Well this one got out pretty nice. So I've played DMC... it's not bad. Granted I wish the characters were a bit better and I really... REALLY... hate that little "Fuck you" we got in the first level with Dante's hair not being white and all of sudden a white wig is placed on his head. Thanks for that, assholes. Other then that, the music is good, combat is awesome, visuals are pretty nice and the story, while not perfect, was decent. I just wish the characters were better designed.
So I'd suggest old school fans to rent the game first and see if they like it, while new fans can get this game and play it to their hearts content. Anyway, enough of DMC, let's read on.
"Lasciate ogne speranza, voi ch'entrate." - Dante's Inferno Canto III, Line 9
"So let me get this straight..." said Agent Cox as he calmly drank his coffee.
Siles rolled his eyes, catching the worried glances he kept getting from the cafe's other customers, some even a few already calling the police. It's not a crime for a demon hunter to walk around with his weapons out, you know, hethought.
"... you managed to get inside, and before you knew it, some masked biker forced her way into the club, then she started shooting the place up. You teamed up with her to kill the goons, and then she killed Vick and left you in the dust. Now you're telling me that some demon bartender, who just so happens to be a spy for Takeda, is giving you a chance to prove yourself by doing some task you don't know anything about or when you're going to be doing it."
Siles shrugged. "That's pretty much it."
The two stared at each other for a while, neither showing a change in expression. Cox took his coffee and finished it in one large gulp. "Remind me to have us meet in a bar next time," he said, wiping his mouth. "You're making me need a drink."
"Only if you're buying," answered the mobian, leaning forward and narrowing his eyes. "You let me worry about Jex when the time comes; that's my headache to deal with. For now, all you have to do is tell me more about the bitch that one-upped me last night."
"Did you get a good look at her face?" asked Cox. "I can't just put in an information request with only the fact that she's female, has a bike, and pissed you off."
I know her boob size. Can that help? joked Sparda.
Siles ignored him.
"She kept her face covered, so I can't help you there," mumbled the fox. "But the bike looked old. Like, twentieth century old."
The agent shook his head and got up from his seat. "Well, forget the girl. She doesn't matter. If this Jex is really Takeda's spy, then it's best if we don't see each other until you complete whatever trial is set for you. I'm going to report to my superiors and let them know of the changes; meanwhile, you keep to your apartment and keep a low profile."
Waving him off dismissively, Siles leaned back against his chair. The human just shook his head and left, mumbling to himself along the way. Siles blew a raspberry in his mind. Dude needs to chill more. He'll have a heart attack if he stays this high-strung.
So what are you going to do now?
The demon hunter closed his eyes and concentrated. He wasn't one for sitting on his ass and letting time just fly by; if anything, he wanted to find out more about that biker chick. Not many people went around on classic post-Xorda war bikes anymore, and if she was another demon hunter, then chances were she'd have at least some info in on the public record. It couldn't be that hard to find her.
Man, you must be in love or something, chuckled the dark knight. You never thought this much about a girl except that Rose friend of yours back in Mobius.
Siles frowned at the mention of Amy, but quickly pushed his thoughts of the past away. I just want to get back at her for taking my kill! This is a man's pride we're talking about!
Sparda mock-sighed. Fine, lover boy, deny it.
Siles growled and proceeded to storm out of the cafe, ignoring the waiter's outraged cries for payment. He continued to walk through Times Square with a scowl on his face, warding off or stepping around anybody who stood in his way. His thoughts continued focused on the biker to the point whre he snapped his head at anything that even vaguely sounded like a motorcycle engine.
(The Music of Welcome Home By Coheed and Cambria plays)
…Dark Side of the World Presents…
… A Sonic the Hedgehog fanfic…
…crossed over with material from Devil May Cry….
…as well as information of Demonology and Angelology….
...edited by REV6Pilot...
BLOODTAIL: THE FIRST DEVIL TRIGGER
Disclaimer: The author owns nothing that is not his….
(Music ends)
Heading down to the underground train station nearby, the teenaged mobian, like everybody else, paid for his ticket and waited for his ride, leaning against a pillar at the platform. He crossed his arms and closed his eyes, trying to put all the info he had in perspective. Not tall enough to be an adult– must be in her teens. Black skin suit, black helmet with a silver streak. Some kind of double-barrel shotgun that looks centuries-old. Do they even still make those? Finally, some short sword that can turn into a snake blade. Finally, she's deadly skilled, meaning she's had training in some form of demon combat at the very least. Siles bopped his own head with a fist in frustration. "Dammit, if only she took off her helmet!"
You know, if you can't find her via looks you can always find her a different way, commented Sparda.
What do you mean? he asked as the train pulled in and he prepared to enter it.
Well, it just so happens that a certain awesome demon may have memories the license plate on the bike from last night. Number's 234-198.
Pausing mid-step, Siles slowly backed away from the train station, hitting himself on the head harder this time. And you only remember this now?!
I'm only telling you because you won't get over it. Just go to the Department of Motorized Transit and ask them for the name of the person who owns the vehicle with that license. A simple little lie, stating you're doing an investigation into a demon related incident, should prevent them from asking too many questions.
Simple enough. Let's get go—
Their conversation was interrupted by a series of rings from Siles's COM-link. He saw on the holographic interface that it was from an unknown caller as he pulled the device out, but he accepted it anyway.
Appearing on the interface was none other than a grinning Jex. "Hey there, Noob."
"That was fast," Siles deadpanned truthfully. "I didn't expect you to be calling me until later this week."
"Yeah, I know. Rushing's not normally my thing, but my boss wants me to get you and the rest of the wild cards done with so he doesn't have to worry about it while dealing with future business. You free tonight?"
Although he wanted to go to the DMT, Siles knew the mission was a more important priority than his personal vendetta. "Yeah. What's the task?"
"I can tell you're near one of the subway stations, so take the line to Williamsbridge in the Bronx and meet be by a meat market named Dil's. Your competition will be there, too, so do me a favor and hold on killing each other until I'm there to explain everything. Later, Noob."
Before Siles could question any further, the call ended, leaving him even more suspicious. Putting away his COM-link, Siles eyed a map of the railway system, beginning to plot his course. Going in blind in one of the most crime infested areas in the city with no info, no backup, and meeting danger head on? Sounds like an average Friday.
After he arrived at the Bronx, Siles wasted no time in making his way towards the meeting place. It took some time, but he was able to find Dil's Meat Market, which, as it turned out, wasn't a working business, but an old boarded-up storefront. With a raised eyebrow, Siles looked around, trying to find either Jex or anybody else, but the street was empty. With a sigh, he opened the door, entering the abandoned establishment with his senses at full alert.
Upon his entrance, four sets of eyes immediately turned their gaze on him. Siles didn't move a muscle as he analyzed every one of them. The closest to him, hanging by one of the boarded up windows, was a light brown bull mobian who had to be at least twice the fox's size. He had ink markings all over his body, and wore only a pair of jeans with a chain belt. More chains were wrapped around his back, holding a large double sided battleaxe that occasionally glowed blue. He eyed Siles with suspicion at first, but looked away, apparently disinterested.
The next one was a spiky, blond haired human leaning by the register on the dusty counter. He wore a red combat outfit that Sparda commented made him look like a rip-off an old comic hero named Arsenal, only he had no face mask or hood, but a small orange scout visor over his right eye. Next to him was a heavy two handed machine gun with a rotary set of barrels, a small computer target system interface on top of the rig. He was the only one grinning at Siles, even giving off a small, good-natured salute to the newcomer.
The third one was human as well, or at least he looked like one, mostly. The pointy ears and red slitted eyes easily showed his half demon heritage. He had long black hair tied into a ponytail, and had most of his body covered in a black cloak with cherry petals on it. The only other thing that stood out, besides his icy expression, was the katana in a blue sheath that he had in his hand.
The last one, hiding in the corner, was the one that worried Siles the most. Like the half-demon, he had a black cloak covering his entire body, as well as a hood. Unlike him, he was as far from human as could be: his appearance was like that of a green octopus, complete with slippery-looking tentacles over his mouth. Hell, even his arms and legs are tentacles, thought Siles. Wonder if there are more inside the gift wrap. Wrapped around his slowly flailing limbs was a long black staff, with three glowing purple crystals on top. Those pulsed with an energy that made Siles feel unwell.
Samogloth... growled Sparda. I hate these demons. Children of Samyaza, seventh level general, who practice in dark arts. These fuckers are never to be trusted, so keep your guard up, kit.
Siles silently agreed, keeping his focus on the samogloth, until he noticed the machinegunner walk up to him. "Sup, dude," he nodded. "Name's Rigby, former OASIS soldier, now freelancer. Did that Amina chick invite you too?"
"Considering he's holding two guns in his coat, I think the answer is obvious," muttered the half-demon. He shook his head. "Although why a kid is involved in this is beyond my understanding."
And I already dislike this guy, mused Siles. And it only took him thirty seconds.
"Geez, dude. Chillax," muttered Rigby, rolling his eyes. He held his hand out, which Siles shook reluctantly. "Nice to meet a fellow gun wielding buddy."
"If any of you were real warriors, you wouldn't have need for guns..." said the bull, before eying the demon in the corner, "... or magic."
Suddenly, the sound of heavy machinery echoed across the room, making all five of them turn around with their weapons drawn. Near the end of the store, one of the halls was slowly opening, revealing a large white elevator waiting for them.
Inside that elevator was none other than Jex, who now wore a very formal business suit. Grinning, she stepped forward and presented the elevator to them like a game show host. "Well, gentlemen, shall we begin?"
You know, if you survive this, this would make a pretty good joke, said Sparda. A demon hunter, a bull, a machine gunner, a dark magic demon from hell, and every weeaboo otaku fangirl's dream-hunk get into an elevator with a hot lizard demon. What happens next?
Don't know, but we're about to find out, Bloodtail thought back, still carefully eyeing the others. Although it was hard to tell with the samogloth, every one of them seemed to be on edge. The only one who seemed to be in a happy mood was Jex, who occasionally winked at Bloodtail.
The elevator continued its decent, making the demon hunter wonder just how far they were going, and also something else. "How the hell is there an elevator hidden in the middle of nowhere?" he asked out loud.
"When Neo York City was built, they used these babies during the construction," said Jex. "When the city was finished, all of these elevators were shut down and destroyed… of course, that's the story the official documents on the Department of Urban Planning's archives tell."
She clapped her hands, bringing all eyes to her. "Okay, before we continue with the history lesson, as well as the reason you're all here, we're going to have a little ice breaker." She pointed to the bull mobian. "You. Talk about yourself."
The stout male raised an eyebrow before answering, "My name is Domino. I was born here in the Human Lands and was raised by a group as a shaman. I lack the ability to use magic, but my Ax is blessed by my elders.
"One night I had a vision of an island where men and women of great strength battled each other for dominance. I am entering this tournament because I believe it is where I will find my destiny and purpose for my life."
"So you believe that your destiny is to jump head first into a life or death situation?" joked Jex, chuckling. "No offense, but the spirits must have a weird sense of humor." She pointed to the katana wielding half-demon, who only turned his head away.
"I am Ren, and that's all you need to know."
"Whatever, emo-git," commented an annoyed Jex, which made 'emo-git' growl.
She pointed to Rigby next, who saluted and winked at the Amina. "'Sup, everyone!" he proclaimed theatrically, reminding Bloodtail of a radio DJ. "I'm Rigby, and I like violence and shooting stuff! I'm pretty handy in a tough spot, so if you need backup, I'm your guy!" he finished with a thumbs up.
The mobian half devil could swear he heard Jex cough "first to die" into her fist, before she pointed to the only full demon in their company.
"Xsnsy asher sjebeb wuweg ys eigb sub aswsgw wabwbe us biwue," greeted the samogloth. At least, it seemed like a greeting.
"Aaaaand I didn't understand any of that," the demoness said flatly, rubbing her head. "Seriously, I should have studied those other demon languages long ago." She clapped her hands again and smiled. "Okay, now for our last guy: Mr. Noob."
"Are you ever going to stop that?" asked Bloodtail, rolling his eyes.
"Nope!" Jex with a cheeky smile. "Now get on with your intro."
He groaned faintly. "Fine. I'm Bloodtail, a demon hunter. And yeah, despite what you think, I am strong enough to kick all your asses." He glared at Ren, who responded back with a glare of his own. "I'm not just some 'kid'; I was around the time Robotnik was in power, and I've seen my fair share of hell on this earth."
For a moment, it looked like Ren was about to respond, but he snorted and turned away without a real reply. Jex chuckled. "I can tell all of you are going to be the best of buddies! ... if you survive that is."
"Enough of the stalling," demanded Domino, his hands twitching. "Why hasn't the elevator stopped by now? How low are we going?"
"Scared, big guy?" Jex cooed. "Relax, you're not in any danger... yet." She pulled out a hologram disk out of her pockets, showing them all of Neo York City. "Now, as you know, Neo York City was built on the remains of the original NYC after the Xorda war. However, those ruins still remain after all these years. That's where we're headed."
"Wait a minute!" cried out Rigby, putting his hands up. "Are you telling me we're heading into Undercity? Dude, everybody knows those places are crawling with ghosts and mutants and who knows what else! It's suicide, going down there!"
"Oh please," muttered Ren, getting a dirty look from the human, "those are just rumors used to scare children. Although I am curious myself as to why we are heading down there. Isn't it a transgression of the law?"
"You seriously think official laws are gonna stop us?" asked Jex condescendingly, flipping through the screens on her personal projector, showing ruins of a desolated city next. "Anyway, there's still some interesting stuff to be found in the ruins, and Mr. Takeda is very interested in old things. He sent a well-prepared team of scientists, security forces, and even a few demonology experts just in case they ran into trouble.
"For two weeks, they found nothing. But then, we got a call saying that they found something big. Something very big."
"And I'm willing to bet that these guys disappeared right before they could bring it back, right?" asked Bloodtail. He scoffed at the nod he received in return. "God, how cliché can you get?"
"Anyway, the team is a secondary priority; the first is to get whatever they found. According to them, it's sealed in a big black briefcase with a silver lock. If you bring it back to me in ten hours, you will be allowed into the tournament. Simple," said the Amina demon with a toothy grin.
"And if we don't find the case in that amount of time?" asked Domino.
Jex shrugged. "Then we'll see if society crumbles with your absence or not, because past the deadline, we're leaving without you."
You can't accuse her of dishonesty in this, at the very least, commented Sparda.
Before anybody could ask any questions, the elevator skidded and jerked to a halt. Jex stepped forward. "We're here. Lock and load, pussies."
The term 'wasteland' definitely did not do justice for what lay before them. The once grand city of old New York was a grim mockery of its more glorious times. Barely a few buildings still stood tall, none of them even half-untouched; roads were torn up, littered with rusted heaps of old cars, electronics, rubble and other, now unidentifiable remains of old technology. According to the legendary dark knight within Bloodtail, it all looked like the filming set of a semi-caffeinated, cranky Michael Bay.
The host of said demon looked up, only faintly seeing the domed structure holding the new city above the one build over the ashes of the dead. Stepping off the elevator, the five contenders drew their respective weapons.
There were no rats, no bugs, no signs of any life. The silence was literally that of the dead; the only sounds to be heard were the weak breezes created by the thermal convection of the stale air rustling the lighter debris.
"I hope you guys brought your own food and water, because there ain't gonna be a single pizza parlor open around here!" yelled Jex, still in the elevator, back at the tense warriors. "Also, I'd like it to be known that only those who survive and have the case with them are the ones who will move onto the tournament. Remember: there's no 'I' in 'teamwork'!"
"No thanks," muttered Ren, immediately running off in one direction. Domino and the samogloth soon followed his example, with Domino running off, his hooves pounding against the pavement. The samogloth raised his staff, emitting a purple glow before disappearing in a veil of darkness. Rigby, the only one who stayed, looked over at Bloodtail before shaking his head. "Well, I guess that leaves us, the dynamic duo." He lifted his gun, moving towards a nearby alley. "I'll scout out ahead and see if the coast is clear."
The fox was about to take off himself when he was interrupted. "Hey, Noob!" Jex cried out. "Don't die, alright? I like you and I want to see you kick some ass in that tournament."
"I didn't know you cared," he said back, feigning flattery and giving a small grin to her in return. "I'll be fine. I'm more than you think."
As the elevator doors slowly closed, Jex flashed him a smile. "I hope so. It would suck for a guy holding the power of Sparda to die in this hole."
Bloodtail couldn't so much as think about masking his surprise before he lost sight of Jex. Stupefied, he watched the elevator rise up to the surface, before shaking his head in frustration. What is it with women throwing me off my game lately?
"GAAAAH!"
The scream coming from the alley echoed across the dead street, making Bloodtail snap towards its origin. "Rigby!" Siphoning a little of his energy into his legs, the fox sped towards the side path's entrance. "Rigby! Hold on!"
There was no sign of the human all along the narrow passage, and when he reached the end, he found himself at an abandoned basketball court. And there, in the middle of the court, was Rigby's gun... along with a large pool of blood. Slowly stepping forward, the demon hunter eyed the amount that was lost, easily concluding that the human was quite dead already, wherever the poor bastard had been dragged off to.
You got it right, Jex, Bloodtail thought grimly as he drew his guns. The city wasn't as dead as it seemed to be, that much was certain, and he would have to find out what really lay inside the quiet husks of civilization.
End of Chapter
I'll make the next chapter longer.
Later
