[Forest Kingdom]

From high above she stayed completely still. The ancient gargoyle held remarkable strength for her weight. Eyes never leaving her person of interest. Sunlight poured in from various openings from the roof. If he were to gaze up the sun's glare should conceal her but if it didn't it would definitely give her enough time to react. Dull eyes held a bit of resentment. The trip to the forest was decent but she came here to kill this so-called king and their machine subjects. What does she find waiting inside? Dead units on every floor.

Great.

She just wasted her time venturing all this way just for the show to be over before she even arrived.

The main objective of her task already fulfilled by him.

This guy.

He's a weird one.

Weird enough for her to stay in the shadows and observe.

Let's get to his appearance. Tall, like real tall. Taller than most androids, even that bitch can't stack up to him even with heels. His choice of attire definitely caught her eye on first glance. A formal blue coat with some kind of snake-like design. Vest, ascot, and boots that didn't match the light blue. With the addition to an old style katana clung to him on all times. Certainly a combination that'll make any person come off as trying too hard with their wardrobe. Somehow this guy not only pulled it off but appeared kinda intimidating. His mannerisms did have a type of flare. The way he would fix his ascot, kept posture, and even running a hand through his hair envoked pure confidence. Initial overview suggested him being a prototype male YoRHa unit out in a field mission. That idea got shot down.

The machine lifeforms are all dead but he still remains in the stronghold. He doesn't have one of those modern support units paired with every YoRHa unit. Not once did he make any attempt at communicating with the Bunker. He couldn't be a Resistance soldier either. He didn't wear desert camouflage and there's no other android around other than them. She pondered.

He must be a special unit from the Army of Humanity, it's the only plausible explanation she could think of. It helps explain the odd fascination with that book. Even though he's nose deep in the pages something was awry. Clearly he's dealing with a problem but the exact reason remained unknown to her. She watched him tuck the book away before getting to the center of the room. Keeping his face forward he moved into a kneel and his katana was free from it's resting place. He spun around onto his feet, coattails fluttering. The hilt transferred between hands, it followed him just as fluidly. He kept his stance steady and swung forward repeatedly. At a certain point he changed positions and to perform a different set of swings.

…Dahlia stop…You'll hurt yourself…

...Number 16 keeps on flaunting her sword skills…we're both gunners but if she can do it so should I dammit…heeey mind if you show me…

…Already told you no…we have to stand guard…Rose won't be happy if-

...Rose won't be happy if I told her what you did with her sunflower seeds…

…How…how do you know about that…

...Word of advice work on your stealth…I swear a machine could hear your stomps a mile away…Don't worry I'll break the news smoothly…That way she won't be too mad at you…

…Please don't tell her…I beg of you…

…Only if you show me how to use this blade…

…Ok ok ok…

She shook her head from her thoughts and continued to watch the man in silence. His katana graced the air with purpose, nothing about his strikes screamed amateur. With each swing a whoosh could be heard. He held the blade overhead with one hand and brought it down, moving forward before spinning around once more. Other hand now wrapping the handle before dissecting the air. It appears he's nearing the end as he rotated his body for the final time and ended up where he started, on a kneel. Spinning the katana around, eyes remained forward. Extensive practice led him to successfully insert the weapon back into the case. A glimmer of light encased the top before it fully closed.

'This guy knows his stuff.'

He got up with the intention of leaving the room. She was getting ready to follow him when he stopped. From this angle she couldn't make out his front but noticed some kind of glowing light. Trying to get a better look she enhanced her optical receptors.

The man turned around throwing a dagger of light directly at her.

She narrowly escaped the flying projectile and landed down on the floor. Pain hissed at the cheek. A wipe over left a finger smudged in blood. Her teeth grated against each other. Clenching her hand the ruffian straightened up. Her glassy but furious orbs met his calm, stern eyes. If she wasn't in a bad mood she would've noticed how lively they appeared compared to her own.

Out from the shadows Vergil eyed the android before him. Long white hair showering down the middle of her back. Scowling blue eyes. Remains of a black shirt clung on by some unknown factors. Along with shorts so obviously wilted to the point that it did little to cover the curvy hips. Dirt and grime appeared to have befriend her. Even her skin had begun to peel off. Portions of the leg and biceps showed Vergil the inner black layers. He wasn't sure if she was wearing long-sleeve gloves or those were actual forearms. There was even some lining of panels around her calves. While she didn't look her best she did offer Vergil a peek on what makes an android.

"Not one for cleanliness? Or modesty."

In a flash she summoned her weapon. "What's it matter to you shitstain?"

He gripped his weapon's hilt stoically. "You have quite the tongue. Perhaps I should educate on how to be more proper. It could benefit you immensely."

Her jaw tightened. "You think this is some type of game?"

"The odds aren't in your favor." His words dribbled in sarcasm.

'Smartass huh? I can't wait to break you in.' She thought. YoRHa unit, Army of Humanity, whatever his death sentence has been signed. Her usual hollow face changing into scorn.

"Bring it on asshole."

[Resistance Base]

"Right this way." 9S opened the door to their private quarters by courtesy of Anemone. Empty shelves and boxes were in abundance, giving the impression of a storage unit. The scanner questioned to himself if this was the right place until he saw beds hugging the walls. Dante entered, gave it a look over, and spotted a table and chair. Sitting down he got comfy, swinging both feet over the wooden surface.

2B closed the door. "Expect an incoming call from the Commander in approximately 5 minutes." The devil hunter nodded.

9S had the biggest grin on his face. He's been acting a bit too excited ever since meeting Dante. Could you really blame him? He's standing right next to a living, breathing human! So many questions ran through his head and prior he shamelessly allowed curiosity to get the better of him. Upon first impressions 9S screwed up and overwhelmed the guy with his scanner eccentric inquiries. 2B had to step in and practically shut him up on his behalf before Dante could. His excitement didn't die but he got it under control. The scanner figured now was the time to properly introduce himself.

"Excuse me Sir for my behavior." The man in the red shot him a nod. His expression was plain for the most part but 9S looked at the corner of his slightly sunken lips. The YoRHa boy cleared his throat, thinking on his next words.

"Right. I'm YoRHa unit Number 9 Type S. 9S for short. Glory to Mankind." 9S raised his left arm parallel to his chest in salute.

"That's what you go by?"

"Correct. Why? What is it?"

"Is that a nickname?"

"Well no it actually stands for my model and personality type. I'm a scanner model specialized in hacking the enemy's internal mainframe." A light bulb lit up over the YoRHa boy's head.

"In fact I do have a nickname. It's Nines. You're more than welcome to call me that." A part of him was thinking he might be pushing it way too fast. Afterall it's a name only his close friends would call him by but than again this was a human they were talking about. If he could befriend him before the end of day than 9S would have bragging rights for eternity.

The human stroked his chin. 9S waited anxiously for he was in thought.

"Dante. I'm not that old so drop the Sir part and maybe I'll call you Nines."

9S gave thumbs up. "Will do Dante."

'Holy crap I didn't even have to try.' Awesome. Now he can get the ball rolling and know the human even further.

"So what does your name mean?"

An uncomfortable silence spanned by as Dante looked at him funny. 9S could feel his smile falter and roughly coughed. "Given how mine's an acronym."

"It means Dante."

9S went to scratch the annoying itch on the back of his head. He's never heard a name like that before. For the naive boy he thought maybe Dante stood for something else.

"Right I should've known." While the embarrassment still lingered Dante would take his sights on the battler.

"What about you hot stuff?" The term used by Dante to describe 2B sent 9S into a pause. She didn't like to be called by anything other than her designation. How would she react?

Being addressed directly 2B swiftly copied the hand gesture from 9S. "Glory to Mankind. Sir, I am YoRHa unit Number 2 Type B. A battle unit designed for direct combat. I'd prefer you call me only by 2B." The scanner couldn't pick up any change in her behavior. Thinking back on it would make sense she would correct him in a non-disrespectful way. Silly him.

'Another tough gal? Why do I keep on running into those?'

Dante a bit annoyed that she called him Sir addressed it. "We're matching in the hair department so why am I outed as the geezer? You seem a little younger kid but 2B and I are still a couple years away from hitting our 20's."

The irritation from the human made 9S worried.

"Sorry on my partner's behalf. We're only showing you our respect-"

"Actually I'm only 3 years old."

Dante gave 2B a look over. "What?"

"YoRHa has only been founded in the last 5 years. All YoRHa manufactured units haven't exist prior." 9S explained with a curious tilt of the head. "How are you not informed about this?"

Dante was quite confused on what he's just been told but had to play it cool. He faked a realization. "Oh shoot you're right. Yeah I forgot."

2B noticed that something was off. "Is there a problem Dante? You're quite shocked learning about my activation period."

"Yeah. Humans at 3 aren't exactly walking around in high heels and blindfolds."

9S butted in. "We're androids. Made to protect you, the Council, and the rest of humanity on the moon. The concept of age doesn't apply to us. For androids age is just a number-"

"I get the idea."

"Alert: Incoming call from Command." The pods alerted. The little bulbs sprouted from the top and displayed a hologram and with it everyone saw Commander. The YoRHa duo stood at attention while only Dante examined her from his seat. Just like everyone else she had a pretty face along with limy green eyes. Though her blonde hair crowned in golden accessories highlighted her status as leader. Dante noted her stern look of determination, she reminded him of his mother.

"2B and 9S what will be discussed is considered Level-S Confidential."

The YoRHa duo nodded and promptly left the room without question. Leaving Dante and Commander alone.

"Greetings Sir."

How many times is he going to be called that?

"I am Commander White of YoRHa it's an honor to meet your acquaintance. Glory to Mankind." Finishing off her little statement the blonde wouldn't you know made that goofy looking salute. In his opinion the mantra was more than enough.

"It's Dante not Sir. Pass that message to anyone else if you gotta." He wasn't the best at being polite but he didn't wanna keep on repeating himself. Commander wasn't affected by his bluntness, at least on the physical level.

"As you wish." Ending the salute she could now get into their discussion.

"Onto our topic of discussion the reason I've set this call up is to assess your situation. YoRHa hasn't been informed in any degree of this development. So may I inquire as to why your on the surface?" From what the twins told the devil hunter YoRHa keeps direct contact with the Council. From first impressions alone Commander seems to think he's actually aligned with the moon colony.

Strange.

Wouldn't it make more sense for him to directly speak with the Council?

Actually now that he thinks about it maybe it's better this way. There's no incentive for Dante to even cross paths with the Council and considering Vergil's negative views on humanity distancing themselves from the moon colony altogether is the most ideal.

Then again he also had to make sure this blonde metal chick doesn't try to get in his way as well. Being the leader of YoRHa, the faction that idolizes humanity the most is definitely gonna be a problem for him.

Dante rubbed his head. Damn, why did he agree to come back again? If he just left when he had the chance than he could've avoided all of this-

A hungry growl answered.

Initially when 2B and 9S tried to escort him back here Dante was already trying to leave. However that was kind of impossible when you already have a couple of redheads blocking your way. All the androids clamored around him, talking over each other but barely getting their own point across. The devil hunter was getting fed up by their behavior and contemplated on just booking it. Before he could that however luck seemed to side with the androids for Dante's adventure into the Temen-Ni-Gru was fueled by a single slice of pizza. Devola and Popola perked up at the sounds of his empty stomach and thinking quickly offered him a meal. Androids like them partook in hobbies in their free time. Although the sisters are more-so brewers they did cook from time to time and were confident enough to satiate the man's hunger. For a guy with a history of horrible financing 3 meals a day happened once every blue moon.

Turning down a free meal is just bad practice.

'I can wait a little longer.'

Dante could see it now that he couldn't fool the Commander as easily as with the twins. He needed to keep his answers more short and simple.

"Just came to scope out the place. Figured doing the job solo would make things easier."

"YoRHa is more than capable of providing reconnaissance. The scanner models are more proficient now than ever before." A reasonable response but Dante wasn't really a guy to be reasoned with so easily.

"The gig I've got going on is for humans only. Sides I can't exactly do this without drawing attention. A hundred eyes on my back will ruin the surprise."

Commander slowly nodded. His answer did hold some validity but that did little to offset the cons. "Understandable but lacking protection of any kind is a fool's errand. The 14th Machine War shows no signs of stopping anytime soon. The chances of being captured by the machine lifeforms is extraordinarily high."

She decided to use the angle of endangerment to her advantage.

"I can handle myself."

Dante was briskly reminded of the countless machines he's taken down without a sweat. Comparing it to a devil hunter's line of work is child's play. The soda cans while far more advanced than they looked aren't blessed by hell's wickedness and so lacked any defenses to his half-blooded wrath. His firearms can rip apart their metal shells and if they're big like the goliaths than his devil arms can take care of it.

Speaking of machines Dante did at the very least hoped the war ends with victory for the humans. He wouldn't want his home to be taken over, lively cities is more preferable than this empty husk of a town. Fighting machines is a nice break from all the demon slaying but they're starting to bore him. He couldn't get any challenge, at least with the weakest of demons they could enchant spells to spice things up. Still, Dante did wish them the best.

On the other side of the spectrum the YoRHa leader didn't understand his downplay of the circumstances. To her knowledge humans were far more fragile than the oldest android veterans. Their bodies so weak they could break their necks by a mere fall. She didn't mean that in a demeaning way but as of more reason for concern.

"I sincerely ask of you to stop denying the importance of your well-being Dante. Should the Council be informed of a human statistic…I…cannot risk that becoming a reality." Given her knowledge of humanity's true state, the possibility haunted the blonde.

It was clear things wasn't going to change. The Commander was adamant but so was Dante. If he kept dancing around the topic than this conversation wasn't gonna end anytime soon. So after giving it a thought the devil hunter decided to break the ice.

"Would you give it up already?"

"Pardon?" She feigned ignorance.

Dante rolled his eyes. "Let me make things clear. The guys up on the moon, never met them."

Commander's charade cracked instantly. Eyes blinking into surprise and gazing back into calmness.

"On the same page now?"

Fixing herself up Commander fully dropped her act and resume due diligence.

"Yes."

"Alright so what do you want from me?" Cutting off all the fat Commander's able to list out the inquiry she's been dying to ask.

"Where did you come from?"

Dante expected this question. He had to come up with something else since he wasn't going to share the real story. The idea of coming from a different world was crazy even for a guy like him. Not to mention the huge burden that comes when dealing with a hardass like Vergil. Yeah he'd rather not go down that rabbit hole.

"Can't really say White. Just kinda woke up here."

One moment he's facing Mundus the next he woke up in the city so he wasn't entirely lying.

The answer didn't sit well with White. For her she needed the details of his origins. Humanity has been gone for so long and out of the blue humanity's has come back to life. She needed to better understanding this phenomenon for the betterment of everyone involved. "Please tell me anything you can remember. I'm asking primarily for security reasons, rest assure knowledge of our conversation will not leave this call."

"And the space humans?" Dante raised a brow. Commander briefly paused. She suspected the human might want to talk with the Council instead of her. However by going off his tone and his facial expression it leaned more towards avoidance. Odd except White preferred Dante to avoid the Council as well, the reason being…well y'know. A smirk threatened to rise at this interesting development.

"This is 100% confidential Dante. You have my word." She tried a more welcoming tone in her voice.

Whether it was her face or the fact she started to take on a more motherly aura Dante found himself wracking his brain. His thoughts went back to the gate between the human and demon realm. The shallow current brushing against his legs, the marble structures covered in his blood, the endless void of darkness that was the sky. In order to make a believable lie you had to sprinkle in some truth.

"Last place I was in it was dark as the night sky."

"Dark?" Commander repeated. At first she didn't understand. Than her mind drew to conclusions given the location of the world they were in. "As in underground?"

Dante nodded absentmindedly.

"An underground bunker?" Commander guessed. Not knowing she was doing him a favor in writing up his lie.

"Are there…others?" Yeah Dante wasn't gonna lead her down that route. Absolutely no one should know about Vergil.

"Nope. Only me."

His ears could only pick up a low hum from the other side of the screen. Unknowingly shutting down the welling hope inside the Commander. "Understood."

"Alright White now it's your turn to fill me in. What do you plan on doing with me after this?"

Refocusing, the YoRHa's leader used the route that would guarantee success. "Afterwards I'll be sending a squadron to your location. They will pick you up and transport you-"

"Stop right there."

"Excuse me?"

"Yeah that's not happening."

That's not supposed to happen.

Why is he denying safety above all else?

Humans are instinctive towards safety. Aren't they?

"Could you elaborate?"

"You're not shipping me away like some pet. I'm staying here." She had expectations this talk might not go her way but this outright refusal wasn't anticipated. What human would willingly put themselves in the danger zone?

"Dante you're in the highest machine-populated area of the region. If the machine lifeforms were to know of you-"

"I already said I can take care of it. Besides I helped your grunts not too long ago. If I didn't shoot the big guy 2B would be taking a dirt nap."

The mention of this "big guy" could only infer to one thing. White replayed what he'd just said in her memory data. Realization hitting her like a truck, she didn't bring up 2B's brush with death at all for there's no reason. The only way to know of 2B's near death experience would be from two instances. You observed the event from the operating room or you partook in the battle directly. Was a human actually suggesting that he contributed in destroying a goliath-class machine? Question itself was by far the most unbelievable claim to ever grasp upon. Androids were made far superior in the physical department compared to their creators. An engel unit already proved to be a great opponent for her soldiers. Again for a human to be in that situation is nothing but sheer madness.

"You're implying that you saved 2B from getting destroyed?"

A cocky smirk confirmed it. White leaned back in her chair, really taking in the information. Skepticism washed over her fully. He could very much be lying yet the fact he was bringing up such a specific scenario did not entail a coincidence. Lime colored orbs remained transfixed on the man in red.

"How? Did you have assistance?" She asked in an attempt to find some logic behind this. Surely he must had some type of help-

"Nope. I'm a one man-army and come in all packages." White was at complete loss of words. Everything Dante's telling her is out of the range of understanding. Like a broken record player White repeated her single word of curiosity before even realizing.

Dante answered not by words. Snapping his finger a flash of red masked the screen, in his hands White recognized the distinct barrel of a sniper rifle. For what type of model she didn't know but the fact this human was able to summon a weapon out of nowhere sent her mind into a frenzy.

"What did you just do?" Dante rested the Spiral on his shoulder, smirking at her wonder.

"A little magic trick. Takes the problem of carrying a whole lotta stuff outta the equation. Pretty neat huh." Dante emphasized by switching the gun for a sword, more specifically the Rebellion. For a second time Commander didn't believe what she saw. He just switched out a gun for a sword in the blink of an eye. YoRHa units could do something identical, each unit houses a "virtual space" where they can keep maintenance kits, weapons, and other items. It was limited though. Space wasn't big so weapons usually hang off their backs by halos. She didn't see the Spiral on his back. Dante didn't mention any limits to his own inventory. Did he have more tricks up his sleeve?

A set of knocks interrupted them.

"Food's ready." Popola shouted from outside.

"Awesome time for some grub." Dante turned his attention away from White now going for the door. This snapped the Commander out of her muse. She had a lot on her mind to say the very least.

"Wait this isn't over."

"That can wait for later. My stomach's growling and don't want my food getting cold." He placed his hand on the knob.

"We still got things to discuss."

The devil hunter sighed, letting go of the door. Turning back he walked right in front of the hologram with a frown.

"Listen Whitey. I appreciate the first class treatment but no thank you. I've got a mission of my own and I don't want to lag behind for too long."

Dante's got some unfinished business of some kind and insists only he can do it? She's in command of high-elite, highly proficient, physically enhanced androids. YoRHa is a steel fortress composed of walking powerhouses for andoirds. What could Dante be facing to warrant the refusal of YoRHa?

He stopped her opposing question before she even spoke. The devil hunter eyed a nearby box. "Don't believe me than here's a free demo." The devil hunter brought up the Rebellion before moving it around in proficient arcs. Than it began to escalate, going up, down, sideways, all around in ways Commander can only relate to her high performers. The performance picked up in speed, showing him tossing the sword up and flipping around before catching the blade by the handle without looking. Silently she watched the display of swordsmanship, it was surreal to watch this human. He ended the show by bringing Rebellion down and stopping at the floor, the ends of his coat fluttering.

"Impressive." White admitted. It was amazing what she just witnessed. Her eyes caught sight of a moving box in the background. There shouldn't be anyone in the room besides Dante so there's no reason for it-

The box fell into pieces. White's thoughts silenced at the pile of cardboard. Dante sheathed the Rebellion and that itself faded into red mist.

He was nowhere close to that box.

"Now I don't wanna cause needless bloodshed but if I have to cut down your guys to get my point across I will."

Dante looked her dead in the eyes. Commander found herself pinned by his gaze. Even though they were an atmosphere apart she could feel the hidden intentions behind that statement and for that it brought a shiver up her back. Fear overtook her, something never predicted to come. There, she remained subjugated in her seat. Unable to form any type of response.

"Later."

Dante left the room and only than did she find herself moving again. She ended the call. Reaching across her desk Commander grabbed a stress ball lying at the desk's corner. Giving it a good squeeze she felt all her tension leave. It's a wonder how such a simple squish to a foamy marble could make her feel clear again. She repeated the action not realizing the heavy breaths she's releasing. She was acting fidgety, unlike her iron composure. Dante's managed to put a bit of fright into the Commander, a feat that speaks major volumes.

Not too long ago she was calm, calculating, and most importantly stern. Initially she eased up on her coldness in hopes of befriending the human. Using a plan to get him under her thumb as his overseer. She didn't know anything about him prior so after getting to know him a bit she would've suggested the most reasonable route. Human beings in nature are vulnerable so a path of safety and security seemed the most viable and in her opinion, guaranteed . From than on White would influence his decisions and make his relationship to YoRHa stronger to a point he would rather listen to her than the AoH. There on out the Council would have to listen to Commander for once.

It all seemed so well-planned and foolproof.

Then White got know about Dante.

He's managed to not only befuddle her approach but also made her feel inferior. Greater than all of her meetings with the Council representative. The way Dante glared at her White detected a beast within. Like some sort of unrelenting power that he was keeping from her. Could it be the fire that burned within a human's soul that keeps them going? Or was this her first hand experience succumbing to the higher power she's programmed to follow?

"Humans…what fascinating and strange creatures."

Commander had an empty expression.

She was lost on what to do next.

'Don't give up.' Her inner voice told her.

'He's not on bad terms with you. You can work around this. Don't give up.'

The voice was right she didn't screw her whole plan up. It was only delayed because White took the wrong approach. She just needed to take what she has right now and work with it. Letting go out of the stress ball Commander stood up and faced the window showing the Earth in all its ever present beauty. The sight of the planet reminding her of what's at stake.

"Can't falter now. I need to do this for the world. For the androids. For the future as we know it. Glory to Mankind." Repeating that same mantra she did a million times before felt different. After all these years the android's cry for help has been answered. Humanity wasn't dead afterall. All the more motivation for the YoRHa leader to remain hellbent on her goals. Her eyes lowered in thought. A small smile forming.

"Thank you for letting me chat with you Dante. You have no idea how much this changes everything."

[Forest Kingdom]

"Gah!" Her pain receptors overwhelmed her, determination made her ignore them. Opposite from her the bastard fixed his ascot comfortably. Where she was leaking from her wounds he stands untouched. This man really gave her a run for her money. Summoning projectiles on command only applied to certain program chips for pods. Somehow this guy can summon floating swords at will, an act that really made her eyes pop. Not only that but they have a mind of their own? What in the actual fuck?

In the ruffian's artillery she had only a single weapon to defend herself, a high tech weapon from YoRHa. To view it as just a sword wouldn't be entirely true, it had a very unusual approach in design. A sharp edge that dented inward down the line was attached to a handle that took the appearance of a high-elite rifle. Production for the Type 40 sword was in the testing phase at the time. The cartridges failed to function properly and ended up in a permanent jam, destroying the gun function entirely. Although a bummer it wasn't totally useless, her weapon held another function that was still operational. Activating a trigger electricity cackled around the weapon, giving it a blue hue.

Releasing a war cry she swiped at the ghostly projectiles. A surge of electricity connecting to it in a shockwave. It ate away at the ghostly blades, weakening them into shards before the remains dissipated into nothingness. Eureka! The ruffian found her answer and took the rest of the artillery out in quick succession.

With one problem solved came a couple more.

A major concern lied in his unbelievable speed. Despite her worn down appearance she could keep her own very well. She possessed strength and speed higher than regular androids making her a viscous threat. However, no matter how many times she closed the distance the bastard weaseled his way out of her attacks. The ruffian wasn't disappointed, it would've been a huge waste of time if he didn't back up the talk.

On the contrary, it did get on her nerves to continuously fall behind him, all the while he smirked. Granted she wasn't the best at being mellow so of course she verbally provoked him back for being a pussy. Fought back he did and the ruffian quickly bit her tongue. His attacks consisted of a style of keeping it short and direct. She wasn't unfamiliar by this method, her previous experience helped to adapt. The real challenge came when she experienced just how damn strong he was.

The pain that came just by blocking his fist was more than she expected. A simple hit left her stumbling back. The ruffian was quickly pushed to the defense, gauging him at a level above her brute force. It only became more apparent when danger warnings blinded her visual optics. Shit! That was bad.

Who's this bastard really?

Blood glistened her skin, painting her body in a brutal scarlet. Her defense cracked even more under the weight of the bastard but she kept herself standing. Where B and D types would fall back and recooperate the ruffian's dead set on holding out her fight. Maybe she should've listened to her system's warnings but her warrior mentality denied it. Though she was cautious to stay away from most she wasn't afraid to stand her ground when the situation calls for it.

If she is to fight, she'll treat it as her last.

The ruffian kept on taking damage as she waited for an opportunity to strike. With timed anticipation she evaded the path of his katana. Digging into the ground and putting a pause on his movements. There was her chance and the vulgar woman revved her weapon up for what she hoped to be the killing blow.

"FUCK!"

Only for her body to fail on her.

In the lifestyle of a nomad she'd given up the habit of self-care. Nature and time ate away at her appearance, making her look the way she did. Critically it also applied to her filter, it was in a degrading state. As a result it would occasionally malfunction before rebooting itself. Rendering her motor functions unresponsive for a brief moment.

This was all the bastard needed to send her to the floor.

"Is this all you truly have to offer?" He spoke. Like a cold-hearted soldier looking down upon their defeated enemy she saw no amount of pity in his eyes.

"I admit, you did what others couldn't amount to." He raised his weapon above his head. She lowered hers, glassy eyes drifting into her pool of blood. A beaten-down reflection stared back.

Time slowed down for the ruffian. Thoughts of rage, despair, and regret all rolled into a typhoon of unspoken words. Was this it? Is this truly how she would go out? Escaping from the life of running and isolation always sounded pleasing when you find out what you were really made for. What was the point of living on knowing you just want to end it all?

…Number 4…you can't…

…I have to do this…alone…

…I can still fight dammit…

…Number 2 please…It's too many of them…you won't make it out alive…

…But I don't want to be alone…

…And I don't want to do this…one of us has to survive…

…But-but I-…

…For the sake of everything Captain please go…live not only for me but for everyone…as long as you're still alive we'll always be with you…

…The machines are coming…leave now…I can handle this…

…Understood…

…Number 2…

…Yes…

…Thank you…For giving my life meaning…

At first she couldn't do nothing but scream out in pure agony. The sudden action confused the darkslayer for he hadn't touched her yet. In the following moment a flash of light engulfed her entirely. Only once the light died down did Vergil see what transpired. His right hand clenched over a fist. The ruffian previously battered without an ounce of strength now reinvigorated by a red light. Her blue orbs washed away and replaced in a yellow glow. A scowl etched across her face, relit in a surge of energy. This remarkable display of strength told Vergil that she wasn't down yet.

He ducked a quick jab. Faster than anything she'd previously showed, a single step forward left a trail of afterimages.

"Interesting."

Raising a forearm he prevented a harsh kick from connecting to his side. If he were an ordinary person he was positive her leg would've shattered his bone. He deflected a hit to his midsection and countered. She dodged his arm effortlessly. Vergil was slightly impressed. The glowing ruffian grabbed his extended arm and pulled him off his feet. She flung the Son of Sparda into the air and launched herself. Wrapping her legs around his waist the ruffian proceeded to launch a flurry of attacks. All of which the darkslayer noted to have an increase in strength. Maybe this wouldn't be a waste of time afterall.

He continued to study her as they flipped into the air. A haymaker was followed up with jabs from the opposing side only for an uppercut to come from below. Vergil dodged the combo and noticed they were approaching the ground. Grabbing both her arms he freed himself and threw the ruffian to the ground. The darkslayer followed suit, extending his boot as he plummeted onto the woman. Dust filled the area and once it cleared up revealed Vergil annoyed at the futuristic blade at his neck. It gave the glowing android a satisfied smile to his discomfort. He flipped back a distance, kicking her sword away.

"Hot enough for ya?" She mocked, pointed her sword at him in a confident pose.

The man in blue silently slid onto one leg and reached for the Yamato. The vulgar woman titled her head, the distance between them was far too grand for a swing. Her thoughts grinded to a stop. An orb of destruction raced across the room leaving an eviscerated trail. The ruffian became wide-eyed before the destructive orb reached her. Patiently Vergil watched as it engulfed her, white slashes colored the inside before fading away, no trace of the her left behind. He shook his head in disappointment, all that gleaming potential he saw crumbled away.

'What a pity.' Vergil glared at the woman's last known location before turning around and leaving the throne room.

He stopped and raised his sword.

The Type 40 sword bounced off.

'So she lives.'

Vergil swung his deadly katana upward and the android retaliated with a couple of short cleaves, the last swing released an electric shockwave. Something Vergil was fast enough to react to and escape from. Even her swordplay improved. The glowing woman shouted as chased after him, never letting her blade rest as long as he's standing. For minutes he continued along with her. Countering her attacks with his and missing every time. This transformation of hers truly worked wonders, almost in the same function to his devil form. Alas, the woman still had flaws. Such as her hack-and-slash fighting style that's very reminiscent of his brother yet lacks his unpredictable nature.

Right now he's being pushed back as the ruffian so vigorously tried to get at his neck. It brought him a smile when he savors the expression of a cocky enemy upon defeat. Knowing their arrogance is what led them to their downfall. He continued to step back, wondering if he should stop it now or in the next couple of seconds.

The darkslayer's back hit the wall. Admittedly that was an error on his part. Still that didn't wane his confidence. The ruffian took a step before leaping at him, only to disappear right before his eyes.

He scowled and blocked a kick.

Predicting the attack entirely.

Type 40 fell from above.

Upon a whim he redirected it away from his face but due to how close it was the blade involuntarily cut a few strands of his hair in the process.

Vergil watched the thin ivory fall down his peripheral. This break in concentration garnered a cocky smile from the vulgar woman. Her hands materializing her weapon. Slowly he looked towards the glowing android's snarky face. She uttered a few things but he didn't care to listen.

Playtime is over.

"EAT SHIT!" She proclaimed and went for the kill. Only for her sword to halt by his own hand. He watched her uselessly try to wretch it out. When her efforts failed she voiced a profanity and went for a low blow to his nether regions.

"That's enough."

A hand encased in a black beastly gauntlet squared her in the noggin.

This punch felt way stronger than his bare fist. Her neck bent so fast it almost broke. Fiery pain dripped from her nose in the form of crimson oil. The illusion of triumph had ended. She tumbled back, letting go of the sword without realizing. A hit to the abdomen came with the same amount of force, the ruffian spat out some translucent bile. Her once righteous red glow dimmed out by an uppercut to the chin. She would've bit her tongue clean off. The shearing pain of teeth gnashing together felt as if they would crack into a million shards. Without an ounce of fight left the ruffian fell to the ground. The world degraded in black and white, all she could hear was an annoying beep. Nanomachines actively worked inside her body to fix the damage but there was no point. The bastard stood over her.

Her eyes narrowed as the beeping slowly stopped and she could pick up on her hearing again. The world regained color and she hated what she saw. In the end he reminded her so much of that bitch. Gathering enough lubricant in her mouth she spat at his boots. At this point fuck it, she was already gonna die. Might as well give him one last fuck you before departing from this world.

It never happened. He stood frozen in his tracks, his eyes in an everlasting stare off. Causing a tense quiet. Amidst her growing anxiety she noticed something about him. Those blue orbs like hers looked less artificial. Actually why did his scleras have red squiggly lines? His chest heaved up and down as if each breath was necessary.

His armored casings disappeared as he bent down to wipe away her spit. "Feisty aren't you? The fire behind those eyes tells me you inherit hatred towards someone. Do you not?"

She raised a brow, what the hell was he getting at? She would've retorted with a profanity but the injuries spoke louder.

"You don't have to answer. I saw it within your performance. You possess far more power than the rest." His weapons disappeared, adding to her confusion. "Willing to go out on your shield, even if the odds are stacked too high. The mindset of a warrior resides deep within you." Her body tensed when he got closer. She could see it more clearly now, the light creases on his forehead. Weird root-like wires underneath the skin of this throat.

Through the bleeding she felt a little bit more energy return to her. Enough to give a response.

"Why do you care?"

A chuckle escaped his lips. With the swift motion of his hand he brushed back his hair. "I require assistance and I believe you're suitable for my proposition."

Her brows furrowed in protest. "Cut the bullshit and kill me already."

"If I truly wanted to I've could've ended you the moment you set foot in this stronghold. I wouldn't have bothered holding back."

She blinked. 'Holding back? Your kidding?'

"You've experienced first hand of my capabilities. It'll be a long time until you reach my level. Although you're different from the rest. I saw it in your performance, the mind of a warrior resides within you."

At this point she rolled her eyes. "It takes a lot more than shitty compliments to reach my heart. No android not even one weird as you can change that."

Now that got the man amused but she's long stopped questioning his strangeness.

"Tell me, would an android have this?" He rolled his sleeve, revealing his wrist. Against her judgement the stranger placed her tired hand on-top of the newly exposed area. She yelled at him to let go, not wanting to partake in anything this guy might do to her.

She felt it.

Her lips stopped moving.

Voice fell silent.

For a solid minute she felt it over and over again. Black boxes had an identical pulse pattern but you couldn't feel it from this part of the body. What she felt indicated the only outside trait of what makes an android different from a-

Her eyes widened. "Your…a hum-"

Vergil looked visibly upset and cut her off "Save me the annoyance. Indeed I am but you'll refrain from associating that term with me. You shall address me by my proper name, Vergil." The android nodded despite his odd statement.

He shrugged himself free from ire. "Now that you understand the full scale of my situation I'll reiterate. Will you, android aid me by offering support on my quest?"

The ruffian took a moment to gather her answer.

…You ever think what the humans are like Number 2…

…hmm…

…Number 2 don't give me that look…it's not a silly question…

…If I told you what I think of the humans will you tell me yours…

…Ok…

…Alrighty…I think the humans are wise in each and every decision they make…yet they are flawed and us androids are made to help fix that flaw…On the inside they are good but fragile animals and due to their status they aren't allowed to show their softer sides…I want to help them deal with those kind of things…I think Lily knows more of it than I do but helping people heal from wounds that aren't physical is interesting to me…

…That's…awfully kind of you…

…Of course…why do you think the girls finds me so uplifting…Now how bout you…

Her pain receptors have dwindled down significantly, if she needs to put herself back together she'll do it. There's a lot junk scattered around the castle, hopefully she finds enough junk to fix herself. A gaze that lacked any of her previous hatred she stared at him. Taking ahold of the huma-Vergil's hand. Through his glove her sensors picked up on his warm heat. Interesting.

The corners of his lips creased upwards.

"Very wise of you, Android."

"A2."

"Pardon?"

"It's A2 and if I help…let me get my revenge on the Commander of YoRHa." His brow momentarily lifted for a second before giving her an assured nod.

"Very well A2. I'm looking forward to what the future holds for us."

[Resistance Base]

9S analyzed the way he maneuvered the utensil. He spun it around between his middle finger while using his index and ring for control. An impressive display of experience with said utensil before it was dunked into a bowl of liquid. In his observations he couldn't recall water diverging from the natural look of transparency. 9S reminded himself that it was manufactured by the twins. The spoon reemerged with a small amount of the liquid and a piece of vegetable. It was all raised to the point where it met a set of lips. 9S watched intently to see if the individual would go on and proceed or reject it with disgust.

"Hey Kid don't you got something better to do?" 9S was brought out of his concentration.

"Your watching me like I'm some freak of nature. Got something against me?"

"No! No! No! I was just observing! I have nothing against you!" The scanner cleared up the air desperately trying not to make bad qualms with the devil hunter. Dante in turn squinted.

"Are you giving me signals?"

9S blinked. "You can detect frequencies?"

"Nevermind. Stop acting like a weirdo and look elsewhere."

"Ok." 9S tapped his fingers feverishly against his knees. While Dante chowed down the scanner took the opportunity to look around. They were in a little tent with two mats. In the corner was a pile of scrap with something rectangular poking out that reminded him of his pod. Other than that there was nothing else besides the wooden chairs and a small table. There was only a few seats and a dozen occupants. This would've posed a problem but the YoRHa duo were prepared. They had a unique ability to program a holographic chair with a density similar as metal. Enabling 2B and 9S to take a seat at any given moment. A pretty neat trick in the scanner's opinion.

'What are the chances of me meeting a human?' 9S was a newly activated scanner and has already went through a plethora of events no other YoRHa unit has embarked in a lifetime. From crazy mutant machines to actually being in front of his creator the scanner wouldn't undermine his work experience.

'I'm so lucky.'

Not wanting to be labeled as a weirdo by Dante 9S kept his gaze from him and towards the twins instead. They actually owned this tent and everything inside. Unlike him the twins had reason to stare at Dante. They were the ones who prepared his meal and therefore needed to make sure they did it right. Devola anxiously rubbed her knuckles together and how Popola was chewing on a nail. Both stiffened upon Dante taking the first spoonful.

"Well?" Popola asked in her polite demeanor. Dante set the spoon down.

"Not the greatest…" They grew disappointed in themselves. It wasn't up to his standard-

"…but compared to my skills in the kitchen. You get an A rank." The sisters blossomed into happy smiles. Voicing their appreciation the twins are happy knowing their recipe was satisfactory.

"Hey Devola and Popola how did you come to meet Dante?" The redheads shifted their pupils.

"Oh well we just sort of came across him." 9S noticed how hesitant the timid one was acting. A very odd reaction.

Dante slammed his fist on the table, startling everyone.

"The important thing is if it wasn't for them…" he motioned at the twins "…I wouldn't be here right now."

The scanner paused. His brain already coming up with a conclusion that he'd never in a million years ever wants to happen to a human. Quickly he killed it and just accepted Dante's word. Going to another topic 9S reverted back to the twins and after giving a second thought didn't really know much about them. Their whole red theme coincides with Dante but as mentioned before they recently met. As far as he knows no one else around wears such a color.

"If you don't mind me asking what type of models are ya? You two stand out from the Resistance."

"We serve as the base's medical androids for the most part but lately we've been assigned expeditions due to thin numbers."

9S had some grievance. He remembered Anemone's input on the difference between the Resistance and YoRHa. "Must be tough. I couldn't imagine a team of healers suddenly put in the front line due to low troops. Having your main purpose changed drastically has to be hard to adjust." To his surprise Devola downplayed the circumstances.

"We don't mind. We weren't created to be maintenance androids anyway. As long as we're able to help that's all that matters. Plus it gives us the opportunity to gather resources for things." The wild-hair girl explained with a wink. The mention to help others in need resonated to 9S.

"I feel the same way. 2B and I were out in the desert and came across a dying comrade. She passed away before I could even transfer her data. Poor girl."

"Sorry for the loss. What happened to her?" Popola inquired with her caring tone. 9S' mouth straightened and clenched his fists. The injuries of 6H are remembered vividly.

"Stab wounds all over her body. Deep but precise. Could've been mistaken for bullet holes but pod found none. If it wasn't for her black box signal I would've thought she was dead."

Popola covered her mouth morbidly. "Oh my, how horrible."

"Machines are too obsolete to do that…was it a rogue android?" Devola asked.

"Oddly I wish. We followed the trail until we've come across a machine nest unlike any other. Inside was something resembling an android. More specifically it looked like a tall YoRHa male model with white hair." Dante stopped the spoon at mouth level overhearing the description.

"It was a machine lifeform, you could tell by the red eyes. It displayed electric powers beyond the normal unit and escaped. The mutant hasn't been seen since."

A subtle nod came from the devil hunter as he finished the last remains of his meal.

"Did you know about this Dante?" Devola asked him. Wiping his face clean he kept his cool persona.

"Can't say I have." No sense of alert was present in the human. Even for 9S it was unsettling to know the enemy was on the loose. Commander had yet to reach back with any updates. At least with the pods they can detect any machine signal nearby. How much longer will it be until they show up again? What if they decide to attack to the Resistance base?

"Dante I highly recommend we move you to another region. It's not safe with the mutant lurking around."

"No can do Nines." The scanner almost lost his seating over his denial.

"Why?"

"Cuz just like you I have work to take care of."

9S perked up. "Do you mind disclosing them? YoRHa is more than willing to-"

"Nope. You need an SSS pass to know."

"Oh. How do I-"

"I'm joking. You can't know. It's a human only thing." 9S wanted to ask again but he didn't wanna push it. An uncomfortable silence took over and 9S started to feel the awkwardness weighing on his shoulders.

"Enough about me, what about you?" The sudden turn in topic caught 9S off guard.

"Oh well. I like to collect data about the Old World. Androids aren't well-versed about Earth's history despite our archives and the Council only gives us encouraging messages about current events."

"I see." Dante rubbed his chin in thought. "So you're a geek."

Devola giggled.

"Wouldn't say primarily a geek. Learning about artifacts could open whole new possibilities and improve our understandings of prior notions." Dante's smirk faded. 9S felt the corner of his lips rise. Seems as though his answer threw him off-

"I'm wrong. You're a nerd."

Popola turned away with shaky shoulders.

9S' rebuttal wasn't so helpful in the end. His cheeks rose in temperature. He wanted to say something but his brain kept racking statements that sounded more articulate than the last. Eventually his neck slumped, he couldn't find a single thing to say.

"Cheer up kid only messing with you." Dante stated. His focus shifted to 2B.

"Hey never said thank you for saving me."

The battler paid attention to that. "Hm?"

"9S told us that you found Dante before the machine could unknowingly crush him." Devola clarified.

'Is that what he told them?' In truth 2B only found out about his existence after the goliath self-destructed. She didn't even kill it. Why was he fueling them with a fake story that made her out the as the brave heroine? Her eyes darted to the man in question.

"What about you 2B? Any hobbies?"

"No."

The devil hunter hummed at her dead voice. "Life of the party aren't you?" No response other than a sideways nod.

"C'mon there must be something you like on off hours."

"My purpose is to carry out my missions Dante. Anything else is a waste of time and resources."

Devola piped in. "Lighten up. Life isn't always about work y'know. We all have a purpose but to beat yourself over the head isn't healthy. Oh if I had my special hooch right now we could see the real you."

"That won't be necessary." Popola decided to voice her opinion."It's better we don't mention that Devola." Her eyes seemed a bit hesitant. Devola shot her a knowing glance.

"Oh is dear little Sis still embarrassed from last time?"

The mentioned redhead drew in a gasp.

"We don't need to bring that up ok?"

Misfortune came in with Dante joining the conversation.

"What's this secret booze I'm hearing? Are you two keeping something from me?" Dante may love pizza but everyone can agree that parties become 10x crazier and alive with alcohol. Popola waved her hands around.

"No Dante there's nothing we're-"

"There's a special recipe embedded into our code." Devola interrupted. A mischievous smile overtook her features which ignited a look of horror from her counterpart.

"Sister please-"

"It gets me really riled up."

"Devola don't-"

"Sadly for dear Popola, her boyfriend didn't last for long." The timid girl shrunk back into her seat. Dante whistled at what that could entail. There was a saying back in his home: shy girls are freaky girls. Upon seeing Dante's reaction Popola tried to fix her ruined image.

"Dante don't listen to her! She loves to lie!"

"You sure? Kinda sounds like-"

"No! No! No! I promise I didn't mean to go hard!"

"Oh so you go all in?"

"NO! WHAT I MEANT WAS-AH!" Popola covered her blushing face. Too embarrassed to even finish her sentence. Dante and Devola laughed sat her expense. The sight made the blushing redhead feel even more humiliated. The secret was out. Unfortunately a certain scanner wasn't getting the full picture. By now the change in atmosphere had brought him back to his usual self, like his usual self he needed the information.

"I don't get it. What does it all mean?"

The chary sister got out of her laughing slump to wipe away the tears.

"Popola got so shit-faced she went full berserker on a door. According to her she was protecting her boyfriend."

"Oh than that makes sen-"

"Her boyfriend was a flower pot." 9S blinked. Devola led out another giggle "The cherry on top? She hugged it and ended up breaking it. HAHA! She was a total mess!"

9S found himself humored. "I guess that is pretty funny."

Amongst the laughing and the embarrassed Popola 2B watched as the sole spectator. Her eyes lingered on 9S who partook in the friendly banter. The whole scene gave the image of a reunion between friends. Seeing the scanner happy evoked a deep part of herself to rise out. She watched him continue to converse with the red-clad trio. 9S shifted his attention to her briefly. He paused before commenting on her smile.

Time around her seemingly froze.

2B didn't realize that she was smiling.

"That's the real 2B."

Lips straightened as she looked towards Dante.

"What you saw isn't anything of note."

Going back into her cold self she disregarded his statement. To which he only chuckled.

2B's an android created in the name of mankind. Her entire existence was in part due to him. Everything she does is for the humans, for the Council, for Dante. The aura of authority that reminded her so much of Commander is present around him. It's a wonder as to how 9S wasn't affected. Unlike her the scanner's able to get along with him just fine. Maybe it was just her personality type but 2B felt way more constricted than how she usually is. No matter how much she tried to ignore it this didn't feel right. It didn't sit well with her knowing Dante's acting out of the superior image YoRHa has for humanity. This was the only representative of the humans she may ever meet and he was…less than she expected.

'This is humanity?'

042 and 153 opened their holograms to a sudden announcement. Everyone stopped and paid attention to the broadcast. The image of an operator to whom 2B and 9S didn't know popped up.

"This broadcast is going out to all YoRHa units." The familiar face of Commander took over. Her face appeared more hardened than normal. 9S sat up and 2B had her ears open. Whatever must've made her this way had to be dire.

"For the first time in centuries, we've intercepted a signal belonging to the aliens. These are the creatures that are in direct command of the machine lifeforms of this planet. If we can destroy them, we can end this long and arduous war once and for all! We can't let this chance slip through our fingers!"

"Glory To Mankind!"

Alright alright I have to confess. The whole inclusion of vegetable stew I took from Automata Salvation by Icura. If you haven't checked it out you prolly should if you like Nier and Terminator they did a very great job on their story.