[Maruki's assumptions about Vergil's tendency to keep to himself isn't altogether misplaced. Even before his mother's death, Vergil wasn't particularly extroverted. He'd preferred the company of adults as a child, often being devastated any time either of his parents shooed him away from discussions that he didn't need to be participate in or seeking out conversation with the kindly older gentleman that allowed Vergil to run rampant in his library. It wasn't just because he'd liked it when they talked to him in a way that filled him with the sort of self-importance that always comes in one's youth when not being patronized by an adult, but because they also let him be more readily. They weren't like Dante or the other children who always were so full of noise and constantly seeking attention. And that tendency, that preference for the quiet never went away.]
[But where Maruki gets it wrong is in his assumption that Vergil is somehow on the brink of disaster because of his more reserved, private nature. He knows how to survive on less, but more than that, Vergil's pragmatic enough to understand if he wants to survive, he can't be entirely on his own. And so, he does what must and makes do with the little snippets of conversation here and there. Today has been such a day where the majority of it has been spent gathering enough lore that he ought to have enough to replenish his foodstuffs tomorrow.]
[Thus, the evening was his. Or it was meant to be, in any case.]
[Returning to his apartment in the late afternoon, he'd spent the time practicing his form. Even if the threats seem significantly minimal in Folkmore and he's still without Yamato, there is something inherently meditative to the practice for Vergil; never mind that it also satisfies his need for self-discipline to keep his skills sharp. After enough practice for one afternoon—if such a thing truly existed—he opted for a quick shower. It's shortly after that, when Vergil's just putting on a kettle for some tea that there's knocking at his front door.]
[At the first knock, Vergil's brow furrows and he looks at the door from the kitchen almost as though it's offended him personally.]
[At the second knock, he sighs. Although Vergil's certainly put out with his solitude being disturbed, he doesn't deign to be rude to whoever is intruding on his evening. Vergil finishes selecting his mug from the cabinet, placing it down on the countertop near to the stove before hitting the pause button on the quiet music that had been playing on his relic. Running his fingers through his hair, Vergil pushes it back to be mildly a little more presentable despite his current attire of a plain t-shirt and sweatpants. His hair is still damp enough from the shower that it minds the redirection easily enough.]
[He makes it to the door before there can be a third knock, opening the door wide enough for the both of them to see one another, but certainly not wide enough to signal any invitation to come inside. Much like before when Maruki was at his door, Vergil's brow furrows slightly as he looks from Maruki to his insulated bag.]
You again. [It's said more like a statement of fact that it is, indeed, Maruki again rather than an accusation or irritability. He meets Maruki's gaze.] What do you want?
[ It's heartening that the door opens. Maruki straightens himself, expression pleasant even in spite of the slightly uncharacteristic greeting. ]
Good evening!
[ Judging by his attire, Vergil appears to be ready to settle into that evening. A slightly apologetic expression comes to Maruki's face, even though he doesn't outright apologize. The damage is done. The door is open. He'll be quick! ]
It's New Years Eve. I don't know if you're familiar with Japanese traditions...but I made just a little too much Toshikoshi Soba for myself and Minato-kun tonight, so I thought you might appreciate it.
[ He carefully removes the inner bag from the insulated one to reveal a hearty bowl of noodles, vegetables, and a fish cake on top. The steam still pours out from under the lid. ]
It's a meal meant to bring good fortune into the New Year and one that's rich with symbolism -- To break free of ones past and to gather strength and resilience like the tough buckwheat crop.
[ Maruki places a sleeve of chopsticks on top of the bowl and then offers the bag in Vergil's direction. ]
I won't claim to be a professional chef or anything, but I am proud of how I've perfected this throughout the years.
[ The pleasantries fade to something uncharacteristic for Maruki, something softer and more forlorn. ]
It's been a long while since I could celebrate the New Year with anyone other than myself for company.
[ But just as quickly as he let that sorrow shadow his face, it's gone because Maruki has to remember the things he is grateful for. He's not alone. He'll go back to his place and be able to celebrate the stroke of midnight with Minato. He has a second chance, and maybe in this world...he can find the right path for his life to take. ]
But I digress! Sharing the wishes for a good fortune and wishing you a Happy New Year was all I wanted.
[Vergil can't help the skeptical eyebrow that rises when Maruki's tone seems to be trying to imply that he just happened to have accidentally made too much soba for two people to eat. Vergil doesn't trust that it was some sort of happy little accident since there was absolutely no reason to assume anything about Vergil when it pertained to food beyond that he most likely needed to eat. And not only that, Maruki certainly didn't have any incentive to bring anything to Vergil in the first place or speak to him again. When they met, the half-devil didn't do anything to invite conversation. Hell, even once Maruki managed to pique Vergil's interest, it wasn't really Maruki.]
[Thus, Vergil's skepticism is about to be followed with outright suspicion quickly thereafter as Maruki explains the symbolism behind the food and offers it to him. What slows it from manifesting, however, is Vergil himself lacks enough to formulate possible ulterior motives. What ultimately stops it in its tracks is that little remark and shift in Maruki's tone.]
[The man is clearly lonely. No wonder why he's being so persistent in the face of... Well, Vergil isn't exactly outright rejecting Maruki, but he's not being particularly inviting either.]
[Granted, it could also all be an act.]
[Rather than taking the offered food, Vergil scrutinizes the man at his door.]
[...Then again, if this man is somehow pulling one over Vergil, he's likely an incredibly talented actor while also having the world's worst intuition on how to effectively manipulate others.]
[Vergil's pause in taking the offered food or responding to the well wishes lasts a moment longer before he opens the door a little wider.]
If you would like to come in for a few minutes, I was just making some tea.
[He can humor this lonely human for a few minutes. At the very least, it won't create a situation where there's a perceived debt between them if Vergil exchanges something in return. And if nothing else, it would serve to either confirm Vergil's suspicions if these few minutes prove to be what he was truly after or prove there is some other motive waiting to yet be revealed. And in that circumstance, it is certainly better for Vergil to have a close eye on him than nothing at all.]
[ There's a brief moment of surprise at the offer. Truly, he figured he would dump the food off (if Vergil even took it in the first place) and then be on his way. About the last thing he expected was an invitation for a cup of tea. But it's certainly a welcome surprise and Maruki's expression brightens. He's not foolish enough to think he must be winning Vergil over, but this is a step in the right direction! ]
Yes, please. That would be lovely. Thank you! It is quite a long trip back to Leshy...
[ Which does beg the question how the food managed to stay so warm. But that's nothing a tiny bit of fire magic couldn't take care of!
Takuto steps into the entrance once Vergil moves to allow it and pauses to remove his boots at the door. Whether Vergil takes the food from him or Maruki carries it to the table himself, when his hands are free he loosens the light blue scarf so that the tails simply drape around his shoulders.
Giving a cursory glance around the apartment, he takes note of two things. The swords and the bookshelf. While the swords aren't too unusual (Maruki had figured Vergil to be a warrior of some kind) the books aren't exactly expected. Unfairly, Maruki had assumed because Vergil was a man of few words, he was also a man who didn't necessarily like words. But that doesn't seem to be the case. Instead Vergil is like a good novel, hiding away beneath a thick cover with a unique personality and story within the pages. Granted, this shelf could be decoration alone, but Maruki has to resist every urge to head over and start perusing the titles -- to eagerly look for a connection point, something they could chat about. But he'll be polite for now. He's not looking to get kicked out when he'd only just got invited!
Besides, he thinks he has a better idea at a first connection point -- something Vergil might be infinitely more comfortable with. It's not Maruki's particular interest since he leans heavily toward the intellectual, but he would be remiss if he didn't try to sharpen his skillset here. ]
Is it your preference to train alone, Mr. Vergil? Or would you perhaps be interested in a sparring partner? I know I might not look like much, but I assure you...I could be a worthy opponent. This world still allows me access to my powers.
[ He winces slightly. ]
Though my stamina is certainly not what it was back home. That's something I'm in great need to improve. It already proved dangerous during the Wild Hunt a month ago. I managed to save a few others, but I couldn't keep up against the fae for long and found myself surrounded.
[ Shaking his head, he gets back to the point. ]
But if you would be willing to offer your aid, I would be eternally grateful!
[Once the offer for a cup of tea is enthusiastically accepted, Vergil takes the food from Maruki to free up his hands for getting himself situated with whatever outerwear is more comfortable to temporarily shed or adjust. As Maruki is managing his boots, Vergil closes the door behind him and steps further back into his apartment. For now, the soba is deposited onto the table that serves as a place for Vergil to take his meals. Pressed against the wall just a few steps from the kitchen, the table is small enough to only host two although assumptions that the second chair rarely sees use wouldn't be off the mark.]
[Vergil returns to his kitchen and puts the mug he grabbed earlier away. Rather than simply grabbing a second mug, Vergil opts for teacups. He'd determined he would entertain this man for a few minutes and he meant it. A teacup would mean a bit quicker consumption of the tea and send him on his way sooner than a mug. He places both mugs and saucers on a small tray, alongside a teapot and strainer.]
It's just Vergil, [he first corrects as he opens the tea tin and begins scooping out the leaves for the teapot.] I'm not an instructor. Defeating those with less skill and power than myself is meaningless.
[While it's certainly a mark of arrogance on Vergil's part both in the assumption Maruki could not keep up with him and that it is beneath him to engage with those weaker than himself, there's also something that's deeply pragmatic about it all the same. Vergil truly can't gain much from a sparring match against a weaker and less skilled opponent. His skills don't improve from the fight and there's no pride or satisfaction to be taken in defeating an opponent who won't prove a challenge.]
If you wish to improve, I'm sure there are plenty at the schools that will take that on.
[Unfortunately, Maruki's assurance to Vergil that he could be worthy isn't enough to convince Vergil. The drive to want to improve is admirable, of course. Taking a defeat and using it to motivate oneself towards improvement is the only respectable outcome to Vergil. But could be isn't the same as would be. A lack of confidence is just as much a mark of a lack of skill as anything else. One could possess all the power in the world, but a lack of confidence inhibits their ability to maximize their potential with it because they begin to second guess and hesitate.]
[Vergil simply isn't keen on sparring with someone who lacks confidence any more than he is someone who lacks power.]
[The kettle on the stovetop begins to whistle and Vergil steps over to turn the stove off and place the kettle on another burner.]
Do you take anything with your tea?
[Vergil doesn't, but he's willing to accommodate and add sugar and/or milk to the tray.]
[ Maruki answers of the tea first, opting for silence immediately after Vergil's assertion about their power levels. He's not offended. It's clear looking at him, Maruki comes across more like a bumbling idiot than anything. If he emphatically insisted he was strong enough, it would likely only come across as a petulant child trying to insist he was good enough to play a sport against the older boys. Something that comes from a place of wanting to fit in rather than any skill. Maruki doesn't truly want to fight. He doesn't want to fit in. He just wants to protect people....
Settling into the largely unused seat, he folds his hands on the table and spares a glance toward the swords on the wall again. Maruki had only hoped to make a friend, but perhaps it was unfair to himself to try and capitulate to the Vergil's interests in hopes it would open up a chance for them to get to know each other. ]
I suppose you are correct that this would be an issue better suited to one of the schools. Truthfully, I'm not sure even you would be able to withstand my power and I wouldn't wish to hurt you.
[ There isn't a shred of pride or ego in his tone. Maruki is honest. And he certainly doesn't look at the other man with pity or superiority. It's only a pragmatic expression he offers as he folds his hands on the table. ]
But I don't precisely take comfort in utilizing Thirteen's methods to further my own strength. My power is my own.
[ And if things continue the way they are within this world, there may come a time when that power needed to go against Thirteen. ]
[At the indication he isn't interested in any sugar or milk, Vergil picks up the kettle and brings it to the teapot to pour it. Maruki is getting settled into his seat as Vergil places the lid on the teapot. There isn't a spared glance in the other man's direction when Vergil takes the couple of steps necessary to set the kettle back on the stove, but he is listening as Maruki makes his claim of not wanting to hurt Vergil.]
[Were he decades younger, it's no doubt that would have sparked some kind of reaction in Vergil. He had so much to prove back then and any insinuation of weakness was always met with a swift, efficient show of force to prove otherwise. But as it is, Vergil finds it faintly amusing that Maruki of all people could somehow hurt him in any significant way when others with more overt strength and power haven't been able to break him, but it doesn't show anywhere in his expression. He just picks up the tray and brings it to the table, setting it in the middle. Vergil pulls out the other chair, turning it so the back rests against the wall before he takes a seat.]
[He leaves the tea alone to steep in the pot, folding his arms across his chest. Vergil doesn't look over at Maruki, instead looking out the balcony that he's positioned the table across from. Vergil hasn't closed the blinds yet for the evening, allowing a view of Epiphany to still be visible beyond the slight glare from the apartment lights.]
And yet, you would find enough comfort to train with me. Someone you don't truly know both in motivation and intention, but seem to think you do after a few minutes of being around them. For all you know, I could kill you where you sit before you could even draw your next breath.
[He hums in his quiet, faint amusement. There's almost a smile.]
[It's curious, he thinks. This man seems so entirely unassuming, but he's bold enough to try and claim he possesses within him a great power. He's almost blind in his trust with a near-stranger and yet he's skeptical of the being that brought them both here. It's a curious dichotomy. But it is also terribly human, Vergil thinks. Maruki doesn't know Vergil to be anything other than human. There's nothing about Vergil that would lead him to conclude otherwise without any sort of supernatural or heightened senses, which he clearly does not possess. But he knows Thirteen isn't human. He knows she operates on rules that are unconventional to humans. Perhaps even, at times, antithetical. And he probably knows well enough fox spirits tend to be tricksters in most folklore. He wonders if Maruki would think differently if he knew. If Vergil were to claim his heritage right here and now, how quickly would his perspective shift and change?]
[Vergil doesn't experiment with it and lets it be. He turns his head to look at Maruki.]
Regardless, my answer remains the same. You'll need to find someone else among the...Star Children. [He finds the term silly, and that much is likely clear by the way he hesitates before saying it never mind the tone. Vergil looks back out at the world outside his apartment.] I'm sure there are plenty that would be eager. And you wouldn't need to rely upon Thirteen for any of it.
[Something Vergil privately approves of Maruki doing even if he won't say as much directly. His power is his own, he said. Hopefully he shall be able to stick to it, Vergil thinks as his gaze darts briefly to the katana he had been practicing with earlier. Vergil wasn't left with much choice in that particular matter when it comes to his weapons.]
[ While Vergil's focus seems to be everywhere but on Maruki himself, the counselor watches him -- quiet, appraising, and curious. He makes bold claims about possibilities. Possibilities that he could be cruel or murderous, possibilities that Maruki could have been so foolish as to enter the spider's parlor and find himself a victim of his killing blow. Sure, those things could be possibilities. But Vergil hasn't made a move to kill him. After ample opportunities to do so, he hasn't. And perhaps it might be missed, but for a brief moment, there's a spark of something beyond the friendly exterior -- a spark of rebellious determination that Vergil could try to kill him, but Maruki wouldn't be so easy to kill. A backbone where he might be otherwise considered spineless.
But even so, Vergil reiterates his disinterest in training and that's that. Maruki won't protest. He simply removes his glasses and takes a cloth from his breast pocket to polish them. ]
Fair enough.
[ The glasses are returned to his face and it's back to the mild-mannered, gentle expression again. With a quiet laugh, Maruki shakes his head. ]
Though let's be clear, I don't presume to know a single thing about you, Vergil. I can craft ideas, I can come up with theories and have my guesses...but I will never be as bold as to claim I know your motivations. And I certainly will never be as bold as to claim I trust you. The only thing I see when I look at you is someone who is far too used to being alone.
[ And maybe Vergil is happy that way. Maybe he's content to carry on in solitude. Maybe he will claim he doesn't need any kind of companionship because his books and his swords are enough. But would that be the truth? ]
I don't know the circumstances behind it. I don't know your life. I don't know what led you to follow the fox in the first place. The only thing I do know is you've tolerated my company thus far. And so, I would like to keep offering it. As someone else who is far too used to being alone. A fool of a man who thought that by becoming his world's god, he could fill the hole in his life.
[ Slowly, Maruki reaches out to take the tea pot so he can pour himself a cup. Vergil has tolerated his presence, but Maruki knows the time is ticking down. So he'll get the tea cooling to drink it and be on his way -- to not outstay his very thin welcome. ]
I will admit, the only reason I offered training is because I thought you might be more tolerant of that kind of continued contact as opposed to the conversational sort. But perhaps that was presumptuous of me, and I do apologize if so.
[Without turning his head, Vergil looks at Maruki out of the corner of his eye when he claims Vergil looks like someone accustomed to being on their own. No, not being on their own. Alone. There's a distinction there. On one hand, Vergil can count the connections he's had with others throughout his lifetime, and the majority of them are people he knew before his life was forever changed, and his path was decided for him. His mother. His brother. His father. There's only been one other, and... Well, if she's still alive, Vergil assumes she's most likely forgotten him. He hopes she's forgotten him and moved on with her life, to someone who could give her all the things he was never capable of giving her in the first place. On the other...]
[Vergil looks away again as Maruki continues, pouring himself his serving of tea. He opts to close his eyes for a moment, focusing on the scent of the tea as the warm, woody notes of the Rooibos tea rises from Maruki's cup. It's a sweeter blend with cacao and caramel to balance the nuttier and smokier flavoring. Perfect for a cold winter day.]
[Strange as it is to consider, it seems that Vergil and Maruki are cut from a similar cloth to one another if what Maruki claims is true. Vergil was never trying to abate his loneliness. He learned first to tolerate it, survive it, and then thrive within it. But he tried so hard for so long to use power as a means of eliminating that weakness and vulnerability he so feared and dread to ever feel again. It could have very well driven him to madness or worse, but in all his philosophies and attempts to protect himself and what he had... Vergil had only known loss. Again and again.]
I have spent the past two and a half decades in the Underworld. [He opens his eyes, turning his head to look at Maruki again. Continuing, he sounds almost as though he were scolding Maruki, agreeing that it was presumptuous on Maruki's part when he says,] I'm not averse to conversation.
[Vergil pauses before he adds, a little gentler,] It's simply rare amid the filth of that place that you will find anything akin to intelligence.
[It's the closest Vergil is willing to be in saying that he's not accustomed to conversation and hasn't been in a very long time. He brushes past the admission quickly, turning in his seat to pour himself his own cup of tea, he continues,]
Being on my own is of little consequence to me and I won't abide pity. So, if your intentions are to make me feel better, it's a matter that doesn't bother or pain me. Or if you've concerns I might starve to death in this place, I know what it takes to survive and manage fine on my own within the parameters Thirteen has set. But if you're looking to ease your own loneliness...
[He sets the teapot down and places the strainer back down near the center of the tray. He moves his teacup from the tray to the table in front of him before settling back to his original position. This time, he rests a forearm on the edge of the table as he looks back out toward the balcony.]
There are others who would likely make for better company.
[ Two and a half decades in the Underworld. Two and a half. Twenty-five years. Maruki's expression is one of surprise, initially. The Underworld could mean a lot of things. It could be true that Vergil comes from no version of Earth and this is something different to him. It could also be true the Underworld is a version of hell -- and that's where Maruki's initial thoughts land, reinforced by Vergil's confession about the filth and lack of intelligence found therein. Where Maruki's surprised expression goes from there is oddly to one of warmth. It would be easy to feel sympathy for Vergil -- to assume it must have been dire circumstances that led him to live his life in the Underworld. Maruki could get wrapped up in his bleeding heart because he does feel awful that anyone should have to live that way.
But Vergil shared with him. Vergil shared this one truth about his life. He wasn't forced. After their initial meeting and Vergil's refusal to even confirm or deny whether Maruki's guesses were correct, Maruki never thought Vergil would part with any sort of information without a great deal of arm twisting or questioning that bordered the edge of annoyance. Certainly, he never expected anything unprompted. And Maruki cannot hide the warm appreciation at receiving even a sliver of insight into the other.
He gently lifts his tea, parting the steam with a gentle breath before taking a sip. What a unique and delectable blend! ]
While that may be true in regards to quote unquote "better company," I hardly find yours unpleasant.
[ The cup is returned to the table and he looks up at Vergil. ]
If there have to be intentions of any sort assigned to this, why not consider it a mutually beneficial arrangement? Since lore is the currency, we both stand to gain from any interaction. It certainly sounds better than you merely tolerating the company of a lonely man.
[ There's a soft, throaty laugh as his eyes return to the tea -- tracing the tendrils of vapor as they rise up into the air. ]
Hm, I know! I love trying new recipes and I can tell you have quite the discerning palate -- so what if I cooked you dinner once a week and you gave me your feedback? You can criticize me as harsh and brutally as you wish -- the lore is not nearly as discerning!
[At Maruki's proposition, Vergil spares a glance in the direction of the gifted soba that he's yet to even touch. He likely wasn't trying to seek Vergil's consent for something as extensive as his opinions on the food, but Vergil finds it likely that his acceptance or rejection of the soba would have served as some form of consent for a similar arrangement. It brings to alert some old instincts quickly because it seems a great deal of effort for...? That's the part Vergil finds himself having a difficult time making sense of no matter how hard he tries. Maruki hasn't made his intentions known at all even if Vergil has the sense that if he were to call him out on it, he'd deny that being the case. But it is. The devil knows it for certain because whatever intentions Vergil speculates upon aloud, Maruki doesn't deny them. But neither does he truly acknowledge it as the reason either.]
[Vergil hums thoughtfully.]
Very well. [He looks at Maruki. He doesn't know this man's intentions truly. Not enough to completely rule him out as a potential threat that Vergil cannot see just yet because of his own assumptions. But it's better to keep someone like this closer at his own choice than the alternative.] Once a week.
[Vergil meant what he said about not being one for pity, and he's not about to tolerate several meals per week being provided to him. He also lets his tone imply this counts for this week before Maruki goes and gets any ideas.]
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no subject
[But where Maruki gets it wrong is in his assumption that Vergil is somehow on the brink of disaster because of his more reserved, private nature. He knows how to survive on less, but more than that, Vergil's pragmatic enough to understand if he wants to survive, he can't be entirely on his own. And so, he does what must and makes do with the little snippets of conversation here and there. Today has been such a day where the majority of it has been spent gathering enough lore that he ought to have enough to replenish his foodstuffs tomorrow.]
[Thus, the evening was his. Or it was meant to be, in any case.]
[Returning to his apartment in the late afternoon, he'd spent the time practicing his form. Even if the threats seem significantly minimal in Folkmore and he's still without Yamato, there is something inherently meditative to the practice for Vergil; never mind that it also satisfies his need for self-discipline to keep his skills sharp. After enough practice for one afternoon—if such a thing truly existed—he opted for a quick shower. It's shortly after that, when Vergil's just putting on a kettle for some tea that there's knocking at his front door.]
[At the first knock, Vergil's brow furrows and he looks at the door from the kitchen almost as though it's offended him personally.]
[At the second knock, he sighs. Although Vergil's certainly put out with his solitude being disturbed, he doesn't deign to be rude to whoever is intruding on his evening. Vergil finishes selecting his mug from the cabinet, placing it down on the countertop near to the stove before hitting the pause button on the quiet music that had been playing on his relic. Running his fingers through his hair, Vergil pushes it back to be mildly a little more presentable despite his current attire of a plain t-shirt and sweatpants. His hair is still damp enough from the shower that it minds the redirection easily enough.]
[He makes it to the door before there can be a third knock, opening the door wide enough for the both of them to see one another, but certainly not wide enough to signal any invitation to come inside. Much like before when Maruki was at his door, Vergil's brow furrows slightly as he looks from Maruki to his insulated bag.]
You again. [It's said more like a statement of fact that it is, indeed, Maruki again rather than an accusation or irritability. He meets Maruki's gaze.] What do you want?
no subject
Good evening!
[ Judging by his attire, Vergil appears to be ready to settle into that evening. A slightly apologetic expression comes to Maruki's face, even though he doesn't outright apologize. The damage is done. The door is open. He'll be quick! ]
It's New Years Eve. I don't know if you're familiar with Japanese traditions...but I made just a little too much Toshikoshi Soba for myself and Minato-kun tonight, so I thought you might appreciate it.
[ He carefully removes the inner bag from the insulated one to reveal a hearty bowl of noodles, vegetables, and a fish cake on top. The steam still pours out from under the lid. ]
It's a meal meant to bring good fortune into the New Year and one that's rich with symbolism -- To break free of ones past and to gather strength and resilience like the tough buckwheat crop.
[ Maruki places a sleeve of chopsticks on top of the bowl and then offers the bag in Vergil's direction. ]
I won't claim to be a professional chef or anything, but I am proud of how I've perfected this throughout the years.
[ The pleasantries fade to something uncharacteristic for Maruki, something softer and more forlorn. ]
It's been a long while since I could celebrate the New Year with anyone other than myself for company.
[ But just as quickly as he let that sorrow shadow his face, it's gone because Maruki has to remember the things he is grateful for. He's not alone. He'll go back to his place and be able to celebrate the stroke of midnight with Minato. He has a second chance, and maybe in this world...he can find the right path for his life to take. ]
But I digress! Sharing the wishes for a good fortune and wishing you a Happy New Year was all I wanted.
no subject
[Thus, Vergil's skepticism is about to be followed with outright suspicion quickly thereafter as Maruki explains the symbolism behind the food and offers it to him. What slows it from manifesting, however, is Vergil himself lacks enough to formulate possible ulterior motives. What ultimately stops it in its tracks is that little remark and shift in Maruki's tone.]
[The man is clearly lonely. No wonder why he's being so persistent in the face of... Well, Vergil isn't exactly outright rejecting Maruki, but he's not being particularly inviting either.]
[Granted, it could also all be an act.]
[Rather than taking the offered food, Vergil scrutinizes the man at his door.]
[...Then again, if this man is somehow pulling one over Vergil, he's likely an incredibly talented actor while also having the world's worst intuition on how to effectively manipulate others.]
[Vergil's pause in taking the offered food or responding to the well wishes lasts a moment longer before he opens the door a little wider.]
If you would like to come in for a few minutes, I was just making some tea.
[He can humor this lonely human for a few minutes. At the very least, it won't create a situation where there's a perceived debt between them if Vergil exchanges something in return. And if nothing else, it would serve to either confirm Vergil's suspicions if these few minutes prove to be what he was truly after or prove there is some other motive waiting to yet be revealed. And in that circumstance, it is certainly better for Vergil to have a close eye on him than nothing at all.]
no subject
Yes, please. That would be lovely. Thank you! It is quite a long trip back to Leshy...
[ Which does beg the question how the food managed to stay so warm. But that's nothing a tiny bit of fire magic couldn't take care of!
Takuto steps into the entrance once Vergil moves to allow it and pauses to remove his boots at the door. Whether Vergil takes the food from him or Maruki carries it to the table himself, when his hands are free he loosens the light blue scarf so that the tails simply drape around his shoulders.
Giving a cursory glance around the apartment, he takes note of two things. The swords and the bookshelf. While the swords aren't too unusual (Maruki had figured Vergil to be a warrior of some kind) the books aren't exactly expected. Unfairly, Maruki had assumed because Vergil was a man of few words, he was also a man who didn't necessarily like words. But that doesn't seem to be the case. Instead Vergil is like a good novel, hiding away beneath a thick cover with a unique personality and story within the pages. Granted, this shelf could be decoration alone, but Maruki has to resist every urge to head over and start perusing the titles -- to eagerly look for a connection point, something they could chat about. But he'll be polite for now. He's not looking to get kicked out when he'd only just got invited!
Besides, he thinks he has a better idea at a first connection point -- something Vergil might be infinitely more comfortable with. It's not Maruki's particular interest since he leans heavily toward the intellectual, but he would be remiss if he didn't try to sharpen his skillset here. ]
Is it your preference to train alone, Mr. Vergil? Or would you perhaps be interested in a sparring partner? I know I might not look like much, but I assure you...I could be a worthy opponent. This world still allows me access to my powers.
[ He winces slightly. ]
Though my stamina is certainly not what it was back home. That's something I'm in great need to improve. It already proved dangerous during the Wild Hunt a month ago. I managed to save a few others, but I couldn't keep up against the fae for long and found myself surrounded.
[ Shaking his head, he gets back to the point. ]
But if you would be willing to offer your aid, I would be eternally grateful!
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[Vergil returns to his kitchen and puts the mug he grabbed earlier away. Rather than simply grabbing a second mug, Vergil opts for teacups. He'd determined he would entertain this man for a few minutes and he meant it. A teacup would mean a bit quicker consumption of the tea and send him on his way sooner than a mug. He places both mugs and saucers on a small tray, alongside a teapot and strainer.]
It's just Vergil, [he first corrects as he opens the tea tin and begins scooping out the leaves for the teapot.] I'm not an instructor. Defeating those with less skill and power than myself is meaningless.
[While it's certainly a mark of arrogance on Vergil's part both in the assumption Maruki could not keep up with him and that it is beneath him to engage with those weaker than himself, there's also something that's deeply pragmatic about it all the same. Vergil truly can't gain much from a sparring match against a weaker and less skilled opponent. His skills don't improve from the fight and there's no pride or satisfaction to be taken in defeating an opponent who won't prove a challenge.]
If you wish to improve, I'm sure there are plenty at the schools that will take that on.
[Unfortunately, Maruki's assurance to Vergil that he could be worthy isn't enough to convince Vergil. The drive to want to improve is admirable, of course. Taking a defeat and using it to motivate oneself towards improvement is the only respectable outcome to Vergil. But could be isn't the same as would be. A lack of confidence is just as much a mark of a lack of skill as anything else. One could possess all the power in the world, but a lack of confidence inhibits their ability to maximize their potential with it because they begin to second guess and hesitate.]
[Vergil simply isn't keen on sparring with someone who lacks confidence any more than he is someone who lacks power.]
[The kettle on the stovetop begins to whistle and Vergil steps over to turn the stove off and place the kettle on another burner.]
Do you take anything with your tea?
[Vergil doesn't, but he's willing to accommodate and add sugar and/or milk to the tray.]
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[ Maruki answers of the tea first, opting for silence immediately after Vergil's assertion about their power levels. He's not offended. It's clear looking at him, Maruki comes across more like a bumbling idiot than anything. If he emphatically insisted he was strong enough, it would likely only come across as a petulant child trying to insist he was good enough to play a sport against the older boys. Something that comes from a place of wanting to fit in rather than any skill. Maruki doesn't truly want to fight. He doesn't want to fit in. He just wants to protect people....
Settling into the largely unused seat, he folds his hands on the table and spares a glance toward the swords on the wall again. Maruki had only hoped to make a friend, but perhaps it was unfair to himself to try and capitulate to the Vergil's interests in hopes it would open up a chance for them to get to know each other. ]
I suppose you are correct that this would be an issue better suited to one of the schools. Truthfully, I'm not sure even you would be able to withstand my power and I wouldn't wish to hurt you.
[ There isn't a shred of pride or ego in his tone. Maruki is honest. And he certainly doesn't look at the other man with pity or superiority. It's only a pragmatic expression he offers as he folds his hands on the table. ]
But I don't precisely take comfort in utilizing Thirteen's methods to further my own strength. My power is my own.
[ And if things continue the way they are within this world, there may come a time when that power needed to go against Thirteen. ]
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[Were he decades younger, it's no doubt that would have sparked some kind of reaction in Vergil. He had so much to prove back then and any insinuation of weakness was always met with a swift, efficient show of force to prove otherwise. But as it is, Vergil finds it faintly amusing that Maruki of all people could somehow hurt him in any significant way when others with more overt strength and power haven't been able to break him, but it doesn't show anywhere in his expression. He just picks up the tray and brings it to the table, setting it in the middle. Vergil pulls out the other chair, turning it so the back rests against the wall before he takes a seat.]
[He leaves the tea alone to steep in the pot, folding his arms across his chest. Vergil doesn't look over at Maruki, instead looking out the balcony that he's positioned the table across from. Vergil hasn't closed the blinds yet for the evening, allowing a view of Epiphany to still be visible beyond the slight glare from the apartment lights.]
And yet, you would find enough comfort to train with me. Someone you don't truly know both in motivation and intention, but seem to think you do after a few minutes of being around them. For all you know, I could kill you where you sit before you could even draw your next breath.
[He hums in his quiet, faint amusement. There's almost a smile.]
[It's curious, he thinks. This man seems so entirely unassuming, but he's bold enough to try and claim he possesses within him a great power. He's almost blind in his trust with a near-stranger and yet he's skeptical of the being that brought them both here. It's a curious dichotomy. But it is also terribly human, Vergil thinks. Maruki doesn't know Vergil to be anything other than human. There's nothing about Vergil that would lead him to conclude otherwise without any sort of supernatural or heightened senses, which he clearly does not possess. But he knows Thirteen isn't human. He knows she operates on rules that are unconventional to humans. Perhaps even, at times, antithetical. And he probably knows well enough fox spirits tend to be tricksters in most folklore. He wonders if Maruki would think differently if he knew. If Vergil were to claim his heritage right here and now, how quickly would his perspective shift and change?]
[Vergil doesn't experiment with it and lets it be. He turns his head to look at Maruki.]
Regardless, my answer remains the same. You'll need to find someone else among the...Star Children. [He finds the term silly, and that much is likely clear by the way he hesitates before saying it never mind the tone. Vergil looks back out at the world outside his apartment.] I'm sure there are plenty that would be eager. And you wouldn't need to rely upon Thirteen for any of it.
[Something Vergil privately approves of Maruki doing even if he won't say as much directly. His power is his own, he said. Hopefully he shall be able to stick to it, Vergil thinks as his gaze darts briefly to the katana he had been practicing with earlier. Vergil wasn't left with much choice in that particular matter when it comes to his weapons.]
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But even so, Vergil reiterates his disinterest in training and that's that. Maruki won't protest. He simply removes his glasses and takes a cloth from his breast pocket to polish them. ]
Fair enough.
[ The glasses are returned to his face and it's back to the mild-mannered, gentle expression again. With a quiet laugh, Maruki shakes his head. ]
Though let's be clear, I don't presume to know a single thing about you, Vergil. I can craft ideas, I can come up with theories and have my guesses...but I will never be as bold as to claim I know your motivations. And I certainly will never be as bold as to claim I trust you. The only thing I see when I look at you is someone who is far too used to being alone.
[ And maybe Vergil is happy that way. Maybe he's content to carry on in solitude. Maybe he will claim he doesn't need any kind of companionship because his books and his swords are enough. But would that be the truth? ]
I don't know the circumstances behind it. I don't know your life. I don't know what led you to follow the fox in the first place. The only thing I do know is you've tolerated my company thus far. And so, I would like to keep offering it. As someone else who is far too used to being alone. A fool of a man who thought that by becoming his world's god, he could fill the hole in his life.
[ Slowly, Maruki reaches out to take the tea pot so he can pour himself a cup. Vergil has tolerated his presence, but Maruki knows the time is ticking down. So he'll get the tea cooling to drink it and be on his way -- to not outstay his very thin welcome. ]
I will admit, the only reason I offered training is because I thought you might be more tolerant of that kind of continued contact as opposed to the conversational sort. But perhaps that was presumptuous of me, and I do apologize if so.
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[Vergil looks away again as Maruki continues, pouring himself his serving of tea. He opts to close his eyes for a moment, focusing on the scent of the tea as the warm, woody notes of the Rooibos tea rises from Maruki's cup. It's a sweeter blend with cacao and caramel to balance the nuttier and smokier flavoring. Perfect for a cold winter day.]
[Strange as it is to consider, it seems that Vergil and Maruki are cut from a similar cloth to one another if what Maruki claims is true. Vergil was never trying to abate his loneliness. He learned first to tolerate it, survive it, and then thrive within it. But he tried so hard for so long to use power as a means of eliminating that weakness and vulnerability he so feared and dread to ever feel again. It could have very well driven him to madness or worse, but in all his philosophies and attempts to protect himself and what he had... Vergil had only known loss. Again and again.]
I have spent the past two and a half decades in the Underworld. [He opens his eyes, turning his head to look at Maruki again. Continuing, he sounds almost as though he were scolding Maruki, agreeing that it was presumptuous on Maruki's part when he says,] I'm not averse to conversation.
[Vergil pauses before he adds, a little gentler,] It's simply rare amid the filth of that place that you will find anything akin to intelligence.
[It's the closest Vergil is willing to be in saying that he's not accustomed to conversation and hasn't been in a very long time. He brushes past the admission quickly, turning in his seat to pour himself his own cup of tea, he continues,]
Being on my own is of little consequence to me and I won't abide pity. So, if your intentions are to make me feel better, it's a matter that doesn't bother or pain me. Or if you've concerns I might starve to death in this place, I know what it takes to survive and manage fine on my own within the parameters Thirteen has set. But if you're looking to ease your own loneliness...
[He sets the teapot down and places the strainer back down near the center of the tray. He moves his teacup from the tray to the table in front of him before settling back to his original position. This time, he rests a forearm on the edge of the table as he looks back out toward the balcony.]
There are others who would likely make for better company.
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But Vergil shared with him. Vergil shared this one truth about his life. He wasn't forced. After their initial meeting and Vergil's refusal to even confirm or deny whether Maruki's guesses were correct, Maruki never thought Vergil would part with any sort of information without a great deal of arm twisting or questioning that bordered the edge of annoyance. Certainly, he never expected anything unprompted. And Maruki cannot hide the warm appreciation at receiving even a sliver of insight into the other.
He gently lifts his tea, parting the steam with a gentle breath before taking a sip. What a unique and delectable blend! ]
While that may be true in regards to quote unquote "better company," I hardly find yours unpleasant.
[ The cup is returned to the table and he looks up at Vergil. ]
If there have to be intentions of any sort assigned to this, why not consider it a mutually beneficial arrangement? Since lore is the currency, we both stand to gain from any interaction. It certainly sounds better than you merely tolerating the company of a lonely man.
[ There's a soft, throaty laugh as his eyes return to the tea -- tracing the tendrils of vapor as they rise up into the air. ]
Hm, I know! I love trying new recipes and I can tell you have quite the discerning palate -- so what if I cooked you dinner once a week and you gave me your feedback? You can criticize me as harsh and brutally as you wish -- the lore is not nearly as discerning!
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[Vergil hums thoughtfully.]
Very well. [He looks at Maruki. He doesn't know this man's intentions truly. Not enough to completely rule him out as a potential threat that Vergil cannot see just yet because of his own assumptions. But it's better to keep someone like this closer at his own choice than the alternative.] Once a week.
[Vergil meant what he said about not being one for pity, and he's not about to tolerate several meals per week being provided to him. He also lets his tone imply this counts for this week before Maruki goes and gets any ideas.]