[Resistance Camp]
"Is it true humans dream?" 9S asked excitedly.
Dante who was in the middle of eating took a second to reply "Yeah don't you?"
"We don't technically dream us Androids merely go offline. But I do choose to browse over everything in my systems so technically I'm always awake."
The devil hunter made a face "Oh kid what are you doing? Sleeping is one of the greatest things you could ever do in life. Look at me you think I got my dashing looks without any rest. Hell no I'll have bags under my eyes for days. Sometimes I wish I could just stay asleep forever."
9S pressed a finger to his chin "Why? You won't get anything done."
The man sighed "Forget it. I guess it's just a human thing."
The boy leaned forward, his chair creaking from the shift in weight "So what do you dream about?"
The red-clad man hummed "I'm not much of a guy who remembers his dreams. There's just too many to count. Many I've already forgotten, but what I can say is that dreams can be random. One night I was a bloodthirsty young soldier wanting to avenge his parents' deaths and the next day I was going to town with this very nice chick."
9S was awed by his answer. "Wow. So you don't have any dreams that hold any sort of significant meaning? I've come across an old psychology book and they mentioned it as a phenomenon that could theoretically be nature's way of warning the individual about their future."
"Kid your asking the wrong person."
The boy shifted back into his chair. "So ho-"
"9S stop disturbing him." The boy looked to his partner sitting right beside him.
"He doesn't seem to mind it. Right Dante?" 9S looked at the aforementioned man who ate away at his food.
"That's an order!" 2B stated. Her visor-covered eyes observed the boy silently pout to himself.
"...always so serious..." he mumbled. His feet lightly kicking against the legs of his chair.
2B didn't avert her gaze until the flaps of the tent opened up. Devola and Popola walked in. They acknowledged the pair.
"Soooo how was your meal?" The straight-haired twin asked the man curiously.
Dante smacked his lips satisfyingly "Food was great. It's been a while since I had something that isn't full of grease."
Popola brightly grinned "You are very welcome Dante. Do you need anything else?"
"Naw I'm fine for-UGH!" Devola removed her finger out from his ear.
"What was that for?" The devious twin inwardly chuckled at his reaction.
"I'm just taking your temperature. I've installed a program similar to how a thermometer works. Now I can check your temperature with just my finger." She said innocently.
"So why was it wet?" He wiped his ear on his coat.
She looked off to the side. A smirk appeared on her face. "For it to go in more smoothly."
Dante looked at her with a questioning look "Uh huh. You sure it wasn't payback for tying you guys up?"
Her smirk grew. "Maybe."
Popola could only sigh at the scene. Despite herself already forgiving Dante for his actions her sister still seemed to hold a grudge. Regardless they'll still treat him as they did before.
"What's all this commotion?" Anemone appeared over the flaps.
"Eh you missed nothing." the devil hunter shrugged it off.
Anemone straightened herself up "Well then. May I ask for everyone but Dante to leave? There are important matters we have to discuss."
The redheads obliged picking up Dante's dish and heading out. 2B got up as well nudging at his partner to do the same, he groaned but soon followed after her. The young man watched them go. Though for a brief moment his gaze lingered on the sisters' lower backsides.
"Mind telling me what you meant by everything going to shit?" Anemone recalled words Devola said about Dante. She pressed away at the newly-repaired console.
"I'll explain in a bit when I have a word with the Big Boss." She stifled a groan.
"Alright just give it a couple of seconds." She took a seat next to him.
"The kid said his boss was a gal. What's she like?"
The green-caped woman closed her eyes "She's very strict. I recommend you don't agitate her."
Dante chuckled "Or what she's gonna have my head?"
She looked at him wide-eyed "Heavens no. I'm just sa-"
The devil hunter whistled at the holographic monitor displaying a rather attractive blonde-haired woman.
'Another good looking babe. And a blondie too.' He admired. Even if he didn't doesn't know the humans of this world personally he gives them props for capturing a human's looks. The design choice of 9S and 2B as young teenagers was still a bit weird though.
Commander spoke up "Anemone what is the reason for yo-" Her green eyes widened when she saw Dante.
"Y-y-you are..."
"Stunning I know I get that all the time." Anemone nudged at him, giving him a light glare which he ignored.
White recollected herself "Forgive me for my actions. I wasn't anticipating you to be up so soon." Her voice returned to an even tone.
"Well here I am. My name's Dante and you are?"
"I am Commander White, the leader of the YoRHa faction. I command all of the YoRHa soldiers to fight against the evil that are the machines. Glory to mankind." She introduced herself formally. Giving him the proper introduction with YoRHa's signature salute.
He nodded at her words while rubbing his chin. "Glory to Mankind." He covered his mouth muffling his laugh.
White and Anemone gazed at him questioningly.
"Now I don't wanna judge but couldn't you come up with a better chant. Sounds kinda basic don't you think?"
Immediately the blonde was dumbfounded. Mentally she pondered on multiple reasons on why he would claim such a thing. All for which she had no clear answer and she couldn't understand why. It was the pride of YoRHa, it was direct, it was short, it was simple. Enough for everyone else to know who they are and who they fight for. The perfect mantra in her opinion.
Returning her arm to her side she cleared her throat "The Council of Humanity along with every other human on the moon seem to disagree. Not to mention every single one of my soldiers have taken it to heart. It would disheartening if I decided to change it."
The devil hunter lightly scratched his chest. "I guess your right. Go ahead keep on using it I don't mind." Still sounded lame in his opinion.
Commander looked back at Anemone. "Forgive me Anemone. I'll be asking Dante a few questions if you don't mind."
The Resistance leader waved her off. "Go ahead."
White fixed her collar "So...Dante..." She felt a jolt the second she said his name. "It appears you are in perfect health. I didn't know humans can heal so fast. Is everything alright with you?"
Dante waved her off "I'm fine."
"Did our Resistance leader provide you with all your needs? Did you eat? Are you thirsty? Anemone did you feed him?"
The devil hunter and green-caped woman sweatdropped. 'Geez she's sounding like mom. Fuck she's starting to look like her too.' Dante internally realized.
"Yes. I've had certain individuals provide his personal needs." The Resistance leader answered.
White eased back into her chair. "Good to hear. The Council of Humanity will be very pleased of your well-being. Now in the following days you are going to be transported to-"
"Hey hey hey. Stop right there." The red-clad man halted her.
"Is there a problem?"
"Yeah. Whatever plans you have, cancel them." His words struck her hard.
"I don't understand." The blonde showed a rare display of puzzlement. Anemone on other hand had a clue as to where he was going. She voiced out her inquiry.
"Is it about your previous injuries?"
Dante looked at her in agreement. "Yeah. As a matter of fact that's why I'm here."
She gave the YoRHa leader a look. "Care to tell us?" The blonde hardened her jaw.
They watched in silence as the devil hunter rose from his seat. Walking to the side Dante held up his glove-covered hand. A stitched tear in the leather was present at the center of his palm.
"What happened out there is something you shouldn't get involved in. If you see him don't talk to him, don't get in his way. Leave him be."
The green-caped woman led out an inquiry "This was a person? What did he do?"
Dante frowned. "He's a cold, heartless bastard who doesn't care about anyone but himself. He's killed a couple of my friends even going as far as burning down their life's work. I don't know where he is and now he's gonna keep wasting his life to get something that isn't even worth it."
White and Anemone looked at each other, both shared the same worried expression. This wasn't a machine he was talking about, it was someone he's had history with.
Breaking the silence White spoke up "If I may ask, who is this person?"
Dante turned back to them with an unsettling gaze "My brother, Vergil."
The women's eyes widened, their jaws slackened. Brother? According to ancient human data family was universally the major link between humans. It prioritized itself above all else and was unconditionally loving to every single member of the family. It was how humans are influenced and mold into a productive member of society. However Dante a few days ago was dragged back in a critical state. His brother did that too him? The women felt uneasy. What happened before that made them like this?
"Your...brother was the one who did that to you?" The usually stoic Anemone hesitated to speak.
He nodded.
"But why? Why did you fight?"
The red-clad cambion looked at Commander briefly "You'll never understand. It's a family thing."
White became conflicted. What does he mean she won't understand? Of course she will. With the stuff she knows it's bound to sound normal to her. Right?
"Can you at least tell us what he looks like?" Anemone's voice interrupted her thoughts.
"He's not hard to spot. We're both twins so we share everything on the outside. Only thing that makes us stick out is we have different tastes in styles."
Inside White's mind a certain memory appeared before herself. The same feeling prior to her meeting with Black and Violet resurfaced but this time it was worse. She didn't wanna believe it but she had to ask. Commander cleared her throat.
"Did he happen to wear formal blue attire?"
The feeling in her stomach increased ten fold the moment Dante confirmed it.
"White how did you know that?" Green irises shifted to the Resistance leader.
"I...was looking for him." Anemone felt betrayed by her confession. She was never informed of the other human. She looked back at the devil hunter.
"So what are we supposed to do? Just sit around and let him wonder about?"
Dante dropped his frown and put on a smirk, "Again that's why I'm here. You don't have to worry a thing because I'm going to take care of it."
"What are you sa-" Rebellion appeared in his hands. Shocking the women at the sight of red mist leaving the weapon.
'So that's where it was.' Anemone thought.
White looked in fascination at the weapon.
"We fought so many times throughout our lives. I can read him with my eyes closed." He twirled his devil arm single handedly before sheathing it.
White shook from her stupor. "Dante I can't afford you going back to being bedridden. Please let my soldiers confront him. I'm sure if we approach him in a friendly manner we will come to an understanding."
"Did you not here what I just said? Leave him alone. He sees you as something beneath his boot and will cut anyone down."
White took a deep breath "I understand your worries however I just cannot allow you to deal with this situation alone. So stand down and let me take care of this."
Dante could only scoff at her stupid response. Everything was so simple back in his world. Just tell a crowd that this is official devil hunter business and they'll happily fuck off. But no these Androids are persistent, more persistent than humans. Aren't there like a whole bunch of them on the moon like Anemone told him? What difference does it make if he and Vergil never even came to this world in the first place?
"I'm telling you this so you won't have blood on your hands so why can-"
Their argument halted when they heard a faint whisper coming from outside the tent. Shit, they've must've been a little too loud.
"We know your there come in." Anemone ordered, she didn't sound happy.
Their shadow visibly stiffened before making their way inside. Dante and White lightly gasped.
"Jackass?" they said simultaneously. The scientist looked over at them with a sly grin.
"Hi there Dante the human." She waved her fingers at him teasingly. She shifted her eyes onto YoRHa's leader. "Awww Whitey what's with that look on your face? Don't you miss me?"
A faint blush appeared on her cheeks "Jackass quit the tomfoolery and tell us why your here." The scientist smiled harder at her.
"Yeah why are you eavesdropping on us?" The green-caped woman crossed her arms.
Jackass gave a stretch "Some idiots were trying to overhear you guys. Luckily they don't understand jack shit of what your saying so I scared them off. Then I heard some juicy details and just had to know more." The rogue scientist stated bluntly.
White addressed her "Despite your intrusion I'll let you off with a warning just because of association. Leave us right now and don-"
"Hey Jackass. Got a minute?" White stifled a huff from being interrupted.
The scientist looked at the man nonchalantly "Hmm? Sure anything's better than watching Big Snot break his back moving boxes."
The devil hunter smirked "You've seen first hand at what I can do right?"
The scientists scratched her chin. "Yeah you really showed it to those Goliath Bipeds. And I showed it to you after."
The devil hunter ignored the tease. "So what are the chances of me going against that kid and his partner? Think I can come out alive?"
The blonde was flabbergasted at what he just said. Anemone on the other hand stayed silent, as if she already knew what was to come next.
The scientist smiled "Can you make it out alive? Hell it should be a beach walk with how you fight. No offense Whitey but there is more to Dante than meets the eye. Annie don't deny it. I know when I first brought him here you were dying to know his strength."
Anemone remained quiet while Jackass looked on with satisfaction. As if the rogue scientist already knew her answer, she reluctantly sighed and looked at YoRHa's leader with a defeated look.
"Hate to break it to you but she isn't wrong."
The blonde simply couldn't see outside the lunacy of the situation. Never in a million years would she ever think to have her soldiers fight a human. She's supposed to be protecting them not whatever the hell they're trying to make her do. All the planning she made with Violet and Black threatened to burst up in flames.
Dante made a teasing look "You don't think I got what it takes so lemme show what I can do Whitey. Let's make a bet. If I lose I'll do whatever you say. If I win you'll call off your little scavenger hunt. What do you say?"
She remained quiet, giving off her signature poker face. For a moment she wouldn't have agreed. Whenever the blonde made up her mind on anything she will stick to it, doubling down on if necessary. She leads a military-grade faction with equipment far superior than those found on Earth with every single soldier capable of feats a group of Resistance Androids could make. That alone was enough for any ordinary Android to know better than to argue with her, getting on her bad side would be the least of their worries.
Dante wasn't made of metal.
An Android wasn't arguing with her.
She was arguing with him.
At that point everything mentioned was thrown out the window and she took a moment to delve on his offer. She never did have the time to solve the mysteries of the "subject in red" and his capabilities. It was a thought that sat in the back of her mind initially when she found out about his human nature. The weapon data was too rich to pass up. Actually who said anything about having him face an armed YoRHa unit? Perhaps this proposal wasn't so ludicrous as she initially thought. She eyed the blade resting on his back, she was still amazed on how it came from seemingly thin air.
'Do you know the art of magic as well?'
Finally after a tense moment of silence she met the devil hunter's gaze. Taking a breath she spoke.
"Very well."
[Forest]
Hooves tapped tiredly against the rocky terrain, a husky snort left it's snout as it continued towards a shallow creek. Huckleberry pushed himself upwards the path, ears raised wide open ready to pick up signals of danger.
Nearing freshwater for the first time since yesterday Huckleberry happily lapped up Earth's life source. Giving him much relief to quench this thirst that's been bugging him. If it wasn't for the birds talking about the tale of the indigo peach he never would've embarked on his journey. Although he had to avoid multiple predators on the way he stumbled upon this strange man. That staring contest of theirs was amusing.
After that Huckleberry continued on his quest to find the indigo peach. It took him a bit of time but eventually he found the place those birds spoke of. The tree itself sat right in the middle of a group of those weird metal things. No wonder no other animal bothered to take it, these things hit hard and relentlessly, no need to risk your skin over some fruit. But on that day luck was on Huckleberry's side.
Off in the distance one of the tallest buildings in the area fell to the ground. The metal things watched curiously and one by one walked away from the area leaving the fruit vulnerable for consumption. Not wasting any chances Huckleberry swooped in and took it without a second thought. It's taste matched the legend, a worthy reward for his journey.
Huckleberry made his way back home until his nostrils caught wind of something. Following the strange scent he was led inside one of the old buildings and found a woman lying on the ground seemingly dead. Part of her face was soaked in berry juice so he happily cleaned all the purpley goodness off of her. It was then she awoke and he darted away for she seemed agitated.
All in all the trip was a success, he survived another day and couldn't wait to tell the birds about it. Whilst he drank a boar made it's way near Huckleberry and gnawed at the overgrown grass. It was twice the size of the moose and looked akin to a predator given it's intimidating husks.
Huckleberry immediately dashed off. The boar dropped dead to the floor after giving out an ear-screeching cry.
"Blasted pig. You got in my way." Someone emerged from the bushes. They walked up to the fresh carcass as a blade made of blue energy dispersed from it's neck.
"You will be my meal then." Vergil skinned the animal, careful to not get too much blood on his person. After getting a good amount of meat he cleaned himself up before leaving the area.
"You will pay!" A machine dressed in old medieval armor emerged from the trees. It's eyes lacked the crimson glow that's shared among its brethren. Vergil promptly halted the rusted spear before violently grabbing the weapon and jamming it between the machine's eyes. The machine hit the ground lifelessly.
He walked away without a second thought, ignoring the explosive combustion that rifled some nearby birds.
Not long he was in what appeared to be an old courtyard. It's age signified as moss overtook everything. He didn't pay mind to the dead Goliath Biped nearby, it's attire similar to the machine he's just slain.
The sounds of a waterfall filled his ears as he climbed onto a broken pillar leading up to his temporary home.
'What a shame I didn't find this when I was younger. I surely would have been elated.' The darkslayer humored himself as his eyes gazed over the remnants of the castle in front of him. 'Even though a king needs a castle, it still needs to be presentable.'
The settlement was massive, wards connecting to a multitude of towers, each having a different degree in height. It all encompassed around the inner bailey, designed to spot any potential invaders. The inner parts from what he can see sat in right in the middle where the royal family resides. The medieval times was influential for the choice of using stone as the main building component showed. Though what was once a symbol of a prideful ruler leading their country to salvation has now become nature's victim. The spires held holes as big a boulder showed it's inner contents. An earthy green now became the castle's main color, signifying it's age. Before him was merely a remnant of a kingdom forgotten long ago.
He entered through the giant doorway and proceeded to journey within. Surprisingly on the inside the castle seemed to have many hallways that lead into different rooms with many different levels. Numerous times he would get lost simply by the sheer number of empty passages this structure inhabited. He figured it was a design choice, to trap any invaders gaining entry and have the troops trap them in the corner. The designer no doubt knew what they were doing, and their King no doubt supported it.
"Then again this current leader isn't even one to be begin with." He commented as he finished climbing a set of stairs.
"How-how-how-how"
'It seems as though I left behind one survivor. I can't have that.' He approached the room containing the only other voice in the castle. Within many bodies of knights and servants decorated the moss-filled room. In a corner was the upper part of a machine, it's head exposed of wires and occasional sparks. It's only useable arm clutched the body of a small machine baby wrapped in a metallic blanket. A gaping hole was present in the middle. It noticed Vergil's presence and gripped the corpse harder.
He took his time with each step.
"Long live the forest king."
"Long live the forest king."
"Long live the-" *Smash*
He left the room and made his way to what used to be the kitchen. Almost everything was far too impaired to use. The only thing useful in this place was the firepit which is what he needed.
After setting up the raw pork over the old furnace he set fire to the wood underneath. Whilst that's cooking Vergil proceeded to other parts of the castle. He wasn't able to fully know the place. He was too busy massacring the residents.
Climbing yet another set of stairs caused a jingle to ring out from his pocket. Reaching into it he took out his brother's silver encompassed amulet.
...You cannot defeat a pure demon, the real Sparda...
Vergil visibly shuddered.
'Even with father's blood running through my veins I've witnessed first hand what happens when a weak vessel gets a hold of the Sparda. Although my reunion with Dante has increased my strength I'm not still not at full power. Arkham was a fool and I will not repeat his mistake.' The memory of that grotesque bluish-purple blob brought disdain to the darkslayer as he proceeded onwards.
He found himself in what appeared to be a library, his lips creased upwards. At a young age he's developed a love for literature, mother would always hold a little book club with him and talk about what they've read. Perhaps there's something in here worth finding. Maybe an explanation for the unusual scent.
Vergil picked up a book off the shelf, the pages were torn and wet. He reached for another, the letters were half missing and unreadable. He groaned as he grabbed a third one, the cover was missing and so were half the pages.
'Is there nothing I can find to enjoy!' He searched and searched and searched. Finding more useless books with their only purpose being to occupy space. The darkslayer just about had it until his eyes gazed onto a particular book lying on the floor. He doesn't remember grabbing this one.
This appeared to have an unusually dark shade of blue, akin to his vest but not fully. A face decorated the front cover, a round head with coin-slot shaped slits for eyes and a rectangular hole for a mouth. The background having a spherical design that can be mistaken as a maze. Visually it was begging to be read.
"Cover looks intact. Pages are in order. Texts are still coherent." He sighed in relief, finally something he can read. He stared on the first page but stopped.
"...That's right it's in this world's native tongue." He scoffed but he didn't discard it as it may be the closest thing to readable this place will ever have.
Flipping through the pages he ignored the foreign walls of texts. Maybe the author was bilingual and there was section in a familiar language. That was Vergil's main goal until he stopped on the last page. One of the few pages that had pictures.
A very detailed illustration of a city met his eyes. It looked similar to Redgrave city indicated by the rectangular and window-filled buildings. However that wasn't what made him stop.
His eyes narrowed in confusion. "What a morbid depiction of a woman." The image of a gargantuan, bald female sat dead center in the city. Her tongue out was hanging out in an unappealing way.
'Is that a dragon?' A smaller yet still noticeable flying reptile was near the giant. White symbols surrounded it's form.
'The author must've taken some hallucinogens prior to writing.' Vergil was about to close it up before he noticed one final figure. Riding on top of the dragon wielding a weapon he's never seen before.
'How funny the rider looks...' he paused.
...
...
...
'Wait a minute.' He scanned the person more attentively.
The person riding the dragon doesn't appear human at all. In fact they appeared monstrous with their large frame. Their skin appeared reptilian in nature. Wings sprouted from the back while the top of their head contained 2 horns nestling downw-
Blade. Wings. Reptilian appearance.
Vergil's eyes remained transfixed on the rider.
'No it can't be. For my entire journey I thought I knew everything there was. Yet this book contains his very image.' The darkslayer has stumbled onto an epiphany he never would've imagined.
'So your battles took place across worlds, Father.'
*Slash*
"BROTHER!" Vergil heard incoming stomps towards him until they halted.
"It's alright Eve. I'm fine."
"But your arm, it's gone."
"Eve stand down."
"But-"
"STAND!"
"DOWN!"
"..."
Vergil tucked the book under his free arm. Keeping his firm grip on the unsheathed Yamato he looked towards the pair that dared sneak up on him. They both appeared male indicated by their exposed torsos. One with long straight hair falling down to his shoulders whilst the other's was short and messy. The long-haired one had a normal pair of dark jeans, he clutched the stump that used to be his right arm yet he kept a cool expression.
The short-haired one glared daggers at Vergil, his hand on the wounded guy's shoulder. His choice of attire consisted of no shirt, simple spiked pants but on his left forearm was an interesting tattoo.
The darkslayer scowled immensely, he's met them before. Correction one of them. Back in the apartment complex where he had the unfortunate timing to experience the putrid amalgamation that was the original's place of birth. Not really a fond memory to recall and one he so forced his mind from fully replaying.
The wounded one straightened his back. Subsequently releasing his right elbow now seemingly unfazed by the pain. Clearing his throat he surprised Vergil by speaking in English "Greetings my name is Adam I believe we have met before."
The darkslayer took a quiet breath in "Why yes I recall you. I had the misfortune at being present at your conception." Venom laced the last word.
Adam chuckled "And I must say I appreciated having you as my audience." He ignored the daggers sent from the cambion as his red irises shifted towards the person at his side.
He nudged the angry one tenderly. "C'mon just like we practiced."
The other one looked at him with a pout but reluctantly followed through "I am Eve. We are brothers and machine lifeforms."
If it wasn't for the lack of a heartbeat Vergil would've been stumped on how human they looked. But it wasn't their race that concerned him.
"You both are...brothers?" He questioned them.
Adam wrapped his only arm around Eve. "Yes we are."
Vergil grimly chuckled "Well isn't that funny. What would machines know about the concept of brothers?"
Adam answered happily. "Machines evolve and improve with each generation. We adapt and soon enough we come to understand things we never knew before."
There was something the darkslayer couldn't place his finger on. Was it strange that machines understood the basic idea of familial bonds? Or was it the sight of Adam holding Eve so warmly that they reflected the complete opposite brotherly relationship he has with Dante? He couldn't really say. Also didn't help the fact that they all looked so disgustingly related.
Nevertheless this conversation of theirs didn't ease him from dropping his guard. One miss step of any kind and it would be their end.
"Why did you cut off brother's arm?" The now named Eve spout in frustration.
"For it's the award you're given for approaching my blind side. Now state your business before I give you your very own."
Eve stared at Vergil in disgust, letting off a scowl to match the cambion's. Adam practically felt the tension between them and patted his hand on his brother's shoulder.
"A little hostile aren't we? If I studied it correctly isn't it considered a custom to introduce all the parties at the beginning of a conversation?"
"You may know the concept of a communication but you have no concept of manners. If you want to know then you'll tell me on why your here." The son of Sparda lifted his katana at the pair.
Adam laughed "Forgive me for my unconventional social skills but you seem so invested in your book I didn't wanna interrupt you right away." His crimson irises glided down to said book, curiosity bloomed.
Vergil hid the book from the machine's view "I will not repeat myself."
The one-armed machine brushed away a white lock "We simply wanted to acquaint ourselves with you. Is that so hard to ask?"
"When you're dealing with me yes. You can find other people to annoy. They ought to be more interesting than me."
The humanoid machine put on a incredulous look "Oh don't say that. You by far are the most interesting thing we have ever come across. That fight you had with "him" was very exciting to watch. Eve was flipping all over the place when you both engaged."
That caught Vergil's attention "How did you know of that?" He demanded.
Adam paused a bit "Every machine in the network watched your little scuffle. You aren't like any other Android we've ever encountered before." He wiped some leftover blood of his cheek. "I've went through countless observations trying to classify you. Each and every one has put me in a dead end." He took what looked like a contented breather. "All except for one." His grin grew larger.
Vergil remained ever so silent.
Keeping his chin upright with his fist Adam met his gaze "Tell me are you from the moon?"
Vergil tightened his grip on his devil arm "Where I'm from is none of your concern. What you should be worrying about is how you'll get out of here alive." The darkslayer swung Yamato in one clear-cut motion, blade targeting their necks. Unbeknownst to him he was blinded by a bright light at the very last second.
The blue-cladded cambion retreated back a few feet, as soon as his vision returned he saw no signs of Adam and Eve.
"Brother he's no fun."
"Hush now Eve. We've only just met. I'm sure your opinion of him will change soon. I for one am fascinated."
He looked up to the floor above him, low and behold there they were. While Eve never led up on his newfound hatred for the darkslayer his counterpart on the other hand stared at him with interest. Like a scientist discovering a new breed of species the one-armed machine appeared all too giddy but composed.
Adam closed his eyes in delight "Perhaps you aren't from the moon but you are a special case indeed. Nonetheless my expectations of you have been met. We'll talk to you again soon. Enjoy your readings Vergil."
The cambion's blue orbs widened. The same bright flash of light engulfed them both before vanishing without a single trace. The darkslayer could only curse in frustration.
"Dammit. This entire time they knew my name and yet they played me. I am not a mere stone to be stepped on." He scoffed as his rage subsided.
With a clenched fist he silently sheathed the Yamato. The fact they've spoken to him in English proves that they are a special type of machine. He's slaughtered many of their brethren and none of them has approached him like they did.
Next time he'll be ready.
'As for now...'
He readjusted himself before returning his attention back to the blue book in hand.
'What secrets do you hold from me father?'
[?]
"Brother you said we were gonna play right after." Eve rushed to the center of the table where his brother sat upon. The ambient wind blowing across their white hair.
"Some things didn't go according to plan Eve. I have to readjust." Adam looked over the stump of his arm.
"Well do you want your arm back?" The younger machine held out the severed limb.
Adam scanned it over like a piece of meat before shrugging it off "No actually I was planning on replacing it. I feel...mismatched with it."
The short-haired twin was taken aback "Oh."
"Eve did you catch the book he was reading?"
"Yeah. Why?"
A deranged grin adorned itself on Adam's face "Fetch me one will you and then we'll play."
Eve's eyes brightened. "Really?"
Adam nodded with content.
[City Ruins]
9S' short time with Dante has been one of wonder and excitement. Although he wasn't able to fully speak his mind since it apparently bugs the man, he's still grateful to be in the position he's in. He couldn't wait to go back to HQ and brag about it to his fellow scanners, they've surely be hella jealous. Maybe he can finally have a conversation with 21O that's not related to work, he's noticed a change in her behavior recently. That little spark of curiosity visible in her dull eyes the last time they talked. He couldn't say the same about his partner, despite being in the presence of a human her disciplined and unintentionally curt persona remained strong as ever. And he was kinda jealous, not from the battler herself but her operator 6O, who's openly enthusiastic and open to small talk just like him yet 2B wants everything short and to the point, just like 21O.
Now that's not to say he doesn't like 21O, quite frankly he enjoys the blonde's company despite her conservative nature. He'll just have to find a way to break her out of her shell, surely she has some interests of her own right? Knowing some information about the human will definitely aid him in the process. By the way why was he and 2B ordered to escort Dante to an open field? It doesn't seem like he's being transported to another settlement, weirdly enough it seems that crazy scientist and the Resistance leader have tagged along. Oh maybe he's going to share some human secrets that aren't in his data banks. That'll be awesome.
"Your mission is to engage with Dante in combat."
His small body froze. What did Commander just say?
"C-come again?" He looked at his boss who was speaking from Pod 049.
"Your job is to test Dante's ability in the field by using all the combat data at your disposal. Your Pods will standby as there is no need to use any lethal force."
"I'm guessing weapons are prohibited?" He looked at her partner in shock. She didn't seem to have any problem with this whatsoever.
'Don't tell me you're actually okay with this?'
"Correct 2B. This is to prevent any fatal injuries. However if you do manage to severely injure him dire punishment will fall on you both. Now than any more questions?"
"Why-why are we even doing this?" The boy exclaimed.
"Quite simple really. It was an order issued by Dante himself that was approved by the Council of Humanity." Something was up with that statement. It could be by how she paused between sentences but he knew better to just stay silent on the matter.
"I...see." He looked across the empty field. Dante was stretching his legs without a care in the world. Does he even know what's about to happen?
He looked off to the side. Anemone and Jackass weren't too far away. The scientist had an psychotic grin which wasn't helping him lessen his tension.
"I'll be monitoring your movements. The match will end either by Dante's submission or on my word. Am I clear?"
"Yes Ma'am." 2B responded. 9S felt himself getting smaller when he didn't say anything.
"9S?"
His head trembled as he looked up at his boss "I'm sorry Commander I can't go through with this."
He watched the blonde's gaze as she kept quiet. A few moments later she told him "In hindsight this may be for the better. You may have an above average combat efficiency for a scanner but you aren't a B type. Hacking is your main priority not fighting. 2B I trust you won't be affected by your partner's absence."
"No worries Commander I'm certain that I'll be more than enough for Dante to handle."
'I hope so.' Clearing her throat the blonde ordered 9S to scurry off to the sideline. He looked at 2B for a brief moment before making his way off the field.
He sat down by the rogue scientist.
"So you know Dante?" He didn't know why he asked her that and he definitely not expecting such a response.
"Know him. Hell I slapped him."
"Y-you WHAT? What did he do?"
Jackass peered over to him "If you found out you almost died over a misunderstanding wouldn't you be mad?"
9S didn't answer.
Jackass pressed on. "Yeah. It was quite a shock when I first found out he was human. Had to take my mind off by blowing up a bunch of machines. My screws aren't loose anymore and I can't wait to see a human fight an Android. It's like a sick twisted fantasy I never realized I wanted." The boy grew immediate discomfort from the grin plastered onto her face. He gave a quick nod and looked back at the field.
'Her name suits her.'
"Dante are you ready?" The devil hunter yawned freely.
"Yeah sure whatever."
Pod 049 floated to the middle. "Well then. ENGAGE!"
2B dashed across the field with no lack of hesitation. Dante on the other hand was facing elsewhere completely ignoring her approaching form.
9S gripped his head. "What's he doing? I thought he was ready. WATCH O-" he felt a grip on his shoulder.
"Don't worry kid. He knows what he's doing." Jackass didn't sound scared at all. 9S didn't believe her until he saw 2B hit Dante only for him to block it.
2B backflipped away to gain some distance. The devil hunter stood there with a snarky smirk as he gestured to come on over. The woman used her speed to dash behind him and ensnared him in a full nelson. Due to their difference in height the cambion's body arched as he lost his footing. He fell backwards, his weight at her mercy.
"You are now in my grasp. Your efforts will be futile. Submit now Dante."
He raised his head, blue eyes meeting a black visor. "Your gonna have to try better than that."
The man regained his footing, squatted down and back flipped into the air. All the while the woman remained relentless on her grip...until her back slammed into the ground. She led out a small yelp as Dante escaped her hold.
'He's more aerobic than I thought.' She quickly recovered, getting back to her feet immediately.
2B grunted as she tried another tactic. Running up to the devil hunter who appeared to still be recovering from his stunt she lightly hit the front of his noggin. He stumbled back, not expecting this form of attack. While he was disoriented she aimed for a chop to the neck. However he ducked at the last second.
"Are you trying to make me black out? Sorry but I've already had my fill of naps." He went on the offensive as he launched a fist to her breast. She moved out of the way and grabbed his hand. Immediately 2B struck the bend of his arm, the man released a subtle "ow."
Rolling to his blind side she struck another pressure point and another and another. Each and every time he flinched as a surprising amount of pain spread throughout his body. Just a few more and he should be immobile and therefore the fight will be over.
Just as she was about to strike his chest Dante vanished from thin air. 2B visibly faltered as to what happened. She looked around trying to find the man but he was nowhere to be found.
"What the hell?" The battler didn't know what to make of it until her instincts screamed at her to move out of the way. Listening to her gut she evaded a kick from above.
Dante landed and rushed at her, extending out a leg aimed for her abdomen but she rolled to the side. The battler grabbed his expose leg, using her robotic strength she yanked him towards her before pushing him onto the ground.
"Didn't think you would be the type to get down and dirty." She ignored his comment. Maneuvering her body over she successfully had him in an arm lock. The devil hunter said something she couldn't make out. It doesn't matter it seems the fight is over, Dante was at her mercy. As soon as she averted her gaze away from the red-clad man her eyes widened when she found herself lifted off the ground.
'How is he able to lift me in this position?' Her question went unanswered as the devil hunter sent her back down to Earth.
"Gah!" She led out a soft grunt of pain she was forced to release her hold.
Dirt and grime stained her body as the man rose up. She felt a bit disoriented but that didn't stop her from joining him.
As soon as she did Dante appeared in front of her in a flash of red, completely catching her off guard. She stumbled back. Using this open window of attack he successfully punched her cheek, the woman felt pain cement her face as she fell down harshly.
"2B!" 9S yelled. Dante was actually holding his own. Not only that he has the battler on the ropes. He'd never thought that the fight will go in this direction.
'Fascinating.' White watched silently in awe. Not only is Dante strong enough to down 2B but also fast enough that not even she could track his movement whenever he vanished. 'Show me more.'
"C'mon that can't be it. Your boss spoke a lot about you. Don't tell me that was all talk." His words didn't resonate well with her as she forced herself up.
"I assure you Dante that I am merely getting started." She huffed.
He smiled "So am I. Now whatever Commander said about not hurting me forget it."
2B looked at him baffled "Pardon?"
"I know you're holding back. And I just wanted to tell you that it's fine. I'm tougher than my fellow moon men."
2B hesitated "I can't disobey orders."
"Well how about this? Since I'm human I order you to treat me like your enemy."
Her concealed eyes widened "B-but Commande-"
"I'll talk to her after. Now are we going to fight or what?"
2B processed his request, after a few moments she spoke up "As you wish."
As soon as the battler agreed she avoided a punch. Dante didn't relent as he kept dishing out another and another pushing her back. 2B grunted as she kept on blocking.
'How is he this strong?' She speculated. She has enough force to throw boulders as if they were pebbles. Yet his punches felt as if it matches hers. What type of human is he?
Her instincts kicked in and out of reflex she kicked his throat with the butt of her heel. He stumbled back appearing to be in pain, giving her immediate fear.
'Dammit. I shouldn't have agreed.' The words of Commander echoed throughout her head. Bringing a crippling shiver up her back.
But much to her surprise she heard him chuckle "That's the spirit." He rubbed his throat, giving her a cocky smirk.
"Your...not mad at me?"
"Of course not. I said not to hold back right?"
"A-affirmative." 2B is still getting a grasp on all of this.
The sound of a cocked gun hit her ears. 2B hastily moved out of the bullet's trajectory. She looked back to her opponent in confusion. Where did he hide those black and white pistols?
"What are you doing?" She yelled.
"Making sure you keep your end of the deal." He pointed Ebony and Ivory her way forcing her to widen their distance. He shot at her feet keeping her on the move.
2B kept running, Ebony and Ivory harboring an endless amount of ammo. Using her military training a plan formed in her head. She skidded to a stop and a bullet that was meant to hit her heel impacted against her shin.
Dante ended his barrage of bullets, not expecting her to suddenly stop. All of a sudden various glowing images of the battler surrounded him. He didn't notice the real 2B right beside him.
She grabbed his wrists as he fought back. Both ended up in a power struggle trying to pry off the semi-autos from the other. Dante sent a high knee at her waist, she met the strike with one of her own. A shot from Ebony rang out as 2B redirected the firearm up to the sky. She rotated his wrist making him drop the black gun. Unfortunately she wasn't able to go any further as Dante grabbed her by the arm and pushed her down to her back. Ivory aimed at her point blank.
2B scrunched her eyes as she finally relented. Her foot violently kicking away his hand, the devil hunter lost his grip as Ivory rested along side Ebony on the grass. 2B hurriedly got up and punched Dante in the face, not giving him a chance to retrieve his weapons. She didn't stop, she delivered a right hook followed by a punch to the waist. He didn't seem to block any of it as she continued punching away at him. She ended off her combo with an uppercut that flung him into the air. He dropped motionlessly to the floor.
Anemone's eyes widened, witnessing the beat down "White don't you think you should call this off?" She turned to the blonde.
Commander ignored her. Her eyes directed to the battle at hand. Anemone was about to ask again until Dante got up without a care in the world, no signs of injury present.
"See. Told you I'll be fine."
2B didn't say a word as she took a stance.
"Now I can finally have some fun." In flash of red light Rebellion appeared within his grasp. 2B befuddled at the sudden appearance of the weapon hesitated to move.
He swung the sword horizontally. She narrowly avoided it as she backed away.
2B looked over to the Commander. Under strict orders she wasn't to use her weapon but Dante told her to not hold back. What was she supposed to do? Defy Commander or defy her master? She didn't know. Commander stared at her with an expressionless face. Her lips mouthed a couple of words that brought a mix of surprise and relief to her conscious.
Do it.
Taking a deep breath 2B summoned Virtuous Treaty into her hands. Dante looked over the futuristic samurai blade with interest.
He whistled.
"Neat sword."
2B looked up to his eye level. "Same with yours." A small grin took hold of her lips as she took on a samurai stance. She watched as the devil hunter lifted the pommel of his blade up to his head, the edge of Rebellion aimed towards her.
9S watched in awe. Never in a million years would he ever expect this type of outcome. Humans are amazing. For Dante to be at this point in the fight where 2B is forced to take out her blade is something he never would've predicted. It was scary, it was intense, it was awesome.
"Woooow now that's what I'm talking about. Kick her ass Dante." Jackass cheered. 9S looked at her weirdly which she noticed.
"What? Afraid that you're girlfriend is going to get crushed?"
The scanner fell back "G-girlfriend? We're not dating."
The scientists shook her head in disagreement "I've seen you two around camp. She likes to admire certain things about you whenever you aren't looking."
The scanner fumbled uncontrollably "T-that's not true." Jackass said nothing more but left a chuckle. Ignoring the sight of a blushing 9S.
Dante and 2B stared each other down.
"Y'know they always told me that walking around in heels was a pain in the ass. Yet here you are fighting without a care in the world."
"I simply have good control of my balance."
Dante smirked. "Well let's see if you have what it takes to beat the swordmaster."
They dashed towards one another. Done was the battle of fists. Now they'll partake in a dance of blades.
"REEEEEEEEE!" An unworldly shriek shook the very field they were on. Both combatants stopped what they were doing. The skies that were once an ocean blue became filled with dark grey clouds. Everyone's attention was directed at the sight of a few nearby buildings collapsing. A gigantic buzzsaw roared to life as a Goliath-class machine made itself known.