was finished, Vox made his way to go talk to him in private. This was finally his chance! He'd get to meet his idol and form a partnership with him. He managed to catch up to him a block or so away from the palace.
"Alastor, right? I'm Vox. The new Overlord. We never officially met."
"Ah, so I have not! So sorry my good fellow! I have had so many other arrangements that I have not had the time!"
"I understand. We all have our businesses to attend to. But there is something I wanted to discuss with you."
Alastor tilted his head.
"Oh?"
"Yes!"
Damn it. He should've brought his portfolio with him! He had a feeling that he'd meet the Radio Demon today, and instead he left it in his room! Fuck! Well, no matter, improvising was one of his greatest skills! As one must have to be in the world of broadcasting! Something Alastor of all demons had to understand! He'd just have to display what he wanted to get across on his screen. As well as throwing in well-thought out pitch! First of all, flattery. When getting a business partner, a bit of flattery is the best way to ensnare them!
"I first would like to say that I have been listening to your shows since I first came down here and they are truly revolutionary."
The deer's grin widen. Almost looking smug.
"Why thank you. The radio has always been a passion of mine."
"And I can see that!" Vox continued. "As an entertainer myself, while with you on the radio and me on the screens, I wanted to make a business proposition for you!"
"Is that so?"
"Absolutely!" The TV demon responded.
This was his big chance! His screen flicked to different photos and graphs as he talked.
"There is no question why Sinners and Hellborns alike fear you. Respect you. And I, myself, is getting up in the ranks. And while your power is something Hell has never seen before, your presences alone, is just the icing on the cake! So I wanted to offer a partnership! You're viewers, while as loyal as they are, tune into every single segment you produce, must take not that the sound of your voice can't be enough. Which is why I believe if we work together, your shows will reach all over Hell! The citizens will see the results that you cook up! No longer will their imaginations fill in the blanks! They can see you in all your glory! We can host shows, cooking segments, anything! We'll be the kings of broadcasting! Radio and TV! A powerhouse that Hell will have never seen before! Hell would basically be in our complete control!"
His screen went back to his face. That was a very fine presentation if he say so himself! Alastor was still smiling. That was a great sign!
"So? What do you say?"
The deer laughed. Was that a good laugh? Or a condescending laugh? He wasn't sure. The other Overlord wiped a tear from his eye.
"Oh, a truly humorous show that was!"
Vox was shocked. Humorous? Humorous!? It wasn't suppose to humorous! It was suppose to be inspiring! Alastor continued.
"No, no, my good fellow. Why would I want to give an insight to these lowsome scum on my operation? Why mess with the thrill of suspense and curiosity? Oh no! What use are these inferior gadgets to me?"
"I-inferior!?" Vox sputtered.
Was this guy serious!? How could he ignore the technological advantages that have been achieved!? The fact that everything was being so easily obtainable compared to not so many years ago! How could he ignore such amazing advancements!?
"Yes! Inferior! So complicated, so useless! Why sure, the picture shows may entertain for a bit, but to allow such mindless dribble for hours on end? How dull! Why, take away the joys of mystery and lay all your cards out for others to see?" The stag shook his head. "Oh no, my good man. I just can't see the appeal!"
The TV-demon felt his confidence diminished. No. No! This couldn't be happening!
"B-b-b-but my proposal, my plan-!"
"Truly misguided! Oh you poor ignorant fool! Ah, but I can't fully blame you. You're like a moth. Drawn in by the pretty shiny lights. Only for you to meet your brutal end!"
He laughed again. Okay, now Vox knew he was being laughed at. It was making him angry. The fact that the older sinner was basically calling him stupid for having a vision! He stopped listening to him. Anger over taking him. All those years! The work! The pitch! Everything he did to get the Radio Demon to side with him! And he had the gall to laugh at him. HIM. A fellow Overlord! He was so angry that he hadn't notice that Alastor had started to walk away. Before he knew it, he was alone.
If Alastor wanted to call him foolish. Then fine! He'll show him! He'll show the outdated deer that he was worthy of being noticed! He'll prove to him that he made the mistake to brush him aside!
"You made a mistake Alastor. You have made a very deadly enemy..."
"Oh Vox," Elli frowned softly.
The Media Overlord didn't look at her. Shame and anger preventing him from looking in her eyes. He never told anyone how his rivalry started with Alastor. Well, Valentino and Velvet knew to an extent. That their rivalry started with a disagreement over technology. But he never told them about how he offered a partnership with him. And that Alastor just blew him off.
"I had such great plans! For both of us! But he just kept ignoring me and basically insulted everything I did!"
He did his best to not crush the mug that was in his hands. He didn't want to have pay for damaging property.
"I'm really sorry 'bout that. Alastor..." She paused. "Alastor has always been a bit difficult ta work wit' or understand. But he's a stubborn one. It's hard ta change his mind. Even I have some trouble."
Vox nodded. His resentment had been built up for decades. He took him some reflecting on how it all started. He was gazing down at his coffee. Reflecting on all the years that he had dedicated to their rivalry. He looked up when he felt his hand being grabbed. His eyes locking with Elli's.
"Thank ya fer tellin' me this Vox. Fer tellin' me how this fight between ya 'nd Alastor started."
Vox was sure that he was blushing. He prayed that it wasn't noticeable.
"Y-you're welcome."
He felt himself melt when she smiled at him. Satan, was he in love with this woman. He felt a tiny bit of sadness when she pulled her hand away.
"Now, I can't actually make any promises. But I can try 'nd talk ta him."
"Thank you Elli."
"No problem sug'." She took a sip of her tea. "Now, let's on to more pleasant things. What have ya been up to last time I saw ya?"
Vox grinned. He was making progress! And he was more than glad to tell her everything!
In the world of the internet, Velvet's photo had been blowing up. Different comments from Sinners alike where spreading like wild fire. It appeared that it was starting to become divided. Some Sinners were invested in the new relationship that Vox was getting into, while other's were staying with Vox and Valentino's previous flings. It was becoming so big that everyone that followed the Three Vs were getting split into two groups. The StaticMoth and the Velli Shippers. It wasn't even staying online any more. It was leaking into reality as well.
"I heard this female Sinner that Vox is seeing is the Radio Demon's mother!" A female plant sinner told her friend. "Her name is apparently Elli! Isn't that ironic?"
Her friend, a female bee demon, laughed.
"Oh it is! The Media Overlord and the Radio Demon's mother? That's hilarious!"
"You know if those two really did get married, that would make Vox the Radio Demon's step-father!"
The two burst into fits of laughter, catching the attention of several other sinners. A lamp demon came up.
"What's this about Vox becoming the Radio Demon's step-father?"
The plant sinner held up her phone, with an image of Vox and Elli together.
"It's the latest trend on Velvet's blog! Overlord Vox had befriended the Radio Demon's mother and Velvet says that Vox has a HUGE crush on her!"
"The Radio Demon's mother?" Another sinner spoke up. "What about Valentino?"
He was a black skinned demon with five eyes and a horn coming out of his forehead.
"They broke up!" The Bee explained. "They haven't been together in months! Vox is all about Radio Mama right now! Her name is Elli and Velvet is totally supporting their relationship! She's calling the Vox and Radio Mama ship "Velli" now!"
"No way," Another demon, a brown barn owl-like demon snorted. "Vox and Valentino always get back together. StaticMoth will prevail. Like it usually does."
"Puh-lease!" Plant-demon exclaimed. "Valentino is such an asshole! Vox deserves waaaay better than him! Which is why Elli is the perfect one for him!"
"Oh yea? What do we really know about the Radio Demon's mother? Who's to say she isn't roping him in for Alastor to attack him? Or vice-versa?"
This lead into a full blown-argument. Which resulted in demonic-forms coming out. It appeared that a Shipping War was just beginning...
"So what's your plan?" Adam asked as he watched Valentino pace in his office.
Each was smoking a cigar. The Moth Overlord had brought him over to his studio as he contemplated a plan. While Adam didn't actually like the Overlord, if it meant getting his family to finally be united, then he'll do what he has to. The Pimp hummed as he thought.
"Wine and dine them first. We got to lure them in. Show them just how much better we are."
"I've been tryin' ta do that with Elli when we were alive. She never agreed ta go out with me. 'Specially now."
Valentino nodded. He knew too well how stubborn Vox could get as well. And it was getting irritated that he was being fucking ignored. It was time to show him just who he belonged to. And as far as the Moth was concerned, the doe-bitch was collateral damage. The faster she was out of the picture, the better.
"Don't you worry 'bout that. If they still ain't eating outta the palms of our hands, there are other ways."
The LeBough heir raised a brow.
"What kinda 'otha' ways' we talkin' about?"
Valentino smirked as he took another drag from his cigar.
"No need to worry 'bout that right now babe. All that is important is gettin' our lovers back. One way, or another."
He tossed a necklace over to him with a purple gemstone on it.
"Give the little lady this. No girl can refuse a gift of jewelry."
Adam looked at the necklace. It did look like something that Elli would love to wear. He grinned. This was certain to get Elli to warm up to him!
"I can agree ta that. How soon do ya want to meet up again?"
"Don't call me. I'll call you."
He nodded as he walked out the door, unaware as the gem glowed before he placed it in his pocket. Valentino smirked once more as he looked down at the compact disk on his desk.
"Oh yes Voxxy, baby. It's time that we had another date night."
He chuckled darkly as his cigar smoke circled around the disk. Vox and Elli were both going to be getting exactly what they deserved.
God damn it! This chapter kicked my ass! It was so damn hard to write! Vox's backstory especially! I've been sitting on the chapter for MONTHS. Or is it weeks? I have no idea. But thank you all for being so patient with me! Everything has been so insane lately!
War is brewing everyone! We learned about Vox and Alastor's rivalry and how it all began! I want to thank the Redditors and my dear friends that helped me with it! You're all amazing!
Beer had once again come up with great subplot of SHIPPING WARS! Who will win? StaticMoth? Or Velli?
Lastly, we got Valentino and Adam cooking up something! They got a plan on how to get their former lovers back. Will they succeed?
Thank you all again and I'll see you in the next chapter!