Greetings to one and all! How are you ladies and gentlemen? Sorry for the super late update guys! I do apologise for not uploading in a while. I just can't begin a chapter since I can't think of how to start it.

Which is the best Day/time to upload a new story/chapter? Also review your time zones and I will work my magic.

Opps- yeah, Giorno isn't holy either. They were bastardizations of how Christ was born. Both Diavolo and Gio Gio had different reasons for how they lived their lives based on who took care of them and their setting.

Okay, some say nothing Satanic happened, but why would Araki call him Diavolo? Why not two-face or something else? The answers were spilled all over part 5 or not?

The main focus of our favourite pink haired antagonist was bipolar something- nah. I hate to admit it…

It's dissociative identity disorder (DID), not bipolar disorder (maybe both). It shouldn't really give you two different souls but apparently it does.

In Part 5, one's will and resolve can let you survive on a zombified body of yourself? Sooooo, I don't see why Diavolo's resolve wouldn't mess up with his body and mind like that.

It makes no sense, yes, but as long as it's consistent with the series then it's fine.

It's basically a disorder taken to its extreme for dramatic effect.

Thanks to Araki's bizarre and stylistic application of science and Stand power. Doppio and Diavolo are not only two distinctly different personalities, but literally one soul got split into two (as a result of presumed childhood trauma? Or some satanic shit?) that inhabit the same body.

God-damn I'm confusing myself now!!

Yep, Lorenzo is an opportunistic a-hole who would find any exploitation he would use to benefit himself. Yes, most definitely the anti-hero route. Don't worry, he will get some new set of beliefs/ideologies and grow up.

Reason for subplot? You will find out soon… you guys are right, may try and fix that.

Thank you all for your feedback.

/-/-/-/

Disclaimer : I don't own anything here!

.

.

.

.

.


Yunyun turned around slightly and looked towards her new friend. "Welcome to my humble abode!" she exclaimed excitedly.Gesturing with one hand towards her house.

The Crimson Demon was really happy! She's not gonna be alone on her adventures now.

Diavolo gave her a deadpan look and then grinned, it was void of mirth. He did find her amusing. Yunyun was quite the enigma.

'Am I on the right path? I'm about to find it soon…' Lorenzo thought to himself ruminatively. A time of momentous change soon.

Yunyun didn't mind his attitude, he was a pretty unique person in her eyes. She opened up and entered her home first. Lorenzo then filed into the house last.

The Italian took a good look around the fully furnished house. There was a fireplace in the corner, made out of the same brick as the house itself, surrounded by two brown armchairs and a large sofa.

The floor was a deep mahogany hardwood, covered by a large rug in the middle of the room. It looked very cosy indeed.

" You can take a seat. Make yourself at home. I'll prepare lunch…" Yunyun gestured towards the seats. She turned around and headed towards the kitchen area.

The Italian took a seat on one of the armchairs and made himself comfortable. Diavolo was about to ponder on his own thoughts. But he was interrupted.

"Almost forgot…" the young lady looked embarrassed, but recovered quickly. Truthfully she is a nervous wreck inside! Luckily she's maintaining her mostly calm and kind exterior. Because the Crimson Demon really doesn't do much social interaction with people everyday.

Diavolo turned his head slowly towards the direction of her voice.

" What would you like to eat? Also, do you want to drink anything now?" Yunyun asked kindly.

He noticed that it was an open living room and a dining room together. With the kitchen just beyond that.

"Anything is fine to eat… I'm not thirsty, at the moment." Lorenzo was a bit bewildered with this girl's hospitality. It wasn't every day that he was invited to someone's house willingly and offered food. This is quite the refreshing experience.

Diavolo was always treated like a pariah in his old hometown. It's been so long since someone has treated him kindly without any deception in play. Only a handful of people treated him like a human being…

"Thank you, child. " he added a little grudgingly.

Yunyun smiled at Diavolo and nodded her head in approval. Strangely, a part of Lorenzo wanted to smile, but he refused.

The Crimson Demon trotted off to the kitchen to begin her preparations and cook some dinner - or was it lunch?

Lorenzo continued to lay on the seat, staring up at the ceiling, taking in every crease, every protrusion from the stark grey surface casting small bumpy shadows against the waning sunlight.

In a way, people were like stipples on a rugged ceiling, insignificant when viewed from afar, but individually having the power to prevent the light from reaching those who dwelled behind them. Like droplets in an ocean or petals in a large flowery tree, none of us would ever amount to much, but if we all thought that way, there would be no ocean or no tree to speak of. After all, what was an ocean if not a multitude of droplets?

Presumably a very long time ago, he lived a life of evil. Diavolo did go down the wrong path and there was no returning then. Which was benefiting him greatly for some time in his previous life.

Next, he ascended and headed on towards his goals. Taking down anyone who stood in his way without remorse.

Lorenzo felt powerful then. It's like the world was finally his.

Diavolo's biggest fear was to be dethroned and killed. Worst of all, it did happen.

Some pesky traitors decided to ruin all of his plans, killing him in the process-

Over

And over

And over

And over

And-

They ruined everything!

Lorenzo wished things could have gone differently, he could have won. Diavolo could have had everything he had ever wanted.

Sadly, fate didn't always go the way he wanted it to.

'What to do with my second chance? I can live a better life now… I'm finally out of that torturous, repetitive death trap... I cannot ruin this opportunity!' He'd need to change strategies.

'I must act decisively and should not act carelessly. True, I do not bow to any cretans. There are always loopholes in everything…' a pondering Diavolo frowned.

The former Boss was not a cooperative man and if those fools wanted to control him. Then they'd have to force him down first. He would not make this easy for the God's.

Lorenzo wouldn't play nice, oh no. Absolutely not. Diavolo wouldn't be caught dead cooperating with anyone. He would have just decided to make things as difficult as he possibly could.

'But it would be a waste of time. If I were to revert to my old ways, then I'll just be going back full circle… failure is not an option now.' Diavolo closed his eyes and let out a tired sigh.

'Truly a great annoyance… but it's only merely a simple delay. A good plan is one that can be flexible and adjusted. Nothing will ever be simple now. Life goes in many different directions, some predictable and some never expected...' Lorenzo glances toward Yunyun.

The former Mafioso realises many things about himself. He cannot accomplish anything the way he was in his previous life. He must change. Lorenzo has failed before, but this time is different. This time he will be free. But change is something that happens naturally. Change is growth. Forcing that change upon yourself can have certain...consequences.

He had allowed his ego to get the better of him! Lorenzo forgot that without it he was just normal as any other person! Just like any other mortal, he too was susceptible to mortal flaws. Such as him letting his emotions get the better of him!

Sadly, he was human… as much as he wanted to pretend he was better than everyone else, he really wasn't. Now Diavolo has learned from his failures and promised himself he wouldn't regress to what he once was!

'Overthinking makes you dwell in the past and immerse yourself in worries and fears, instead of living in the present and acting in the present.' Lorenzo thought firmly.

" Lunch is ready. " said Yunyun. She smiled at the Italian, who definitely looked like he had a lot on his mind. The young lady motioned for Diavolo to sit by the dining table. Where his meal was already prepared.

"I-I it's good to have you h- here. The house is usually so quiet." the Crimson Demon nervously said.

"You live alone?" Zeppeli asked bluntly.

"Yes, it makes travelling around here easier. My parents are back in our village taking care of things. They do visit here sometimes… " Yunyun looked like she wanted to say more, but decided not to.

Lorenzo noticed her hesitation, but he didn't want to further question her. He could care less about her situation.

The food looks much nicer than Diavolo had expected. Not that he knew what to expect, anyway. But it was nice. The meal was a quick stir fry, containing chicken strips and assorted vegetables. To drink, there was fruit juice and spring water.

The air was heavy. Lorenzo hurriedly grabbed the utilities and began eating.

They ate their late lunch in comfortable silence most of the time.

"Looks like you're most certainly enjoying the meal." Yunyun was trying to be a good host, make small talk. The Silence was almost unbearable for her honesty.

Diavolo frowned, he thought of maybe glaring and perhaps even menacingly posing, but his cheeks were still full of delicious stir fry. He swallowed them down. What he did do was let out a pleasant sound as the food really did hit the spot.

Yunyun couldn't contain her excitement. She hardly had any guests over, so it couldn't be helped for her. The former Mafia Boss found his host to be a little bit aggravating. Diavolo was too used to loneliness.

After some time, he was done eating.

"Uh- the food was great." he began, Lorenzo wanted to say more, but couldn't come up with the proper words.

The Crimson girl was truly happy. It is quite rare for someone, other than her parents, to compliment her cooking.

"...Thanks." Diavolo hasn't thanked anyone sincerely in a very long time. It seemed almost foreign, for doing such a simple act.

There was a brightness to Yunyun' smile. She failed trying to hide her immense joy. "You're most welcome."

Lorenzo noticed her odd behaviour, but decided to let her be. The young girl stood up and took both dishes to the sink, to get it cleaned.

That had definitely not been what he had planned on saying.

Just when exactly had his mind changed and let that awkward crap come spewing out instead?

It didn't make sense that she was insistently trying to be nice to him. What kind of sick long con was this? Diavolo couldn't tell what her intentions were.

While he was being a bit cooperative-

And why couldn't he muster up the energy to be angry? It was always so easy to become enraged―

―and yet he just couldn't force himself to get mad at the kid when she hadn't actually done anything wrong to him.

Where he would normally feel anger, the emotion was instead replaced by hope. Hope that he could overcome his past sins, one by one. Hope for a better him instead of what he tried to live his old life as.

She was just being… nice. To him! The only one that made him mad was himself.

"Thank you, again." He sounded harsh, well getting out of his seat and preparing to go outside. "I must go, don't want to overstay my welcome." looked like he was conflicted with himself.

Yunyun looked startled before almost jumping towards her saviour. "Diavolo, please stay here. You're more than welcomed to. I-I do Insist, it's ok. Not to worry- I-I trust you! Ahhh, I mean- oh no… " she cried out, while covering her face feeling humiliated.

Lying to Diavolo would be betraying his trust in her. So, the bashful Crimson Demon tried to tell the truth as embarrassing as it is. Mostly she was talking without thinking, which she is regretting.

Lorenzo was about to protest, his expression was stoic and difficult to read.

"...our impulses are too strong for our judgement sometimes." He said out loud, turning his attention away from the even more embarrassed girl.

Yunyun just naively admitted that she trusted him. His whole life, no one has ever trusted him- at least not fully- and Diavolo lived quite a life. If anything, people treated him like the plague.

Until now that is.

"Why?" The Italian was confused, trying to figure this out. Trust was a very touchy subject for him.

"You would do the same for me wouldn't you?" the Crimson Demon shrugged her shoulders shyly.

"Trust and believe in people or life becomes impossible." The Crimson Demon looks proud, exclaiming that bold statement.

Eventually Diavolo looked directly into Yunyun's eyes, while the young lass tried to maintain eye contact. Her new friend is quite the intimidating being.

'What a hypocrite I am.' Lorenzo thought miserably. 'I trusted nobody in the past, but now… foolish child. I could use her to my advantage. But what she said… ' the older man had an impassive expression.

Yunyun claims that she trusts him, so at least in return he would do the same. They allowed silence to fall between them for a moment.

"I don't recall ever seeing you around… I'm guessing that you're new in town." The young girl wanted to try and get to know her comrade a little bit more.

She was tired of the everlasting silence within her home. The Crimson Demon was thrilled that she got company to talk with now.

"I hail from a faraway land..." the Italian looked at her with an unreadable expression.

'I can't reveal everything… not like she will believe me.' Lorenzo thought in a resentful manner.

He was the local pariah of his old town.

Seeing that enough was enough, he was more than ready to unleash his hatred onto the village he no longer trusted.

"Are you from another world?" Yunyun blurted out.

Diavolo's eyes widened; "How do you-" his anxiety about to flare up.

"I know some people who are also from other worlds too! You accidentally bumped into one of them earlier." the Crimson Demon exclaimed quickly.

"Oh? I see…" the Zeppeli calmed down, now wondering about these otherworlders? He planned to do some investigation later. To make sure that they weren't a threat to him.

"I-I-I was wondering- why are you dressed like that?" Yunyun asked, looking away sheepishly. Trying to change the sensitive topic.

Lorenzo stares at Yunyun silently. "It was supposed to be a quick battle… but- it doesn't matter now. " the older man then scowls. It was a fashion choice!

The former Boss continued speaking, without thinking; "Conform with society- I wanted to feel comfortable. Mostly I used this type of clothing when I was alone in my safe houses…" Diavolo looked like he was reminiscing.

'Safe houses? Who were you hiding from? What kind of life had you lived?' Yunyun was intrigued.

"Wearing clothing with a strongly stitched collar can assist in choking you. Opponents can grab it and use it for leverage. It can be used to blind you and restrict movement. I'm talking from experience…" The older man contemplated. Then he realised what he was saying and regretted it.

The Crimson Demon looked mystified. "My elders always used to say; No matter how strong you become. You will always be weaker than someone, so aim to be smarter than they can ever be." Yunyun seemed to have an understanding with her new friend.

Diavolo nodded his head silently. "Why do you want to know so much?" he asked impolitely.

Instantly Yunyun felt embarrassed, realising that her curiosity was turning into prying. "I am sorry… I- " she said, gazing downwards towards her boots.

The Crimson Demon looks back at her friend. "I just thought that it would help if I knew more about you. We are going to be working together soon. It would really help if I knew more about you and vice versa of course!" Yunyun enthusiastically answered.

So many questions rang through his head, with the only plausible logic being:

'It could be a goddamn plot...' he thought on impulse. Maybe the Italian was just being too paranoid. Then he remembered his vow about changing for the better.

'By fate I met you… by choice I will stay…' Diavolo made a decision. Hoping that he would regret this later.

The Crimson Demon thought she saw realisation dawn on Lorenzo's face, followed by a meagre shrug.

"Very well." the man said. He could see the logical merits in her argument.

Yunyun remembered something very important. "Oh! We should go buy some new clothes! Before the shop closes."

Both of them needed new apparel, because what they're wearing now is in a terrible state and needed to be replaced.

Diavolo thought that buying some clothes would be a splendid idea. So that he wouldn't stick out quite so much.

"Wait! I don't have any money!" Lorenzo exclaimed angrily.

"Don't worry, I pay for everything." the Crimson Demon replied positively.

"Looks like I will have to pay you back soon." Diavolo muttered bitterly.

"N- n- no, you don't have to. Consider it-" Yunyun waved her hands.

"I hate to be indebted to anyone." Lorenzo rudely cuts her off.

"This is my way of thanking you. I insisted." the Crimson Demon inclined her head politely.

For an instant, Yunyun could have sworn Diavolo looked almost…flattered. Then the mask came back on.

(o.o.0.o.o)

As they walked through the maze of buildings and crowds of people going about their business in the late afternoon. Lorenzo felt strangely nostalgic, while also being alert of what was around him. It was an odd feeling, watching and dodging people once again after so long. Speaking to others felt so alien to do.

Diavolo avoided all eyes from the public, while also trying not to look suspicious. Which was extremely difficult to do. Yunyun was also tailing him, in the exact same manner. Which he found very irritating.

'Wasn't she supposed to lead the way?' Lorenzo, a little bit ticked off, was about to speak up.

Then a mortified Yunyun noticed her silly mistake. She began to show him the right directions.

'What is Diavolo afraid Of? He must have had a rough past…' The Crimson Demon wonders. People sometimes hide their identity to protect themselves.

The former Don comprehends that with just his fashionable clothes on. He definitely needed something more... protective around his body, if he wanted to survive this new world.

Lorenzo opted for his companion to explain to him about the currency here. Which confused Yunyun a bit. But she did so nonetheless.

'Even from another land, the currency isn't all that different. He's just like Kazuma and Aqua… maybe even Kyouya.' The Crimson Demon mused to herself. This might confirm her theory that Diavolo is from another world. She is noticing these small factors here and there.

Thankfully, they located the blacksmith Yunyun was looking for. They gingerly opened the door. Inside was a wooden standard-looking shop, with weapons and defensive armours on the walls and stands. A bearded man was at the counter, smiling at the customers.

"Well, hello! What can I do for you folks." His gruff tone welcomed them in. He seemed like an honest salesperson.

The old man was standing behind a counter that had several weapons, armour and clothes displayed behind him.

"Haven't seen you before Pinky. New around these parts?" the owner asked Lorenzo curiously.

"You could say so..." Diavolo frowned at that stupid nickname. The former Mafioso walked over to one of the display cases that showcased several items.

Yunyun decided to speak up; "W- we need some n- new Armour and clothes, p-please." requesting shyly.

Lorenzo looked at the Crimson Demon disapprovingly. He needed to fix her low self-esteem and lack of confidence. The Italian will not tolerate any weaknesses around him.

"Very well! I can get you guys the best armour and clothes I can find." the smith enthusiastically says. He began showing off his merchandise.

Time passes as Diavolo and Yunyun look at various suits of armour and clothing. Lorenzo was very picky about what he wanted to wear. While the Crimson Demon wasn't all that fussy.

The Italian didn't want anything too heavy to restrict his movement. He also didn't want something that was too conspicuous. Because Lorenzo hated attracting attention from the masses. He will be going out in public more often unfortunately.

Our Heroes tried wearing many different outfits and were in and out of the changing room. Thankfully there were mirrors inside so they could inspect themselves.

The smith patiently waits for them to finish trying on his merchandise. "Man, these kids really want the right armour don't they?"

But the old man stops when he hears; "Yes. This will do." and pulls the curtain back from the changing area he was in. Quickly comes Diavolo in his new outfit. Though it may hardly look like armour at first glance but it was the real deal.

Lorenzo's new gear consisted of a black trench coat featuring a hood that was shaped like an eagle's beak in the centre. This was connected to the main part of the jacket.

The lower portion was layered, with the back of the jacket extending down lower than the front. He chose a crimson shirt, with dark blue pants, grey fingerless gloves and knee-high leather boots.

Around the waist was a grey sash, with pouches for containing supplies. Lorenzo's back had a belt containing a sheath for a dagger, which was buckled below the shoulder.

The smith was impressed with Diavolo. "Woah... that Assassin armour matches you perfectly. "

Lorenzo wanted to question the craftsman further. But decided not to and just nodded his head. Diavolo continued inspecting himself. The Italian really did like this new attire.

The clothing was made of some durable material, which Diavolo didn't recognize. He was also impressed with how it's been tailored.

Everything was quite comfortable and really lightweight. He tied his hair in a ponytail, while leaving a few strands in the front loose.

Trying new clothes symbolises a new built self image of yours, a reflection of your new found attitude.

This may also imply your desire to change yourself or adapt into a totally new and contrasting individual.

'So it's one hundred copper to one silver, and probably the same for silver to gold. I wonder if there's platinum in this world, or if gold is the highest-valued currency?' Diavolo ponders, then hears someone and looks towards Yunyun and is astonished.

The young girls outfit is now composed of mostly black leather. A Crimson tank- top under a black vest with a zipper going up the centre. Black leather overhauled shorts with a long cape at the back of Yunyun's waist and black gloves. She decided to get silver boots. Her old pouch was still kept around the waist. She was able to tie her hair into a low bun.

Then the old man looks baffled at Yunyun. "Leather suit armour? It's meant for female brawlers- weird choice, but it looks like it'll actually work."

Yunyun nodded silently and was obviously distraught. While blushing and pushing her forefingers together in a nervous gesture.

"Soooo… are you guys planning to sell your old clothes?" the weapons crafter asked.

"Hmm, I'd like to keep my old clothes, for sentimental reasons." the young girl replied.

"I'll do the same." Diavolo couldn't handle the thought of someone else wearing his clothes. There might be a possibility that his old attire could get sold.

The old man shrugs his shoulders and gives them some carry bags, to place their old clothing in.

"What y'all choose may not be the strongest armour. But it will allow you guys to move quickly around and protect you all from various environmental hazards like ice, sand, fire, and poison." the elder told our heroes.

The Italian decided to make haste. "How much?" asked the suspicious Diavolo. He knew these were gonna be expensive.

"We'll give you 300 silver pieces from each of us." stated the Crimson Demon.

'I seriously need to earn money fast. It's humiliating relying on a child. Also, isn't she using too much money?' Lorenzo grumbled internally as he glanced furtively at Yunyun. While walking past the market and looking in this shop. He figured out how pricing would work.

"That's…" the craftsman blinked. He found it strange that his customer's daughter is paying for the goods. 'Maybe he's teaching her how to use money?But decided not to be too inquisitive.

"M- more than enough for materials and food, correct?" Yunyun replied quickly. Even placing money on the counter.

"That's way too much." scowled the shop owner. But he still took the money anyway. "Look, how about I throw in some weapons for your father and you missy?"

"Wh- what?! Diavolo's not my d-dad- dad!" exclaimed Yunyun, who took a few steps back and was quite embarrassed.

Lorenzo was shaking his head disapprovingly and looked at the old fool with a menacing expression.

"Okay, whatever you say…" the blacksmith replied in a cheeky manner.

Then the old man got serious, which team Crimson noticed immediately. "Family isn't always blood, it's the people in your life who want you in theirs: the ones who accept you for who you are, the ones who would do anything to see you smile and who love you no matter what." the forger sounded really wise.

Yunyun's face morphed into shock but was quickly replaced by a kind smile. It would be wonderful to form a strong bond with her friend.

Diavolo on the other hand wasn't too thrilled hearing that speech. For him, love aroused sadness and painful feelings.

Lorenzo tried to ignore these nauseating feelings. The former Don walked over to a shelf which mostly contained smaller weapons.

Yunyun didn't really need any equipment. Since she already owns a silver staff and a short sword… which she barely touches. The Crimson Demon realised that she needed to make good use of them now.

Diavolo knew, even though King Crimson was available- he wasn't invincible. So it wouldn't hurt if he had a weapon or two.

The Italian helped himself and began inspecting all of these finely crafted weapons. Diavolo wanted to carry something light and not heavy. He didn't want to be slowed down for any unnecessary reasons.

Yunyun even decided to look around. She might find something that she'll fancy. The shopkeeper didn't mind as long as they didn't break anything.

Lorenzo kept on looking through the store. The blacksmith then intervened and showed off multiple sets of weapons. Diavolo wasn't impressed by most of it, finding them to be inadequate.

Something got Lorenzo's attention and he picked it up. It was a rather unique ornamental dagger, with the most eye-catching aspect being the beautiful design.

A curved knife with serrated partway down its edge. Blade on the flat side is inscribed with golden feather markings. Also there's a silver phoenix etched into the hilt.

The craftsman inspected the dagger and nodded. "Ah, the Valiant Knife. It's enchanted- great for killing undead and demons. Trust me, you'll be encountering them a lot. Can obviously be used to hurt other nasty critters too. Good choice if I do say so myself, you can take it."

Lorenzo nods and places the weapon in his previously empty sheath. He was pleased with his choice.

Yunyun was flabbergasted. A dagger like that doesn't come cheap. That item alone is going way past their budget. She was wondering why the forger is being so generous or will they be charged extra?

"Hold on a moment." The blacksmith turns and walks into the back of his shop. The sound of rummaging can be heard faintly followed by a muffled curse and the reverberating thud of something weighty falling on the floor.

Yunyun looked concerned and Lorenzo was just curious.

The blacksmith found the two items needed. He returns and gives Diavolo a belt with 5 throwing knives placed on it.

"Here, kid. These Vermeil fangs might come in handy. Just be careful, they're really sharp. Can even cut through diamonds." the old man was grinning.

Knives that were fairly small and fin-shaped, being triangular with curved edges leading to a point, somewhat resembling an arrowhead. The handles are small, thin, and align with a ridge down the centre.

" … thanks, old man." Lorenzo fastened it across his chest diagonally within his jacket. King Crimson is a short ranged Stand. These throwing knives would be ideal for attacking long distant enemies.

Then the forger looked towards a surprised Yunyun and offered her something. "Here Lass, the Meteorite bracer. This rare accessory actually replenishes mana slowly over time."

It was an exquisite grey band. Which had a star-shaped ruby embedded in the middle.

"Wha? I-I can't!" the young lady tried to walk away.

"Take it. Still need to cover your budget." the old man quickly places the gift in her hands.

"I-if you insist- th- thank yo-u!" The crimson demon was truly grateful. She tried on her new bracelet on the left hand and loved it.

The elderly man gives them a full-blown smile. "This is also my way of thanking you for saving our town! Heard everything about your exploits from some adventurers. Was also pretending like I didn't know your earlier, sorry about that. Just checking what kind of folks y'all are. "

Diavolo's eyes widened and was taken aback. He was uncomfortable with recognition. Mostly because the words he always uses to hear don't line up with the way he sees himself. A happy Yunyun was muttering with weary belligerence.

"Anyways…" Lorenzo turns towards the door, his jacket fluttering around him. "Time for us to go." The Crimson Demon perks up and slowly follows her friend.

Yunyun breathes a sigh of relief, looking back to the Blacksmith. "Thank you for everything." The young girl gave him a pleasant smile before jogging after her hero.

The craftsman blinks and then chuckles jovially. Going back to his counter and resting his gloved hands on it.

Mr Forger really liked that girl, a real sweetheart. He wasn't too fond of her friend with the attitude.

"It's a pleasure to do business." the old man gave a small wave. "Be safe in your journey, both of you."

"Again, thank you for everything." Yunyun was kind enough to bow, while Diavolo just gave a firm nod.

As they left the shop, they continued shopping for some male casual wear for Diavolo and other personal stuff.

(o.o.0.o.o)

It was now dark and a cold evening, and after a long day, everyone was more than ready for a good night's rest.

Now that she's all alone inside her room, Yunyun just laid there, letting her mind wander to the sea of thoughts. Various thoughts surfaced such as who Diavolo really is. How are the other guild members doing right now and their reactions?

Not that she doesn't want his company, in fact, she actually liked it. Just that she became aware of herself.

It can't be avoided because just the thought of spending time alone with the opposite sex will always make someone conscious.

There's also the issue of her crush on Diavolo. Because of these few hours, they have always been together and she had already picked up some of his good traits which only went unnoticed before because she never really got a chance to interact with males. Indeed, he is still a stranger but she wants to believe that he is good.

She really needed to control herself and not make things anymore inconvenient around her new friend.

Yunyun is also quite pessimistic, always thinking that people assume the worst of her as a consequence of the social ostracising she experienced growing up in the Crimson Demon Village.

For her, being forgotten and alone is almost a fate worse than death.

(o.o.X.o.o)

Diavolo still kept his old clothing, folded up and tucked in his bedroom cupboard. For sentimental reasons, and also as an extra change of clothes. But it's highly unlikely that he will ever use it again.

The walls were white; the bedding was so soft, and a nice coffee colour. He had proper drawers that looked to be made of oak, a proper cupboard, and the bed was king-sized, only it was oak and not just common wood. Proper oak was expensive, Lorenzo knew that much, so he had to make sure not to damage the room in any way, shape, or form. There was a desk with drawers that had a candle lamp on it too.

Remarkably there is an En suite bathroom connected exclusively to this bedroom.

This guest room is nice; it was more than he had hoped for— actually, it was better by far than what he'd had anticipated.

His superiority complex had taken a shattering blow after his defeat at the hands of Giorno but nonetheless, he couldn't help but feel like this nonsense was beneath him. Is this how an Emperor was supposed to use his power? Even as he said it, his stomach did an odd flip, he was no longer a King and he had assumed that position based on his… alterations, now he was just an everyday, average... man. The implications of this struck him in a way that had evaded him when he had just awoken in this village, Lorenzo had had bigger problems at the time but now he was fully aware of what this meant.

'Your life's work. Meaningless. Like you.'

The Zeppeli sighed, he never had to deal with these relentlessly thoughts, even as his personality began to degenerate and fragment. He assumed it was because he had Doppio and an ultimate goal in mind, now he was fixed irrevocably in the present and had nothing to distract himself anymore. A mind as active and powerful as his was inevitably going to find something to occupy his time.

"How could I have forgotten about you Doppio?" The older man was getting depressed.

Vinegar Doppio was no more. And, Diavolo thought, maybe he had died with him. A sinking feeling began to grow in his chest.

The Zeppeli was overreacting, but he honestly couldn't be helped. He tried to calm himself, getting emotional would yield nothing. Diavolo tried to breathe in regularly with a deep breath to calm himself and the headache down.

Also there was another unprecedented notion. That has been on his mind since the fierce battle today.

Regarding King Crimson's Spatial Manipulation.

Again in his previous life, Diavolo was able to predict the future and erase time. None of that happened today.

'But how can I use the power at will? Obliterating space… ' The Italiano was about to summon his Stand, but chose not to. Fearing that he might damage himself or the environment around him.

That ability did activate automatically. Proven when Diavolo was about to get crushed and King Crimson summoned itself attacking his enemy. Although this could possibly mean it cannot be activated manually?

A Stand is a visual manifestation of life energy (in other words, the manifestation of the soul of the user).

Only one thought ran through Lorenzo's mind. 'The God' actually tampered with my soul. Either blessing or cursing me…'

Followed belatedly by another speculation. 'Perhaps it's due to this new world's magic that affects my King Crimson?'

Then his eyes widened. 'Could this be… my Requiem Stand?! No- that's ludicrous!'

Diavolo needed to slow down. Started to rub his temples in frustration. Perhaps if he focused on things one at a time, he'd be able to at least solve something. The Italian was beginning to feel fatigued.

A lonely sigh left his lips; he knew that, no doubt, it would be another sleepless night for him. He never slept any more than a few hours; duties always came first.

The Zeppeli finally gets himself to bed after his inner monologues and goes to sleep ready for whatever this world has in store for him tomorrow.

.o0o.

When Lorenzo looked upon a mirror in this unknown plane of existence, his reflection immediately changed in appearance.

As Diavolo reached his hand out toward his reflection, it tried to pull him into the mirror.

The Zeppeli succeeded in pulling his hand away from the mirror, only to see his reflection change into his younger self.

Diavolo tried to speak but no words could form out of his mouth. Even his counterpart wasn't in the mood to speak.

Doppio then escaped the mirror, charged at his enemy, and then beat him furiously. The younger man wasn't giving his ex-boss a chance.

The older man got pissed and swiftly threw his younger self in several directions. He attempted to push the boy back into the mirror, which succeeded in destroying both the mirror and the reflection itself.

Without warning, the scene lurched rapidly and Diavolo still stood there emotionally, closing his eyes.

"History, despite its wrenching pain, cannot be unlived, but if faced with courage, need not be lived again."

Diavolo opens his eyes and can see a silver-haired woman who is sitting in the chair with a sorrowful expression. He was back in heaven? Lorenzo didn't have any time to fathom what was going on.

"...the past gives you an identity and the future holds the promise of fulfilment in whatever form. Both are illusions." Eris said before snapping her fingers.

Lorenzo was immediately greeted by a bright, blinding light that folded over his line of sight.

.x..x.

Diavolo shot awake. His body had broken out in a cold sweat and breathing turned ragged. He frantically looked around and noticed that he wasn't dying, but in his own bedroom.

Lorenzo had never experienced a dream quite like that one before. He wondered why it happened to him now. Diavolo laid back down on his pillow.

No matter how much he tried to relax and fall back asleep, his mind couldn't erase the image of Doppio. Then that nuisance Eris decided to grace Diavolo with her holy presence. A constant reminder that he is always being watched. That scene in the mirror dimension though had been burned into his mind. Lorenzo grimaced in frustration and wanted to punch something.

.o0o.

Morning arrived pretty soon and everyone was getting ready for the day ahead. They left home and were heading towards the guild.

While on the move, Lorenzo was ruminating on some unusual ideals. While looking at Yunyun and everyone around the vicinity. He was trying to distract himself from that awful nightmare. Didn't want it to get to him, so he decided to delude himself with his own thoughts.

He mused that people aren't walking characterizations, or sublimations of a single idea. Everyone is full of contradictions, duality, flaws and virtues. Sometimes… The best and worst of qualities can be found in the same person.

'Everyone can be manipulated. Pushed and prodded into acting a certain way. It is because of this that it is hard to truly trust people. You never know when they might change.' the Zeppeli thought in his mind.

Not everything has meaning. Jobs were a requirement by society. Nothing more, nothing less. That was just how life was.

A few minutes later the group arrived at the guild, the road in front of it appeared to be bustling with adventurers and villagers of all sorts. The rather large establishment stood before them, and the fragrance of food drifted from within. Thanks to the young girl, Diavolo has already eaten breakfast.

It was built of stone, with a brick tile roof. Twin lamps sat upon small walls that lined the steps leading to the large, reinforced wood double doors, and above them sat a large blue and yellow crest, with red lining its typical heater shield shape. An organisation that supports adventurers. The job agency of this world.

Yunyun gulped as she waved a hand at the guild. "Well, this is it."

Lorenzo knew that there would be some rough characters inside. They might find trouble with Diavolo if they see an unfamiliar face. After taking a minute to prepare himself mentally, he was ready.

Yunyun gulped, pinching the collar of her outfit as she looked at the guild with unease. "We go in... and apply- hey!"

He blatantly ignored her, as the man entered.


.

.

.

.

.

.

.

Diavolo : "You can't run!"

Polnareff : " Yeah, I wonder who's fault that was. "

Diavolo : " Surrender now! There's no way you can win.

Polnareff : " The French never surrender! "

Diavolo : " History says otherwise. "

Johnny Joestar : " That pink haired bastard- he must have shot me! "

.

.

This chapter was supposed to be over 16000 words. I was forced to split this in half. Good news, I'll be able to update a new chapter this month. The second half was mostly incomplete. Heck, maybe in the next few weeks or days- promise! :)

But Giorno lied…

(..)

Was wondering why Yunyun didn't join the main party. Oh, the future Chef would have been bullied to death by Megumin. Kazu is saving her, by keeping Yunyun away from her crazy rival.

My brother's dumb theory is that it's because Aqua already fills the role of "Medium is Premium!" Later, I kicked his ass off our home balcony. Unfortunately, he fell in the pool and survived.

Also she just doesn't have the... let's say 'confidence' to force herself into the party like the others did. The shy Crimson girl can't make friends or join a party because she's foolish. (Sorry sweetie)

As revealed in the spinoff, Yunyun frequently goes on high level solo quests.

In addition, when other Adventurers get in trouble, Yunyun frequently rescues them. Every time the party tries to thank her, she says "Sorry for doing something unnecessary" and runs away.

Because of this and the fact that she's always solo, and extremely powerful. Rumours have spread through the guild that she hates associating with people.

It is believed by the general population that she is a powerful loner player, like Kirito from SAO, basically…. The TRUE Black Swordsman!

Guts : Ay Yo, What the Fuck?!!

Added to the fact that she is really pretty. Most of the beginner Adventurers in the town believe that she is too good to be friends or party members with them. Because she is a beautiful and powerful mage who doesn't like to associate with others.

Never judge a book by its cover…

XxX

.

.

.

Thank you for reading and your lovely support. Check out my other stories. I'm gonna try and upload faster.

Good bye! No, wait for it…

A A-WRRRYYYY-VEDERC!!!