Disclaimer: The following is the work of a fanfiction. Devil May Cry and Kuroinu: Kedakaki Seijo wa Hakudaku ni Somaru are owned by their respective creators and are used for the sake of imagination through storytelling. I do not own either one.

Enjoy.

The troop leader felt himself cornered, his eyes filled with terror and face drenched in sweat. He was stuck in a dead end thanks to the destruction made from his fellow Black Dogs and orcs that made several enemies heaps of rubble.

Damn this terrible luck!

The cloaked figure was approaching, his booted steps audible and slow, like a predator to prey. The black tattered cloak flowed and swayed, the face underneath the hood was unremorseful to his last kill. It was already bad enough of the literal aura of murderous intent was flowing out of him.

The literal embodiment of a reaper. That was what the troop leader saw.

In haste, he tried to climb up the rubble, only to slip and fall each time. When his hand reached out for one final attempt, the wrist was suddenly grabbed by a fingerless gloved hand. An audible crack was heard and the man screamed out, his bones broken as he fell to his knees. Pathetic whimpers escaped from the Black Dog troop leader, his teary eyes gazed up at the garbed being.

"P-Please, have me-mercy!" The bastard cried out, holding up his unharmed hand.

"Mercy…?" The stranger looked as though he placed general thought into the idea, yet was merely acting to spite the injured leader. "Hmmm… Sorry, but I don't think that word concerns my mind as of this moment."

"Y-You already killed my team!" The man reasoned, his attempts of saving his own hide was failing with each word he uttered. "I-I'm just a single g-guy and you already broke my hand! What more could-could I even do!?"

"The fact that you might report back to your friends once you get out of here." The man retorted, letting out a bitter chuckle. "You honestly think I'm that stupid enough to let you go after what you did?"

He leveled a glare at the fallen leader, instilling fear. "Tell me… Did you show 'mercy' to the men you killed or 'mercy' to the women you raped throughout this little ransacking you did? Don't expect me to give in to such pleas when you've shown none, hypocrite."

With that cold voice and the burning glare of his eyes, the leader met his end by a sudden cut made into his jugular. Blood filled his mouth as he gurgled pathetically whilst the crimson fluid escaped from the open gash. For a moment, he caught the cloaked stranger sheathing his blade despite never witnessing him pull it out in the first place.

The leader was dead along with his many comrades that laid dismembered or cut throughout the village square.

The cloaked man made his way to the cages, going up to each one and easily pulling out the lock and chain from the steel barred doors. The many women and children escaped from their imprisonment, profusely thanking the stranger. The man ignored such gratitude as he pointed to a single girl on the ground, her clothes torn and eyes filled with tears at the travesty done to her.

"Find others and help them." He blankly stated before he heard the sounds of nearby horses galloping.

He caught sight of a brigade of knights heading into the village, perhaps to aid in what they can despite them obviously arriving too late.

The stranger clicked his tongue in annoyance. Why must he be the one doing all the work when these fools took their petty time to get here? No wonder those vile Dogs hated them in the first place.

"You there! Stranger!" The knight the cloaked man assumed to be the leading man of the group.

He had no time for this. Unsheathing his katana, he immediately cut open the air in front of him before a portal appeared. The horses stopped once the knight saw such a feat along with the villagers backing away from the man that literally tore through reality. Anyone that dare stop the man was too late as the garbed being stepped into the portal, his body disappearing along with it.

Another day.

Another bloodshed.

Two weeks before…

The sounds of a rushing river, the chirping of birds, the air of wind flowing to a calm breeze.

Those were the sounds that Vergil heard as he slowly opened his eyes, awakening. Lush grass was beneath the back of the black suited man, his body slowly sitting up. His vision cleared as he settled from the bright atmosphere around him, his blue eyes scanning the area he inhabited.

"Interesting…" He said to himself as he slowly stood at his full height. He noticed his weapon of choice, Yamato, lying beside his feet, prompting him to pick it up. His eyes looked to the sheathed katana blade, eyes narrowed.

'The Yamato sent me off to here, huh?' The son of Sparda thought, his eyes returning to search the area of any odd occurrence.

The one thing he noticed was that a certain man was not with him, his lips turning to a frown as he sighed.

'And had to separate me from my insufferable little brother too… Fantastic.'

Rolling his shoulders, he began to walk to the nearby river, thinking of parching his thirst. Strangely, the clothes he had felt slightly bigger than before, his curiosity sated when he looked at his reflection. Vergil let out a hum once he saw his face within the water.

A younger version of himself, staring back with his neutral expression. The hair of his was no longer slicked back but fell over to his face. Another sigh escaped from him as he ran his hair over and placed it back, the refined yet spiky style returning to former glory.

After drinking from the clear waters, he looked to his blade, his eyes holding some curiosity. Unsheathing from the scabbard, he inspected Yamato, making sure no sort of dulling presented on its sharp edge. Thankfully, it was in its pristine craftsmanship, the sun gleaming on the shining weapon.

Testing another topic, he cut the air in front of him with a single vertical swipe. Not a moment too soon for a portal to open itself up for the young silver haired swordsman. He stepped inside the dark pathway, the portal closing behind him once he entered.

Another portal opened, Vergil stepping out to look to see if there was a change in his surroundings. The open tear faded as his blue eyes gazed back to the familiar river. He was now on the other side of it, particularly several feet away from he was originally placed.

'Seems like I still hold the capabilities with the Yamato.' Vergil thought, sheathing the katana back to its scabbard. 'Yet, I feel vastly diminished of what I once held. Could it be because I'm back to what I once was before Temen-ni-gru?'

That could explain why he looked much younger than he was before. An irritated sigh escaped from the man, his feet moving to wander in the new environment.

This new place seem much more serene than he was used to. It was unlike being within the city filled to the brim of demonic horrors or his many battles with his younger brother. It was nearly nostalgic, the peace he once had when he was just a child with his family… before it all changed.

Such is the way of the past that shaped him. A cold half breed that desired for power and in the price had his honor diminished from being under the control of that damned Mundus. Then his further undoing when he split himself apart to his demonic self, Urizen and the frail yet formidable human, V.

He was no longer the power hungry warrior he once was, thanks to the efforts of his son, Nero. He couldn't believe that he had a child to begin with, one that even amounted to equal ability as himself. His time with Dante within the Underworld molded a shift to his personality.

And now… It was a whole new world that he found himself in. He had only hoped his sibling would be around… wherever he was.

Time had passed with his constant wandering, his eyes observing his surroundings with careful perception. Woodland creatures scattered about nearby whilst the gentle breeze brushed against him. The typical nature filled forest.

Vergil was deciding to search for a nearby town to rest when he heard voices within his vicinity.

His steps quickened, quickly going over any bushes to conceal his presence. Further searching and he found a clearing close by, his gaze settled on what unfolded in front of him. He couldn't help but smirk at the targets.

A group of heavy settled orcs along with goblins were settling themselves out, perhaps placing down a camp for their daily ravaging. There were many of them, each fulfilling a job of putting down the goods for the afternoon or maybe eating away the small animals they've captured. A sight befitting of unpresented savages.

Holding his sword close by, Vergil disappeared in a flash of blue, his body appearing right in front of an unsuspecting goblin. Sword unsheathed, Vergil thrusted his blade right into the goblin's skull, the little greenskin's screams contorting into a pathetic dying gasp.

The dying yell of their fallen brethren alerted the monsters, their attention turning to the lone man cleaving the katana out from his kill. His blue eyes stared at the approaching creatures, their eyes filled with hatred and their hands brandishing their crude weapons. Looking at the blood on the shining blade of Yamato, the son of Sparda flicked the crimson off to return the weapon to its luster.

He pointed the katana straight at the band of beasts, some tensed from the ice cold glare of the swordsman.

"Seems like you all are lucky enough to be my training dummies for today." Vergil called out, taking a step forward. "Hopefully, you all won't disappoint me." A crawling tinge of sarcasm within his words as he readied himself for a fight.

The orcs and goblins let out a howl, immediately closing the distance between them and the silver haired man.

This ought to be some good motivation.

The sun had fallen and the air reeked of blood.

Many bodies of either goblin and orc laid on the grass, cut up from the limitless slashes Vergil made. The said man gazed at his handiwork; the multitude of greenskins nearly filled the entire area around him, some of their limbs even flown from the brutal cuts he delivered. Who knew that they were calling in reinforcements, as well? Just more volunteers in his task of polishing his skills.

Vergil left the area for those corpses to rot, perhaps the crows will feast on their bodies before they've returned as compost for the earth. The man rubbed his chin, pondering for his next move. Ah, right he had to find some civilization nearby. Maybe they could help with the predicament he placed himself in.

His theory answered as he saw smoke nearby, ascending to the orange sky. Heading to that direction, he found a small cottage with a chimney, simple in structure and quite comfy considering it was within the greenery. He decided to approach, his boots meeting the dirt path that lead to the porch of the home.

Stepping onto the wooden porch, his gloved hand closed into a fist, bringing it up to knock on the door. His ears caught the sounds of feet muffled inside before the door opened. Peering out was a black haired man, average in looks and wearing a simple tunic and pants, finished off with sandals.

Vergil studied the man's appearance, particularly his sense of attire. His clothing choice was akin to the medieval era, causing the son of Sparda to access what world he was transported to. How quaint.

The man opened the door fully, giving a friendly smile to the swordsman. "Ah, hail stranger. May you need help with something?"

Vergil cleared his throat before speaking. "Hello. I was wondering if you could direct me to the nearest town. I seem to be a bit lost."

The man let out a soft laugh. "Ah, well I can't blame you. The forest is quite a challenge to get through. Auron Village is only a mile away from here."

"Nigel!" Vergil heard a woman's voice coming within the house. "Who's at the door? Dinner's ready!"

The man turned his head to regard the voice. "Just helping out someone!" The man named Nigel turned his focus back to Vergil. "Before you head off, might you want to fill your appetite? My wife always makes a platter bigger than two people."

Vergil was about to decline before an audible rumble emitted from his stomach. He blinked at this, not noticing how he was famished from the start of the day. To his better judgement, he nodded once he was allowed entry into the humble abode.

The two reached the kitchen, the dinner table already having quite the amount of baked garlic bread, roast beef and a pot of stew. Nigel wasn't kidding when he said his wife placed effort into making an immense amount of food. This could even feed an entire family.

Over to the stove was a chestnut haired woman, her pretty face painted with small freckles. She wore a green long sleeved shirt and a black skirt with sandals proving footwear. Her bright amber eyes looked to the new guest and shot a beaming smile. "Ah, hello there! I'm sure Nigel asked for you to come in for dinner! Wouldn't want all this to go to waste after all!"

"Honestly, Katherine you always go the extra trouble of making too much." Nigel said with a chuckle, taking a seat at the table.

"With how skinny you are, I only provide the best!" The woman jokingly chided whilst picking up oven mitts to remove what was inside the oven.

Vergil quietly took a chair, also getting a spot before his eyes glazed over at the food. Setting his sword on his lap, he removed his gloves and set them aside. He watched as the girl, Katherine, placed a freshly baked apple pie on the table as she took her own seat.

"Your husband, Nigel seems to be the lucky man if your dinners turn out to be the hefty meals." Vergil commented as he grabbed a plate along with a knife and fork. He began cutting into the roast beef, getting himself a slice of the tender meat.

"Aren't you the smooth talker." Katherine giggled. "Who's the devilish stranger joining us for dinner?"

"Ah, right." Nigel said, taking a bite of the garlic bread then swallowing. "I forgot to ask you your name, sorry."

Vergil was silent for a second when they inquire for his name. Should he be respectable to give them who he was? He was a stranger into this new dimension and he wasn't planning on getting too close until he had a general sense of it all.

He decided to lie.

"Gilver." The silver haired man said. "My name is Gilver. It's nice to meet you two."

"Gilver, eh? Strange name but the pleasure is mine!" Katherine nodded with a smile before digging.

"Don't be rude, Katherine." Nigel said as he bit more into his bread.

Vergil quietly chuckled. "I take no offense." And thus, he began eating.

He did admit, the roast beef was rather delicious. The salt and pepper that seasoned the crisp skin was tasty along with the moist meat underneath to compliment. Such flavor that he haven't had in a long while.

He noticed outside was getting darker after time had passed during the dinner. He'd already finished his third plate, his utensils placed on the table as he slowly got up.

"I must take my leave." Vergil announced, Nigel and Katherine looking at him.

"Already? But you didn't even had dessert yet." Katherine looked a bit displeased for the man to leave at such a late hour.

"As much as I would love to proceed, I have some… business to attend to." Vergil stated. "I'm looking for someone."

"Hm… It is dark out, Gilver. Things are dangerous out during this time and I can assume you don't have any other place to settle in?" Nigel asked as he wiped his mouth with a napkin.

"Indeed, you are correct." Vergil nodded with Yamato already within his hand. He was going to reach for his gloves before Nigel spoke.

"Then, how about staying in for the night at least?" The husband reasoned with a kind smile. "If you're not too much of a hurry, then you could just relax before heading off?"

Vergil quirked a brow at this, his blue eyes curious. "You'd let a stranger you met stay in your home?" He never experienced such generosity.

"It'll weigh me a guilty conscience if I were to have a lost man wandering out in the dark."

Vergil hummed, contemplating the decision. He was capable of handling himself on his own, but the hospitality given and the loss of direction of where exactly he was heading were viable reasons to stay.

After a brief moment, Vergil nodded with a smile. "Alright. Might not hurt to get a good night's rest."

Vergil turned to Katherine, returning to his seat. "And I might regret not trying out this pie you desperately wanted me to have." He said with a smirk.

Katherine happily got a piece out of the dessert for the silver haired man. "Consider this your lucky night then, Mr. Gilver!"

The dinner went by peacefully.

Vergil looked over the clothes he was given to replace his original set.

Tunic and pants with sandals. Better than nothing plus it fit quite perfectly. His other clothes were folded on a nearby chair next to the nightstand, the newly fitted swordsman sat back on the comfortable bed as he let out a breath.

Nigel and Katherine's cottage had a spare bedroom for the man to take, Nigel even offering his clothes to Vergil. They were kind, generous to those in need as they saw Vergil to be a sort of wanderer with nowhere else to go. Vergil felt obligated to return such hospitality.

Yamato leaned against the wall next to the bed, Vergil lying back on the mattress with his slick haired head resting on the soft pillow. Such a nice feeling; it's been too long since he had a comfortable place to sleep on. A good time for relaxation.

Vergil looked down at his half of the Perfect Amulet resting on his chest; the gold chain wrapped around his neck and the crimson gem of it gleaming from the light of the nearby candle.

Remembering his original mission, Vergil closed his eyes as he sighed, feeling the drowsiness take over his body.

'Soon enough, Dante…'

His open eyes looked over to the lit candle, leaning over to blow it out. Darkness now enveloped the guest room.

The son of Sparda dreamt without disturbance.

Vergil stepped out of the house, the morning sun rising just above the cloudy horizon. A small yawn came from the silver haired man, his tired eyes looking over at what made the bit of noise.

He observed Nigel chopping down logs of wood with an ax, the sweat drenching his brow and some ragged breaths escaped from him. Judging by the multiple cut pieces on a nearby wheelbarrow along with the few logs left, the man had spent early in the morning to get the task done.

Vergil approached, his fingers scratching at his chin. "I see you're up and early. What's all this for?"

Nigel looked to Vergil, a tired smile on his face as he used his sleeve to wipe the sweat away. "Ah, Gilver. Just doing the usual routine is all. Mainly, part of the job as well."

Vergil canted his head to the side. "Shouldn't you rest up some? The day is still young."

Nigel merely shook his head. "Nah, I'm almost finished away, heh."

Seeing the man who took him in exhausted and arms shaking slightly, Vergil decided to act on his instinct. Vergil held a hand out, gesturing to the axe Nigel was holding. "How about I have a go at this? Will make things easier on yourself."

Nigel blinked at this, waving a hand out. "Ah, Gilver it's fine really! I shouldn't let my gu-."

Vergil shook his head, hand still towards the tool. "Nonsense. Allow me to at least show my gratitude."

After some thinking, Nigel handed the axe to Vergil, the latter inspecting it. He watched as Vergil traced a single digit along the edge of the axe's blade, a keen eye to inspect its sharpness. Nigel was surprised to see Vergil picking up a log with one hand and throwing it up after approaching the last three blocks.

"Uh, Gilver, what're you…?"

Nigel's mouth was agape as the swordsman expertly swung the axe at multiple angles when the log descended near his level. Such movements were swift and nearly unseen, the log burst into many finely chopped cubes once Vergil retracted his hand. Nigel's eyes were wide in bewilderment, unable to process the sheer talent of his guest.

Vergil looked over at the fallen wooden cubes on the grass, his eyes blinking. "Oh… Seems like I overdid some with the cutting."

Vergil turned to the stupefied husband, an eyebrow raised at his reaction.

A small bit of silence washed over the scene, Vergil clearing his throat some.

"I apologize that I managed a small error. Shall I try again?"

Nigel shook out from his daze, nearly stuttering once he heard the slick haired man's words.

The man was able to coherently speak as he dumbly nodded. "Y-Yeah, please. Seems like you have it handled more than I do, heh…"

The two men headed down the dirt path to Auron Village. Vergil volunteered to man the wheelbarrow full of chopped wood whilst Nigel walked beside him. Nigel was fervently impressed by the strength Vergil had, no indication of restraint to rest some.

The two chattered away as they made their destination.

"So, what is this wood for?" Vergil asked, looking back to the many blocks of wood he was carrying.

"Ah, I usually sell them at the market. You be surprised that many wish to either burn some or carve them, especially during the time of winter closing in." Nigel replied. "Definitely helps out with little income people get, nowadays."

"I see… Well, that would explain the immense amount of food you have at your home, then." Vergil joked with a smirk.

Nigel only laughed. "Well, Katherine always goes overboard to what she wants. It's to benefit us both, honestly. I've been meaning to ask you about something…"

"Oh?"

"What's with the sword you were carrying?"

Vergil was silent for a moment once the man mentioned it, some hesitation hindered him as he tried to think of a suitable answer. He couldn't just tell him about his origins out of the blue. The man probably might think he was some sort of loon.

"The sword…" Vergil began before he placed more thought of the words to speak. "Is a family heirloom. My father gave it to me when I was young."

Nigel nodded along, a small hum came from him. "It looks to be quite the crafted sword. Fit to be a knight, almost. I wouldn't doubt that you'd be one considering what you wore yesterday."

The two shared a laugh as they continued along their walk to the village.

Up ahead was the rural area, a wooden bridge that led to the center with a wooden plaque that had the village's name.

The two didn't notice the small gang of men near the bridge, Nigel stopping once he caught sight of the quartet of unruly thugs.

"Oh, no…" Nigel quietly muttered as Vergil stopped alongside him.

The slick haired man wondered about the fear in his companion's face. "What's wrong?"

Nigel canted his head to the nearby men that spotted them, now approaching. Nigel cursed under his breath, sighing.

"Those men there are the bane of this village. They pretty much extort anything from the villagers for the sake of 'protection'." Nigel whispered to Vergil who watched them with a careful eye.

Vergil's expression was ever so stoic whilst Nigel's the opposite once the four men came to them with smirks and a bit of cackling.

The men were dressed what seem to be simple leather armor, swords strapped to their sides. They looked to be the average gang of degenerates considering how they eyed up their targets. One of them however had on some silver pauldrons on his shoulders along with a rusted chest plate.

Vergil only assumed this man was the leader judging from the better physique of his bare arms and the large scar across the man's eye. He also noted the unrugged features of his face with the scruffy beard he had to match the unruly brown hair.

The leader of the gang spoke up. "Well, well, if it ain't my boy, Nigel. How's bein' a newlywed, eh?" His tone condescending as he stared down the poor smaller man.

"Um… Quite well, Albert. Me and Katherine are.. rather happy." Nigel replied with each word he uttered getting quieter.

"Ahhh, yeah Katherine was quite the looker around the village. Prettiest gal I ever seen in my life, ain't that right?" Albert crowed to his goons who simply agreed crudely.

Albert slung an arm around Nigel's neck, a toothy grin present as his good eye kept on him. "So tell me, dear Nigel. Are ya gonna pay the toll to come in this humble village of mine?"

Nigel gulped, his words coming out to a stutter. "A-Ah right… W-Well, you see I-I forgot to bring the money in hand for today b-but if you let me sell at the local marketplace I could…"

Albert tightened his hold around Nigel's neck whom started to suffocate from the flexed bicep of the thug. It was obvious that the unruly man had shifted gears, his face turning to one of irritation. Albert was none too happy from hearing that suggestion.

"Ya think you can waltz into town and tryin' to get a freebie from me? Who the fuck do ya think you are tryin' to-."

"That's quite enough." Vergil decided to cut in, his eyes staring at the bullying ruffian. "I think this charade of yours has reached its peak."

The thugs turned their attention to the stoic Vergil, Albert releasing his arm off of the now coughing Nigel. Their glaring gazes directed to the swordsman and began to size him up. Vergil released his hands off the wheelbarrow's grips, his eyes boring directly to the goons' leader.

Albert went face to face with Vergil, his neck popping to the side. "Hey. Who said you could interfere with my business, huh?"

"The business of extorting people who need their money more than you do? Such a practice is below a person." Vergil shot back without hesitation.

Albert gave out a laugh, holding his head back. "Ah, looks as though we got ourselves someone that wanna play hero here, fellas!" The followers of his laughed alongside him before he snapped his fingers. "Bonsley. Show this man the dirt."

The man Albert referred to was a shaved headed fellow, already getting out a dagger from his belt and closing in on the slick haired man. Nigel looked in fear as the thug raised that dagger high before aiming towards Vergil's core.

What happened next shocked everyone as Vergil stopped the swing midway, immediately grabbing the wrist of the thug's arm before slowly twisting. Bonsley started to cry out in pain from the pressure of the swordsman's hand clenching to bone breaking level along with the turn of it. He dropped his dagger, his objective of pulling away from Vergil never came to be.

Vergil clicked his tongue, a cold scowl shot at the offender. "If you were to be that predictable in an actual fight, perhaps rethink your life choices before looking like a complete fool."

Vergil turned his body around, his elbow positioned to strike at the thug's sternum. The goon gasped in pain as he sailed back a few feet from the hit once Vergil let go of his arm. The gang of ruffians watched as their comrade tumbled on the grass, moaning in sheer pain from the punishing blow.

Their shocked eyes laid on Vergil whose blue eyes showed a cold spite to them.

Albert gulped, letting out a nervous chuckle. His hand gestured to the bridge. "Aha, w-well um… Please enjoy this prosperous v-village, dear stranger…"

Vergil casually picked up the wheelbarrow by the grips once more as he made his way to the bridge. "Make haste, Nigel."

Nigel, still dumbfounded at what he witnessed nodded his head, quickly making way to the swordsman.

Once walking over the bridge, Nigel looked to Vergil. "G-Gilver, I can't thank you enough for saving my back there."

Vergil merely shook his head. "Those that prey on the weak to gain strength are weaker themselves."

"Wise words… I'm starting to think you're more than a knight than I originally thought." Nigel let out a nervous chuckle.

Meanwhile, Albert's thugs helped their fallen comrade to his feet, still trying to recover from the harsh strike he received.

Albert watch the fading backs of Vergil and Nigel, his fist clenching and shook with rage. Petty anger overwhelmed the man until he took a breath to recollect himself. A small wry smile spread across his rugged face.

Time for some payback, tonight.

Vergil began to pack up the essentials needed for his journey through the lands of Eostia.

Nigel was so nice to offer his share of the sales he made to the silver haired swordsman; a bag of coins given to him once their day ended in the market. Such a kind man he was to give his earnings… Still strange for Vergil to receive such generosity the past two days, he almost felt bad for having it granted to him.

Nevertheless, he'll take what he'll get.

Once packed, the son of Sparda slung the backpack over his shoulder, Yamato gripped in his right hand as he headed off to the hallway and near the door.

"You sure you can't stay for at least one more day?" Vergil turned to see Nigel exiting the kitchen. "It's already nighttime and it's an awfully chilly time."

Vergil gave the generous man a smile, shaking his head. "I'll feel like I'm taking advantage in what you and Katherine gave me."

Nigel smiled back. "Well, after what you did I do owe you one."

"It was nothing. Ruffians like that tend to… irritate me some."

Nigel offered a hand to Vergil, the slick haired man looking down curiously for a moment before knowing he wanted a shake. Vergil took that hand, gripping before shaking.

"Have a safe travel out there, Gilver. It's quite the danger out there."

Vergil only nodded as they let go, opening the door and headed off.

Nigel sighed some as he scratched the back of his head. He admired that the stranger he took in selflessly acted on his behalf against Albert and his crew, wishing he had that sort of strength. But he was no fighter and his life was with his loving Katherine plus being a simple seller.

"Nigel, did Mr. Gilver already leave?"

Nigel's thoughts paused once hearing his wife's voice, returning to the kitchen to meet her.

"Yes, dear. Couldn't really convince him on saying." He noted the small black wrapped box on the table. "That for him?"

"Hee did enjoy the apple pie." Katherine said with a small giggle before letting out a sigh. "He was good company here. He even helped you with your sales at the market without suggesting it."

"Indeed, he was. Maybe if he were to be around here agai-."

The boisterous sounds of a fist pounding on the door caused the husband and wife to jump, Nigel scrunched a brow at the surprising disturbance.

"The many hells?" Nigel muttered as he made his way to the door, opening it. "May I help…"

The words died in his throat upon meeting the unwelcoming face of Albert, Nigel's eyes catching sight of the full gang of six behind the thug. Nigel's face paled, swallowing a bit as he gave a nervous smile to the brigand.

"O-Oh, hello Albert… What brings you here…?"

"Well, thought I could bring the full band of boys here to fully acquaint ourselves with your friend. He happen to be in there?" Albert was twiddling around with a dagger in his hands, the index finger tracing along the edge of it. "Think I want him to come out so we can have a nice lil' chat."

"A-Ah, Gilver…" Nigel gulped again, the door was fully ajar due to Albert's foot forcefully opening it wider. "He um… He just left awhile ago…"

Albert's face fell to a scowl, his dagger immediately stabbed into the doorframe, causing Nigel to flinch at the sudden action.

"Really, now? Shame then… I got a full on plan with that buddy of yours and now… I guess I'll have to change that." Albert's threatening eyes came down on Nigel, the man now sweating and nearly trembling.

"Nigel? Honey, who's at the door?" Katherine's voice was heard, causing the hoodlum to raise a brow.

Albert let out a low chuckle, grabbing hold of Nigel's collar. "And to think we're gonna have another friend with us, tonight!"

Nigel had never felt so much pain in his life.

His body was hunched over on the grass, his hand holding his stomach as he coughed. The man's face decorated with bruises along with blood spilling from his mouth. The searing damage of Albert's conditioned knuckles were akin to rocks pelting him.

It was already bad enough as it is but with his wife begging for this torture to stop, her eyes spouting tears and being held back by two of Albert's goons? Truly an unbearable scene to witness and hear.

Two other of Albert's gang roughly picked him up to his feet, Nigel slowly struggled to look up before having another fist collide to his face. A pained gasp escaped from the poor man, Albert grabbing him by the tuft of his hair in order for the bullied man to look at him.

"So, ya think you be a hotshot with that friend of yours roughin' up my boys, do ya?" Albert sneered, his other hand grabbing Nigel's bruised cheeks. "Well, guess again. You're livin' by my town and it's my rules, get me?"

The cruel bully let go of Nigel, delivering a few slaps before unsheathing his dagger. Nigel stared wide eyed, sputtering a plea of mercy while fear overtook his ruined face.

"Hold 'em still, boys." Albert began to slowly drag the sharpened point of the blade against Nigel's forehead, the man screamed out in pain and desperately attempted to break away from the grip of his captors. Copper scented fluid started to stream from the jagged line the dagger made.

"Please, stop!" Katherine screamed through tears, her body struggled to get away from the men holding her.

Albert let out a frustrated grunt, pulling his blood stained dagger away. His hateful eyes glared at the struggling wife of Nigel's. "Can you shut up, ya bitch? I'm here tryin' to make a masterpiece while you're screamin' your pretty lungs out!"

The leader of the ruffians then placed some thought into his next act, rubbing his stubbled chin before grinning wickedly.

Albert made his way towards Katherine, sheathing his dagger before licking his lips. Nigel, still feeling conscious despite the crimson leaking from his wound watched in horror upon seeing the leering look on Albert's face. He struggled once more with any energy he had.

"A-Albert, get away from her!" Nigel was immediately silenced by a solid gut punch from another of the goons, one that was standing by idly before to watch the beatdown.

"How 'bout ya pipe down? The boss is gettin' his fun right now!" The degenerate said, all eyes were now on Albert staring down Katherine.

"See, I never knew why ya gotta be with a stick for the rest of your life. How 'bout I show you what a real man is like in bed, eh?" Albert said with sinister glee, the men holding the poor wife began to rip away at her shirt and tear away her skirt whilst she cried for this to stop.

Nigel only helplessly watched as his head was forcefully held, Albert groping the figure of his beloved without a pure amount of hesitance.

Was this how life was going to be after this? To be wrought with shame and humiliation from this bastard and his scumbag comrades? Did the Goddess above forsaken them to this fate?

'Please… Just someone help us…'

"Scum."

Everyone heard that familiar voice, Nigel waking from his stupor as his eyes caught sight of a spectral blue knife jabbing into the hand of Albert. The thug screeched in pain as he pulled away from Katherine, his hand having a burning hole from where the energy made blade was as it dissipated.

All eyes looked towards Vergil, his blue eyes glowering at the gang of brigands and sword gripped tightly in his hand. His face stoic and uncaring towards the band of offenders, yet one thing was clear.

His eyes conveyed a quiet anger.

The ones holding Katherine let her go to check up on their leader before he violently shrugged them off. His eyes hatefully looked towards the slick haired swordsman, teeth grinding with rage.

"You… You prick!" Albert shouted as he stood up, still holding his trembling and wounded hand. "What the hell did you throw at me!?"

"That's none of my concern." Vergil shot back as he took one step forward, rolling his neck. "What matters to me is that your wrongful doings to the ones that housed me is making my stomach wrench."

The two holding Nigel let him go, the man falling back down to the grass before Katherine came to his side, aiding him on sitting up. Nigel looked to Vergil, a sense of relief coming to him yet small dread crept within due to the numbers stacked against the swordsman.

"G… Gilver…"

"Bastard…" Albert growled as his men stood by him, pointing at the one who injured his hand. "I should've had ya dead the moment you stepped into the village… And now I got the damn chance with my boys here."

Vergil merely scoffed, still standing tall and proud. He held out one hand, gesturing them all to come at him. "Well? Come on. I'm getting bored."

The goons took out their weapons before Albert barked a command. "Tear him apart!"

Immediately, they all charged at once towards Vergil. The silver haired man showed no fear as he too ran forward. His black scabbard left his sword, Yamato glistened with dangerous light as Vergil neared the men.

In a flash, Vergil delivered a series of rapid yet well made slashes through each man he came across during his dash. One noticeable trait was the small waves of blue energy that followed through each rend. It was like time slowing down for the swordsman when he delivered one laceration after another.

The men who once rushed to have a jump on their prey stood still as Vergil slowed himself to a stop. His body was knelt to one knee, he faced the backs of his frozen enemies before he began to slowly sheathe Yamato. Within the sync of him covering his blade, each goon fell to the ground as a bloodied carcass, the last one spurting like a scarlet fountain before falling.

Sheathing Yamato, Vergil stood fully before sending his spiteful focus to a fearful Albert.

"Y-You…" Albert stuttered out as he felt the hairs on his neck shooting straight once Vergil began to slowly approach him. The menacing steps the swordsman took along with his frosted glare made the thug shiver in fright.

Albert took out his dagger, fumbling some before holding the blade out shakingly. Vergil raised a brow as he came to a stop, now standing a few feet away from the scared ruffian. He fixed the collar of his shirt, his eyes blankly staring ahead.

"What's wrong? Scared?" The son of Sparda questioned.

Albert's eyes darted to the defenseless couple he assaulted moments ago, quickly turning on his heels and made a last ditch effort towards them. Perhaps he could use them as a chip for him to get the hell out of here!

"Die."

Albert's body began to slow, the feeling of many cuts embedding into him was presented. He screeched in pure pain as the slices felt endless before a pitiful groan escaped from his dying throat. Blood poured from the gashes covering him, his armor didn't even shield him from the incoming lacerations before he collapsed to the grass.

The deviant, Albert, was now dead.

Vergil sheathed Yamato, his body was forward with one foot in front and leaning before he stood tall, once more. There was one scathing detail from the technique he utilized on the deceased thug.

He never left the spot he was standing on.

Vergil looked over at his handiwork, all the men he killed laid still as the wind blew over their bodies. He then placed his stoic eyes on the bewildered couple, slowly approaching them. He stopped once they flinched from his incoming steps.

He studied their looks. Pure fear in their faces from what they've seen from the man they once took in. The bloodshed, the focused face of his when he delivered his execution… Just genuine terror for Nigel and Katherine's expressions.

Vergil frowned at their anxious emotions. Were they not grateful for him disposing such scum and protecting them from further danger? He did what he had to do for what he had seen tonight.

A silence fell between him and the couple, longer than the swordsman anticipated.

Vergil sighed, getting his backpack out and took out the bag of coins. He then tossed it near Nigel, the bruised man's eyes looked down at the contained currency in confusion.

"You'll need it more than me." Vergil said, his stoic demeanor returning. He bowed his head to the two. "Thank you for all that you've done."

Nigel and Katherine said nothing, never ceasing their terrified expressions as the silver haired man began to take his leave.

"G-Gilver…"

Vergil stopped, casting a glance to the shaken Nigel.

"W-What… what are you…?" The husband asked, his voice still trembling.

Vergil said nothing for a moment before continuing on his leave.

"A devil."

Vergil begins his lonesome journey through Eostia, his goal is to find his lost sibling while learning more about this unknown world.

Honestly, this chapter took more time due to me trying to capture Vergil's sense of character as well as how he would interact with people that were non-demons. Hopefully I gave you all a good chapter and not a boring one that I might've anticipated for. I will probably do more updating to freshen up this chapter some as time goes on.

I've also thought on whether if I should place captions of music for scenes in order to really place down the atmosphere. What do you guys think?

Anyways, thank you for following this story and look forward to the sons of Sparda defending Eostia.