[City Ruins]
A machine lifeform sprang from the ground. Different from the average unit this unit took on a parasitic form. Connected by shells of energy it utilizes its power core to the maximum. Using magnetic forces to keep it in a single piece the machine's able to make slithering maneuvers. It can shoot out rays of electricity and can freely activate an EMP blast if provoked directly. Add to the fact the head's replaced by a drill and you got a formidable enemy. Albeit there's a weakness, in order for everything to work the body had to keep producing power. Problem was it couldn't be possible if the body wasn't exposed. The solution being to have one shell enact as the generator and given its agile nature lowers the risk. Key word being lower. If you were primarily a melee unit this enemy could pose a challenge but if you were long range that was a different story.
"9S how much longer?" The scanner flinched at 2B's call. The golden halos around his palm awaited his command. Getting himself together he disabled it's defenses.
"Now."
The drill bit slowed down and the body lost fluidity. 2B along with a couple of additional battlers swooped in to destroy the vulnerable power shell. The agile machine unit succumbed to the after effects. No power meant no functionality. It fell apart and sullied into the moist terrain. One of the battlers with long blue hair looked at 9S questionably.
"What's with your friend? Scanner boys shouldn't take long to hack." 11B questioned.
"I'm not sure. I'll go check." 2B answered and went to address the matter. The other battler with red hair commented.
"Tell him to watch it! I almost got my wires ripped out!" 7B spoke out in ire.
"That's the last of them." 9S got up and surveyed the area around him. Confirming no more machine presence he changed his view to the crater they were currently in. The crevice was deep enough to swallow a ship. Goes to show the firepower machines can do when properly utilized.
"You can never underestimate the machines no matter how redundant their actions are." A healer spoke beside him. 12H had a brown ponytail and beats him in height only by her heels.
"You're telling me." He responded.
"9S." He almost jumped at 2B's sudden presence in his proximity.
Scratching the back of his head instead he greeted her. "Hey! What's up?"
"Something's preventing you from keeping focus on the mission."
"I am?" 9S didn't seem to realize.
"Yes. What's going on?" Replaying his memories the scanner swallowed as he confirmed 2B's inquiry. The subject in question has overtaken his mind and he knew that he couldn't blurt it out in public. He motioned for her to talk in private and she obliged.
"Let 1D know we need a few minutes to talk in private." The healer agreed but she didn't take so much as a step for the squadron leader came in.
"Just hurry up. We can't afford to waste time." The defender with black straightened hair informed them.
"Won't take long." 9S responded. Once they were far away to avoid any eavesdropping the scanner informed 2B. "You're right I'm distracted. I can't take my mind off our time with Dante."
2B perked her head up. "So that's the reason."
The topic of discussion might as well served as an excuse for 9S to release his enthusiasm. His lips formed a smile as he could feel content welling up on the inside. "Do you have any idea what this means 2B? Millions of androids could only hope to so much as to see a human being. Meanwhile we litterally talked to one!" Every word held a high amount of pride. 9S no doubt felt high recognition from the interaction.
The battler kept her usual plain face. "Emotions are prohibited 9S. I understand why you feel that way but we've got more important matters to deal with. Keeping your mind distracted could kill us all." While she wasn't wrong the fact she was physically unaffected by the interaction made 9S wonder about her thoughts on Dante.
"I'm surprised you're taking it differently than me. Say 2B what do you think of Dante? Afterall you did save him." The battler stiffened at his ending statement. 9S was a curious unit, everything that looked slightly interested she can bet the scanner would be all over it. 2B didn't want to bother about the human but 9S would just bug her more if she keeps quiet.
"Dante is our top priority. Commander ordered us to take him to safety so we did. Now that he's out of danger we can focus on the mission." She ended it by circling it back around to their objective.
9S pouted, dissatisfied by her answer. "I know but what I'm saying is did he meet your standards? C'mon don't lie to me. We all have at one point imagined what humans are like." Kicking some dirt under his boot the scanner prodded her with his playful tease.
She led out a small sigh."Yes. He's met my standards."
"See? Was it so hard to say that?" 2B lightly huffed which made him chuckle. "Man I can't believe I actually got him to say my nickname."
"Kid?"
There was interruption within his flow of enthusiasm. In all honesty he didn't like being labeled that. He only tolerated just because of the human. "Haha. You know which one I'm referring to." 9S prodded again. The same nickname she refused to call him by.
"Commander has given us specific orders to keep all talk of the human less than a minimum. I'll report your behavior if you keep on persisting." That seemed to shut the scanner up. His upbeat energy ran out and he led out a sigh. 2B silently nodded and turned back to join the group, she heard 9S' boots following her.
"Uptight as always."
"What was that?"
"Nothing Ma'am."
2B almost tripped over. She shot him a side eye glance. 9S acted like he didn't say anything. She turned back to the group without uttering a word.
"Got everything off your chests?" The defender unit asked.
"Affirmative."
"Everything's A-ok." 9S said with a gesture. 042 alerted them of newfound readings. The rest of the androids gathered together.
"Report: Detecting alien signal deep underground." 2B's support unit concluded. It floated over all there heads further in the crater. The group followed until they reached a point where they all stopped. A dark pit leading to the unknown awaited them.
"Hypothesis: Massive cave in leads to underground cavern."
"Why would there be a cavern here?" 9S asked.
"Most likely it's where the aliens are hiding." The bluenette guessed. 2B was the first to leap over. Reaching out for pod's handle her figure slowly descended to the darkness until they couldn't physically see her anymore.
One by one the rest followed suit.
"Not really going with a plan are we?" 9S spoke to no one in particular. He glided down with 153 for a good minute. The sunlight had vanished and he couldn't see anything. Luckily YoRHa units come equipped with a feature that brightened up their bodies in the event of complete darkness. He saw the illuminating figures of the awaiting team. Landing down he was surprised by the shallow level of underground water submerging the ground.
"Watch it." A battler with white hair said. He landed awfully close to her.
"Sorry 2B." She looked at him in question. He stared back. Did he do something wrong?
"It's 4B." Now that she mentioned it her hair was done in a bobcut like 2B but with a bang on the forehead, confirming her statement.
"Oh right. Sorry." Quickly apologizing, she nodded as the rest of the group joined them.
"Alert: Detecting stronger alien readings."
"Guide the way." 2B ordered. The support unit heeded her words and illuminated the entrance of the cavern. The YoRHa squadron made due and followed.
"Remind me again why we don't have more back-up?" 9S asked his comrades. It was strange that in the event of Earth's intergalactic invaders YoRHa only sent a nearby squadron. There should be over a hundred units swarming the place.
"The Bunker's undergoing complications with the flight units." The healer answered.
"Complications? That's never happened before."
7B chimed in. "Complications or not Commander trusts us enough to get the job done. You should feel honored we get to be the first androids to rip these putrid machine creators apart." An unnerving smile formed on her. 9S felt creeped out by the woman's expression.
YoRHa units are categorized by a letter and number. The letter stood for the type of role they were assigned. There was 5 different classes; battler, defender, healer, scanner, and operator. A G type which was a gunner unit existed early on in YoRHa's infancy. After testing and finalization of pod units however rendered the line obsolete. Onto the numbers, it represented a YoRHa unit's personality and oh boy there was so many. For 9S his personality is being kind and understanding. Also since he's a scanner he's naturally curious about the world around him. 2B for the most part has the quiet and dutiful mentality. She doesn't give things a second thought and rarely shows emotion.
For others however that's where it really changes. Some models are given personalities that view matters differently than the rest. The redhead's wicked smile rubbed 9S the wrong way. He better not get on her bad side.
"This hallway looks pretty old. Augh!" 9S rubbed the scrapped section of his arm. Accurate to his statement the group found themselves within an aged passageway. Time had affected the wall's smoothness and jutted out rough edges.
"I would keep my guard up. No telling if we're walking into a trap." 2B recommended.
They reached the end of the tunnel. By now the water level had risen to the point where it touched their knees. Torches offered a dim light bright enough to decipher the crevice in the wall. 1D moved to investigate it with her support unit.
"A crevice in the wall. Big enough to fit through."
"Report: Alien readings proceed beyond the other side."
"We're here." The defender voiced.
"Can't believe we're about to do this." Said the bluenette.
"Can't wait to finally lay my fingers on the alien wretch." Commented the redhead.
"I hope we can beat them quick." The healer whispered.
2B and 9S gave each other a glance. No more tomfoolery. Only business.
Countless theories of the aliens whereabouts sprouted into many minds. The AoH's top heads spent many years tracking them down. Troops have been sent to scour the surface in search of the machine creators to no result. Given the effectiveness of the cylindrical units all their expeditions couldn't undergo to its full completion. Everyone and everything shared a collective thought of the day they'll finally put an end to the masterminds. Now today will be the day those countless androids will finally get their answer. Centuries of wars have been caused by these intergalactic boons. Humanity's sake rested on their shoulders.
No turning back now. One by one each android went throught the crack. Eternal darkness awaited them on the other side. All the pods lit up their flashlights and the YoRHa took in a gasp.
Without a doubt the design of the ships came from alien origin. In the records dating back to pre-machine wars humanity oftened depicted the concept of extraterrestrial beings. It was said their hypothetical transport vessels came in the form of giant saucers. Of course back than no one could really prove it. Present time each YoRHa unit could without a doubt confirm that humanity's depiction of alien ships were in fact giant saucers.
Resting on a mountain of crumbled rocks there was an endless amount of alien ships. Bewilderment washed over them. They didn't expect the ships to be in a dilapidated state. Dust as old as the caves themselves caked the outerlayers of the spaceships. The more they looked at it the more they realized that the cavern had morphed around the vessels, permanently merging with the Earth. 9S was the first to question if the ships were active, 153 answered with a quick scan. It didn't detect any form of activation other than the signal they've been following.
"Why are we receiving readings if the ships are abandoned?"
"They probably ran away again. Figures. Those space cowards don't even have the spine to fight us."
"Let's split up and see what we find. In the event you find yourself in need of help send a distress signal." The defender declared. The group collectively agreed. 2B and 9S obviously stayed together while the rest went their separate ways. After climbing the rocky pile the battler and scanner reached what they could best guess was the door to the shuttle. Despite the ruined state the doors opened up, as if it was waiting for them. 9S watched the panels open in a particular pattern, a reminder that this technology was from beyond this world.
A machine head rolled out of the shuttle and down the rocks.
"Look at all these dead machines." The pair didn't expect machine bodies to litter the floor. If anything they expected the ship to go on lockdown and give them a taste of alien power. Dead units on the other hand only added more to confusing situation. They pressed on to another door, as they entered they heard the panels close shut. If they were having any second thoughts it was too late. They were in for the long haul. Gone was the dusty rocky cavern and the inside the walls had intricate patterns that caught the scanner's eye for a second. Beyond the second door was a flight of stairs, clean and dust free. A low blue light shined on each step. They got a feeling that something was waiting for them inside. Climbing the stairs led to the final door.
They walked along a metallic pathway, more blue lights shined from the sides.
"There's nothing like this in the database." 9S spoke. Reaching the end was of course another set of stairs leading down to darkness. Hesitantly he went down, 2B's heels clicked behind him. A reminder that whatever happens next at least he wasn't alone.
Their heads snapped at the unknown whirring. A sliver of light hit their feet and only got bigger and bigger. The walls were opening up, cascading the entire room with flourescent light. Caught off guard by the sudden change 2B and 9S surveyed the surroundings in order to deduce the situation. However once they turned around their mouths hanged open by what they saw.
Resting in seats unfit for humanoids were creatures unnatural to Earth. Akin to jellyfish their bodies had long appendages. The tentacles looked like they could reach out and grab them with a single motion. Heads were roundish similar to the infamous machine lifeforms. Mouths were agaped, showing off teeth that could rival piranhas. However what made 2B and 9S summon their weapons wasn't because the fact that what they were seeing were the aliens. Empty sockets lacked any sort of eyes. They appeared shriveled up and dried out similar to prunes. Not a single alien had reacted to their presence.
"The aliens…are dead." 2B gripped Virtuous Contract tightly. The fact they came all this way only to find humanity's bane dead spoke unforseen volumes.
"A beautiful sight isn't it androids?" The battler and scanner did a complete 180 at the new arrivals.
Standing before them was an enemy of their past. The machine lifeforms that took upon humanoid appearances. The mutants. They're different than last time but those red eyes are unmistakable.
"You!" 9S spat out. The long haired machine ignored him and explained the entire purpose of this room with one sentence.
"Welcome to the graveyard of our creators."
[Resistance Base]
2B and 9S left regarding the aliens. Never in a million years would Dante believe them to be real. He might've thought about it back in his younger years but why imagine something beyond the stars when he lives in a world full of demonic dieties? Hell itself was a real thing and brought terror to people all around the globe. The only people who would even bother were fully grown nerds stuck inside a lab all day.
Dante had to keep reminding himself that he was in a different world. Over here aliens have attacked and the humans ran away to the moon. Leaving behind androids to do their dirty work. Still to hear news of the aliens from over a long time did catch his interest. However all that failed to match up to the current sensation he was feeling. It's not from Devola and Popola's food and there was nothing wrong with his body. The devil hunter could move around just fine.
No, this sensation wasn't affecting him on a physical level. The demon within him was picking up on a trail of energy. It was unique only to this world but it has his devil side all riled up. Similar to how demons react to an object of great power. A prime example being those thorny white devils during his venture to reclaim the Sparda from Arkham. His father's sword inherited so much power that even in the confusing, ever-changing space of hell it's influence could affect all. The abyss would often look off to nowhere and lavish in the scent the Sparda gave off.
Maybe that's how Mundus found him and Vergil.
His demonic blood beckoned to follow this faint energy and Dante understood why. This energy didn't feel like it was from hell. A good description would be...ancient. This factor intrigued his human side. What magical mysteries lie hidden a world void of anything supernatural? Dante sat up from his seat, he made up his mind. He was going to find the source of this energy. Would this mean putting off his pursuit of Vergil? Only temporarily. There could be something powerful like a devil arm up for grabs. It might help him in getting back home.
Dante was alone inside of the tent. While the YoRHa duo left to take care of the aliens the sisters went to report for Anemone. He was left behind while they told him to stay there. Devola seemed to be affirmative with her statement, the edge in her voice was noticeable. Most likely spanning from his shenanigans with the machine giants. He kind of pitied them. Those girls cared way too much time for a lazy slouch such as himself. The devil hunter appreciated their company but at the end of the day he had a job to do. Rising from his seat Dante made way for the exit. Lifting up the flap the devil hunter backed off as two sisters barged in.
Devola as well as Popola didn't look happy.
He should've left sooner.
"That was fast."
"Anemone needs us for an expedition." Popola stepped forward.
"So we came back to get supplies." Devola followed. Closing the flap the twins stood side-by-side. They were blocking his only exit. "Also to escort you back to your room."
"Hold on I got my own place now?" Dante didn't ask Anemone for a place to crash.
"The YoRHa Commander fought to get a another room right next to 2B and 9S. Don't worry she left any mention of your human nature out." Popola reassured.
"But you look to have other plans in mind." Devola stated, her eyes squinted with suspicion.
"Where are you going this time?"
Dante scratched his nose. "Places."
Devola crossed her arms and stepped closer. "What kind of places? Places that are outside the camp? Places where machines lurk?"
"I can't say."
In all honesty the devil hunter had no clue where this magical energy was coming from. He could be going to the beach for all he knows.
Devola's brows furrowed as she stepped closer. Given Dante's tall stature she could only reach up to his chest. To meet his eyes she craned her neck all the way up. Her suspicious stare signified that she didn't believe him. Keep in mind that Dante's height reigns over most androids. The height difference unknowingly gave off the same energy of an upset child squaring up to their parent. While humorous the little distance between them gave Dante time to really drink in the color of her eyes. What can he say? They had beautiful eyes.
"Where exactly are you going Dante?"
"Classified." She didn't look angry from his vagueness. To his surprise Devola appeared…remorseful.
"After your previous actions, Popola and I talked it over. You're a danger to yourself and therefore can't leave you unguarded. If you refuse to cooperate…"
"…we'll have to restrain you." Popola spoke regrettingly.
"Anemone will also be informed." Devola added. They reached behind their backs and pulled out nylon rope. "The more eyes on you the better."
Dante placed his hands on his hips and titled his head.
"You sure you wanna do this?"
"We should be asking you that." Popola voiced out.
"Please Dante tell us where you're going and we'll accompany you when we return. No one wants this."
With an annoyed sigh Dante answered. "Suit yourself. Come on and get me." He surrendered fairly easily. The twins were dismayed by his decision.
"Don't struggle ok. This is for your own good." Popola reached for his arm. Her actions lacked any security. Reason being it was universally known that androids are far stronger than a human. Designed with capabilities beyond their creators' adaptability. They could push boulders, single-handledly carry steel beams, and lug heavy machinery like pool noodles. It was this certainty that Popola had for detaining Dante. Once in her grip she could disrupt any kind of maneuver he could throw at her. Her gentleness would ensure to prevent any physical harm.
"Stole the words right outta my mouth." Beyond Popola's comprehension she got yoinked with an unexpecting force. The devil hunter put her to the ground. She fivorously attempted to break his hold with her android strength. Lo and behold it wasn't working, no matter she tried, Popola stayed pinned.
"Devola Help!"
The aforementioned sister didn't know how to comprehend the sudden shift of power. One moment Dante surrendered himself peacefully in the next Popola got yanked to the floor. Disarming her in the process. They had vastly underestimated his physical strength. Popola's cry for help snapped her out of her frozen state and rushed in. Dante had used her own rope to tie her wrists into a knot. When Devola got in close he did a leap that flipped him over her head. Dante used this moment of vulnerability to grab her by the waist and bring her down next to Popola. Her own rope slithered away. The devil hunter didn't waste a breath and tied Devola's wrists.
The twins were completely baffled. Tables have turned and they didn't have a contingency plan if things went south. Devola and Popola squirmed, trying to break free of their restraints but nylon rope was far more durable than ordinary. Seeing as how nothing was working Popola opened her mouth to scream out for help. Willing to put herself and her twin at risk of public scrutiny if it meant restraining the human. Dante was quick to shut her down with a chop to the neck. Her eyes closed and her head slumped against the floor. Devola saw this and panicked.
"Dante please don't do this." She begged.
"You've been stressed out all day. Relax and get some shut eye." Devola wanted to argue but the special pressure point in her neck was hit. Sending a signal through her circuits it arrived at her computer brain, prompting a temporary shut down. Her vision eclipsed and fell into darkness.
"Gotta make things so complicated."
Dante had nothing against them, he really didn't. He looked over the tent for anything of use. If they were to wake up sooner rather than later he needed to make sure they couldn't call out for help. He spotted pieces of cloth not far to bind their mouths shut. Going the extra mile to use a sheet to tie them against their backs. Gagged and restrained Dante gave them one last look.
Oddly enough they looked peaceful in slumber.
"Take care babes. Sorry I can't stick around."
Leaving the tent Dante left the residential area which was basked upon rows of tents. Only officers and higher ranks are granted rooms. In the time where something normal like a couch was few and far between having a basic room is practically a luxury suite. The twins' tent sat all the way in the corner, separated from the neighbors. Dante asked them about it and merely told it was a deliberate choice on their part. Making his way out of the neighborhood Dante entered the central plaza from the right side. In between the maintenance bay and from what he's guessing the luxury suites.
The devil hunter felt the gazes of curious androids but ignored them. He passed by a rousing crowd, surrounding a particular looking mobile shop.
"Thank you all for your patronage. Unfortunately I'm out of stock and unable to take anymore transactions. Accord's Mobile Weapons and Trading is officially closed."
Part of the crowd led out their frustration at not striking while the window's open. The others walked away happy with limited edition items you won't find in the region. The crowd dispersed to reveal the representative behind the self-made shop. Sitting underneath the banner was a female android.
In stark contrast to the Resistance everything about her screamed elegant and fancy. A clean white blouse with puffy sleeves. Stockings of the same color hugging her thighs. Short black skirt equipped with an expensive looking belt. Heels that grew past her knees as well as gloves matching the frilly skirt. Hair nicely done with some extensions spanning over the shoulders. Topping it all off she wore glasses. An accessory that isn't necessary for androids. Given the color scheme would signify that she's under the YoRHa faction right? Wrong. YoRHa wouldn't dare sell their top-of-the-line equipment to anyone. The only conclusion would be that she's just like Devola and Popola, an exception.
Sitting on her stand was a comically large briefcase. She took out a ring containing a plethora of keys. Sealing her briefcase shut via the huge lock in the center. The vendor congratulated herself on another full day of sales. Being a collector of rare items certainly drew eyes to her business. She spared a glance over the base until her attentiveness landed on the back of a certain devil hunter going for the exit. She wasn't a stranger to strange looking individuals and tickling her fancy is anything but easy. However the moment she caught glimpse of a red leathery coat all of her present and future thoughts paused.
A shine gleamed over her glasses.
Dante popped out of the hidden passageway to no lingering eyes. The trail of energy led him to a closed off building near the gates. It was concealed perfectly, a hidden alleyway that led out of the base to an empty area. He looked around, there was an odd sense of peace. Dante remembered this place, off in the distance was Anemone's garden. He smirked remembering his little gun fight. Venturing into the plains he let his devil side do the guiding. Whilst doing so he pondered behind the nature of the source. In a world of human-looking robots and machines made by creatures from outer space it was hard to picture magic in the mix. The river splashed beneath his feet as he neared an area that lacked many buildings.
'Retracing old steps. Makes everything easier.' Dante was recognizing the path. He was nearing the crater caused by a suicidal metal goliath. Sounds of distant combat filled the air. Running upwards a building that sunk at the edge he was able to make out everything from up top. The bright sky coupled with the serene environment gave the polar opposite to the bustling life of Red Grave. Despite being told that the planet's at war this world felt more somber than anything. There's still machine lifeforms and yeah it can get crazy but there just isn't enough activity going on. All in all the place feels not empty more so forsakened.
The only companionship around came were androids. Dante's had experience with fake humans. He faced plenty of demons hiding behind a mask. They can fool others but for him the devil hunter could sniff them out. Demons tend to imitate behavioral patterns in order to prey on the naive. There was always a break in their pattern, the moment someone's back is turned he could feel hidden bloodlust.
For androids they were created by humanity themselves. Appearance wise they looked 90% the part. Personality on the other hand, they actually showed way more humanity than expected. Devola and Popola act, talk, not to mention show their care for each other. They are built to be sisters and the fact they didn't have any incantations to perfect their personalities is impressive. 9S though Dante just met him acts like an annoying little brother curious about the world. 2B is silent and reclused. She doesn't like socializing which can apply to people as well. It's one of the few upsides this world has. Humanity managed to make beings that imitate themselves so well.
The devil hunter faced the sky. A jaded outline of the moon blended in the bright blue sky. He had to wonder what's going on with the Council. It's been a shit load of years since the machines took over and from the looks of it nothing was being done. What a shame for the androids. Whatever they got going on Dante won't interfere. He's got a brother to beat up and tower waiting for him back home. Besides there's alot more humans on the moon to worry about than a single guy like him.
Dante entered one of the jutting pipes sticking out of the leveled crust. Water splashed against his feet as he walked in. Dante's glad it wasn't in use, he can handle blood and viscera. Shit and piss though is where he drew the line. This age old sewer pipe didn't lead too far, a pile of rubble awaited him where the current's seeping through. On his right a small light blinked. Brushing against the wall the devil hunter felt a button and pressed it. A crack of light appeared as mechanical gears turned and opened up an elevator. Ride was unremarkably boring, on the bright side it wasn't long. A step out of the elevator and Dante could really feel it. The energy got predominantly stronger, making his devil side more excited.
'Yeah. I'm close.' Making through the series of tunnels wasn't too hard. Dante had to make some detours. Hopping over rocks, landing in a shallow pond, and overall just a labyrinth of paths. Nothing he couldn't handle, most of his devil hunter gigs took place at night anyways. Guiding him was the trail which got and more and more stronger. He wondered how much longer it was gonna take him to find it.
He unknowingly reached a set of doors. Automatically opening at his presence.
Sunlight poured from an opening above. Shining down onto a little shack in a field of grass. A creepy looking round skull smiled from the top corner. Dante's seen worse and investigated this little hut to see if it was occupied. To the side was a rack full of smaller skulls. Did the freak have an obsession with creepy ornaments?
While viewing the knick-knacks, boxes, and other items sat neatly above shelves something moved suspiciously in the shade. Dante reached in and pulled it out. Nothing more than paper with a crudely drawn picture. Black question marks repeated all around the corners, surrounding a set of stick figures. A smiling guy holding hands with an angry woman and a happy little girl. Question marks floated above their heads. He placed the drawing back, there was another page beside it but decided leave it be.
None of this stuff has been touched for a while.
'Either he's dead or gone insane.'
Dante's inner devil continued to guide him to the source. He kneeled down and pulled out a box hidden from underneath. It was protected by a special looking lock. Bug bold letters written on the top.
DO NOT OPEN! Unless you're Emil. PS that's me :)
Dante looked at the lock. It wasn't an ordinary looking lock where you needed a key. No in fact he couldn't find a keyhole. He found a little slip and pushing it aside showcased a keypad. The devil hunter sighed he didn't know the password, therefore he couldn't open the box.
So the only right to do would be to put it back and leave the premises. What a waste of time-
Dante fired a round from Ebony.
The bullet went through the mechanical seal and buried itself into the ground. He opened it up and tossed away a bunch of sentimental stuff that was useless to him. A twinkle caught his eye. It came from a gem, a particular good looking diamond of pure amethyst color. His inner devil started to go wild, confirming it from any doubt. This was it, this was the treasure to his hunt. The devil hunter reached and the moment his fingers brushed the surface his world went white.
[Forest Kingdom]
Clenching her teeth, A2 sealed her arm panel back into place. A nomadic lifestyle taught her to treat a wound. Doesn't mean she can undergo a full maintenance procedure. All that mattered was if she can still throw a punch. Getting up was a bit of a chore, her sense of balance wasn't fully there. She still couldn't believe the person that put her in this state was a human. Being an android the last thing you would want is to be humiliated in front of superiors. Getting her ass whooped by a human a whole new level of embarrassment. It befuddled her that he knowingly went along despite having the upper hand.
'Did Berserker mode play a part?' He only showed interest after she activated said mode. A unique combat mode exclusive to her model type. Her body goes into overdrive and pushes her to limits far beyond any normal android. She's stronger, faster, and more receptive to her surroundings. The massive downside was the energy consumption leaves her zapped of power. Moving around is hard from aching muscles while also being a hazard for long term damage. Vergil remarked her need for survival and wondered if he would think the same hadn't she used it.
'Stop doubting yourself. Your helping him at his request.'
"Enough time recuperating?" The ruffian's vision opened at his voice. Being alone for so long had made her feel strange now that she had company. Vergil walked into view, she felt his gaze. His eyes felt more colder than before and she couldn't explain why.
"I guess." He looked A2 all over. Her mind unconsciously making phrases like 'Back off freak' or 'Stare any longer than I'll break your face' before reminding herself that he's human. One time a male android decided it was a good idea to grab her ass. A broken leg here, a broken nose there, and A2 threw his wailing body into a machine horde. Afterwards she kept to herself. If Vergil had the same intentions like that idiot…a gulp ran down her throat.
Vergil nodded and his gaze tore away. He pulled out a book from his inner coat pocket. A2 slumped her shoulders, relieved he wasn't another freak. She took the book, curiousity brimming from the cover.
"A book from the Old World?"
He elaborated. "Your main goal is to translate the native language of this book. I've gotten no results on my own. However you appear well-versed with this planet, you hold a greater chance than I do."
A2 nodded and opened the first page. She couldn't remember the last time she actually read something like this but the task of translation was something she could do. Androids were programmed with a selected list of languages embedded to their code. This shouldn't take her too lon-wait a minute. Her withered finger trailed over the characters. The ruffian's mind couldn't find a matching file to her mental files. A minute passed by and she made no progress. Flipping across numerous pages A2's unable to find a single character that actually meant anything to her. No wonder he had a hard time, the book's written in some type of alien language.
A2's haste triggered Vergil's returning gaze.
Getting that same sensation of strictness.
Humanity, she did not like it.
"Is something bothering you?"
"Can you…ease up on the staring?" The human titled his head.
"On the other hand I was being spied on for an indefinite amount of time and you can't handle your composure for 5 minutes?"
The ruffian scowled for bringing that topic back up. Embarrassment returned to her just as it did before. "I've already apologized you don't need to be such an ass about it."
"You should watch who you're referring to Android. I am not to be called an ass."
"And my name isn't Android it's A2. So lighten up on the crazy eyes will ya?"
"My eyes invoke nothing but confidence and honor."
"We have the same shade of blue. Yours just have squiggly red lines on the corners."
"Eyes are spherical. They don't have corners what you're referring to are scleras…" Vergil paused. "We're going off topic. Can you understand anything from the book?"
A2 huffed, unsure of what to say. She couldn't disappoint him so quickly after making their partnership official. There had to be something that could help her. A metaphorical light bulb shined a moment later. On the rare times A2 actually dived back into past memories she remembered a program she never used. Going into said program she was happy to see it could help decipher unknown text using data analysis from the Old World. By a mere glimpse she scanned the unfamiliar characters. A translation program appeared on her right optic field. Spanning the width of the screen only visible to her was a loading bar with 1% of the data downloaded.
Estimated download time: Inconclusive.
'You gotta be kidding.'
She sucked her teeth. "I don't actually know what any of this fucking means-"
"Watch your tongue." Vergil quipped in. A2 suppressed a scowl.
"I'm not a scanner but I did activate this old translator in my head so hopefully I can get something to make this all look right. It's still downloading and I don't got an estimated time."
Vergil listened and nodded. "Some minor setbacks won't do me any harm. Very well if that's all for now you can hand it back to me." She returned his belonging. The man cradled it in his hand before storing it under his coat.
"Can I ask you something?" The vulgar android inquired. A question's been brewing her mind since Vergil revealed his human nature.
"If it's appropriate."
"After I'm done are you going back to the Council?" Though she departed from her previous faction and chose to remain a wandering rogue A2's still viewed humanity highly. A long period waned by as Vergil stared at her, she held her usual mute look. Inwardly the ruffian once again felt uneased by his eyes.
How the hell was he so good at that?
"Afterwards, we'll part ways. Don't concern yourself about my well-being."
She'll give him the benefit of the doubt that he'll indeed return to the moon. For the sake of shutting her programming up. Though it begged another question, something her black box pulsed greatly at the thought of. "You're not going to tell them about me?"
"Should I?"
"Are you?"
"I don't understand the question."
A2 opened her mouth but caught her tongue. Looking back on it now she cursed herself for thinking he knew of her relationship to YoRHa. He made no acknowledgment before, during, and after she revealed her designation. Even when A2 mentioned she wanted revenge on the Commander Vergil didn't budge. It would look bad on the bitch's part if she told the Council one of her soldiers went rogue. She would be fired from her position and punished. The ruffian drew conclusions before thinking about it.
"Nevermind. It's not important anyways." She drew away from the topic. The darkslayer's curiosity lingered but ultimately dropped it as well.
"Fuck!"
The vulgar woman fell to her knees. Another profanity left her lips as she got back up. That same sound was heard during their brief exchange of blades, Vergil didn't hesitate to press on it.
"Despite your efforts some failures within your body remains."
"I've had it for a bit."
"You haven't done anything to resolve the issue?"
A2 got visibly upset. "I didn't agree to get lectured on how my body works you jacka…Vergil I've agreed to help you. What else can I do to help you make your life easier?" Her tongue throbbed from the self-inflicted bite.
"Your learning." He commented which only made A2 cross her arms. "I need nutrients in order to sustain my body. The local wildlife should provide you enough game, though bring back some moose. I'd rather not dine on pigs."
The ruffian nodded before leaving the castle in a silent stride. Vergil watched her perform a mighty leap on top of the broken walls before diving out of sight. He stroked his chin on the first impressions. She was one of those kinds of people to lash out at anyone if they annoyed them just a little. You could say he was one himself but in order to become a great warrior he inherited an excellent amount of patience. However his brother always manages to get under his skin no matter how hard Vergil tries.
'Now then, time to investigate.' Vergil traveled across the castlegrounds. His demonic senses taking him through the many rooms.
Vergil's inner demon picked up a source of magical energy deep within the castle recently. The energy radiated a nature unlike of hell. Best way he could describe it would be ancient and enticing. The phenomenon beckoned his attention. Vergil arrived at the library. He leaped over the railing, landing on the ground floor where a huge wooden door stood before him. It was locked, he would need to aquire a key in order to proceed. He chuckled and readied his fist before the mighty door fell down.
He could sense it more easily now, the trail of that same alluring magical energy became stronger.
Vergil walked into the darkness. Remembering back on Sparda's greatness it couldn't have been a coincidence from the author. One cannot include his father's likeness and having the same color with the rider and dragon simply for artistic purposes. There had to be a correlation. Judging by how his demonic senses reacted to this trail he might find an answer. He reached another door. It wasn't locked and therefore opened by a push. Like the castle an expansive layout of a garden laid in a decaying state. The darkslayer took a deep breath, the energy became more potent than ever. He walked past the forsaken rows of broken water fountains. His demonic senses craved more hungrily with each step.
"There."
Forever hunched into the ground lied the corpse of a grand-looking biped machine. It's shell decorated by nature's moss. An inscription laid in front of the dormant body.
Here lies the Forest King Ernst,
his exalted individual was the earliest among us to awaken to his own will, and for this reason did we name him our regent.
Looking to sow the seed of this will in others, His Highness distributed his own precious parts. His retainers were the first to be so blessed, followed by his subjects. With his beloved jeweled heart serving as the only exception. He brought forth a paradise—one made for machines alone. Through his gifts did we learn of the thing called ego, and eventually of our own selves. And just as ego gives way to emotion, so too did emotion lead us to feel great loyalty to our king.
But our king was too great—and too kind. Having distributed his parts, it became difficult for him to function, and he soon fell into a deep and silent sleep.
Your spirit lives on in us, O great king. And so we implore you to rest in peace.
—The Forest Kingdom, Its Citizens, As One
A set of slashes left the gravesight in absolute shambles. Dissected to the point of no return, the pieces of the king fell into a pile. The darkslayer held in a breath as a twinkle landed on the remains. A silver gem, shining ever so brightly under the sunlight. Vergil inspected the strange and alluring rock more closely. Gleaming, no scratches, in the shape of a perfect diamond. His devil side acted voraciously now than ever before, so he's found it. The darkslayer reached out and clasped his fingers around the magical gem.
Vergil skidded afar, nailing his katana into the ground to stop his inertia. Brightness from the jewel consumed to lengths that masked the environment. Sounds of nearby distant birds went mute, his boots no longer brushed against ancient cobblestone. The darkslayer opened his eyes to the long corridor he stood upon. Across the room stood a couple of grey statues. Long horns sprouting from the heads, equipped with a shield and circular-bladed spears. Body wise they were giant facial constructs with some minor detail difference to separate the two. A second later light illuminated from the hollow eye sockets.
The sentient beings reacted to his presence negatively. Single-handedly spinning the spear tips at him the statues led out an inhumane roar. Vergil smirked. For far too long he's been itching for a real fight. The once enticing energy now held a presence of power over his senses. He felt his blood pumping. Delighted to find worthy opponents in a world forsaken of challenge.
"The Son of Sparda accepts your challenge!"
