Archive of Our Own

“Careful V! Can’t help you much with these, remember?” Griffon flutters unhappily atop his favorite perch near V’s workbench. “You get’cher hand bitten off by whatever shit’s down there, you’re on your own. We’re fighters, we ain’t healers.” Shadow prowls around Griffon’s perch and weaves around the various objects he’s left strewn about. Unable to speak like her flying companion, but V can sense her distaste in the agitated way she moves.

“I am aware of the risks.” V said, teeth grit against the haze that wants to settle in his mind. He must be focused if this is to work.

“Yeah but V-”

“Griffon. Please, I need you to be quiet.” To his relief, the plea works. Maybe it’s because he’s never actually asked before, but it works. V’s two most loyal companions still and, it’s strange, he thinks distantly. How much he’s come to rely on them over the years. Not just to steady his ailing body, but to ease the hurt in his wretched, lonely soul.

Their master beckons, and the two familiars are at his side in an instant. The spaces in his skin, cracking and pale as death, sting while they forge their power into him once more. The black lines of their contracts filling with whorls of a language no spoken word could hope to capture, binding them together, and allowing their very life force to soothe the pain into something more manageable.

V grimaces as the portal opens at his feet, nearly wheezing from the effort it took to open such a small tear. He eyes its dull gray glow skeptically, the miasma pulsing as if eager to drag him in. It’s probably not that deep, whatever weakling he finds will most likely be more a nuisance than an aid to him, but he doesn't have many other options. The last devil he tried to summon- an enormous spider with a head full of arrogance and hatred- forced him to destroy it before it broke free and killed him. Killing such a power devil took more energy out of him than he should have spent. He feels it now in the way his knees ache where he kneels on the basement floor.

V plunges his hand into the demon world, beckoning gently, enticingly, with the blood in his veins and the scent of humanity. Whatever being in there could simply pull him in, leaving him stranded in the demon world, but he has very little else and no time to find something better. The pangs in his middle, the shakiness of his limbs and thoughts, grow worse with each passing hour and he needs.

“Come. Come to me.” The words almost are desperate as they fall from his lips and sink into the demon realm.

Please let something be there.

A breath catches in his throat. Something brushed across his hand. V breathes out, withdrawing slowly.

Whatever demon had touched him, didn’t seem all that interested in following through. He can see it though, through the miasma there’s a large blue shape taking form. If he squints, it’s almost humanoid, with bright wings spread behind it- Either his saving grace, or his swan song. Humanoid demons are rare. Less because demons don’t care to take human form, and more because the shape is difficult to condense one’s primordial self into. If it’s weak then it would be a servant to a greater demon of some kind. If exceptionally powerful, V will need to do some fast talking to survive. Much less actually convince it to make a contract.

Not that it matters, if he doesn't draw it out of there soon.

If V thought god might answer a witch, he might pray as he slowly picks up his cane. Luckily, he didn’t believe in gods and knew all of life was sink or swim. That one could assume life was out of anyone’s control, rather than a punishment for existing. It made him feel slightly more at ease. Stabbing into the void of misery that the demon world was made of. Hooking the demon on it’s edge and yanking with his flailing strength into this side.

The only reason it works is because the demon is shocked by his audacity. Shocked and appalled enough to finish the job and allow the portal to snap shut behind it- him. For V can tell it is a ‘him’ now.

“What the actual fuck man!? Do you wanna die today!?” The words are a growl, whipped across sharp, bared fangs. The same wings V noticed earlier flaring to emphasize the point.

Long hair of mercury. Vivid golden eyes, like a preying wolf, set deep in his brow as if it was meant for brooding. A fierce face with strong cheekbones, full lips, painted with blue scales. The horns are interesting, the scales looking almost like feathers as they curl forwards from his head. Glowing blue veins stand prominently out from two arms, five fingers. Both legs bend in all the same places as a human despite the various spikes and claws. The wings, glowing the same cerulean, are nearly transparent and nearly sparkle with the candlelight.

“Not particularly.” V says in a daze. Not only because he feels weak, but because the demon he’s found is utterly breathtaking. Sure, the entity before is still furious, scolding him loud enough to stir the dust from the rafters, but all V can notice are his beautiful and, more interestingly, all too human features despite their inhuman coloring.

The demon throws up his arms in exasperation, and V notices one of his shoulders has a small spot of red blood from where V caught him.

“Please, do accept my apologies.” Getting the cane back under him and dragging himself to his feet is a feat in itself, but he manages it. “I did not mean to be so rough with you.”

His guest scowls all the harder, clearly not impressed, but V is mesmerized by the way his wings flex and settle into the ridges on his shoulders. Making him miss whatever it was the demon said next, only drawing V’s attention back to reality by snapping his fingers- the barrier of his summoning circle crackling dangerously when his fingers brush against it. The demon only eyes the barrier with contempt, a look V is used to, but something tells him this demon is much much different than the scavengers he usually summons. It’s worrisome.

“Hey! You paying attention asshole?”

“Apologies-”

“Don’t say shit if you don’t-”

“You’re beautiful.”

The tirade the demon was about to go on, completely derailed into sputtering. If V were to hazard a guess, the way he rocks back, wings and back drawing up and veins flickering rapidly, he’s embarrassed the demon. It’s… Endearing, honestly.

“What the fuck?”

V leans heavily on the cane, but doesn’t take his eyes off the demon he now has a new determination to cajole into a contract.

“It’s true. I have seen many demons in my time, but you? I have never seen your like before. Might I have your name?”

“Summoning me without even knowing my name?” The demon seems to get his bearings back, crossing his arms in a huff. If V didn’t know better, he would call the look sulking.

“I meant no offense.” V is quick to nip that line of thought in the bud. “When I reached into the ether, I did not expect a demon of your caliber. I aimed for something more… Base in hopes of one willing to make a contract with me.” Which, now that he thinks about it, it is pretty strange for something that exudes power from every pore to have been skulking about in the farthest edges of the demon world.

“Hmph, yeah well, lucky you- you got me instead.” The being continues to keep the sour look, but he relaxes somewhat. Not that he ever really looked worried about his predicament. Nor should he. This barrier was strong, but a full frontal assault from this demon would shatter it, no doubt. “Not sure I want to make contracts with some asshole who just stabbed me.”

V tilts his head, in both amusement and sheepish conceedement.

“Were I in your place, I certainly would not. However,” He’s desperate. He can’t try again. Black spots are already dancing at the edges of his vision just from remaining upright so long. “I am not just any witch. I do not like to make demons submit to my will against their own. I prefer a more… Mutually beneficial arrangement. If you have a wish, a desire of any kind, I will use my abilities to see it done. In return, I ask for some of your power when I have need of it.”

“That’s it?”

“That would be all, yes.”

V doesn’t blame him for looking so suspicious. He is right to be. After all, a clever word here and there to always tip the scales in his own favor, is something V has perfected over the years. The demons he summons are usually no better. Often using threats and sweet lies to gain the upper hand. This one, however, has a distinct lack of posturing despite his threats. He can’t imagine even Nightmare and Shadow allowing him to harm them without some form of punishment if they did not who he was. It stirs his curiosity further, but he reigns in the sparking questions, those must come after he’s saved his life. For now, he keeps his face in a pleasant smile that would seem far away, at best.

“There’s a catch. There’s gotta be some kind of catch.” There was, but he didn’t need to know that.

“I am willing to negotiate. I am not an unreasonable man.” Please, don’t ask for that. He doesn’t know how much longer he has the energy to stand.

“No, you’re just a bottom feeder.” The devil scoffs.

V shrugs and says without heat, “I’ve been called worse.”

The world spins faintly with the movement. V’s finds his awareness floating somewhere a few inches above his head. The grip on his cane, infused with demonic energy for the rare battle he faced, turns white knuckled as he fought to remain standing. At least his guest doesn’t seem to notice his predicament. Glaring down the barrier without truly seeing him beyond it, muttering about what a mistake this was and fluttering his wings in frustration.

It would seem that fate is on his side today, as whatever it is this demon truly wants, it must not be easy to aquirein the demon realm. If it is a few human sacrifices, there are prisons they can visit. Clubs they can hunt at for people who would spend their lives without a second thought. V’s thankfully never dealt with such unfortunate circumstances before, but high level demons such as this tended to require a steep price. He only hopes it’s one he can pay.

Despite the fog of his dark thoughts, V is paying more attention this time. When the demon glares at him to speak again, V forces his mind back to the words.

“What would you even need my power for?”

“I make many magical artifacts, sometimes I require demonic magic to complete them. I also, on occasion, aid in hunting the demons that break through the veil on their own.”

The demon mulls that over, tapping his clawed foot. Finally asking, “Just demonic magic?”

“Well,” V can’t outright lie. Actually, he might be able, but he’s not sure if this demon can sense lies. Some can and it’s a terrible thing when a demon catches you in a lie. Not to mention, lying is a terrible way to start off a contract. “At times I may need something more... Physical. A few drops of blood, a scale or strand of your hair, if you’re willing to part with them. Nothing too exciting.” He could ask for objects with much greater strength, but smaller pieces will aid him better as they won’t raise suspicions. For the times he must sell such power, well, V has no interest in giving any of his less than reputable clients a piece.

V watches as the demon paces for what little space he has like a tiger in a cage.

“You’re really not just gonna, order me around and act like a sadistic arrogant prick just because you can?” It sounds less like a real question, and more like a warning, but V nods anyway.

“I am many things, but a fool is not one of them. Every invoker that has tried such a method has suffered a fate worse than death. My only goal is to live and to enjoy my life. I cannot enjoy a good book, nor the taste of tea, if I spend all my time worried you are only moments away from my brutal demise.”

That manages to make the demon actually huff a laugh. It’s not even filled with contempt. In fact, it sounds like genuine good natured amusement. V thinks it’s a lovely sound.

“Can I put a time limit on my wish?” The demon barely waits before the laugh is finished before asking this one.

“Of course.” V can taste his victory- his very life. He doesn’t need this one demon forever after all. Whenever he decides the contract ends, it will be hopefully long enough to find something that better suits his needs “Within reason. Putting too short a leash will cause us both to lose.”

The demon flaps his wings and scowls, but for once it’s not at V. He’s looking off into the distance again. V wonders distantly if a scowl is just his default expression.

“How long do humans live again?” He muses, his expression calculating.

“It varies, but most live anywhere from sixty to a hundred years.”

The demon nods.

“You’ll have thirty then.” It’s said with such easy confidence. V can’t help but stare at the generous offer. “What?”

“Thirty years is… quite a while.”

“Yeah? And?”

“And nothing, I did not expect you to be so generous with your time.” V holds up a gentle hand to dispel the defensive response he hadn’t been expecting.

“You’ve already said you’re not gonna be a dickhead about this, and if I’ve got the time, I can waste it a bit.” V tilts his head again at the demons shrug. Spoken like someone with too much time on their hands indeed. Not for the first time, V wonders where exactly this one came from. Who he came from. Such ease with being trapped and offered a contract- V’s never heard of a contract going so easily before. It could be that nobody talks about one that goes so smoothly, but, whatever unease V wants to feel seems as distant as the stars. His foremost need to finish this is the only thing he can think of.

“I suppose I cannot argue with you…” The words slipped away as what little strength his familiars gave him flickers. Goes out.

V stumbles, then pitches forward. Right across the barrier that’s supposed to keep the devil from murdering him. Horror raising and turning through him so fast he only registers that he’s scared like he’s waving goodbye to a cloud. Both the devil’s hands and his own coming to catch him a little too late to stop him from smacking face first into the devil’s chest. When V comes back to himself enough to fully realize the situation he’s in, he’s already noted that the devil’s chest is much softer than he thought scales would be.

“Hey, are you alright?”

The faintness that plagued his being did not cease, but V pulled together some strength long enough to push himself back a bit. Staring almost blankly down at his hand where, to the unrelenting fascination of a man on the verge of death and needing one last sweet memory, the demon’s breast lay under his splayed fingers. The scales denting easily under his meager weight like any human chest would.

They both stare down at his hand as V attempts to muddle his way through his misfiring neurons.

“Y’know, if you wanted a quickie, I’m pretty sure there are easier ways to get it.” Wretched creature is actually laughing at him.

V yanks his hand back, and it’s his turn to scowl. He intends to give the creature a few choice words he won’t forget, but his tongue feels like lead and the blood in his veins too sluggish. He’s struggling to summon the energy for the proper amount of annoyance this beast deserves, when the demon leans in to sniff him. V tries to jerk back, but realizes too late that the devil’s hands are still holding him.

“Why do you smell like something crawled on you and died?”

“That... is not your concern.” He desperately needs to close this deal, but, again, his strength fails. His body decides it no longer wished to participate in this farce of a life and V slumps in the creature's hold. The devil tries to say something, but the ringing in his ear is far too loud and it drowns out the words altogether. For a moment, the demon’s face looks, actually concerned? It’s puzzling and V shakes his head to clear it.

“I need,” So much really. “My chair. To sit.” Even in his daze he can gesture towards it, the thought of where his cane fell to try and make it there came and went. Gone by the time the demon catches his chin, and, damn, he doesn’t have the energy to be annoyed as he’s fully dragged across the barrier. His tattoos shift under his skin in alarm, but there’s nothing for his familiars to use to manifest.

The world tilts, and the devil’s handsome face swims into view. Earning another scowl from V, who opens his mouth to tell him to let go. Except, that doesn’t happen. What does happen is that, from one moment to the next, the demon leans in, and V has a scaled mouth against his own.

V freezes. The sheer audacity! They hadn’t even started a contract yet and this being was-

A tongue pries V’s mouth open and the noise of protest he makes is silenced by the feeling of sheer raw power sliding down his throat. It’s not blood- thank the primordials. It’s pure undiluted energy, lighting up every nerve on the way down and throughout his body. With the surge of strength it gives him, V throws his arms around the devil’s neck, presses close, and kisses back. His tongue slips between rough lips and through sharp teeth, sucking every last drop that’s being offered.

A muffled chuckle against his lips, and more pure sweet energy flows into him. More than any demon he’s ever had before. A seemingly endless wellspring of cool clear water when he’d been lost in a swamp of insects and filth with no means to take what was needed. By the time V’s pulled away to gasp for air, the cracks along his joints and loose skin have healed over into perfectly smooth softness. Not something he’s had since… Since too long, really.

V still feels somewhat dazed after going from death’s door to feeling like he could float on the high alone. His head comes to rest against a rough shoulder while he breathes through the process of the energy melding into his core. Also to process how this random, ludicrously powerful demon had just saved his life. Either the devil has some horrid game in mind now that V owes him a life debt, or whatever the wish it holds so dear, must be something quite extraordinary.

He doesn’t get long to ponder either option, because the demon hums, flicks its wings and shatters the protective barrier like a plane of paper thin glass. Then proceeds to pick him up- pick him up- by grabbing him underneath the thighs and carrying him like a ragdoll.

V can only gape. Such strength, to have given V so much energy to bring him back from the brink of death and still have so much to spare. What, exactly, did he summon?

“So the dead thing was you then?” V, still close to his face, barely refrains from biting the smug upturn of blue lips.

“I am not dead yet.” V pushes away from him, as far as he can go without falling over All so he can give his most withering look. Which is, ultimately, ineffective as he receives an even smugger grin with all those sharp teeth on display.

“You’re welcome!”

Nothing he could easily argue against, so, he doesn’t.

“Why are you helping me? Whatever your plan is, I will only take this as charity and owe you nothing.” Damn thing has the gall to roll golden eyes at him.

“Sure, sure, whatever you say.” V is placed, a little less gently than he was carried over, on the plush chair. He no longer needs to be sitting, but it’s such a strange thing, to have the demon still follow through on this request that he remains there anyway. Pursing his lips at the sight of the demon looming over him. “Calm down would you? You said you’d help me get something I want, handing over a mouthful like that? It’s whatever, right?”

V stares again, but the demon only shrugs.

“You must be desperate if you’re this eager to give away something as precious as your life energy.” V says it casually, like banter, hopefully the demon takes the bait.

“No, just not stupid. I know a good deal when I see one. Besides,” He lifts a pale brow, still grinning. “You must be desperate if you’re actually asking instead of beating the shit out of me to save your life.”

That’s.. Fair, actually. V wrinkles his nose at the very idea of the way most abuse the demons. Perhaps they’re rather vile creatures to have on a leash, in your ear, but that’s no reason to act as badly as they do.

“I aim to take partners when and where I can. It makes for a difficult business relationship to be cruel to my familiars.”

“And the whole, verge-of-death thing?”

V sighs, grateful that having a bit more energy means he can be properly annoyed.

“A condition I manage. Nothing you need to worry about.”

The devil scoffs, wings twitching with his disbelief.

“Why summon any of us then? You gotta want something out of us, and don’t give me any more crap about it. You just said this whole thing was a partnership, but you’re not going to be honest with me about it? You literally almost died in front of me, might as well tell me what’s really going on since you need my energy so badly.”

V grits his teeth. It’s been many years since he’s had to actually tell anyone. Even his closest familiars learned about his condition through happenstance rather than his willing corporation. It is a necessity in his life to keep his secrets close, to wear the cloak of weak humanity to protect his true weakness. If it were to be made common knowledge, everything he’s built for himself- this life he lives, as lowly as it seems to many, is one he finds simple pleasure in. The devil was right about his desperation to keep it.

“Very well.” He sighs the words, and turns away when his summon leans in close to catch each one. “I’m sure you have heard of dhampir correct?”

“Half human, half vampire.” Something changes in the devil’s voice.

Cautiously, V returns his gaze to that handsome face. Looking through long lashes to assess the rapt attention he’s being given. Cataloging the way golden eyes glow eagerly with every word.

“Yes. And yes, I am one. I’m sure you’re also aware of the many benefits to having a dhampir child. We may walk in the sunlight, and have a noticeable lack of repulsion to garlic and rosemary. Holy symbols do not affect us to the same degree. We may have fewer abilities compared to our full-blooded counterparts, but it is easier for us to hide from humanity. That would sound like a perfect way to continue the race, no?” He tilts his head back to smile at the demon, though there’s nothing generous about it.

“Somethin’ tells me no.”

“Correct. As a matter of fact, to have a dhampir child is certain to ask for trouble. Each is closely watched by the magisterium until they reach the age of maturity.” V’s no longer in his basement with a greater devil staring at him. He’s lost in memories of the child he wasn’t anymore. Living in the many rooms of underground catacombs with ancient beings eyeing him progress. “Not out of distrust- Vampires don’t care enough about humans to distrust them. Many do have contempt for us, and humanity as a whole, being weaker, but the true reason we are held close is because of what we may inherit.”

V’s gaze refocuses on the devil before, finding that the creature’s face has softened. V doesn’t think it’s pity, he’s seen enough pity to know the difference. Still, it’s strange to see that, out of all the people he’s met, it is a demon with a face like a human’s that seems so genuine in his empathy.

“Not sure I follow, but that sounds like a hell of a way to grow up.”

Both snort a laugh at his choice of words.

“Unfortunately, we may inherit certain… Weaknesses of humanity. There were few others I knew growing up, but one boy developed diabetes, of all things. When I last saw him, he was studying to become a doctor so that he may have access to blood that would keep his insulin levels steady. I inherited one as well.” V can’t keep the bitterness out of his voice, though he makes an effort to. “Like a human, I cannot ingest large quantities of blood. Though immune to disease, my body still rejects any attempt to take what I need. Even a transfusion can be… Chancy, so to speak. What awaited me was a slow, painful death. Not even a full human lifespan as my body would require more blood to sustain it as I grew. So I did as I had to do to survive. I found a new energy source.”

“Life energy from your familiars.”

The demon’s not guessing, merely stating a fact, but V nods and adds, “ Demons can regenerate their lifeforce so long as they move freely in and out of the demon world.”

“So what about, right now? How many you got?”

“Three, currently.”

“That makes me fourth?” It’s asked with a grin, but there’s a new glint in those golden eyes that give V pause, but he decides to answer anyway.

“You’re asking a lot of questions about my personal business.” A few interesting expressions flit across his face. Ultimately settling somewhere between concerned and annoyance.

“Easy now. If I’m sharing a space with these losers, I need to know what I’m working with.”

Unfortunately, even if he did want to call it charity to save face, the fact was, this demon did hold all the power in the conversation after saving his life. Answering a few questions, even if they are personally uncomfortable, is a trite thing to ask in return. However, such questions continued to give the demon more and more cards to use against him at a later date. V needed to tip the scales back into something more even.

“It puts me at a disadvantage. For now you know so much about me while I still lack knowing so much as your name.”

The devil laughs, “That’s right, you asked earlier but I didn’t tell ya. Name’s Nero.”

“Nero.” An odd name for a demon. Too human. He’d been expecting something much loftier- though he’s heard worse names for demons. “I am also curious why you were in such a wretched part of the underworld.”

“Oh great, my turn for an inquisition huh?” The last word strains as Nero suddenly straightens and gives himself a good long stretch. “Have you got a place I can sit? My neck’s gonna get a cramp like that.”

Secretly relieved that Nero seemed to have gotten bored of looming, V points out his other chair. The one he’s in now is for reading through old tomes to get lost in, the one at his desk was a wooden gift that he didn’t care to use casually. It lacked the same plush comfort of this one and could make his back ache if he worked too long. Still, it’s good for something other than an annoying reminder when Nero drops it close and sits. The back of the chair facing V with blue arms draped over it, letting his wings ease out into the free space behind him.

“If you would like, we can make a game of our questions. A question for a question. I ask one, then it is your turn. Eventually, we will know all we need of each other.” V offers as he settles.

“Alright, I’m game. But first,” Nero points a finger at him. “Answer that thing I asked you about the others, then I’ll show you mine.”

“Very well. I’ve had several before you. And before you ask; Many I’ve had were only for a few years, as you offered. Others I either had to forcibly terminate the contract for my own safety. Still, others simply vanished. I assumed those were killed in hell.”

Nero hums, “What’s with the tattoos?”

“I believe it is my turn to ask, no?” V smiles serenely when Nero makes a face, the devil nods. “Why were you on the wastes? Something as strong as yourself surely would be far deeper. If not in your own territory, then finding one in a better area.”

Nero surprises him again by actually laughing- A bitter sound that would have him sitting up to pay better attention. If V had not already been hanging onto every word.

“I don’t have any territory. I might be strong, but my family’s way stronger, and they don’t want me going anywhere. So I was sneaking out to visit the human world.”

“Your family keeps your prisoner?” The words are sharp, and internally V winces, but it is strange. Most high class demons kick their young out to make their own way as soon as they are capable of fighting for themselves. Only the strongest survive in the depths of hell. There’s only three demon clans he can think of that might keep their children close. None of them fill him with confidence about this contract.

“Nah nah, nothing like that.” His flesh arms rest still on the chair, so it’s one of the glowing wings that waves dismissively. “They treat me like a fucking nestling. I’m more than old enough and strong enough to get out there and prove myself, they just keep going on about how I’m too young and not ready. Figured better to ask forgiveness than permission, right?”

That is… concerning. It makes his attitude more understandable, if he has the equivalent of a teenager in his house. Worse, it complicates things. Especially if his guest’s family really is that protective.

There are so many pros and cons of his survival to continuing this path towards his survival. The energy Nero gave him now would certainly last him a while. A week, at best. Nowhere near as long as he needs. Also, were he to try another summoning so soon, the ritual would take so much, he would have only a day or two or try again if that one went wrong. If Nero did not simply take back the energy. This opportunity he’s being offered with Nero, a reasonable powerful high class devil willing to share for one little wish, is one he may not have again.

“May you have luck in your endeavors.” He tries to keep his voice upbeat, neutral at worst.

“That’s what you’re for, obviously.” The wolfish grin he gets says he did not succeed and promised V more trouble down the line.

“I suppose I am to have no choice in that?”

“I mean, the fuck am I gonna do? Force you into a contract? That’s a real flip of the script. But I think you want what I’ve got, and if you can really help me get what I want, then it’s a risk I’m willing to take. What about you, mister master of demons?”

“There is one more question I want to ask you.” V says instead of dignifying that. Then quickly asks before there’s a quip to interrupt him, “What is it that you want so terribly that you will do all this?”

“I- '' Nero sighs, frustration and caution in the sound. He rakes a hand through his silver hair, taps a claw, then sighs again and mumbles out, “I guess you could say, you’re not the only part-human in this room.”

V blinks.

“Beg your pardon?”

“My mom was human.” Whatever had been holding him back before seemed gone now, Nero’s eyes meet his and holds his attention hostage. “My asshat of a dad won’t tell me anything about her, so I was going to do it myself. That’s what I was coming here for, to go looking. Luckily, I ran into you first. You can help me find her!” There’s a certain, almost boyish eagerness by the time he finishes. Wings twitching in excitement and hope.

V can only gape in shock at it.

“What?” The eagerness fades back to defensiveness.

“You really do keep surprising me. That is all.”

Nero frowns, but V’s back to spinning his wheels over what he just learned. He’s heard stories, unconfirmed tall tales many races loved to tell about how their spawn had demonic blood. There has yet to be any truth in them, V’s found. Either the people who claimed as such were lying, or mistaken about the nature of the other parent. At his best guess, the requirements for actually growing a half-demon within one’s body was more than race could withstand. Or the act of conceiving was so different for demonic bodies that they were simply incompatible with those on this side of the veil. As for demons, he’s never heard of any demon claiming non-demonic heritage. Much less from the race they despised the most.

“Yeah, well,” Nero shrugs, suddenly uncomfortable. “I guess you’ll just have to get used to it.”

“I most certainly will.”

It’s Nero’s turn to blink in confusion, but he doesn’t get the chance to react as V’s standing in front of him. Plucking a lock of hair and running his fingers through the strands. Each is like a piano wire, fine, but strong enough to slice through the skin if tugged just right.

“As I said earlier, you are beautiful. Forgive me for only just now realizing you are a marvel as well.”

“The fuck?” Nero sputters, his wings and eyes flickering brighter in his clear embarrassment.

V nearly coos to see it.

So much of Nero’s behavior made so much sense knowing he had humanity. It was no wonder he sought an escape from the demon world, there were many needs a human had that no supernatural entity could give. V had seen so many other part-humans desperately try to earn their way into their good graces for that reason alone. Needing that something without fully understanding it. Only to be rejected and to fall into despair. More than one person V had known succumbed to the loneliness of being an outsider.

He would not see it happen to Nero.

“You see, to be a rarity is to be precious. And I have always held a fondness for unique beings, being something of one myself.” V cups the half devil’s face tenderly. Watching the way his eyes grow so wide and his jaw goes slack, wings twitching with faint shivers. Has he ever gotten this kind of affection from other demons? It’s hard to imagine. Even Shadow, the most gentle demon he’d ever encountered, needed many years to warm up enough to show off her mothering instincts- and even she still had terrible claws.

“Help me live a little longer, I’ll help you find your mother. In the meantime, stay? Allow me to teach you more about the human world. About half of everything you are?”

To study Nero’s physiology in depth, the make up of human and demon interacting, contradicting their very existence. This was the chance of a lifetime. He could not let it slip through his fingers because of demonic posturing, or worse, human cruelty. V swore to himself that, whatever it took, when these thirty years were up, Nero would not wish to leave.

“Don’t I still have to, like,” Nero swallows thickly. “Go back? Recharge? Y’know, for energy drain and stuff.”

“Of course. I would never want to keep you from your family either.” Being around them, unable to give him the attention he craves will only drive him more to V’s side. It may take some time, but he can be very patient.

“Okay! Well, alright. Great! How do we do this then?” Nero’s even more endearing like this. Tense, but hopeful. Shy, but eager for what he’s being offered.

“It’s very simple. A small exchange. I will hold onto a small piece of you, and you will house a small piece of me. The proof of our agreement will be etched into my skin, like these.” V trails his thumb over Nero’s cheekbone. Swallowing a wicked laugh as Nero’s eyes lock onto his free hand as it unlaces the vest. Trailing fingertips down bared skin with intricate tattoos, ending at his where bony hips meet tight leather. “I’m afraid there’s very little room left for me to show off your contract like I can the others. All my bare skin is below here, would that please you?”

“You know, that quickie comment earlier? Definitely a joke.” Nero’s voice comes out strained and breathy, and his faintly glowing eyes are locked on V’s hips.

“Hm. I’m afraid I must take it quite seriously.” He taps Nero’s chin, careful of the spikes. Making sure he’s torn his eyes away from the contracts, up towards vivid green eyes, before continuing. “You see, the exchange of essence to create a contract typically comes from bodily fluids- as it is the easiest to exchange. Most contracts are, of course, created when both the demon and their witch partake in each other’s blood.”

“Which you can’t do.” Abruptly, Nero stands, a scowl spreading on his handsome face. Jealous already? V can barely keep the smug grin off his face.

This time, V’s pretty sure Nero has no interest in actually harming him, but a sulking Nero won’t want to return to him. So whatever it is he intends, V decides to get ahead of it quickly. Letting his hand fall from the demon’s face and come to rest instead over his chest. Right between soft pectorals where he can feel a strong heartbeat against his palm. For a moment, he’s distracted by the snakeskin. It’s an odd reminder that the devil before him is also human, as many demons tended to lack heartbeats since they were buried so deep within. Even in the more humaniod ones, they tended to cover themselves to protect soft inside. However the magic he gains from Nero manifests, it will certainly be different than summoning a projection of him. Griffon’s main body, for example, exists still within the demon realm and it is only his mind that resides with V. Shadow and Nightmare had no corporal forms, and it is only their contracts with V that allow them to manifest in a solid body. They instead they sleep in the depths of his soul and subconsciousness respectively.

Each of their lives is tied to his very life, and therefore will suffer whatever fate befalls V.

“Normally, I allow a demon to take as much of my blood as needed and I perform fellatio on them to take what I need. An unfortunate reality of my situation.” V tilts his head up, lashes lowered in almost a demure manner. Though he can’t keep a smirk from forming on his face finally. “You, however, I find myself not minding the thought at all. If anything, the thought of having you is… Exciting. But you need not worry, I’ll be gentle.”

V gets about two seconds and a warning growl before scaled hands grab his hips. Small fearless shivers run down his spine at how the claws almost touch. The difference in their size was turning out to be an interesting experiment. V has just enough time to wonder how big the parts he hasn’t seen yet are, then is yanked up. Once more his arms come to rest at Nero’s broad shoulders, this time adding his legs around that strong waist. Spread so wide that really, what else is he supposed to think about?

“Gentle? Please, you’re the one who’s going to need me to be gentle with you.”

V hums, and leans up to whisper, “My bedroom is upstairs, on the left. We can consummate our deal there in comfort.” A little nip, enough to be felt, to a delicately pointed ear to emphasize the offer.

Nero growls again, a sound that promises a night V won’t forget even a hundred years from now. Beats his wings twice- the first landing them on the bottom step. Another beat, they’re already at the top.

V’s unceremoniously dumped against the doorframe, and Nero takes advantage of the wind being knocked out to recapture his lips. Claws shredding easily through his pants while he’s distracted again. Nearly enveloping V with his entire body in desire to tear down the remaining barriers between them.

There’s a breathy pause when he pulls away, another growl, as Nero wrestles with the door a moment, unwilling to let go and unused to the knob. V takes over and slides a hand down. Just like he hoped, the plates have shifted, allowing for a soft slit to be revealed. A finger pressed to the apex, and Nero curls over him with a low moan. Hand smacking the door so hard it rattles in the frame.

The sound makes V’s already interested cock twitch, and he captures Nero’s mouth in a kiss and swallows the moan his next rub brings. One hand fumbling behind him. Wrenching the knob until the door is open and they fall inside.

They’re both too distracted, with Nero forcibly removing V’s hand from his new plaything, and don’t notice the bed in time. Nero’s knees smack right into the bed frame, stumbles, and catches himself on the wall. V’s not so lucky. The hard stop dislodges him and he drops onto the sheets, scraping the inside of his thighs on the rough outer plates. He’s pleasantly surprised to find that, despite the bruises he’s definitely going to get, his body barely aches at all. Nero’s energy already soothing away the pain and leaving behind a rush of endorphins.

“Shit, you alright V?” Nero again has concern lacing his voice, but his eyes and the pulsing glow of his veins scream lust.

“So much for being gentle.” V laughs faintly as Nero’s concern melts into an angry pout.

He pays Nero little heed, offering a wicked grin. Making sure to draw Nero’s eyes low again by kicking off the torn remains of his pants and vest, leaving him in only his necklace and rings. Golden eyes, well, they’re mostly black by now- The only gold remains in thin rings. They are locked onto the way his long cock bobs. Knees curling under him so he can sit up, pressing his hands approvingly over reddish black plates.

V desperately wants to see the anatomy he was playing with before. Get his hands back on it. Learn it’s every secret and play Nero’s body like his violin. An almost feral burning need to see this devil fall apart from fingers alone. It was just a matter of drawing the organ out.

The slit is currently only a slightly brighter color than the dark surrounding plates. A rich deep indigo, longer than his middle finger, softening rapidly and collecting dew. V runs long fingers over it, glancing up at Nero’s face to see which movements made his face grow slack with pleasure again, then turn back to the fascinating task at hand. Under tender ministrations, the slit grows wider, plates shifting further as he opens like the most tantalizing rose. The skin turns a bright teal color as it releases dribbles of slick that V quickly swipes back up to make each movement easier.

Nero keeps one hand on the wall and lets him do as he pleases, but is unable to stop his hips from grinding onto V’s finger, growling low when V pulls them away.

“Daamit V- I’m not some fucking virgin you know. Stop teasing!”

“Patience Nero.” V croons. “I promise to give you everything, I only want to savor you.”

“Fine, whatever.” His wings flare, flutter, and he glances away, forcing an eyeroll.

At the apex, a soft fleshy nub peeks out. A gentle rub with his thumb gives him the most gorgeous noise yet, and it unsheaths further at every swipe. Below it is an opening he dips hints of his fingers into, Nero giving him the most delicious little noises for it. Muffled into the back of his hand. Both drip with transparent, tinged blue slick that’s getting thicker the more they’re played with.

“To build a heaven in Hell’s despair.”

“What?” It’s only when Nero gasps that out, does V realize he spoke aloud.

“Never you mind.”

“If you start talking to my-” V cuts him off by fully shoving a finger inside his entrance. Chuckling at Nero’s hissed curse and the way his body clenches in need.

So wet and loose already, V chances another finger, sliding out, and pushing both back in. Nero gasps out a harsh yes. Rutting against them mindlessly, calling for V. Who sneaks in another one. Pressing in until his knuckles prevent him from going any deeper. Inside him are spongy ridges, two he can feel. Dragging his fingers over them makes Nero flap his wings- Something behind him goes flying, cracks against the ground. One of Nero’s hands buries itself into V’s hair, and V’s once again endeared by how he’s not using his new hold to make anything happen. Just clinging for dear life when his thumb met the underside of the nub again.

Nero’s dripping so much, and what’s turning out to be his cock is long, thick. Tapered head quickly widening to the point he can barely meet his thumb and forefinger. Every teasing touch draws it out further until it’s already as long as a human cock. Still, more can be coaxed out. space inside him is so much tighter now. Most interestingly, it’s prehensile.

V can’t wait to be buried in him. To feel this beautiful organ within himself and bring him to the highest peaks. When V wraps his free hand around the tentacle, he can’t help but press his thumb into the spoon-like pointed head. Watching it arch right back against him like Shadow does when demanding to be pet. Really, it’s cute enough to almost make him believe in god after all.

As much V wants him, he has a plan first. One where he roughly scissors his fingers grinds against the ridges. Leaning forward to lick over the head, tasting salt and citrus. Barely prepared for the feel of half of the cock suddenly in his mouth as it finishes growing.

Nero tosses his head back. Silver hair cresting, and letting out a long inhuman wail. Nearly breaking V’s fingers, clenching so hard. Drenching his hand in silver blue release.

V lets the cock fall away, grateful he hadn’t accidentally bitten him. His teeth already ache for the chance to tear into something, but he has no desire for that something to be something sensitive. He ignores his fangs, focusing on catching Nero as he slumps over.

“Better, Nero?”

“Shut the fuck up.” His devil gasps, yanking him up for another, much clumsier, kiss.

V had hoped that with the edge taken off, Nero might be willing to slow down a little bit, but his back hits the bed almost immediately. His cock, still at full attention, wrapping around his own and creating a slick tunnel for V to mindless thrust into. His desire, which had been back burning to sate his curiosity, returned to him full force.

Nero’s lips finally leave his. Trailing down his throat, sinking his teeth into soft skin. Not breaking it, but making sure he’d feel them for days. Each drag a hiss from him, and his teeth ache even more.

“Fuck, V,” V arches into it each bite . His next words interseeded with more claiming bites. “Thought you said you only suck ‘em off.”

Which was true. V never had sex with his contracted demons beyond absolutely necessary. That did not mean he was a stranger to carnality of course. There were many places to look for a partner who did not ask why he wore a mouth guard, rarely undressed, and only took care of his body’s needs in the most basic of ways. Often, he never even needed to say his name.

“I happen to be… Naturally talented.” Better to rumble sweetly in Nero’s ear, feel more than hear purring laughter as he licks the marks.

Although, he can’t quite keep his mind on the heat that’s building between his legs, demanding as it is. Not when V realizes his hands are so close to where crystalline wings flicker and attach to broad shoulders. The itch to touch them, catalog the feel of his feathers, to know how solid they actually are- It steamrolls over everything else and leaves him wanting.

V works his legs out from under Nero, careful of the rough armored hide, and again wraps them around his waist. He tilts his head in submission, murmuring sweet nothings when Nero lightly scrapes his claws over V’s body, seeking out sensitive places to encourage them. Keeping one eye over Nero’s shoulder. Creeping his hands up carefully, lightly, playing up sweet gasps for Nero’s benefit.

Alas, his hopes for a free grope are dashed. In one swift movement, spectral claws snatch his hands and pin them above his head. Nero, of course, only laughs at his expression.

“You should see your face!”

V sighs, pouts some more, batting his lashes faintly. “I was only trying to get a better look.”

“With your hands?” Nero scoffs and sits back up.

Though he can feel the sensation of rough hide against his skin, when Nero leans his weight on the wings, nothing else happens. V’s hands remain resting atop the sheets, nor does his blood circulation falter. They’re real enough to engage with solid objects, but not so real to cause a bother. Endlessly fascinating, whatever they’re made of.

V tries to wiggle out of the hold, but is left gasping when Nero’s tentacle tightens around him.

“Slow your roll.” Nero licks his lips with a shockingly pink tongue and yanks one of V’s legs up. “What was it you said earlier? About ‘savoring me’? Cause I think it’s my turn now.”

V shudders when this beautiful devil yanks the other leg under him, the tentacle uncurling and leaving him coated in silver-blue slick. Such a position is- he’s never been in it. There’s about a three second gap to consider the implications when Nero wiggles his eyebrows at him, positions himself and-

“Nero!”

His cock is sucked into tight, wet, heat. Taken in one smooth motion. Each ridge pops over the head and V writhes at the sensation.

“That- haa- Get your attention back on me, Mister Witch?” Nero’s drinking in V’s little gasps, purring softly and those damn vibrations aren’t doing anything to help him gather the scattered pieces of his mind.

“You’ve had it-” V curses softly. It turns out, there’s three ridges after all.

It’s too much too soon.

V groans, arching his back into. The hand on his leg tugs it up further and drives V even deeper. Nero gyrates his hips, the ridges squeezing and milking his cock for all it’s worth. Bringing him to the edge of an orgasm, but Nero’s body tightens, preventing him from falling off.

Despite Nero’s pleased chirrups, he seems content to leave V right there, dangling and needy. Letting the tentacle undulate over his stomach, around his thighs. Vaguely, V wonders if it’s some other form of marking, but doesn’t get to wonder long. As the appendage moves down, dragging itself through the mess it left behind, and begins to grind into the cleft of his ass. The pointed head occasionally caught against his entrance, adding more fluttery pleasure to his already overworked nerves.

“Wait- fuck- Nero!” The sudden feeling of a much more intent-filled prodding dashes cold water on his arousal. He cannot take something as big as his arm dry. With his vampiric healing ability, bolstered by Nero’s energy, he would no doubt survive the process. However, though he does enjoy painplay, he has no desire to be torn open.

“Sssh.” Nero leans down and strokes a hand through the slick coating his lower abdomen. “I’ll be gentle.”

V scowls at those words, tries to tug his wrists and, no, the grip on them is iron-clad. More importantly, even if he were to free them, he’s still buried quite deep in Nero’s body. Caught, almost quite literally, between a rock and a hard place. He’s not going to be released until this demon’s had his fill.

Accepting his fate, V tries to relax back, even out his breathing and focus on the way Nero’s claws are still rubbing him soothingly-

A startled moan leaves him when liquid heat pools in his belly. His eyes, which he’d closed to aid in bracing himself against the inevitable, snapped open. Blinking in shock at Nero’s hand. Something about being gentle is said, but all V can focus on is how every movement of those fingers sends little shock waves through him. The feeling of slick, not from Nero, but from inside himself, drips out in tune with the petting. Whatever magic is seeping into his skin leaves him feeling so empty.

He’s barely wrapped his head around the strange, and very welcome way of prepping (he’s had demon claws in his skin before, and V has no desire to feel them somewhere far more sensitive) when the tip of Nero’s cock is finally pushing inside.

Too much, too fast, but all he feels is that perfect threat of pain. A knife edge that sharpens his senses towards every sensation without overpowering it. It makes the back of V’s head dig into the sheets. Mouth thrown wide and the ache in his fangs, the instinct to bite and suck is nearly as overwhelming as the pleasure.

“Whoa, now those are nice.”

V can’t process anything, but he blinks the mist from his eyes to see Nero looming again. Tastes salt and citrus again when claws trace his fangs. Instinctively, V bites. Groaning loudly around the digits when relief from the aching sweeps through. Some part of him is disappointed at the lack of blood, Nero’s armor being too thick for a vampire’s fangs to break. Most of him is obsessed with lapping at the bite. Sucking down every last drop of slick lest leaking saliva take it from him.

Nero laughs warmly, playing with his tongue. He seems enraptured by V’s face when it crumbles into more overwhelmed tears. Using his thumb to wipe up whatever falls from his lips and let V lick it up.

V loses track of what happens exactly after that, remembering the rest of the night only flashes;

The sensation of something so thick, so deep, squirming and grinding against every sensitive spot he has. A slight bulge to his stomach when it pressed just right. Nero moaned freely, leaning back, shoving V in as deep as he can go. Demanding ‘come on, come on’, until the head of V’s cock breaches something and they’re caught together. The feel of Nero pulsing inside him, cum leaking out from the sheer volume.

V’s back arching. Him wailing around fingers. Fucking up into Nero’s body as he’s finally, finally, thrown into orgasm and giving him everything.

Thoughts swim through the mental soup his mind’s become. The only things that are real, are the feeling of his fangs retracting from Nero’s hide. The feeling of everything retracting, pulling away, and how empty, cold, he feels afterwards.

The last thing he sees is a vision of stripes and whorls being painted across his bare upper thighs and hips.

_

It’s not the sun that wakes him, though it certainly is an unpleasant sensation even with the protection his human blood affords.

“Hey! Sleeping Beauty! Up an’ at ‘em!!”

V peels just one bareful eye open and pinned Griffon with it.

“Don’t give me that! You’re the one that’s been sleeping ‘til noon with a weirdo rummaging in the fridge!”

The eye shuts again, and the blanket is drawn over V’s head. He’s in no mood for whatever nonsense Griffon’s up to now. Not that it works since Griffon’s talons are hooking into the threads and yanking them back. Wing beats thrashing him with chill air- until Griffon is knocked away with a pillow and an indignant squawk.

“Seriously! I don’t mind you choosing a little death over a much more permanent one, but c’mon, didja have to get such a jerk??” He’s waiting for you and being mean to the rest of us. Unfortunately, Griffon recovers quickly, and this time lands next to his head. Pecking gently, but hopping away before V can wrap a hand around his beak.

V drags himself out of bed, sighing about the missing table lamp that must have been what was knocked over last night. Although, a cursory glance shows that someone cleaned- both the room, and himself. All that remains of the lamp is the base, the cord, and the shade. Even his torn clothes were placed very politely on his dresser. As for his body, well, the only evidence of last night were the dark marks of the contract. Such a thoughtful familiar he has- speaking of which.

The contract isn’t completely black, unlike the others. The patterns reminiscent of Nero’s claws and plating, shimmering a lovely teal color when they catch the sunlight. V runs his fingers over them, feeling the faintest tug at his being towards Nero.

V swings his legs out of bed and pushes to his feet, careful when his knees wobble every so slightly. A grin he doesn’t fight spills across his face as he stretches, the only ache left in him comes in the form of one other reminder of last night. Which means he can strut around his room, unbothered by the fact his cane is still in the basement, because it’s clear he’s not going to run the risk of collapsing anytime soon. Of course, he still needs to see where Nero is, since the devil seemed like the type to enjoy cuddling, and not waking up next to him was disappointing. He bypasses scraps of leather, as those are clothes he uses for spells and to show off the contracts for various work-related affairs and not his usual attire. Pulling a sleeveless turtleneck and soft pants on before heading to the kitchen.

“No, no! Bad kitty!” Nero’s voice floats through the hallway. At least, he’s fairly certain that’s Nero. The lack of dual tones is suspicious, but Shadow would have maimed just about any other intruder.

Poking his head around the corner, V is met with quite the sight. A strong, bare, broad shouldered back. Dipping in an elegant curve to a rather fantastic ass, which was unfortunately covered. Though the pants themselves hung low enough, clung tight enough, he still got a wonderful view. The muscles flex as one arm holds a plate, laden with food, out behind him, playing keep away from Shadow. Who is being held back with the other arm, waving her paw in the air and making little grabby hands.

Of course, that was a very human looking back.

“Nero?” Sure enough, when he turns, that’s Nero’s face. Without the blue skin, extra features, and his hair cropped short, but Nero all the same.

“V!” Nero looks relieved at the sight of him, though it immediately drops into a scowl when he glances back at Shadow and goodness, his face is just as handsome in this form. “Tell your pussy cat she can’t have any.”

“She cannot because?” V sails in, noting how there’s more food on the table, dirty dishes in the sink.

“She has to wait!” V sits at his usual spot, and for some reason, feels less surprised than he felt he should when that plate is set in front of him.

“Where did you get all this?” V asks as Nero flops into the opposite chair. He’s pretty sure he hasn’t had fresh food, much less fruit and eggs, in his house for months. More often than not lacking the wherewithal to eat most of it before it rotted and wasted his money.

“Griffon and Shadow here got hungry, and I didn’t feel like going back to the demon world so soon. So they showed me where the grocery was and gave me some cash you had lying around.” He says with a shrug. Digging into his own food with a gusto he usually sees of Griffon with his favorite field mice.

“And then he made us wait for you! Can you believe this guy? Talk about ungrateful!” Griffin lands on the back on V’s chair.

“Can it feather duster!” Nero makes a face. “It’s V’s money- And his house. Of course we should make sure he gets some!”

V lets the two bicker, careful using his fork to check the omelet he’s been served. It doesn’t appear to have any shell pieces, and the green bits do look like normal herbs. He frowns, prodding further until-

“Something wrong V?” Nero’s nervous voice drags his attention back. “If you don’t like eggs, I can make something else.”

“Oh, no, it’s simply… As far as I am aware, demons do not need to cook their food, so where did you learn?” V’s own cooking skills could be described as ‘non-existent’, so his familiars certainly couldn’t have taught him how to work the stove. Much less make a full meal.

“Oh that, well, Gramps really likes human world stuff right? When the radio came out, he worked pretty hard on making sure we got one that worked back home. Same thing with the TV. So I’ve seen a lot of cooking shows.” Nero taps his fingers and, to V’s delight, it turns out his embarrassment becomes a pretty pink blush when in human form. It’s faint, mostly around the ears, but it’s easy enough for a natural hunter like himself to notice. “First time I’ve gotten to actually try it, so you’ll have to tell me if it’s any good.”

V blinks. Again, not an answer he was expecting. Perhaps Nero will stop surprising him one of these days, but, somewhere deep inside, V’s beginning to hope he never stops.

If there’s anything wrong with the food however, Nero doesn’t seem to mind. There’s no telling if he doesn’t notice something off because he’s never had chicken eggs before, or if the demon meat that must make up his usual diet is disgusting enough that anything remotely flavorful is a treat, or, worst case scenario, any demonic predilections extended to his diet. Griffon and Shadow’s own terrifying food related habits have him leaning towards the last one. Still, as V eyes the omelet, it’s not often people cook for him out of their own free will. The least he can do is try it.

V plucks up his utensils and cuts a bite for himself. Having to ignore Griffon and Shadow. Both trying to wheedle food out of him in their respective ways. Also ignoring Nero, who’s pretending not to be hanging onto his every move. Really it’s like living with a bunch of toddlers.

“... It’s good.” He finally says.

“Really!?” Oh, Nero’s eager face, soaking in the praise makes him want to eat him alive.

“Really.” He’s also not lying even. Certainly better than anything he could make. Perhaps there was something to those cooking shows after all if someone who’s never worked a stove before can make a half decent omelet from.

From there, the two eat in relative silence. Well, V doesn’t speak again. Preferring instead to enjoy something home cooked and let his familiars get to know each other without his interference. Most of what chatter there is comes from Griffon and Nero quibbling like siblings, and Shadow occasionally joining Nero’s side as he finally gave in and handed over a part of his food to her very pitiful face in his lap. It’s only once they’ve cleared most of the food away, mostly resigning to nibbling on the remaining fruit for a few more minutes of each other’s company, and a silent agreement of not wanting to clean up, does V speak again.

“How would you feel about being my boyfriend?”

Nero’s face turns a very fascinating shade of red as he chokes on a grape.

“What!?” It’s adorable, how he outright squeaks. Shadow can manage to be cute when she feels like it, but how does one manage to be so endearing when they look like a fully grown human adult?

“You are a rather handsome man Nero. In either form, but this one specifically will attract a great deal of attention.” Nero sucks his glass down, trying to hide his burning face from V smirk. “The quickest and safest way to fend off those hopefuls who desire you, will be to claim you are already taken. Besides, you are already going to stay with me. It would be killing two birds with one stone- explaining why you are living with me and preventing anyone from pressing the issue of unwanted attention.”

Nero makes a little noise in his throat, and it sounds almost like a demonic rumble and stutters, “I mean-”

“V, you can’t be serious! In looks, he’s totally out of your league!”

Both men glare at the interruption, V’s eye twitches ever so slightly.

“Griffon-”

“And in brains, you’re out of his!” Blasted bird is quick enough to dodge Nero’s fork, laughing all the while.

“Keep talkin’ chicken, I’ll be frying you next!”

“Ain’t no one gonna buy it kid!”

“Children, please.” The two continue to glare at each other, but they resettle at V’s order. No matter what Griffon says, especially since he has a habit of being an annoyance, people will believe they are a couple so long as they act like it in public. He makes sure to say as much to Nero. However, “Nero there is one last thing I’d like to know about you. If only so that we may consider a more in-depth cover story for your presence.”

Nero sticks his tongue out at Griffon, then taps his fingers against the table with a sour look. Clearly reluctant to talk about his family. All the information V’s learned from him so far can only lead him to one conclusion. Theories are not enough though, he needs to hear Nero confirm his suspicions so they can plan around whatever storm may come their wat.

“Fine, alright well,” He grumbles and spits the words out as fast as possible. “My dad’s Vergil, son of Sparda.”

Dead silence.

Then Griffon says something along the lines of; “SPARDA!? VERGIL!?? YOU SHITTING ME!?!? OH FUCK WE’RE SO FUCKING DEAD!!!” Though it’s a little difficult to tell since he’s zipping around in circles and doing more inhuman shrieking than actual words.

Nero of course takes this as a challenge, takes aim with the butter knife, and launches it with deadly accuracy.

“Your father is Vergil?” V repeats dumbly. There had been no question of his relation to Sparda. The white hair, the sheer power and humanoid figure, the fascination with the human world- Only one demon fit that criteria. What did not fit was which of his twin sons Nero was supposedly the spawn of. “The Alpha and Omega? The harbinger of not one but two apocalypses and wields the blade that severs the worlds, Yamato? Well known for his loathing of humanity? That Vergil.”

“That’s the bitch.” Nero grumbles, sulkily looking off to the side.

V’s mind spins in so many directions, two at the forefront. One, was that he wasn’t aware there had been a new addition to the clan. Sparda was such a famous devil, every summoner and supernatural being knew the name of the strongest hell-knight, and his sons were known about long before they were ever born. The story V knew went that his old liege, Mundus, wanted Sparda for entirely himself. Killed off his greatest knight’s mate, and attempted to murder the boys. Sparda, in grief, turned and overthrew Mundus and set the demon world on its head by destroying anyone and anything that could even be perceived as a threat to his children. Afterwards, it was said, Sparda took to the human world until his sons were old enough to defend themselves, then returned home with them in tow and the three carved out their own territory out of the shattered remains of Mundus’ old kingdom.

That could very well be the reason not a word had reached the conclave about Nero’s existence. The Sparda clan might not want to risk another war, even if they could win. Especially if it was true that Vergil’s child was half human. Whatever human could win Vergil’s attention, long enough to bear him a son- Honestly? V could barely fathom it. Regardless, he would have to be very careful not to reveal either of their identities lest anyone still holding a grudge for the dark knight decided this was a good opportunity for revenge.

The second thing was;

“You and I have something else in common then, our fathers are rather infamous.” V offers Nero a warm smile when his sweet familiar cautiously turns back to him.

“You see, my father is Urizen.”

This time, it’s Nero’s turn to be gobsmacked.

“The son of a bitch that tried to eat gramps with that fucked up man-eating tree? The one broke both uncle Dante’s and Dad’s swords until they came back and beat the shit out of him?”

“Not quite the way I heard the story, but yes, the very same.”

“Fuck V-” Nero points at him. “My dad hates your dad.”

“I assure you,” V replies gravely. “The feeling is mutual.”

They stare at each other for a long moment, then the most gleeful, mischievous smiles were mirrored on their faces.

“So,” Nero fully turns to face him, palms spreading eagerly over the table. “You said something about boyfriends?”

Oh, V was never ever going to let Nero go.