[Part of Vergil wants to recoil from the hand at his shoulder just like before, but the jig is well and truly up, and he's simply too tired to put in the effort of establishing his own space from Nero again. That feeling persists perhaps especially because of Nero's gentle tone with him, but it's that same gentleness that leaves it impossible for Vergil to dismiss him again.]
[For all that he doesn't really know what to do with it, anyways.]
[Historically, if Vergil found himself injured beyond what his healing ability could more immediately handle, he was always left on his own to manage the situation. He had to get himself somewhere safe. He had to vaguely tend to his wounds with his limited knowledge and resources. He had to remain vigilant for signs of a follow-up attack and be prepared to defend himself. It was always down to Vergil whether he lived or died.]
[Oh, sure. When he was still a young child and adolescence had not changed the interpretation of his condition from helpless innocent to suspicious miscreant, he perhaps could have hidden himself with some well-meaning family of humans. But there was a difference between using them for warm meals and a roof over his head for a few nights, and relying upon them to care for him. Even soon after his mother's death, Vergil doesn't think he would have tolerated it well despite how much he secretly craved it.]
[So, it's foreign still to acknowledge that he physically is not perfectly fine, and stranger yet to accept anything remotely close to help. Asked for or otherwise. His time as V had not changed that, and neither had that night Nero stayed with Vergil after Vergil had a nightmare.]
[He feels a small relief that Nero does not make the suggestion of carrying him. At the very least, Nero appears to be granting Vergil his dignity and still allowing him to broadly handle this.]
I should still be able, [he says with a slight nod. If it were under his own demonic power, Vergil doesn't know that he would be able to do it if walking has wiped him out as much as it has. But the portals are under the power of Yamato, not his. And he should yet still possess the strength now to wield it for that purpose if he managed it while he was dying.]
[Vergil doesn't hop to opening a portal though, standing there a moment to let himself breathe and allow the coughing to fully settle first. With his free hand, Vergil reaches for Nero's shoulder and pulls himself back upright by it, allowing Nero to help as he wills. The world spins again, but he leans some of his weight onto his son to maintain his balance. Vergil gives it a moment to lessen before releasing Nero and reaching to draw Yamato.]
[He offers Vergil as much assistance as he thinks he'll accept, a stable shoulder to pull himself up on, a steadying hand. He takes weight as Vergil leans it on him and shifts to stand sturdier.
It's a relief when Vergil doesn't start griping about it or trying to argue that he's fine to make the long walk back home when he's now stumbling and on the verge of hacking up a lung.
He's dreading the response to this, but has to put it out there...]
I can try too, if need be. [But for the moment he lets Vergil do it himself with no further insistence or comment.
He's letting him handle it for now... but Nero is not above whacking him on the head and fireman-carrying him home to give him the Tombstone into bed.]
[It would not be unwise for Nero to learn how to more effectively wield the Yamato. Vergil hardly possesses any intention of being separated from his blade again and Nero seems to have little interest in it (at least so long as Vergil is around), but there still yet may come a time when the Yamato serves as the line between life and death to a descendant of Sparda once more. And regardless, it is Nero's to inherit some day, and for his own progeny to inherit after him. He ought to know its power and how to properly wield it in case Vergil is not that to ensure such knowledge and skill is not forgotten.]
[But now is not that time to be so prudent. There are more immediate matters for them to concern themselves with than that. Vergil simply nods to the suggestion, not commenting on the merits of Nero trying one way or another. Straightened out, he takes a few steps away from Nero to provide himself with space to work.]
[Yamato has never felt quite so heavy in his hands before. Not even a child can he recall it feeling like this. Still, he draws the blade, slicing the air to draw open the portal. Little criticism can be given to his form. Even if Vergil's swings are slower to avoid potentially setting him off-balance again, he maintains his form. Tempting as it is to hold his breath until success or failure makes itself known, Vergil continues to match and maintain his breath as something alongside his movement. He draws a long, slow exhale until Yamato is fully sheathed, not allowing his posture to slack until the portal opens before him as expected.]
[He looks back to Nero, and waits for him rather than immediately stepping through.]
It would behoove you to learn one day, but it is not necessary today.
[It just seems kind of crap to take Vergil's beloved sword back from him again. It was one thing when he had no idea who Vergil was and Yamato was a gift given by Dante, who he also didn't know that well. Now that Vergil's alive and well and clearly attached to his weapon, Nero's not about to go demanding to practice with it like a brat.
There's also the fact it used to be his arm now, which... is weird, and actually way weirder than Nero even imagines it is. But that's beside the point.
He watches Vergil open the portal, frowning when he can see how much effort it is. The fucker didn't struggle with it so much when he was staggering out of the garage with Nero in a bleeding heap behind him. He must really be sick. But like he said, does Vergil even get sick? He'd muttered something about the damn Fox... was this her doing again?
Nero just nods at his assertion and steps through the portal. Shit will never feel less weird, but it's undeniably convenient at a time like this. He reappears in their driveway on the other side, and once Vergil has joined him he offers him that shoulder again.]
C'mon. You should sit and rest for a bit. You want some tea, or like a ginger ale?
[The portal collapses and closes shortly after Vergil crosses its threshold and joins Nero on the driveway. He spares a glance at the offered shoulder, but ultimately chooses not to take it. He'd already walked so far on his own that he is not about to suffer the indignity of someone supporting him make the ultimately short distance from where they stand to the couch.]
Ginger tea is fine, [he says, heading for the front door. Even if he's still perhaps a bit too prideful and stubborn to let Nero help him walk, Vergil doesn't adopt his usual pace and takes it a bit easier in getting there.] If you're feeling adventurous and wish for some yourself, you may add a squeeze of lemon and a bit of honey to the pot.
[He doesn't call Nero directly out for the faces he makes at some of the tea blends Vergil drinks, but that doesn't mean he doesn't notice how much Nero is trying very hard not to make any of them when he knows Vergil is looking in his direction.]
And if you are so dedicated to treating me as an invalid, you ought to return some of my books to the library before the end of today. [Because he had plans today, but it's clear that Nero will not allow for any of them.] Just bring the stack in my room to me and I will separate the ones that need to be returned from those I am keeping for a while longer.
And extend an apology to Mizu for my absence if you happen to cross paths.
[Since those plans are similarly tossed out the window now.]
[The rejection of further aid is expected. But at least Vergil's putting in a tea order. Meaning he's not gonna argue about that and try to make himself a four course afternoon tea menu or some shit.
Even he he follows it up with an absolute load of self-pity guilt shit, which makes Nero verbally scoff.]
Oh, shut up. Treating you like an invalid. Don't be such a drama queen.
[He closes the door behind them. His backpack gets tossed to one side of the doorway. Red Queen is delicately slid off his back and placed on the other, like an umbrella.]
It's not anybody's fault you're sick. Sucks, man! But what, are you gonna go to the library like this? Or be in any shape for Mizu?
[He claps Vergil on the shoulder as he passes by, on the way to the kitchen.]
Just take it easy. I'll take your books back, you take a nap. Maybe you'll sleep it off and feel better after.
[Vergil makes a face at being accused of being a drama queen. Rich coming from someone who just offered to walk him to the front door as though he could not manage it on his own, but... Vergil chooses to bite his tongue. Even if there is a slight growl at being clapped on the shoulder and he has to grip Yamato all the tighter to keep himself firmly planted where he stands.]
I don't nap.
[Which is less about Vergil being particularly stubborn and more just a statement of fact. Vergil's sleeping habits have not changed since they moved into the house from his studio apartment. He sleeps when he must, but he limits that to sleeping at night. He gets the minimum amount required. Nothing more, nothing less.]
[But if his suspicions that this is the Fox's doing are at all correct, he doubts very much that any amount of sleep will alleviate it. There will inevitably be some other kind of trick to curing what ails him, and it's most likely deeply unrelated to any sort of medical intervention. Most likely he needs to confess some deep dark secret or complete a random act of kindness or some other such interpersonal nonsense to appease her.]
[Vergil sits on the couch, using Yamato to control his descent to sitting. He's not really in any danger of collapsing, but he doesn't want to provide any impression that he's close to doing so. It feels much better to be sitting and he must stifle the relieved sigh at being off his feet.]
If you do happen to see Mizu, I do not particularly care what excuse you provide, but do not mention of any of this to him, [he says, moving Yamato to rest against the arm of the couch nearby. There's a small beat before he adds a quieter,] Please.
[There come the sounds of clinking and cabinets closing as Nero goes digging for the tea. The sink runs as he fills the kettle with water, then a click and a clunk as he places it on the burner and cranks the heat up high.
Nero then comes out to the couch, but doesn't sit. He leans over the back beside where Vergil is seated, resting his chin on his fist as he studies his poor, ill, pleading father.
His voice takes on that gentler tone again. It's the one he uses when Julio or one of the other boys starts getting outrageously fussy. He is not ever going to tell Vergil that.]
Dad, there's nothing wrong with not feeling well. Why would Mizu hold it against you?
[Vergil frowns at Nero when he asks the question about Mizu.]
That's not—... I— [It's with a huff that he comes to fold his arms and looks off towards the fireplace. Vergil purses his lips to keep himself from continuing until he can manage to speak without sputtering again.] Just do as I ask, Nero.
I'm gonna. I'll tell him you fell into a hole or something. I just don't get what the fuss is about.
[He doesn't really intend to pry, either. Didn't know it was such a touchy thing to leave Vergil actually sputtering about it.
And in the interest of not prying, he tries to change the subject before it seems like he might be.]
Listen. [He sets one hand squarely atop Vergil's head, ruffling his hair in a familiar manner.] If you want me to fuck off, I will. But being sick sucks ass, and you shouldn't have to deal with it by yourself. I wanna help.
[Vergil's frown deepens once it registers what Nero is doing to his hair. He ducks away from Nero's hand, swatting at it until Nero takes it back and Vergil can sit back upright without further ruffling. Loosened strands likely draw out more of the family resemblance between Vergil and Dante, but Vergil does not allow them to be for very long. He makes a small, annoyed noise before pushing his hair back into place, but does not give Nero an answer right away. His hands fall back down to his lap, and still he says nothing.]
[Nero presents it as a binary choice, and Vergil supposes it is. Either he allows Nero to help or he denies him. (Although, who is to say that the stubborn child will not still force the issue even if Vergil says he does not want any help?]) Vergil does not truthfully know what he wants. Glaring at them as though the answer might present itself if he glares long and hard enough, his hands curl into light fists in his lap. Everything within him loathes the idea of allowing himself any sort of dependency upon anyone else. It bristles and goes on the offense immediately, ready to do whatever it might take for him to hide away until this illness passes. But a part of him... A part of him knows the promises he's made to Nero about not handling things alone. It also knows how that night wasn't nearly as long or terrible as it could have been when Nero stayed with him after her a nightmare.]
I've looked after myself for nearly forty years. There was no one else. [Part of him wants to be uncharitable and say no one ever wanted to be there, but he knows that's not true. Vergil never gave anyone the opportunity to try. He never asked them to stay, and he always ran. And then he was so far removed from even himself that... But regardless still of the reasons why no one was ever there to look after him, Vergil was still alone.] Even if there had been, they could not have done anything.
[They would have died. And then Vergil would have as well. Simple as that.]
I'm fine on my own. [He tightens his fists in his lap, pursing his lips.] But if you wish to make yourself useful, I am not exactly in a position to stop you.
It makes sense, and it isn't far off from what Nero guessed might be the issue. Vergil spent so long alone, dealing with everything alone, he's terminally unable to back down from that position of independence and self-reliance. And when other people notice he's vulnerable or worse, point out to him that he's vulnerable-- by offering to help, perhaps-- it feels like an attack.
He can kind of relate, honestly. Nero used to be similar, isolating himself, insisting on working alone whenever possible. But after a certain point he was never really left to his own devices. He had Credo, or Dante, or Kyrie. Always, always Kyrie. But it can't be easy to break oneself out of that mindset.
Somehow refraining from going for the hair-ruffle again, he lets out a soft sigh and stands up again. Just another knot of his father's demeanor he's gonna try to untie, slowly and gently.]
I know you're fine on your own. But you don't have to be, if you don't want to be for a while.
[He leaves it at that for the moment, turning to head to Vergil's room to grab those books he was talking about before the tea gets ready. And honestly, he's not gonna get any better agreement from Vergil than "I'm not in a position to stop you," because aid is a thing being done unto him that he must suffer rather than anything he'll feel comfortable welcoming.
[Vergil glances over the back of the couch as Nero steps away towards Vergil's bedroom, but says nothing to Nero's assertion one way or another. He turns his attention back over to the fireplace, at the family portrait above the mantle. Vergil was barely older than that when he found himself on his own. His gaze drifts to the hand on his shoulder in the painting before looking to the last person who tried and he allowed to look after him. At least until... Vergil glances in the direction of his bedroom again with a quiet sigh.]
[He wouldn't be here if that child hadn't protected and carried him through to the finish line nearly two years ago by Vergil's measure now. It's simple fact.]
[By the time Nero emerges with the books, Vergil has removed his boots and tucked his legs beneath him on the couch. It's about as relaxed as Vergil tends to sit on the couch. He looks over to Nero when he hears his approaching footfalls.]
Fucking hell, did you check out the whole library?
[He... thinks he got them all. Vergil's room is, by his estimation, about 75% covered in books. Nero grabbed all the ones that appear to be from the library, with the stickers and spines and everything, and it takes all four of his arms to carry them out into the living room in four huge stacks.
One wing sets down its stack, then the other. Then they vanish as Nero lowers to the coffee table and sets down the other two stacks.]
I'm gonna have to rent a truck to bring these all back.
Now who is being dramatic? [Vergil scoffs lightly at Nero's commentary about the amount of books he's checked out.] You act as though you could not comfortably carry a truck filled with books.
[He shifts in his seat, putting his feet back on the floor so he can sit on the edge of the couch, closer to the coffee table. He takes some of the books off the first stack into his lap and begins with his neat little piles. One stack on the floor for those that will be returned and a stack on the couch beside him for those he's keeping.]
[...As he's sorting, he turns a light shade of pink as he realizes the trashy romance novel Oleandra insisted he read still hasn't been returned. It is quickly shoved into the middle of the return stack where it will hopefully remain unnoticed. He thought he returned it weeks ago now, but it would seem it got lost among the rest. Perhaps he ought to take more time to go through the books in his room more often to avoid situations like this in the future. He moves on to continue sorting.]
If it would be easier for carrying the books, the bags I use for the farmer's market are in the kitchen. They should hold them easily enough.
I can, [thanks for noticing!] but I'm still gonna need the truck for that, huh?
[Nero waits patiently as Vergil sorts through his books. He takes one off the top of the return stack, looking at it curiously and opening it up. On the first page, his face scrunches up slightly. The scrunching increases as he works his way down the page. Finally he snaps it shut and returns it to the pile, shaking his head. Is that even in English?
He turns a similar shade of pink, hoping Vergil didn't just notice that.]
If you're not too dizzy, you could get some reading in. [He doesn't need to tell Vergil that, really, but it's a diplomatic suggestion for something he might do while he's under the weather.] Catch up those 17 or 18 books you're behind on...
[Despite the sheer volume of books, the return pile is actually carrying the lead. To say Vergil's literary appetite is voracious is perhaps a significant understatement.]
If that is to be my aim then you should take a list of books to check out when you go, [he says without looking up, remaining otherwise focused on his task.] Otherwise, I fear I will run out.
[He pauses on one of the books. Its cover gives away that it's a far more modern novel than Vergil's usual fare, and one look into the pages will find it not written with words that fell out of favor decades if not centuries ago with clear, direct syntax. Looking up, Vergil holds it out to Nero.]
You may wish to keep this one separate and check it out for yourself if they lack an audio version. You may find the protagonist a kindred spirit given his equally foul mouth.
[He's probably about to make another crack when Vergil hands him the book. He looks a little surprised but takes it, looking it over. Then he opens up to the first page and skims the text, mouthing the words silently as he gets to the bottom without any severe face scrunching.]
What is it? Did you read it? [He glances up at Vergil curiously.]
[While Nero busies himself with reading the first page, Vergil resumes his organizing. With the first stack of books organized, he transfers his keep pile to the coffee table for ease and pulls the first few books off the second stack.]
It is a spy thriller. It was featured as a recommended novel by a member of the library staff. The cover and title looked a bit more like a movie poster, so I thought you might like it. I took the liberty of reading it first just in case it didn't live up to first impressions. I hope you don't mind. I just know you find some mysteries to plod along and didn't want to waste your time with it if it didn't suit you after all. But there's enough action and twists that the novel keeps a quick pacing. I believe you'll find it exciting until the end, and may perhaps even make a few guesses at the truth as you read.
[Vergil isn't exactly winded by how much he speaks, but he feels that shortness of breath from earlier. He lets out a harsh little exhale as he continues placing books in their appropriate piles. Talking a lot and with the sort of passion that always comes out of Vergil when he starts talking about anything literary appears to be just as much of a potential trigger for his symptoms as overexerting himself with physical activity.]
[Irritating, to say the least. It's not as though Vergil really talks all that much to begin with...]
Nero, would you mind bringing me a glass of water as well when you bring out the tea?
[Nero continues examining the book as Vergil... well. Exposits about it, with great passion and thorough detail. It's not like Nero reads for fun that often, even as he's been dutifully plodding his way through Little Women and Frankenstein because his mother liked them. But a book that Vergil picked out and read, specifically because he thought Nero might like it? When it doesn't seem to suit his taste at all?
There is a sweet, genuine affection in the smile he cracks as he turns pink and glances away, setting the book aside in its own pile.] Sounds really cool. Thanks. I'll check it out.
[He nods to the affirmative regarding the water. And in fact, the kettle is just about to boil, so Nero ducks off to the kitchen to take care of it.
He returns a few minutes later with the tea in the pot, two teacups, and a large glass of ice water, all of which he carefully sets apart from the book piles.]
[By the time Nero returns with the tea, Vergil has cleared the second stack and is making a decent dent into the third. Although the ratio has perhaps shifted a bit to an increase in how many books are to be kept, it's obvious still that more books need returning than those that are still in need of reading. He glances at it as Nero sets it down, silently appreciative that he keeps it carefully apart from the books.]
Assuming you did not over-steep it this time.
[What might seem like a critical remark is actually a gentle tease at some of Nero's early attempts at brewing tea for Vergil. Although really, who was the one to still choke it down to avoid hurting the other's feelings? Arguably, that one is the bigger fool of the two.]
[Vergil finishes with the handful of books he's brought to his lap before he reaches for the tea.]
[He scoffs and teases back.] It's ginger tea, you can't over-steep it. [...Also he set a timer. Those early attempts were totally embarrassing. No wonder he thinks tea is fucking gross when he's been making it wrong, turns out.
Vergil will also find that he did not add the lemon and honey, knowing Vergil would probably prefer it straight.]
Kyrie was gonna go shopping today. When she's back later she's gonna want to make you soup. Fair warning... it'll be the best soup you've ever had.
[Vergil pours both cups, setting the pot down and taking his as Nero makes mention of Kyrie and the threat of soup. He sighs a little because he knows already the matter of Kyrie is going to be a far more difficult situation to navigate than his son. Especially when aforementioned son is so fiercely protective of her.]
Let's see how I do with tea before introducing soup...
[Right now, he cannot say the thought of eating something particularly appeals to him regardless of what it is or how good it tastes. The cramping in his stomach has subsided enough that he doesn't feel nearly so in danger of vomiting again, but he is not keen on agitating his stomach again further.]
[He takes a sip of his tea.]
Could you perhaps convince her to wait until tomorrow if I do not feel hungry today? I imagine it would be upsetting to her if after I ate, I were to "blow chunks" as you so delicately put it. [And Vergil will not be in the mood to offer reassurances to her. At least, that is the implicit argument he is trying to make with this.] I promise I will try to eat it then if I am not feeling able to eat today.
[Vergil carefully frames it around the matter of his stomach and hunger because they are factors. But the real issue is that Kyrie can be... Well, to put it delicately, a lot. She feels a lot of emotions and quite intensely, and Vergil doesn't know what to do with half of them on a good day. Vergil does not know how much he is up for after already having to navigate Nero's concern to have Kyrie pile hers on as well. Especially when he knows how delicate her feelings are and how utterly indelicate he is in turn. It's not a good combination, and it would be wise for Nero to play a bit of interference if Vergil is not up for it today.]
[Yes, he knows he's inviting in all of Nero's preaching about the virtues of his girlfriend by saying as much. Even a compliment as small as that can inspire several minutes effortlessly. But it is a statement of fact that Kyrie is kind, too. How else should someone whose immediate thought was to repay him even before she'd even begun to properly warm up because described?]
Although I believe you underestimate her persistence.
[It's true that Kyrie would not likely do well with Vergil's more foul moods. Any sort of irritability from him, a forceful or unkind word, and she's likely to not just fold, she will outright crumble. But there was no amount of telling her that it was unnecessary to repay him meant she was going to let what he did for her in Wintermute and bringing her home to Nero go unanswered. Were she not so determined in her own right, Kyrie likely would not have lasted as Nero's girlfriend for long. How could she with as stubborn as he is?]
That said, if either of you attempt a bedside vigil at any point, child, you will find yourself to be the one in need of it.
[It is largely a hollow threat in that Vergil would not actually follow through on it. But the point of avoiding a big production about this mystery illness remains a true one nonetheless. Making Vergil tea and soup, and being willing to exchange his books at the library are enough and already more than he's accustomed to or finding comfortable to tolerate. He takes another sip of his tea before setting it aside to resume sorting his library books. He's a little over halfway at this point, so he may as well concentrate efforts on finishing.]
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[For all that he doesn't really know what to do with it, anyways.]
[Historically, if Vergil found himself injured beyond what his healing ability could more immediately handle, he was always left on his own to manage the situation. He had to get himself somewhere safe. He had to vaguely tend to his wounds with his limited knowledge and resources. He had to remain vigilant for signs of a follow-up attack and be prepared to defend himself. It was always down to Vergil whether he lived or died.]
[Oh, sure. When he was still a young child and adolescence had not changed the interpretation of his condition from helpless innocent to suspicious miscreant, he perhaps could have hidden himself with some well-meaning family of humans. But there was a difference between using them for warm meals and a roof over his head for a few nights, and relying upon them to care for him. Even soon after his mother's death, Vergil doesn't think he would have tolerated it well despite how much he secretly craved it.]
[So, it's foreign still to acknowledge that he physically is not perfectly fine, and stranger yet to accept anything remotely close to help. Asked for or otherwise. His time as V had not changed that, and neither had that night Nero stayed with Vergil after Vergil had a nightmare.]
[He feels a small relief that Nero does not make the suggestion of carrying him. At the very least, Nero appears to be granting Vergil his dignity and still allowing him to broadly handle this.]
I should still be able, [he says with a slight nod. If it were under his own demonic power, Vergil doesn't know that he would be able to do it if walking has wiped him out as much as it has. But the portals are under the power of Yamato, not his. And he should yet still possess the strength now to wield it for that purpose if he managed it while he was dying.]
[Vergil doesn't hop to opening a portal though, standing there a moment to let himself breathe and allow the coughing to fully settle first. With his free hand, Vergil reaches for Nero's shoulder and pulls himself back upright by it, allowing Nero to help as he wills. The world spins again, but he leans some of his weight onto his son to maintain his balance. Vergil gives it a moment to lessen before releasing Nero and reaching to draw Yamato.]
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It's a relief when Vergil doesn't start griping about it or trying to argue that he's fine to make the long walk back home when he's now stumbling and on the verge of hacking up a lung.
He's dreading the response to this, but has to put it out there...]
I can try too, if need be. [But for the moment he lets Vergil do it himself with no further insistence or comment.
He's letting him handle it for now... but Nero is not above whacking him on the head and fireman-carrying him home to give him the Tombstone into bed.]
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[But now is not that time to be so prudent. There are more immediate matters for them to concern themselves with than that. Vergil simply nods to the suggestion, not commenting on the merits of Nero trying one way or another. Straightened out, he takes a few steps away from Nero to provide himself with space to work.]
[Yamato has never felt quite so heavy in his hands before. Not even a child can he recall it feeling like this. Still, he draws the blade, slicing the air to draw open the portal. Little criticism can be given to his form. Even if Vergil's swings are slower to avoid potentially setting him off-balance again, he maintains his form. Tempting as it is to hold his breath until success or failure makes itself known, Vergil continues to match and maintain his breath as something alongside his movement. He draws a long, slow exhale until Yamato is fully sheathed, not allowing his posture to slack until the portal opens before him as expected.]
[He looks back to Nero, and waits for him rather than immediately stepping through.]
It would behoove you to learn one day, but it is not necessary today.
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There's also the fact it used to be his arm now, which... is weird, and actually way weirder than Nero even imagines it is. But that's beside the point.
He watches Vergil open the portal, frowning when he can see how much effort it is. The fucker didn't struggle with it so much when he was staggering out of the garage with Nero in a bleeding heap behind him. He must really be sick. But like he said, does Vergil even get sick? He'd muttered something about the damn Fox... was this her doing again?
Nero just nods at his assertion and steps through the portal. Shit will never feel less weird, but it's undeniably convenient at a time like this. He reappears in their driveway on the other side, and once Vergil has joined him he offers him that shoulder again.]
C'mon. You should sit and rest for a bit. You want some tea, or like a ginger ale?
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Ginger tea is fine, [he says, heading for the front door. Even if he's still perhaps a bit too prideful and stubborn to let Nero help him walk, Vergil doesn't adopt his usual pace and takes it a bit easier in getting there.] If you're feeling adventurous and wish for some yourself, you may add a squeeze of lemon and a bit of honey to the pot.
[He doesn't call Nero directly out for the faces he makes at some of the tea blends Vergil drinks, but that doesn't mean he doesn't notice how much Nero is trying very hard not to make any of them when he knows Vergil is looking in his direction.]
And if you are so dedicated to treating me as an invalid, you ought to return some of my books to the library before the end of today. [Because he had plans today, but it's clear that Nero will not allow for any of them.] Just bring the stack in my room to me and I will separate the ones that need to be returned from those I am keeping for a while longer.
And extend an apology to Mizu for my absence if you happen to cross paths.
[Since those plans are similarly tossed out the window now.]
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Even he he follows it up with an absolute load of self-pity guilt shit, which makes Nero verbally scoff.]
Oh, shut up. Treating you like an invalid. Don't be such a drama queen.
[He closes the door behind them. His backpack gets tossed to one side of the doorway. Red Queen is delicately slid off his back and placed on the other, like an umbrella.]
It's not anybody's fault you're sick. Sucks, man! But what, are you gonna go to the library like this? Or be in any shape for Mizu?
[He claps Vergil on the shoulder as he passes by, on the way to the kitchen.]
Just take it easy. I'll take your books back, you take a nap. Maybe you'll sleep it off and feel better after.
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I don't nap.
[Which is less about Vergil being particularly stubborn and more just a statement of fact. Vergil's sleeping habits have not changed since they moved into the house from his studio apartment. He sleeps when he must, but he limits that to sleeping at night. He gets the minimum amount required. Nothing more, nothing less.]
[But if his suspicions that this is the Fox's doing are at all correct, he doubts very much that any amount of sleep will alleviate it. There will inevitably be some other kind of trick to curing what ails him, and it's most likely deeply unrelated to any sort of medical intervention. Most likely he needs to confess some deep dark secret or complete a random act of kindness or some other such interpersonal nonsense to appease her.]
[Vergil sits on the couch, using Yamato to control his descent to sitting. He's not really in any danger of collapsing, but he doesn't want to provide any impression that he's close to doing so. It feels much better to be sitting and he must stifle the relieved sigh at being off his feet.]
If you do happen to see Mizu, I do not particularly care what excuse you provide, but do not mention of any of this to him, [he says, moving Yamato to rest against the arm of the couch nearby. There's a small beat before he adds a quieter,] Please.
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[There come the sounds of clinking and cabinets closing as Nero goes digging for the tea. The sink runs as he fills the kettle with water, then a click and a clunk as he places it on the burner and cranks the heat up high.
Nero then comes out to the couch, but doesn't sit. He leans over the back beside where Vergil is seated, resting his chin on his fist as he studies his poor, ill, pleading father.
His voice takes on that gentler tone again. It's the one he uses when Julio or one of the other boys starts getting outrageously fussy. He is not ever going to tell Vergil that.]
Dad, there's nothing wrong with not feeling well. Why would Mizu hold it against you?
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That's not—... I— [It's with a huff that he comes to fold his arms and looks off towards the fireplace. Vergil purses his lips to keep himself from continuing until he can manage to speak without sputtering again.] Just do as I ask, Nero.
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[He doesn't really intend to pry, either. Didn't know it was such a touchy thing to leave Vergil actually sputtering about it.
And in the interest of not prying, he tries to change the subject before it seems like he might be.]
Listen. [He sets one hand squarely atop Vergil's head, ruffling his hair in a familiar manner.] If you want me to fuck off, I will. But being sick sucks ass, and you shouldn't have to deal with it by yourself. I wanna help.
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[Nero presents it as a binary choice, and Vergil supposes it is. Either he allows Nero to help or he denies him. (Although, who is to say that the stubborn child will not still force the issue even if Vergil says he does not want any help?]) Vergil does not truthfully know what he wants. Glaring at them as though the answer might present itself if he glares long and hard enough, his hands curl into light fists in his lap. Everything within him loathes the idea of allowing himself any sort of dependency upon anyone else. It bristles and goes on the offense immediately, ready to do whatever it might take for him to hide away until this illness passes. But a part of him... A part of him knows the promises he's made to Nero about not handling things alone. It also knows how that night wasn't nearly as long or terrible as it could have been when Nero stayed with him after her a nightmare.]
I've looked after myself for nearly forty years. There was no one else. [Part of him wants to be uncharitable and say no one ever wanted to be there, but he knows that's not true. Vergil never gave anyone the opportunity to try. He never asked them to stay, and he always ran. And then he was so far removed from even himself that... But regardless still of the reasons why no one was ever there to look after him, Vergil was still alone.] Even if there had been, they could not have done anything.
[They would have died. And then Vergil would have as well. Simple as that.]
I'm fine on my own. [He tightens his fists in his lap, pursing his lips.] But if you wish to make yourself useful, I am not exactly in a position to stop you.
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It makes sense, and it isn't far off from what Nero guessed might be the issue. Vergil spent so long alone, dealing with everything alone, he's terminally unable to back down from that position of independence and self-reliance. And when other people notice he's vulnerable or worse, point out to him that he's vulnerable-- by offering to help, perhaps-- it feels like an attack.
He can kind of relate, honestly. Nero used to be similar, isolating himself, insisting on working alone whenever possible. But after a certain point he was never really left to his own devices. He had Credo, or Dante, or Kyrie. Always, always Kyrie. But it can't be easy to break oneself out of that mindset.
Somehow refraining from going for the hair-ruffle again, he lets out a soft sigh and stands up again. Just another knot of his father's demeanor he's gonna try to untie, slowly and gently.]
I know you're fine on your own. But you don't have to be, if you don't want to be for a while.
[He leaves it at that for the moment, turning to head to Vergil's room to grab those books he was talking about before the tea gets ready. And honestly, he's not gonna get any better agreement from Vergil than "I'm not in a position to stop you," because aid is a thing being done unto him that he must suffer rather than anything he'll feel comfortable welcoming.
So... that means he's helping then! Great!]
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[He wouldn't be here if that child hadn't protected and carried him through to the finish line nearly two years ago by Vergil's measure now. It's simple fact.]
[By the time Nero emerges with the books, Vergil has removed his boots and tucked his legs beneath him on the couch. It's about as relaxed as Vergil tends to sit on the couch. He looks over to Nero when he hears his approaching footfalls.]
Did you get them all?
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[He... thinks he got them all. Vergil's room is, by his estimation, about 75% covered in books. Nero grabbed all the ones that appear to be from the library, with the stickers and spines and everything, and it takes all four of his arms to carry them out into the living room in four huge stacks.
One wing sets down its stack, then the other. Then they vanish as Nero lowers to the coffee table and sets down the other two stacks.]
I'm gonna have to rent a truck to bring these all back.
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[He shifts in his seat, putting his feet back on the floor so he can sit on the edge of the couch, closer to the coffee table. He takes some of the books off the first stack into his lap and begins with his neat little piles. One stack on the floor for those that will be returned and a stack on the couch beside him for those he's keeping.]
[...As he's sorting, he turns a light shade of pink as he realizes the trashy romance novel Oleandra insisted he read still hasn't been returned. It is quickly shoved into the middle of the return stack where it will hopefully remain unnoticed. He thought he returned it weeks ago now, but it would seem it got lost among the rest. Perhaps he ought to take more time to go through the books in his room more often to avoid situations like this in the future. He moves on to continue sorting.]
If it would be easier for carrying the books, the bags I use for the farmer's market are in the kitchen. They should hold them easily enough.
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[Nero waits patiently as Vergil sorts through his books. He takes one off the top of the return stack, looking at it curiously and opening it up. On the first page, his face scrunches up slightly. The scrunching increases as he works his way down the page. Finally he snaps it shut and returns it to the pile, shaking his head. Is that even in English?
He turns a similar shade of pink, hoping Vergil didn't just notice that.]
If you're not too dizzy, you could get some reading in. [He doesn't need to tell Vergil that, really, but it's a diplomatic suggestion for something he might do while he's under the weather.] Catch up those 17 or 18 books you're behind on...
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If that is to be my aim then you should take a list of books to check out when you go, [he says without looking up, remaining otherwise focused on his task.] Otherwise, I fear I will run out.
[He pauses on one of the books. Its cover gives away that it's a far more modern novel than Vergil's usual fare, and one look into the pages will find it not written with words that fell out of favor decades if not centuries ago with clear, direct syntax. Looking up, Vergil holds it out to Nero.]
You may wish to keep this one separate and check it out for yourself if they lack an audio version. You may find the protagonist a kindred spirit given his equally foul mouth.
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[He's probably about to make another crack when Vergil hands him the book. He looks a little surprised but takes it, looking it over. Then he opens up to the first page and skims the text, mouthing the words silently as he gets to the bottom without any severe face scrunching.]
What is it? Did you read it? [He glances up at Vergil curiously.]
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It is a spy thriller. It was featured as a recommended novel by a member of the library staff. The cover and title looked a bit more like a movie poster, so I thought you might like it. I took the liberty of reading it first just in case it didn't live up to first impressions. I hope you don't mind. I just know you find some mysteries to plod along and didn't want to waste your time with it if it didn't suit you after all. But there's enough action and twists that the novel keeps a quick pacing. I believe you'll find it exciting until the end, and may perhaps even make a few guesses at the truth as you read.
[Vergil isn't exactly winded by how much he speaks, but he feels that shortness of breath from earlier. He lets out a harsh little exhale as he continues placing books in their appropriate piles. Talking a lot and with the sort of passion that always comes out of Vergil when he starts talking about anything literary appears to be just as much of a potential trigger for his symptoms as overexerting himself with physical activity.]
[Irritating, to say the least. It's not as though Vergil really talks all that much to begin with...]
Nero, would you mind bringing me a glass of water as well when you bring out the tea?
[He will likely need it once the tea is gone.]
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There is a sweet, genuine affection in the smile he cracks as he turns pink and glances away, setting the book aside in its own pile.] Sounds really cool. Thanks. I'll check it out.
[He nods to the affirmative regarding the water. And in fact, the kettle is just about to boil, so Nero ducks off to the kitchen to take care of it.
He returns a few minutes later with the tea in the pot, two teacups, and a large glass of ice water, all of which he carefully sets apart from the book piles.]
There you go. This oughta help for sure.
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Assuming you did not over-steep it this time.
[What might seem like a critical remark is actually a gentle tease at some of Nero's early attempts at brewing tea for Vergil. Although really, who was the one to still choke it down to avoid hurting the other's feelings? Arguably, that one is the bigger fool of the two.]
[Vergil finishes with the handful of books he's brought to his lap before he reaches for the tea.]
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Vergil will also find that he did not add the lemon and honey, knowing Vergil would probably prefer it straight.]
Kyrie was gonna go shopping today. When she's back later she's gonna want to make you soup. Fair warning... it'll be the best soup you've ever had.
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Let's see how I do with tea before introducing soup...
[Right now, he cannot say the thought of eating something particularly appeals to him regardless of what it is or how good it tastes. The cramping in his stomach has subsided enough that he doesn't feel nearly so in danger of vomiting again, but he is not keen on agitating his stomach again further.]
[He takes a sip of his tea.]
Could you perhaps convince her to wait until tomorrow if I do not feel hungry today? I imagine it would be upsetting to her if after I ate, I were to "blow chunks" as you so delicately put it. [And Vergil will not be in the mood to offer reassurances to her. At least, that is the implicit argument he is trying to make with this.] I promise I will try to eat it then if I am not feeling able to eat today.
[Vergil carefully frames it around the matter of his stomach and hunger because they are factors. But the real issue is that Kyrie can be... Well, to put it delicately, a lot. She feels a lot of emotions and quite intensely, and Vergil doesn't know what to do with half of them on a good day. Vergil does not know how much he is up for after already having to navigate Nero's concern to have Kyrie pile hers on as well. Especially when he knows how delicate her feelings are and how utterly indelicate he is in turn. It's not a good combination, and it would be wise for Nero to play a bit of interference if Vergil is not up for it today.]
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[Nero has a seat on the couch beside him, careful not to upset the books.]
She's not gonna forcefeed you or do a bedside vigil or anything. She'll just want to help if she can. Though nowhere near as determined as me.
[A wry, knowing smile. Kyrie will be wary and cautious about being naggy or pushy with Vergil. Nero, on the other hand....]
You can just say "no thank you." She'll understand. If you're content, she can breathe easy.
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[Yes, he knows he's inviting in all of Nero's preaching about the virtues of his girlfriend by saying as much. Even a compliment as small as that can inspire several minutes effortlessly. But it is a statement of fact that Kyrie is kind, too. How else should someone whose immediate thought was to repay him even before she'd even begun to properly warm up because described?]
Although I believe you underestimate her persistence.
[It's true that Kyrie would not likely do well with Vergil's more foul moods. Any sort of irritability from him, a forceful or unkind word, and she's likely to not just fold, she will outright crumble. But there was no amount of telling her that it was unnecessary to repay him meant she was going to let what he did for her in Wintermute and bringing her home to Nero go unanswered. Were she not so determined in her own right, Kyrie likely would not have lasted as Nero's girlfriend for long. How could she with as stubborn as he is?]
That said, if either of you attempt a bedside vigil at any point, child, you will find yourself to be the one in need of it.
[It is largely a hollow threat in that Vergil would not actually follow through on it. But the point of avoiding a big production about this mystery illness remains a true one nonetheless. Making Vergil tea and soup, and being willing to exchange his books at the library are enough and already more than he's accustomed to or finding comfortable to tolerate. He takes another sip of his tea before setting it aside to resume sorting his library books. He's a little over halfway at this point, so he may as well concentrate efforts on finishing.]
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