[Ueghhh... dammit. Vox walked into that anyway, and his entire body stiffens a little at the namedrop. He doesn't want to kill the immersion of this extremely performative date night too much, but if they discuss Val like a business partner, he guesses it's not too bad? Yep, that's how he'll save this.]
No, no. You're right. Valentino would put a much better twist on the concept. Once Heaven's under our control, a whole new world of film making's gonna open up for him. And sure, the angels will be scandalized for a bit, but they'll get over it. It'll be good for 'em to be exposed to something that's not... [He waves an idle hand at the movies displayed on the screen, making a disgusted face.] That.
[Vox is a pragmatic guy, already thinking ahead on how to put the other two Vees to work once they cross those gates. The way he sees it, they should be thankful for it, because they'll keep getting to do the jobs they're passionate about. No limitations, no being dismissed due to where they came from. They'll have free reign to let their creativity flow. Everybody wins!]
It does seem that Hell siphons all of the Earth's talent, doesn't it?
[ It brings new meaning to "tortured artists." ]
I have no interest in his films, but I was quite impressed by his art. I've always been a supporter of the arts, you know.
[ It's not something he's ever hidden, nor is it a surprise given his choice of career. If life were more favorable he might have stepped into theater instead, but alas, no one wanted to see a man like him... In truth, he would have liked to talk to the man more. He might be a few cards short of a full deck, but he can work with that.
Alastor takes advantage of that little bit of movement he has to tap the back of the other demon's arm with two fingers to cut off any response, or rather to delay it, because he wants something. ]
... Whiskey. Barkeeper's choice.
[ The fact that he's suddenly trying to play along may be something to be concerned about, or it might just be an attempt to make sure Vox doesn't get too fussed about the lack of focus on him. Or it could just be that he's too sober for this. Hard to say. Whatever it is, he's being given an opportunity here, and Alastor is curious to see if the other remembers what his go-to was. ]
[It feels bittersweet to hear Alastor say he's 'a supporter of the arts'. Films are art. Video, along with other things produced by modern technology... It all takes creativity and hard work, regardless of how much circuitry and programming is involved. Still, there's a difference between supporting arts and consuming them, so Vox can't even call Alastor a liar here.
The tap to his arm causes him to blink, brow raising. His gaze flits down to Alastor's hand for a split second, then sideways towards the man's face. While he was still leaning in to mess with the touchscreen, he moves back into his seat again for more space. The request is bolstering, though. It causes him to grin.]
Alright! Now we're talkin'! Here, I've got just the thing.
[He's aware this could be a distraction, or some other sort of trick. Because of that, he uses his cables to monitor Alastor even as his gaze is on the assortment of bottles. If there's even the slightest movement, he'll know about it.
Over seventy years ago, Alastor had his favorites. Drinks that would be served to him quite consistently. It makes it even easier for Vox to remember just what those drinks were. He already has the preferred brand of whiskey- or rather, the brand that was preferred back then, though he doubts that would have changed. Alastor is a creature of habit, after all. The drink is prepared with confidence and ease, ice cubes included, then held a few inches near Alastor's hand so it can be taken.]
Here. How about we toast to success? My success, of course. Goes without saying, that.
[ There's a chuckle as he watches Vox pour his drink, and of course it's just the right one. It's the same whiskey that he'd had at the bar decades ago. It's the one that he still has, though he prefers to take it alone now. It must have been years since he last shared a drink with someone, though he can't say how many. It seems that the more time that passes by, the less he retains, but he remembers the things that matter.
He thinks to comment on it as he takes the drink in hand, but unfortunately he can't make even the smallest concession without Vox finding some way to become even more insufferable. The corners of his mouth twitch, but the request is met with a begrudging acquiescence. He lifts his glass as much as he can with his limited range of movement. ]
To your success.
[ The lack of any real enthusiasm non-withstanding, there's no tricks to be found here (or not yet anyway.) Alastor does quite well in keeping any complaints he has to himself. In this moment Vox's success is Alastor's success, after all, and he's the only one that's needed. Despite how he speaks of them, the other two Vees would have been entirely struck from his memory by now if not for their proximity to him.
[There's a lot of comebacks that Vox is braced for. Another "you'll fuck it up" or "you wouldn't have gotten this far without your goons", or even an "eat shit". What he gets instead is... definitely not that. It doesn't even sound sarcastic. Not very enthusiastic either, but then, why would Alastor be? It's not his victory, it's Vox's. It makes sense for the congratulations to be bittersweet. There's still a very real chance this is some sort of trick, but just for a moment, Vox allows himself to believe that it's heartfelt. Clinging to that shred of hope feels so much better than the paranoia.
A rush of excitement washes through him and it's likely visible on his face, along with all the other minute details of his physique. So long as he's not masking his true intent, Vox's emotions are worn on his sleeve with very little nuance to it. His own drink is hastily snatched up so he can clink his glass against Alastor's, eagerness ensuring that the liquid weaves dangerously close to flowing over the edge.]
Hear hear!
[This really is all Vox wanted, in the end: acknowledgement. It's perfect. He loves it. It's not enough to let Alastor go- it'll never be enough. No amount of acknowledgement can still compensate for the damage that was caused over the past seven decades. Even so... He could get used to this.]
[ Hm. No. Actually, he doesn't like that. Better dial it back a notch before Vox starts to get the wrong idea. ]
Though you still have time to blow it. Between Charlie's stubbornness and Heaven's potential to grow a spine and smite you, [ Because he has not forgotten the delightful sound of Vox's initial panic over their arrival. He'll carry that with him until the end of days, ] There's no shortage of ways that I could have front row seats to you humiliating yourself in front of all of Hell and Heaven.
[ Vox is a person that has to be handled with care. If Alastor pushes him too much then he'll grow dispirited, but if he offers too much then he'll start to get greedy. He requires a light touch, one that offers him opportunity. As such, Alastor won't give any vote of confidence, but he doesn't mind acknowledging what's been done up until now just this once, allowing for an unspoken promise to offer more if he succeeds.
Not that he will. Vox will fuck it up. That's why Alastor likes him. He's a complete fool. He challenges the Radio Demon. He looks to conquer Heaven. He does all those things that no one else would. He's ambitious. It's exciting. It's entertaining.
In his hundred years in Hell, he's only found one other person who's caught his eye, and even that girl pales in comparison.
Alastor downs his drink in one go, as easily as if it were a shot. That's nothing out of the ordinary for him, nor does it have any effect. He lets his hand drop back down with the glass still in hand.
And with all that said... ]
But tell me: Should you really be here with me right now? This is the moment that you and your partners have been building up to, and they seem to be getting tired of being left out of the celebrations. I'm just your little prisoner, after all.
[ Our plan, they would say, even as Vox pulled Alastor alone in for his ridiculous laugh. Our plan, while Vox paid mind only to him. Our plan, and his presence and their relationship had gotten old long ago.
He nudges Vox with his glass because he needs at least four or five more to feel anything, and the other should be grateful because it's been decades since he's been so willing to do this with anyone at all. ]
I'd venture to say that some feel I've overstayed my welcome, in fact.
[ Is that a request to leave? Quite the opposite, as he's content right where he is, but even Vox can't be so braindead as to realize that he's the only one who wants Alastor here.
[Aaaand there's the souring of the moment. Naturally. Vox can't have nice shit around here- not for more than five seconds, anyway. But that's all about to change. Once they get to Heaven, he'll have all the nice shit and then Alastor can stop insisting he's a fuck-up. By that point, there really won't be anything left to fuck up. He'll be a god, overtaking the highest pedestal any sentient being could stand on, and good luck to anyone who tries to get him down from there. Alastor will be left wishing he'd given Vox the respect he deserved all those years ago.
He takes a sip from his own drink, not at all willing to drain it the same way Alastor does. He'll take his time, really savor it. Though he does look rather disgruntled at that mention of the other Vees, even with the glass to his mouth, but he's slipped back into nonchalance by the time he responds.]
No, no. The moment we've been building up to is tomorrow. This? This is just meaningless filler until the main event. So why not waste time on meaningless things?
[An insult composed of hot air in every sense of the word, because much as he loves to say Alastor is a nobody, his actions say something different entirely. Alastor is the most impactful person to exist in Vox's life (not in a good way), and he always will be, so time spent with him could never be meaningless. That's just not how petty grudges work.
He takes the empty glass from Alastor's hand anyway, still more than willing to refill it even as he keeps talking.]
Once the plan is done, I'll just leave you rot by yourself in some dark little room. We'll do a shit ton of celebrating without you. But until then, you're gonna get that front row seat you wanted. You're gonna see me fucking win, like I was always destined to do. Don't think for even a second I'll let you look away.
[By the time his rant is done, the glass is filled up with whiskey again. It's held near Alastor's hand again, ready for the taking.]
[ The questions come in a saccharine sweet, sing-song voice. He's not bothered at all; in fact, he slumps back in his seat, for all the world looking to be a man who's had a great weight lifted off his shoulders. ]
Do make sure it's somewhere down here, preferably as far away from you as possible. [ "how can you get further than heaven" put him on the part of hell that's farthest from it or smth ] I'm right where I was always meant to be.
[ He takes the glass in hand, and Alastor at least has the decency to not immediately slam it back this time. In fact, he seems quite ready to add more to that, but something stops him just short of it. His mind wanders elsewhere, that thought of what would happen if Vox did succeed in this scratching at the edges of his mind once more.
The snide remark he was going to add is lost, but the grin and expectant look remain in place. It's nothing that Vox would do or that Alastor would want, but it's that which allows him to speak of it so flippantly.
Besides, he never had any intention of looking away, no more than he's thought of running away. He's precisely where he wants to be. After all, his own problems and vendettas aside, somebody has to put Vox in his place before the moron actually starts a war. Really, he does have to do everything himself. ]
Edited (trimming a bit bc i didn't like the flow, this is why you don't write with a migraine) 2025-12-09 01:10 (UTC)
[Vox barks out another laugh at those sentiments. They're missing the point. The grand vision that he has. He'd wonder whether Alastor is underestimating him again, but does it really matter? The truth is coming, undeniable and unstoppable, because Vox has already won.
His hand moves back to his own glass, lifting it up. He doesn't drink just yet, instead gently rotating it, the liquid swirling around within.]
Yeah, we'll see about that. But don't make the mistake of thinkin' I'll leave Hell behind. Once I've taken over Heaven, I'll be in charge of both realms. And hey, since I'll be God, technically I'll be ruling the mortal realm while I'm at it. Not as interesting, but it's a neat little freebie. [... Alright, now he'll take a sip from his drink, cocky as can be. A soft "Mmm" escapes him as he savors the taste.]
Anyway, point is, everything will be my territory. No matter where you are, you'll always be on my turf and in my possession. I won't forget, and I won't let you forget.
[Because Alastor was the fool who didn't put a time limit on the deal. This means that so long as Vox keeps to the conditions (let two nobodies go, don't hurt Charlie- whatever), Alastor will be his prisoner forever. Maybe, at some point, he'll let the guy walk around freely. It depends whether the radio demon will accept that his rightful place is still at Vox's feet.]
[ He feigns disappointment and exasperation. It's exaggerated, because he's not finding any reason for immediate concern. ]
And what of your partners? You have yet to give me an answer to that question. It's one thing to be unable to convince me to go along with your little fantasy of being in charge, but them?
[ Alastor sneers. He does find the other two to be more pleasant to be around, but that doesn't mean he has illusions about them. The gap between the two of them and Vox is wide, and so the gap between them and the radio demon is as vast as the ocean. They're slow, weak, and sloppy. They lack the discipline and cunning that he has. And as for his captor, he lacks any kind of foresight.
He drains his glass as easily as if it were a shot, then shakes his head. ]
My two lackeys won't dare question me, but it's the other way around for you. Yet I've only seen you placating your partners.
[ And in a perfect display of tonal dissonance, he's going to tap Vox with the back of his hand before pointing to the touchscreen. His words are being used for something much more important, but he can multitask here in playing along with torture or whatever he's trying to accomplish here. ]
[Vox hates that this topic keeps coming up, since Alastor was the one who rejected the idea of partnerships, of rising to the top with others by one's side. He doesn't have any right to speak of it. Vox understands the logic and the mindset, because it's one he's had for most of his life already, but he can't deny the benefits that have come from keeping his associates close by. It's boosted his finances, his influence over Sinners... And the two other Vees aren't constantly moping about how much he sucks, or how he's going to lose. Having support is nice. He always enjoys it when he gets to make a mockery of people with Velvette. He definitely always enjoys it when Valentino goes out of his way to make him feel special. The both of them likely have selfish motivations, but it's a symbiotic dynamic anyway.
No, Vox won't just throw his partners away after this. They're not on his level, but they're the most important pillars he can stand on. One for his left foot, one for his right foot.
His eyes narrow and he takes another sip from his drink. The indication of the touchscreen isn't missed, though he takes his time with acting on it. Alastor doesn't get to tell him what to do.]
It's not placation. Val and Velvette are exactly where I want them to be. Once I take my rightful place, they'll have theirs, and they'll fucking love me for it. See, that's what it means to rise to the top with someone else. Everyone gets exactly what they deserve. Some a little more than others, of course, but...
[Vox peers down into his glass, watching the ice cubes bob around in what's left of the clear brown liquid. It's such a familiar sight. Some forty decades after he stopped having drinks with Alastor, he started having them with Valentino instead, and while there was always that bittersweet aftertaste it might end the same way... It won't. Because Vox doesn't turn raw potential and devotion away when it comes to him, instead pulling it in and treasuring it. If it's offered to him, it might as well belong to him.]
Well. Point is, your lackeys won't question you, but Val and Velvette adore me. I'll take devotion that comes from the heart over fear any day. It's a better motivator.
[And with that, he finally raises his free hand to the touchscreen, scrolling through the options again. Oh snap, The Beauty of Sharks, a documentary narrated by Bob Ross??? He'll give you credit for this one, Heaven, and he's coming back for it later.]
[ well alastor wouldn't be moping around about how much vox sucks either if he weren't stuck with him!!!!!!! ]
You misunderstand. Fear is what prevents people from challenging you, and it makes them sloppy when they do.
[ Vox has, too, seen how quickly that crumbles. Lucifer is hardly a threat anymore. ]
It's respect that I crave, and it's respect that I have. That is what motivates people. It's what makes them listen. As you've seen, I have it from the souls in my care, [ Because Niffty and Husk (unexpected and unwanted as they were) came for Alastor just as fast as Valentino and Velvette did, ] our fellow overlords, the princess, and even Heaven's diplomat.
[ Or rather, he will soon enough. Charlie has no doubt already talked him up, so he's not particularly concerned. The only one he's missing is the king, who's respect is worth no more than the pieces of lint in his pocket.
None of them doubt him. None of them dismiss him. He can pull strings quite easily when he chooses to. Quality, not quantity, but Alastor has earned his position in more ways than one. ]
You, on the other hand, have always garnered attention and adoration, but you waste and throw away every bit of respect that's given to you.
[ There's something to that particular statement. The words come a hint quicker, the inflection changes just slightly, there's something buried in it. It's something quiet, foreign, and perhaps without meaning. Something old and buried trying to claw its way back up from the grave. It's there and gone, seamlessly returning to his original tone. ]
You can dismiss me, but don't you forget, the only reason that people are acknowledging you at all now is because of my reputation.
[ It took him a century to build it up, and it's solid enough that he can bounce back from this. The opposite of Vox, who will soon be erased from the history books. And God if that won't be satisfying to see. ]
[A lot of what Alastor's saying to him feels like a waste of breath. Nonsense, almost. It ensures Vox isn't paying all too much attention to what might be hiding between the lines. His gaze is still on the touch screen and he's idly scrolling through the selection, even as his other hand lifts his drinking glass back to his mouth.
Blah blah, respect, whatever. Time to browse through the animation category. There's something there about a bunch of sentient fruit getting together and opening up a coffee shop. Apparently it's a musical with Broadway style numbers? Aw fuck, figures Heaven would get Howard Ashman. It's okay, even Vox agrees that man doesn't belong in Hell.
Alastor's still talking, Vox realizes, and he tunes back in just in time for that last bit. It's enough to have him laugh out loud, because while he understands what the insult is trying to be, he can flip it with ease.]
Uh. Yeah. Duh. Because you were one of the most impressive Overlords, and I fucking beat you! I'm better than you! Stronger. So now that reputation you had is mine. And I'll keep going from here, too.
[That's what he's always done, even when he was still alive: eliminate a hot shot and take their place. Usurping someone's reputation means getting all the benefits that come with it. Not that Alastor has much to his name for Vox to claim beyond that infamy. He doesn't want the man's shitty lackeys and he doesn't want the radio studio. All he wanted was Alastor himself and now he's got him.]
The most impressive, and you have et to prove that you can beat me.
[ Alastor corrects, because who else was so notorious that speculation of his disappearance and loss alike were to angelic arms and Lucifer himself? Not once had anyone expected another overlord to defeat him. ]
There's no point in speaking with a fool. You'll understand soon enough.
[ There is a reason one isn't supposed to argue with idiots. They not only drag a person down to their level, but they win every time thanks to their experience. His old friend is in for a rude awakening, though, when he's defeated and left with nothing but the paltry pity of his associates.
The other two Vees won't abandon him, of course. That's not an option for them, not if they want to keep their seat at the table, and it was never the goal anyway. Efforts to break up a group is the domain of the weak and insecure, people who need others, and Alastor is none of the above. Rather, there can only be one strongest sinner in Hell, and so he needs to borrow Vox for that purpose. And once he's done so, Alastor only need tear down his empire, ending with taking his life, to repair his own reputation.
Soon enough.
For now, though, he does think it's about time to switch things up a little. He'll tap Vox one more time, pointing off to the side. There's nothing there, of course, but Alastor needs him to turn his head for what he has in mind.
Hopefully Vox knows better not to, because the second he does Alastor is going to take advantage of the close proximity to lean over and blow into one of his vents for no particular reason. ]
[Vox agrees with the fool sentiment, if only the other way around. It feels as if their conversations keep going on circles. Vox says he'll win, Alastor says he won't, Vox tries to assert dominance, Alastor laughs at him... Neither of them will ever back down, so the only real way to bring these arguments to an end is with cold, hard evidence. Heaven bending the knee to Vox would be Exhibit A and a nice, shiny throne could be Exhibit B.
It'll be settled in a matter of days. Finally, after all this time, maybe Alastor will finally admit defeat and Vox can find some peace.
The tap catches his attention, and he glances towards the radio demon to see the pointing gesture. It's vaguely directed towards the drink cart, which has Vox assume it's a request to refill his empty glass. Again. Alastor's really taking advantage of the situation to get wasted, huh? Not that Vox minds; might as well let the man live a little before the world as they know it comes crashing down. So yes, he turns his head to the side, his thoughts on grabbing the bottle.
Very naive of him.
He's vaguely aware of Alastor leaning in, and becomes very aware of the air being blown into the vent. His entire body freezes over for a second, a vibrant blush washing over his screen. Then he instantly whips himself around to face Alastor again.]
[ Hm. That's not quite the reaction that he was going to. In fact, it's far from what he was hoping for (sort of but not really.) How awkward for Vox. Fortunately, Alastor is incapable of feeling shame so he can accept this outcome with great pleasure while looking for all the world like he'd done nothing wrong.
The reaction is almost cute, and on anyone else it would be, but unfortunately Vox is about as far as one gets from that. It's amusing at least, and after another moment ago he finds it to be the ideal outcome after all. He's committing this one to memory. ]
I was trying to blow the dust out.
[ Vox wasn't paying enough attention to Alastor when he wanted it, which clearly meant that he was broken and not at all that he was choosing not to listen.
And of course it would be that one of the two things he retained about technology past the thirties is something you're not supposed to do and hasn't been a common practice in a couple decades. ]
[In those first few seconds, Vox's panicked brain takes the excuse at face value, not thinking anything beyond the conclusion that that was indeed what Alastor intended. It doesn't do much to remove that blush, though. And because the breath was blown directly into Vox's system through the vent, now he can even taste the whiskey Alastor was drinking.]
What are you talking about?! There is no dust! And you're not supposed to- Don't do that!
[And then comes the realization that Alastor may be lying again. Just another excuse to get Vox riled up. It sure is working, if that's the case. Still experiencing flustered annoyance, he raises a hand to the back of his head to rub a finger along the vent in question. Hopefully, that'll get rid of the uncomfortable, prickly feeling.]
He had thought that a TV demon would collect dust as much as anything else with a vent. Not only that, but it's a sensitive area too. Learn something new every day. ]
Oh, fine. I won't do it again. There's no reason to if it doesn't even work.
[ There's a snicker though, followed by a laugh as he watches the other man try to regain his composure, and Alastor finally places his empty glass in the cupholder so he can turn one hand over. It really is just too funny. to watch him go through several stages of flustering and trying to discern Alastor's intentions. He does recall Vox being shy at times, but it was nothing like this, and Alastor had every reason to think that he'd outgrown it after being in Hell and hooking up with a porn director.
Still, as far as he's concerned, any discomfort and embarrassment is well deserved given how much Vox has put his hands on him since capturing him. And it did serve as a graceful way to switch topics (i.e. one where he can blame it on Vox.) ]
I didn't think you were capable of making a face like that anymore.
[Over the decades, Vox has had ample opportunity to discover what his body does or doesn't react to. Especially after meeting Valentino, there was more than enough experimentation. One wouldn't think a TV and mostly-synthetic body would have that many areas to trigger stimulation, but Hell is nothing if not creative in how these things translate back to a person. It works the other way around, too. Vox has found lots of unique little tricks he can pull to get Valentino aroused in turn. Tricks that the average Sinner can't replicate, so Val will always keep coming back for more.
It's confusing when Alastor pulls a stunt like that. Sure, Vox has always wanted it, but now it's happening for all the wrong reasons.]
What, is that another jab at my new head or something? Fuck off. This baby can do all the things the old one could, and then some.
[Because that's the only interpretation of Alastor's remark that's valid inside Vox's brain. It's just another way to poke fun at him. A jab at his appearance and need to keep up with technology, because Alastor clings to the past while Vox changes to fit the present day.
He quickly raises his own drink back to his mouth, taking several gulps to wash down the taste still faintly lingering. He's definitely huffy now.]
[ It is, just not in the way that Vox thinks it is. He won't correct him. He much prefers Vox this way over his endless posturing, gloating, and attempts to pull a reaction out of him.
There's another chuckle, then Alastor shakes his head. ]
I hear you're easier to mute now. That much is an improvement over what you had before.
[ Because of course he would know that. He avoids learning about technology more than he needs to, but their frequent frequent disputes are incentive enough to keep up with what he's capable of. Still, he is ever someone who wishes for things to stay the same, and he find that the old head was better. The media overlord was less annoying then too.
Now he's going to push his glass at Vox again for no reason other than to be needy. ]
I won't do it again, [ He says, because Vox is a child who needs to be placated himsefl, ] How about this? Why don't I tell you something interesting? It's something I've been thinking about since all of you two started needlessly provoking Heaven.
[ You two being Charlie and Vox. He doesn't really care about the rest of them. ]
[The muting remark causes Vox's expression to become even more disgruntled, a snap of electricity shooting between his antennae and his fingers. Just a brief moment that's mostly anger, but somewhere deep down, a light tinge of hurt. But then the glass is thrust towards him and he takes it. He considers crushing it in his palm so he can sprinkle the shards over Alastor's head. ... No, that's beneath him. Waste of glass and waste of effort. Besides, Valentino already destroys enough of these to meet a quota.
His own glass is set down in the cup holder again, but he's not going to refill Alastor's right off the bat. He'll keep it in his possession for now as he waits to see where this goes. The indication of 'you two' confuses him for a second, leaving him wondering whether Alastor forgot Velvette exists. (He wouldn't be surprised.) Then the understanding hits that there's someone else apart from the Vees who's been provoking Heaven, just from a different angle.]
Oh boy, here it comes. Al's got some grand observation that'll turn everything on its fucking head. [The words are uttered in a perfect symphony of annoyance and condescension.] Sure. Okay. Why not? Let's hear it.
No, if I had something like that, I'd keep it to myself. [ And he seems rather pleased with himself for that statement for some reason, ] It's just a little bit of gossip from back when I was alive. You happen to have reminded me, and we have time to kill, hm?
[ He doesn't talk about his personal live, and another millennia might pass before he even thinks about it, but every now and again he's willing to share some odd fact that he picked up somewhere or another. There's just little things, little hints of who he once was.
He uncrosses his legs, just so he can do so again - the opposite leg this time. ]
I think that you're right about one thing. If you want to get into Heaven, then the right way is to break the door down. There's no need to play around, [ He lifts his hand a few inches and twists his wrist a few times before letting it back down, ] With this made up "redemption."
[ And that's likely why he picked this particular subject. It's partly that there's only so much that he can needle Vox about his ambitions, and it's partly that there's only two people in all of Hell that he can speak with on this. There's something about living in Hell that tends to rot the already atrophied minds of the people who enter it. ]
That was never supposed to happen anyway, because those angels specifically designed their little club to be exclusive.
[ There's a slight emphasis on the word exclusive, a drop of poison mixed in with the otherwise light tone. Hell is meant to be overpopulated. Whether they lived twenty years or a hundred, humans are meant to suffer for eternity. But none of this is exactly the point he wants to make, and in the end none of it is meant to change anything save perhaps offering talking points (which aren't quite needed now,) so he does wait to see if Vox is interested in this subject. ]
['Little bit of gossip'... If it were something Alastor had heard down here in Hell, Vox would be much more inclined to take it seriously. But something from when he was still alive? That can't be worth much. What do mortals even know about Heaven, or the afterlife in general? Just stories that were distorted over millennia, tainted and redacted and whitewashed to suit whatever narrative purpose is needed in that era. He doesn't know who Alastor truly was in life, but he can't imagine anyone out in that living world would overhear useful truths.
Still, he'll entertain it, just to see where it goes. He reaches towards the drink cart again, grabbing the bottle of whiskey for that refill. He'll be slow about it, but he'll do it all the same.]
Yeah, I wouldn't be surprised. Look at some of the sniveling wimps we get down here from time to time. There's no way those guys ever did anything in their lives worth eternal suffering. Probably got turned way at the gate for a totally different reason. Something that doesn't mesh well with Heaven's perfect streets. Wrong religion, wrong sexuality, things like that.
[ Alastor is quite the opposite. He's found that most things heard in Hell are of little value when compared to that which he found in life. The living have a desperation to secure their place in the afterlife, to understand the unknown, and so they learn more of both the land of the living and the land of the dead than anyone.
The little bits of gossip he gained in life have proven useful.
But even if Vox finds nothing of interest in what he has to say, it doesn't really matter. This is just a way of distracting him anyway. ]
Then, let me walk you through it: Pretend, for a moment, that there was truth to the idea of God creating a dual universe. There is the true "Heaven," where God lives, and then there is everything else.
[ The former being a metaphor, of course. ]
God created angels, who in turn created humans so that they might have someone they could look down on. If you believe the stories, they're responsible for the entirety of this mess that we're in.
[ As far as he's concerned, their "perfect" world was never perfect to begin with if they had to create humans. What reason was there for that if not to have something to feel superior to? Why go so far to strip their creations of what they themselves had? But all of that is a different conversation, so he moves on. ]
Meanwhile, there's truth to all those stories about humans making contact and deals with beings from the afterlife. Demons can form contracts with the living just as easily as they can the dead. They stake their claim on a person's soul, and then they harvest it at the time of death.
[ More than that, it's only humans who can summon demons in the manner that they do. Those humans that were created to be fish in a bowl have shown to be able to do the impossible in life, and then again after death. He does watch Vox's expression as he explains it too, wondering if he'll dismiss the idea either as impossible or irrelevant. The amount who have succeeded is just the tiniest fraction of those who have failed. There aren't many people who would believe it, much less see the relevance. But then, maybe he will, because Alastor never speaks of these things without reason.
[That first bit makes total sense to Vox. It's probably how things went down, because angels would look down on them as if they were pets. No, maybe even less than pets. Pets can be loved. He doubts the highest hierarchy of angels felt that way even before the apple incident.
The second bit, though... That has him pausing. He just finished refilling Alastor's glass and now the bottle hovers in place, tilted back just far enough to keep the rest of the whiskey inside it. Disbelief is etched all over his face, because... c'mooon, he knows demons have tried, but he's never heard of one who pulled it off. Though, if they did hold that power, would they even share it? Maybe they'd keep that trick to themselves and hoard its potential.
Finally, he puts Alastor's glass back in the cup holder, screws the cap back on the bottle and sets it down. Once he's sat back in his seat, his hands fold together in his lap, elbow pressing against Alastor's upper arm over the armrest.]
Okay, hypothetically, let's say there's truth in that. So what?
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No, no. You're right. Valentino would put a much better twist on the concept. Once Heaven's under our control, a whole new world of film making's gonna open up for him. And sure, the angels will be scandalized for a bit, but they'll get over it. It'll be good for 'em to be exposed to something that's not... [He waves an idle hand at the movies displayed on the screen, making a disgusted face.] That.
[Vox is a pragmatic guy, already thinking ahead on how to put the other two Vees to work once they cross those gates. The way he sees it, they should be thankful for it, because they'll keep getting to do the jobs they're passionate about. No limitations, no being dismissed due to where they came from. They'll have free reign to let their creativity flow. Everybody wins!]
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[ It brings new meaning to "tortured artists." ]
I have no interest in his films, but I was quite impressed by his art. I've always been a supporter of the arts, you know.
[ It's not something he's ever hidden, nor is it a surprise given his choice of career. If life were more favorable he might have stepped into theater instead, but alas, no one wanted to see a man like him... In truth, he would have liked to talk to the man more. He might be a few cards short of a full deck, but he can work with that.
Alastor takes advantage of that little bit of movement he has to tap the back of the other demon's arm with two fingers to cut off any response, or rather to delay it, because he wants something. ]
... Whiskey. Barkeeper's choice.
[ The fact that he's suddenly trying to play along may be something to be concerned about, or it might just be an attempt to make sure Vox doesn't get too fussed about the lack of focus on him. Or it could just be that he's too sober for this. Hard to say. Whatever it is, he's being given an opportunity here, and Alastor is curious to see if the other remembers what his go-to was. ]
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The tap to his arm causes him to blink, brow raising. His gaze flits down to Alastor's hand for a split second, then sideways towards the man's face. While he was still leaning in to mess with the touchscreen, he moves back into his seat again for more space. The request is bolstering, though. It causes him to grin.]
Alright! Now we're talkin'! Here, I've got just the thing.
[He's aware this could be a distraction, or some other sort of trick. Because of that, he uses his cables to monitor Alastor even as his gaze is on the assortment of bottles. If there's even the slightest movement, he'll know about it.
Over seventy years ago, Alastor had his favorites. Drinks that would be served to him quite consistently. It makes it even easier for Vox to remember just what those drinks were. He already has the preferred brand of whiskey- or rather, the brand that was preferred back then, though he doubts that would have changed. Alastor is a creature of habit, after all. The drink is prepared with confidence and ease, ice cubes included, then held a few inches near Alastor's hand so it can be taken.]
Here. How about we toast to success? My success, of course. Goes without saying, that.
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He thinks to comment on it as he takes the drink in hand, but unfortunately he can't make even the smallest concession without Vox finding some way to become even more insufferable. The corners of his mouth twitch, but the request is met with a begrudging acquiescence. He lifts his glass as much as he can with his limited range of movement. ]
To your success.
[ The lack of any real enthusiasm non-withstanding, there's no tricks to be found here (or not yet anyway.) Alastor does quite well in keeping any complaints he has to himself. In this moment Vox's success is Alastor's success, after all, and he's the only one that's needed. Despite how he speaks of them, the other two Vees would have been entirely struck from his memory by now if not for their proximity to him.
He can let Vox have this one little moment. ]
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A rush of excitement washes through him and it's likely visible on his face, along with all the other minute details of his physique. So long as he's not masking his true intent, Vox's emotions are worn on his sleeve with very little nuance to it. His own drink is hastily snatched up so he can clink his glass against Alastor's, eagerness ensuring that the liquid weaves dangerously close to flowing over the edge.]
Hear hear!
[This really is all Vox wanted, in the end: acknowledgement. It's perfect. He loves it. It's not enough to let Alastor go- it'll never be enough. No amount of acknowledgement can still compensate for the damage that was caused over the past seven decades. Even so... He could get used to this.]
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Though you still have time to blow it. Between Charlie's stubbornness and Heaven's potential to grow a spine and smite you, [ Because he has not forgotten the delightful sound of Vox's initial panic over their arrival. He'll carry that with him until the end of days, ] There's no shortage of ways that I could have front row seats to you humiliating yourself in front of all of Hell and Heaven.
[ Vox is a person that has to be handled with care. If Alastor pushes him too much then he'll grow dispirited, but if he offers too much then he'll start to get greedy. He requires a light touch, one that offers him opportunity. As such, Alastor won't give any vote of confidence, but he doesn't mind acknowledging what's been done up until now just this once, allowing for an unspoken promise to offer more if he succeeds.
Not that he will. Vox will fuck it up. That's why Alastor likes him. He's a complete fool. He challenges the Radio Demon. He looks to conquer Heaven. He does all those things that no one else would. He's ambitious. It's exciting. It's entertaining.
In his hundred years in Hell, he's only found one other person who's caught his eye, and even that girl pales in comparison.
Alastor downs his drink in one go, as easily as if it were a shot. That's nothing out of the ordinary for him, nor does it have any effect. He lets his hand drop back down with the glass still in hand.
And with all that said... ]
But tell me: Should you really be here with me right now? This is the moment that you and your partners have been building up to, and they seem to be getting tired of being left out of the celebrations. I'm just your little prisoner, after all.
[ Our plan, they would say, even as Vox pulled Alastor alone in for his ridiculous laugh. Our plan, while Vox paid mind only to him. Our plan, and his presence and their relationship had gotten old long ago.
He nudges Vox with his glass because he needs at least four or five more to feel anything, and the other should be grateful because it's been decades since he's been so willing to do this with anyone at all. ]
I'd venture to say that some feel I've overstayed my welcome, in fact.
[ Is that a request to leave? Quite the opposite, as he's content right where he is, but even Vox can't be so braindead as to realize that he's the only one who wants Alastor here.
It's getting old fast indeed. ]
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He takes a sip from his own drink, not at all willing to drain it the same way Alastor does. He'll take his time, really savor it. Though he does look rather disgruntled at that mention of the other Vees, even with the glass to his mouth, but he's slipped back into nonchalance by the time he responds.]
No, no. The moment we've been building up to is tomorrow. This? This is just meaningless filler until the main event. So why not waste time on meaningless things?
[An insult composed of hot air in every sense of the word, because much as he loves to say Alastor is a nobody, his actions say something different entirely. Alastor is the most impactful person to exist in Vox's life (not in a good way), and he always will be, so time spent with him could never be meaningless. That's just not how petty grudges work.
He takes the empty glass from Alastor's hand anyway, still more than willing to refill it even as he keeps talking.]
Once the plan is done, I'll just leave you rot by yourself in some dark little room. We'll do a shit ton of celebrating without you. But until then, you're gonna get that front row seat you wanted. You're gonna see me fucking win, like I was always destined to do. Don't think for even a second I'll let you look away.
[By the time his rant is done, the glass is filled up with whiskey again. It's held near Alastor's hand again, ready for the taking.]
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[ The questions come in a saccharine sweet, sing-song voice. He's not bothered at all; in fact, he slumps back in his seat, for all the world looking to be a man who's had a great weight lifted off his shoulders. ]
Do make sure it's somewhere down here, preferably as far away from you as possible. [ "how can you get further than heaven" put him on the part of hell that's farthest from it or smth ] I'm right where I was always meant to be.
[ He takes the glass in hand, and Alastor at least has the decency to not immediately slam it back this time. In fact, he seems quite ready to add more to that, but something stops him just short of it. His mind wanders elsewhere, that thought of what would happen if Vox did succeed in this scratching at the edges of his mind once more.
The snide remark he was going to add is lost, but the grin and expectant look remain in place. It's nothing that Vox would do or that Alastor would want, but it's that which allows him to speak of it so flippantly.
Besides, he never had any intention of looking away, no more than he's thought of running away. He's precisely where he wants to be. After all, his own problems and vendettas aside, somebody has to put Vox in his place before the moron actually starts a war. Really, he does have to do everything himself. ]
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His hand moves back to his own glass, lifting it up. He doesn't drink just yet, instead gently rotating it, the liquid swirling around within.]
Yeah, we'll see about that. But don't make the mistake of thinkin' I'll leave Hell behind. Once I've taken over Heaven, I'll be in charge of both realms. And hey, since I'll be God, technically I'll be ruling the mortal realm while I'm at it. Not as interesting, but it's a neat little freebie. [... Alright, now he'll take a sip from his drink, cocky as can be. A soft "Mmm" escapes him as he savors the taste.]
Anyway, point is, everything will be my territory. No matter where you are, you'll always be on my turf and in my possession. I won't forget, and I won't let you forget.
[Because Alastor was the fool who didn't put a time limit on the deal. This means that so long as Vox keeps to the conditions (let two nobodies go, don't hurt Charlie- whatever), Alastor will be his prisoner forever. Maybe, at some point, he'll let the guy walk around freely. It depends whether the radio demon will accept that his rightful place is still at Vox's feet.]
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[ He feigns disappointment and exasperation. It's exaggerated, because he's not finding any reason for immediate concern. ]
And what of your partners? You have yet to give me an answer to that question. It's one thing to be unable to convince me to go along with your little fantasy of being in charge, but them?
[ Alastor sneers. He does find the other two to be more pleasant to be around, but that doesn't mean he has illusions about them. The gap between the two of them and Vox is wide, and so the gap between them and the radio demon is as vast as the ocean. They're slow, weak, and sloppy. They lack the discipline and cunning that he has. And as for his captor, he lacks any kind of foresight.
He drains his glass as easily as if it were a shot, then shakes his head. ]
My two lackeys won't dare question me, but it's the other way around for you. Yet I've only seen you placating your partners.
[ And in a perfect display of tonal dissonance, he's going to tap Vox with the back of his hand before pointing to the touchscreen. His words are being used for something much more important, but he can multitask here in playing along with torture or whatever he's trying to accomplish here. ]
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No, Vox won't just throw his partners away after this. They're not on his level, but they're the most important pillars he can stand on. One for his left foot, one for his right foot.
His eyes narrow and he takes another sip from his drink. The indication of the touchscreen isn't missed, though he takes his time with acting on it. Alastor doesn't get to tell him what to do.]
It's not placation. Val and Velvette are exactly where I want them to be. Once I take my rightful place, they'll have theirs, and they'll fucking love me for it. See, that's what it means to rise to the top with someone else. Everyone gets exactly what they deserve. Some a little more than others, of course, but...
[Vox peers down into his glass, watching the ice cubes bob around in what's left of the clear brown liquid. It's such a familiar sight. Some forty decades after he stopped having drinks with Alastor, he started having them with Valentino instead, and while there was always that bittersweet aftertaste it might end the same way... It won't. Because Vox doesn't turn raw potential and devotion away when it comes to him, instead pulling it in and treasuring it. If it's offered to him, it might as well belong to him.]
Well. Point is, your lackeys won't question you, but Val and Velvette adore me. I'll take devotion that comes from the heart over fear any day. It's a better motivator.
[And with that, he finally raises his free hand to the touchscreen, scrolling through the options again. Oh snap, The Beauty of Sharks, a documentary narrated by Bob Ross??? He'll give you credit for this one, Heaven, and he's coming back for it later.]
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You misunderstand. Fear is what prevents people from challenging you, and it makes them sloppy when they do.
[ Vox has, too, seen how quickly that crumbles. Lucifer is hardly a threat anymore. ]
It's respect that I crave, and it's respect that I have. That is what motivates people. It's what makes them listen. As you've seen, I have it from the souls in my care, [ Because Niffty and Husk (unexpected and unwanted as they were) came for Alastor just as fast as Valentino and Velvette did, ] our fellow overlords, the princess, and even Heaven's diplomat.
[ Or rather, he will soon enough. Charlie has no doubt already talked him up, so he's not particularly concerned. The only one he's missing is the king, who's respect is worth no more than the pieces of lint in his pocket.
None of them doubt him. None of them dismiss him. He can pull strings quite easily when he chooses to. Quality, not quantity, but Alastor has earned his position in more ways than one. ]
You, on the other hand, have always garnered attention and adoration, but you waste and throw away every bit of respect that's given to you.
[ There's something to that particular statement. The words come a hint quicker, the inflection changes just slightly, there's something buried in it. It's something quiet, foreign, and perhaps without meaning. Something old and buried trying to claw its way back up from the grave. It's there and gone, seamlessly returning to his original tone. ]
You can dismiss me, but don't you forget, the only reason that people are acknowledging you at all now is because of my reputation.
[ It took him a century to build it up, and it's solid enough that he can bounce back from this. The opposite of Vox, who will soon be erased from the history books. And God if that won't be satisfying to see. ]
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Blah blah, respect, whatever. Time to browse through the animation category. There's something there about a bunch of sentient fruit getting together and opening up a coffee shop. Apparently it's a musical with Broadway style numbers? Aw fuck, figures Heaven would get Howard Ashman. It's okay, even Vox agrees that man doesn't belong in Hell.
Alastor's still talking, Vox realizes, and he tunes back in just in time for that last bit. It's enough to have him laugh out loud, because while he understands what the insult is trying to be, he can flip it with ease.]
Uh. Yeah. Duh. Because you were one of the most impressive Overlords, and I fucking beat you! I'm better than you! Stronger. So now that reputation you had is mine. And I'll keep going from here, too.
[That's what he's always done, even when he was still alive: eliminate a hot shot and take their place. Usurping someone's reputation means getting all the benefits that come with it. Not that Alastor has much to his name for Vox to claim beyond that infamy. He doesn't want the man's shitty lackeys and he doesn't want the radio studio. All he wanted was Alastor himself and now he's got him.]
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[ Alastor corrects, because who else was so notorious that speculation of his disappearance and loss alike were to angelic arms and Lucifer himself? Not once had anyone expected another overlord to defeat him. ]
There's no point in speaking with a fool. You'll understand soon enough.
[ There is a reason one isn't supposed to argue with idiots. They not only drag a person down to their level, but they win every time thanks to their experience. His old friend is in for a rude awakening, though, when he's defeated and left with nothing but the paltry pity of his associates.
The other two Vees won't abandon him, of course. That's not an option for them, not if they want to keep their seat at the table, and it was never the goal anyway. Efforts to break up a group is the domain of the weak and insecure, people who need others, and Alastor is none of the above. Rather, there can only be one strongest sinner in Hell, and so he needs to borrow Vox for that purpose. And once he's done so, Alastor only need tear down his empire, ending with taking his life, to repair his own reputation.
Soon enough.
For now, though, he does think it's about time to switch things up a little. He'll tap Vox one more time, pointing off to the side. There's nothing there, of course, but Alastor needs him to turn his head for what he has in mind.
Hopefully Vox knows better not to, because the second he does Alastor is going to take advantage of the close proximity to lean over and blow into one of his vents for no particular reason. ]
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It'll be settled in a matter of days. Finally, after all this time, maybe Alastor will finally admit defeat and Vox can find some peace.
The tap catches his attention, and he glances towards the radio demon to see the pointing gesture. It's vaguely directed towards the drink cart, which has Vox assume it's a request to refill his empty glass. Again. Alastor's really taking advantage of the situation to get wasted, huh? Not that Vox minds; might as well let the man live a little before the world as they know it comes crashing down. So yes, he turns his head to the side, his thoughts on grabbing the bottle.
Very naive of him.
He's vaguely aware of Alastor leaning in, and becomes very aware of the air being blown into the vent. His entire body freezes over for a second, a vibrant blush washing over his screen. Then he instantly whips himself around to face Alastor again.]
What the fuck was that?!
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The reaction is almost cute, and on anyone else it would be, but unfortunately Vox is about as far as one gets from that. It's amusing at least, and after another moment ago he finds it to be the ideal outcome after all. He's committing this one to memory. ]
I was trying to blow the dust out.
[ Vox wasn't paying enough attention to Alastor when he wanted it, which clearly meant that he was broken and not at all that he was choosing not to listen.
And of course it would be that one of the two things he retained about technology past the thirties is something you're not supposed to do and hasn't been a common practice in a couple decades. ]
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What are you talking about?! There is no dust! And you're not supposed to- Don't do that!
[And then comes the realization that Alastor may be lying again. Just another excuse to get Vox riled up. It sure is working, if that's the case. Still experiencing flustered annoyance, he raises a hand to the back of his head to rub a finger along the vent in question. Hopefully, that'll get rid of the uncomfortable, prickly feeling.]
Fuckin' asshole.
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He had thought that a TV demon would collect dust as much as anything else with a vent. Not only that, but it's a sensitive area too. Learn something new every day. ]
Oh, fine. I won't do it again. There's no reason to if it doesn't even work.
[ There's a snicker though, followed by a laugh as he watches the other man try to regain his composure, and Alastor finally places his empty glass in the cupholder so he can turn one hand over. It really is just too funny. to watch him go through several stages of flustering and trying to discern Alastor's intentions. He does recall Vox being shy at times, but it was nothing like this, and Alastor had every reason to think that he'd outgrown it after being in Hell and hooking up with a porn director.
Still, as far as he's concerned, any discomfort and embarrassment is well deserved given how much Vox has put his hands on him since capturing him. And it did serve as a graceful way to switch topics (i.e. one where he can blame it on Vox.) ]
I didn't think you were capable of making a face like that anymore.
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It's confusing when Alastor pulls a stunt like that. Sure, Vox has always wanted it, but now it's happening for all the wrong reasons.]
What, is that another jab at my new head or something? Fuck off. This baby can do all the things the old one could, and then some.
[Because that's the only interpretation of Alastor's remark that's valid inside Vox's brain. It's just another way to poke fun at him. A jab at his appearance and need to keep up with technology, because Alastor clings to the past while Vox changes to fit the present day.
He quickly raises his own drink back to his mouth, taking several gulps to wash down the taste still faintly lingering. He's definitely huffy now.]
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There's another chuckle, then Alastor shakes his head. ]
I hear you're easier to mute now. That much is an improvement over what you had before.
[ Because of course he would know that. He avoids learning about technology more than he needs to, but their frequent frequent disputes are incentive enough to keep up with what he's capable of. Still, he is ever someone who wishes for things to stay the same, and he find that the old head was better. The media overlord was less annoying then too.
Now he's going to push his glass at Vox again for no reason other than to be needy. ]
I won't do it again, [ He says, because Vox is a child who needs to be placated himsefl, ] How about this? Why don't I tell you something interesting? It's something I've been thinking about since all of you two started needlessly provoking Heaven.
[ You two being Charlie and Vox. He doesn't really care about the rest of them. ]
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His own glass is set down in the cup holder again, but he's not going to refill Alastor's right off the bat. He'll keep it in his possession for now as he waits to see where this goes. The indication of 'you two' confuses him for a second, leaving him wondering whether Alastor forgot Velvette exists. (He wouldn't be surprised.) Then the understanding hits that there's someone else apart from the Vees who's been provoking Heaven, just from a different angle.]
Oh boy, here it comes. Al's got some grand observation that'll turn everything on its fucking head. [The words are uttered in a perfect symphony of annoyance and condescension.] Sure. Okay. Why not? Let's hear it.
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[ He doesn't talk about his personal live, and another millennia might pass before he even thinks about it, but every now and again he's willing to share some odd fact that he picked up somewhere or another. There's just little things, little hints of who he once was.
He uncrosses his legs, just so he can do so again - the opposite leg this time. ]
I think that you're right about one thing. If you want to get into Heaven, then the right way is to break the door down. There's no need to play around, [ He lifts his hand a few inches and twists his wrist a few times before letting it back down, ] With this made up "redemption."
[ And that's likely why he picked this particular subject. It's partly that there's only so much that he can needle Vox about his ambitions, and it's partly that there's only two people in all of Hell that he can speak with on this. There's something about living in Hell that tends to rot the already atrophied minds of the people who enter it. ]
That was never supposed to happen anyway, because those angels specifically designed their little club to be exclusive.
[ There's a slight emphasis on the word exclusive, a drop of poison mixed in with the otherwise light tone. Hell is meant to be overpopulated. Whether they lived twenty years or a hundred, humans are meant to suffer for eternity. But none of this is exactly the point he wants to make, and in the end none of it is meant to change anything save perhaps offering talking points (which aren't quite needed now,) so he does wait to see if Vox is interested in this subject. ]
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Still, he'll entertain it, just to see where it goes. He reaches towards the drink cart again, grabbing the bottle of whiskey for that refill. He'll be slow about it, but he'll do it all the same.]
Yeah, I wouldn't be surprised. Look at some of the sniveling wimps we get down here from time to time. There's no way those guys ever did anything in their lives worth eternal suffering. Probably got turned way at the gate for a totally different reason. Something that doesn't mesh well with Heaven's perfect streets. Wrong religion, wrong sexuality, things like that.
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The little bits of gossip he gained in life have proven useful.
But even if Vox finds nothing of interest in what he has to say, it doesn't really matter. This is just a way of distracting him anyway. ]
Then, let me walk you through it: Pretend, for a moment, that there was truth to the idea of God creating a dual universe. There is the true "Heaven," where God lives, and then there is everything else.
[ The former being a metaphor, of course. ]
God created angels, who in turn created humans so that they might have someone they could look down on. If you believe the stories, they're responsible for the entirety of this mess that we're in.
[ As far as he's concerned, their "perfect" world was never perfect to begin with if they had to create humans. What reason was there for that if not to have something to feel superior to? Why go so far to strip their creations of what they themselves had? But all of that is a different conversation, so he moves on. ]
Meanwhile, there's truth to all those stories about humans making contact and deals with beings from the afterlife. Demons can form contracts with the living just as easily as they can the dead. They stake their claim on a person's soul, and then they harvest it at the time of death.
[ More than that, it's only humans who can summon demons in the manner that they do. Those humans that were created to be fish in a bowl have shown to be able to do the impossible in life, and then again after death. He does watch Vox's expression as he explains it too, wondering if he'll dismiss the idea either as impossible or irrelevant. The amount who have succeeded is just the tiniest fraction of those who have failed. There aren't many people who would believe it, much less see the relevance. But then, maybe he will, because Alastor never speaks of these things without reason.
Following along so far? ]
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The second bit, though... That has him pausing. He just finished refilling Alastor's glass and now the bottle hovers in place, tilted back just far enough to keep the rest of the whiskey inside it. Disbelief is etched all over his face, because... c'mooon, he knows demons have tried, but he's never heard of one who pulled it off. Though, if they did hold that power, would they even share it? Maybe they'd keep that trick to themselves and hoard its potential.
Finally, he puts Alastor's glass back in the cup holder, screws the cap back on the bottle and sets it down. Once he's sat back in his seat, his hands fold together in his lap, elbow pressing against Alastor's upper arm over the armrest.]
Okay, hypothetically, let's say there's truth in that. So what?
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me trying to hit the preview button like:
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