First Encounters  //  By: TMB

Prologue

Location: Bernstein- Faulk Excavation Site: Immaculate Lake, Sahara Desert

Pro. Bernstein, a balding middle-aged man, emerged from his tent, letting the sun’s early rays wash his face with warmth. Today seemed very special; he could feel it in his very soul. Today he was going to make history. After 4 months of endless searching and digging, he finally found Immaculate Lake; the supposed resting place of Hermes Trismegistus, the Father of Alchemy.

Bernstein: Of course it took 5 years to get funding, if it wasn’t for Dr. Faulk, I’d never be even out here. Only she believed me, only she understands the importance of this find. Finally the secrets of Alchemy could be answered!

Thoughts raced through the professor’s mind as he passed workers, hired natives of this part of the desert. They had been working very diligently and very productive, he still wondered how Faulk could have arranged everything so well…

The tattooed, bald beauty sat quietly in the shade at the entrance, to the tunnel her men had just uncovered last night. She watched as men were busy moving in and out, hauling loose rock and dirt. A wind kicked up, pulling at her long maroon dress. Odd clothes for someone in the desert. The dark red liquid she was drinking went down nice and smooth.

Faulk:…1200 A.D. ah, a very good year indeed…and today is shall be a very good day as well.

Her whole body shivered in excitement, she had been waiting a very long time for this moment, and now it was about to happen. It took her entire will power, not to jump around with joy. She just quietly sat and waited. It didn’t take long for her to wait, Pro. Bernstein approached , sweating heavily from the heat. Dr. Faulk stood up and gave him a warm smile.

Bernstein: Have you been out here this whole time?

Faulk: Of course, I couldn’t wait. Aren’t you just as excited?

That strange accent of hers always had a stimulating affect on Bernstein, he wish he knew where she came from. But she always just refers to her homeland, as “the dead country” Must have came from one of the many small countries that had been either wiped out of swallowed whole by other countries these past few decades.

Bernstein: Why of course I am! Well shall we go and make history?

Faulk: Yes…(taking his arm into hers)…lets make history.

Bernstein:……

Bernstein looked into her eyes and was lost deep in them together they entered the tunnel. The workers had carved out a nice sizable portion, made so that people could easily walk back and forth to the site and to the outside. Lights hung from the ceiling, lighting their way. After a few meters the tunnel opened up, into a small cavern. Lights, generators, and workers busied themselves about, cutting away at the walls. One worker shouted out in his native tongue that he had found something. All the others gathered around, and began chipping away, until they revealed what everyone had hoped was here; a large stone door.
Everyone stepped back in amazement at the stone structure. Strange blue glowing script was ringed about the door. Slowing the script turned, each ring moving opposite from each other.

Faulk:…(smiling)

Bernstein:…Oh..my god…this is it….

Faulk causally walked over towards the door, she plucked one of the pickaxes from a worker and with one mighty swing, she drove it straight into the center of the door. Bernstein froze.

Bernstein: Are you craz…

He never finished his sentence; the script on the door abruptly stopped, the glow dying out. Cracks, blossomed from where the pickaxe hit center. The whole cavern started to growl, shaking, knocking people to the ground. One worker tried to make a run for it, but was struck by one of the lights stationed about; he died instantly. Rocks from the ceiling rained down on everyone, some managed to avoided them, some didn’t. Before Bernstein blacked out, he swore he saw Dr. Faulk standing there unaffected, as pieces of ceiling bounced of her, as if they were nothing but snowflakes.

Bernstein: (groaning)…uh..what happened?

Then he remembered…Faulk. He slowly got to his feet, something warm flowed down the back of his head. He reached back and felt something wet, didn’t take him long to figure out what it was. His body ached all over, some places he knew he was bruised, maybe even internal injuries. The injured professor staggered about. Lights winked on and off, sparks flew from a few smashed generators; and all around, were bodies. The poor souls who were unlucky enough to avoid the stoney hail storm. Those who had survived must have escaped. Escape seemed logical, but not when he had came so close. Bernstein looked towards the door, only to find that it was completely pulverized. Piles of dust were all that remained. As best as he could, Bernstein managed his way towards the entrance. Injured or not, he had to make history. Falling through, he landed on a smooth cool surface. He looked to find himself in a cavern, no a room; carved out in a perfect hemisphere. Just like the door, the entire room was bathed in the same glowing text. It two moved in circles around the room. Right in the center of the room stood a erect monolith or obliesk. The structure glowed a deep odd red, from stripes that raced all around it, leading to the ground. And there standing in front of the monolith, stood Faulk.

Faulk: Professor!
She raced towards him.
Faulk: You did it! You finally found him for me!
With some uncanny strength she picked him up and embraced him. He flawed about like a child being swung by a parent. He cried out in pain as he felt a few ribs crack. She pulled his face to hers and kissed him deeply. Bernstein couldn’t react, his whole body went into shock. After a minute of the passionate kiss, let released him. Taking his arm, she dragged him towards the monolith.

Faulk: Come! You must meet father!

Bernstien:..??..Father?

Faulk let Bernstein fall to the floor, she felt the surface of the monolith, tracing its every curve, hugging it.

Faulk: Come Father, awaken!

Her hand rammed into a little sphere, located in the middle, it cracked easily. Out from the hole flowed a dark red liquid. Some of it splattered on Bernstein face, he couldn’t help but taste it. It was blood, or at least something close to blood. It tasted…too pure.

As the last of the strange blood drained, the monolith suddenly split in two. The whole room went dark as the script disappeared, but there was a source of light. It raidiated from Falk’s hand. Carefully she lifted up Bernstein, who could now barley keep his eyes open.

Faulk: Father! A gift, after a long slumber. I know you must be hungry. Drink, and know.

What Bernstein last saw, forever burned itself in his mind until his death. He felt the sharp teeth sink into his shoulder, the blood draining from him. But not just even that, his mind, his spirit, even his soul were leaving him. Drawing into the horror he realized he just unleashed on earth.

Chapter 1 - Setting the stage  

Location: Just Outside St. Philip Museum of Demonology, Paris France.

The sun’s final rays sunk over the roof-tops of the great city, Paris know for it’s care-free style. Unfortunately, this particular part of town was eerily silent. Not a single soul walked the streets, not even a single stray animal. The winds danced down the lanes, kicking up lose papers and trash. A few lighted rooms doted the various buildings, but even then, those winked out, as each occupant either closed the shades or cut them out. Something just wasn’t right here Rayne could feel it. The crimson-headed Dhamphir stood quietly on the edge of a rooftop, staring at the giant museum across the street. The wind gently pulled at her hair, letting whip about to and from. The museum was probably one of the oldest building in Paris. She remembered passing by over the last few times she came to the city, but never once had she bother to check it out. Tonight, she finally got a chance.

Rayne:…

She felt his presence, didn’t even have to turn to face man. Rayne never did like any of her contacts from Brimstone, except maybe perhaps a small few. But they were all dead now. Her contact quietly walked next to her, looking down at the museum as well. Slowly he took out a cigar and lit it. He wore a long black trench coat, with a wide-brimmed hat covering his face. Rayne never once saw what he looked like, and she really didn’t care. Kashus was his name, and Rayne never did like him.

Kashus: So you finally arrived.

Rayne: Stow it, lets just get this over with. The only reason I even agreed was because the trail went cold. Once this job is done, I’m going back on the hunt.

Kashus: (blowing a smoke ring) ..Indeed. You have been very successful in hunting down the rest of Kagan’s seed for us.

Rayne: I’m not hunting down Kagan’s bloodline for Brimstone! This is my hunt, my vendetta.

She bared her teeth at him and hissed. Kashus always knew how to rub Rayne the wrong way, several occasion she’s wanted to rip his throat out.

Rayne: Look, just tell me what I need to know and fuck off.
Kashus: Very well.

He dropped a folder on the ledge, as he began to explain the situation Rayne quietly picked it up and glanced over what was inside, just a few photos and a list of names.

Kashus: Three Nights ago, there was an opening of a new exhibit, in the St. Philip.
A lot of well know aristocrats attended, even some cardinals. The exhibit on display, was the supposed findings of the tomb of Hermes Trismegistus, the first know Alchemist. The event was a invite only, As you can see on the list, a number of the city’s well-know inhabitants attended.

Rayne looked over the photos and list of people. Nobody special, she thought. Even a cardinal attended, which made Rayne laugh to herself. She stopped eyeing one photo in particular, it was a bald woman dressed in maroon. The look on the woman’s face made her a bit uneasy.

Rayne: Must have been one hell of an opening. What happened?

Kashus: Unknown.

Rayne: What? What do you mean unknown?

Kashus: As I said, completely unknown. Around midnight, passerby’s and residents started hearing screams from the museum. Five police squads went in to investigate, but nobody came out. The media so far claims it’s an unknown chemical weapon of some sort, and the mayor has declared this section of town quarantined; most residents have fled.

Rayne: That’s why it’s deserted.

Kashus: Exactly (taking another puff from his cigar)

Rayne: So why am I the first choice? Why didn’t you send in those Reaper squads of yours?

Kashus: (putting the cigar out on the ledge) We did. Two squads.

Rayne:…

Kashus: Your mission is to find out what happened to our squad, and rescue, if any survivors. Information gathering is of course your main objective. Good luck.

Kashus turned and left, Rayne remained silent, thinking. Kashus knew more than he was telling she knew it, this whole mission didn’t set right with Rayne.

Rayne: God Damnint…

She leaped from the roof tops, landing gracefully to the street. Checking her blades, Rayne made her way towards the museum. The building looked dead and quiet, like a giant tomb.

Rayne: Rescue mission huh? Hardly.



Meanwhile, over at another part of the museum, a car pulls up to the curb, classic 59’ Plymouth Fury a rare car to be in Paris. The candy red paint shines under a street lamp like brand new. As the engine shuts off, both doors open. Out of the passenger side, pops a portly, greasy Italian, Enzo. He takes of his cap and gives it a few good slaps before putting it back on. His shirt and pants contain stains from spilt beer and pizza sauce. From the driver sides, a white-haired youth emerges dressed in a blood red jacket, Dante. Little Hellion is written on the back in black stitching. He opens up the trunk, while Enzo looks over the museum.

Enzo: This is the place alright! Now that you know where it is, I think I’ll head over to that pub we passed a few blocks down. Ciao!

The clicking of a gun hammer stopped Enzo in his tracks; he looked to find a large black handgun pointed in his direction Ebony.

Dante: Your not going anywhere tub-o.

Enzo: (throwing his cap to the ground) Oh Come on Dante! What do I need to be here for, you got everything taken care of!

Dante: You can stay here and keep Chrissy company. Besides, it’s your fault we are in this damn country in the first place.

Enzo: How could I not refuse the job? The payoff is huge, and you know damn well we needed this job, particularly the money. Besides, this job must be big! I mean come on, it’s $900,000 we are talking about here!

Dante, gave Ebony a quick twirl before holstering. Giving the trunk another once-over, Dante pulled out his sword, Rebellion. The huge weapon reflected the light coming from the street lamp. The devil hunter stared down at his weapon, looking back at the skull face, that was eyeing him with those dark black eye sockets.

Enzo: So you decided to go in full-armed eh? Well this should be over quick. I’m heading off…

The pointed end of Rebellion sank deep into Enzo’s throat, not enough to pierce his skin, just enough to hurt.

Dante: Stay.

Enzo: (sweating) Damnit Dante, you know how much I don’t like this car! If I were you I’d have this piece of junk chopped up, and then scatter the pieces out into the deepest part of the ocean,!

Instantly the car roared to life. The engine growling with anger, the radio turned itself on, blasting an old rock song from the ‘50s. Enzo fell back on his butt, while Dante gave the car a swift kick to the front tire; and as quick as it started, the car stopped.

Dante: Hey what did I say about that ‘50’s crap? If your going to play music, play Rock n Roll! And you! (pointing his sword straight at Enzo) You sit your fat ass on the curb and wait. Otherwise I’ll let Chrissy make a hood ornament out of you.

Enzo was about to object, but refused. Obediently he sat down on the curb in a huff.

Enzo: I’m getting extra off the top for this Dante.

Dante: Tell you what, after this, I’ll buy the drinks.

Enzo: It’s a start…

With a smile, Dante sheathed his sword and walked to the wall of the museum. Three inhuman jumps later, and he was on the roof, looking for a way in.

Enzo: This sucks… (grabbing his hat and placing it back on his head

Chapter 2 - Just Saying Hi

Location: Inside St. Philip Museum of Demonology, Paris France.

The front doors of the museum groaned, as they closed shut behind Rayne, hallway bathed in darkness. Most likely the power went out Rayne figured. It was hard to see even with Rayne’s night vision, so she switched to her Aura Vision. The whole world turned a bluish-grey, some objects lighter than others, though there really wasn’t much to look at. Tattered banners hung from the ceiling, posters, half slashed off the walls, display cases toppled over, their contents scattered in pieces across the floor.

Rayne: Huh, and I thought I wasn’t fond of history.

The museum map was displayed in a cracked case, she brushed away the fragments of glass to get a better view. The entire museum was sectioned off in 3 levels, each floor contained about 10 rooms each, excempt for the 2nd floor, which had a addition room, especially for special exhibits.

Rayne: That must be where the party was held.

The hallway leading to the main stairway held various pictures and sculptures depicting the time when demons ruled over the humans. A few caught Rayne’s eye, one picture of a 3-armed Cyclops holding screaming humans in each hand. A sculpture carved to looked like a 6- eyed snaked, crushing a temple with it’s mighty coils. The face twisted in a sick smile.

Rayne: It’s hard to believe that something like this actually happened. But then again, that’s what humans get for being so fucking stupid.

Each depiction got more and more horrific, till one picture caught her eye. In the painting, a woman was screaming, and crying as demons feasted on her innards. The woman reaching out to her child, roasting on a spit while a group of demons gathered around, drooling over the innocent soul. Three slashes later, the pictured hung in pieces. She quietly walked on.


It didn’t take long for Dante to find an entrance; one was already made for him. He was surprised to find the roof-access door to be wide open.

Dante: Hmph, I guess I’ve been expected. How nice.

He walked down the steps, the stairway was a bit dark, but that didn’t slow Dante down. A few flights later, and he was at the 3rd floor entrance. The smell of death and decay hung thick in the arm. Drawing Ebony & Ivory he causally he entered, looking down both ends of the hallway; empty. Surprisingly the emergency lights were on, casting the hallway in a deep red glow. From what Dante could see, there apparently was a nasty fight in the hallway. Blood and bullet holes were all over the place, shells were scattered all about the floor as well.

Dante: One hell of a party…

Dante came to a door, pushed it open, inside lay old clay pots and stoneware on stands. Not really what Dante was looking for. Each room he checked, was a negative, a few did show signs of a struggle. The very last room wasn’t, the stench of dead seemed to be coming from this room. Slowly opening the door, Dante peeked in. Only a few of the emergency lights in this room were active, flickering on and off. The walls, like the hallway had bullet holes and blood on them; and there, in the center of the room, were the bodies.

Dante: Poor souls, at least they died fighting.

He knelt down to one of the corpses and examined it, the body, small and frail, looked like dried out leather, stretched on a skeleton. The eye sockets, black and hollow, the mouth opened up in terror; letting Dante know this man died horribly. Like the other five bodies on the ground, this one was dressed, in what Dante could only guess, as some sort of military gear. Though he wasn’t sure as to what army they belonged. An insignia in red was stitched to both shoulders.

Dante: (examining the body further) It looks like he was sucked dry…There are a few demons that can do that, but nothing as to the extent as this…hhmm.

Looking closer, Dante saw two very large holes in the man’s neck.

Dante: A Vampire?…

A noise from outside the door alerted Dante, lighting fast reflexives, his guns targeted the door. As he turned and got up, he felt a tugging on his leg. Dante looked to see the corpse’s hand wrapped tightly around his ankle. Two green orbs, glowed from the empty eye sockets.

Corpse1: Gwwaaaaahhhh……..

Dante: Hmph, you should have stayed dead pal.

Before he could train Ivory on the corpse, Dante was surprised to find another corpse holding on tight to his arm. Dante looked into the glowing eyes hard, they stared back.

Corpse2: Traitor……

Chapter 3 - Source of Evil Awakens

Location: Inside St. Philip Museum of Demonology, Paris France.

The stranger holstered his guns, causally walking down the hallway. Rayne stood her guard. Sure it was only a kid, but something about him just set her off. Slowly he looked her up and down, walking a circle around her.

Dante: (Whistling to himself) What’s a hot little thing like you doing in a place like this? Especially at night? (really admiring Rayne’s outfit)

Rayne: This kid really has some balls. That is if he’s really human. There’s just something about him…
Rayne: Uh-huh…Shouldn’t you be at home in bed? Or better yet under your covers whacking off to daddy’s porn?

Dante: Oh, quick…I do love a fast woman. …She’s defiantly a vampire I’m sure, but could she really have done that to those soldiers?

Rayne: Then you’ll get a kick out of this.

She was in the air before he even had his guns drawn, one strong kick to the chest sent Dante flying down the hallway. Rayne’s blades were out, she charged full force; but Dante was already on his feet, guns blazing. The bullets slowed down as Rayne’s Dilated Perception kicked in. Even though the relics of Belier were long passed from her body, she still retained some of the powers they bestowed on her. Easily she dodged the bullets, landing on top of a statue of a prophet in agony,

Rayne: That the best you can do?

Dante: Heh Heh, babe. I’m just getting started…

Red energy built up from Ebony & Ivory; two electric energy bolts, erupted from the chambers. Rayne barely managed to dodge the attack, the statue pulverized, along with the wall behind it.

Chapter 4 - First Encounter

Location: Inside St. Philip Museum of Demonology, Paris France.

Kain held his gaze with Rayne for a long time, staring at her, studying her face and features. He rose up from the chair, holding Rayne, high up off the ground, her neck completely swallowed up in the large vice-like fist.

Rayne: (coughing) Mind running that by me again?(Coughing again) never was interested in the old tongue.

Kain: She knows not of the ancient language? What bitter disappointment to know my blood has been “tainted” with man. I intended to fix that….

The pressure on her throat, slowly increased, causing her to struggle and panic more, she tried everything to break free.; even as far as using Blood Rage. Her eyes turned a deep rose, red. The world overcast in a blood hue. Her speed and strength doubled, she continued to wrestle herself free. With some effort, the pressure was letting up, but not too much.

Rayne: He’s just toying with me…

Kain: You will be the first mistake, which I intend to correct…

Dr. Faulk merely watched, a smile of satisfaction on her face.


Slowly Dante got to his feet, his head filled with the sounds of intense ringing.

Dante: Whoa…what the hell was that?

His vision was blurred, but started to clear up as he steadied himself against the wall. Suddenly he remembered everything, and looked across the room. He saw a very large pale man, holding Rayne high up in the air, Rayne tried to free herself, but it was useless.

Dante: Damn! What the hell do I do? I can’t just leave her to die like that, but then again I don’t think she’s trusting anyhow…

Dante: Aw screw it!

Reaching back, he grabbed the hilt of his sword. The eyes flashed, as the blade slowly built up an intense glow.


Kain grew bored of Rayne’s struggles. She was putting up a decent fight, but she was nothing more than a half-breed. Deciding to end it, he applied more pressure. Rayne’s eyes started to budge, her breathing rasps of air. A deep smiled appeared on Kain’s face, Rayne reacted in fear. He knew, she knew this was the end. That’s when he was knocked back, by a blast from the side; Rayne fell to the ground gasping for air.

Kain: Unngghh!!!!

Looking to his side, he saw a white-haired boy charge and leap at him, brandishing a huge sword, the demon half-breed.

Dante: HHHEEEYYYAAAHHH!!!!!!!

Dante, shouted in mid-air, holding his sword high over his head. Kain simply reached up and dug his claws into Dante’s chest. Dante hung in mid-air, feeling Kain’s claws dig deeper into his skin. Reaching up, Kain grabbed Dante’s sword from his dangling hand, and looked at it.

Kain: (Looking over the sword) Impressive work for demons…

At a snails pace, Kain jammed the sword deep into Dante’s stomach. Dante reacting like a speared fish. Meditating deeply, Kain caused the sword, to float in the air, suspending Dante. The entire sword glowed bright orange, along with Dante. An unseen force, pushed Dante into another wall. This time, sending him threw, into several other rooms, before landing into a statue of a goddess demon.

While Kain was occupied with Dante, Rayne quickly moved to safety. Dr. Faulk noticed, but did nothing. Kain smiled in satisfaction, but his expression changed to agony as he fell to his knees. Dr. Faulk was at his side.

Dr. Faulk: Father! You used too much power! Quickly, we must go!

Supporting her father, Dr. Faulk lifted up the skull, the eyes glowed sun-yellow, a black cloud formed around Kain and Faulk. Two seconds later, they both disappeared.

Rayne: Come back here bitch! I’m not done with you two!

Looking around, she couldn’t find a trace of Kain or Dr. Faulk.

Rayne: Fuck…???

Looking down, Rayne saw a strange pendant on the floor.

Once again, Dante found himself getting to his feet, ringing the bells from his head. Making his way slowly through the holes in the wall, he saw Rayne bend down to pick up an amulet, that looked a lot like his. Checking his neck, he found his amulet lost.

Dante:!!!!

Rayne jumped through a nearby window, disappearing with Dante’s amulet.

Dante: That thieving little bitch!


Enzo was on his knees pleading in front of Dante’s car.

Enzo: Come on Chrissy! Please! I need a drink bad!!!!! I’ll buy you oil changes for a year!!

The car didn’t answer back, just merely revved up it’s engine. Just then, a very athletic female landed directly on the roof of Chrissy. Glass and paint chips flew everywhere.

Enzo:…What the hell!!??

Rayne, leap up into the air, and landed on the street. A second later she was gone.

Before Enzo could recover, Dante landed next to him, Enzo couldn’t hold himself any longer.

Enzo: Fuck! Dante!? Oh it’s you…shit look what you made me do!

Dante: Where did she go?

Enzo: Who?

Dante: (grabbing Enzo by the collar) That red-headed bitch! Which way did she go!?

Enzo:…Uhh..that way! (pointing off)

Dante dropped Enzo to the ground, getting into the driver’s seat of Chrissy, who just finished repairing herself.

Dante: Get in…

Enzo didn’t say a thing, he knew that look on Dante’s face, he was out for blood…

Chapter 5 - Uninvited

Location: Brimstone European Branch 5 (Unknown) 1 day later

Kashus: That was a complete failure. What do you have to report?

Rayne: (Eyeing Kashus darkly) I…don’t know. There was a demon, and two other creatures…one said she was my father’s mother, and the other was her father…

Kashus: (going rigid) …Was there anything else?

Rayne pulled out the amulet and showed it to Kashus..

Rayne: There was this boy…and this…

Kashus took the amulet in his hands, and held it, turning it over in his gloved hand.

Kashus: Very good….

Suddenly, Kashus grabbed his earlobe.

Kashus: I see…(looking at Rayne) Seems we have a visitor.

Rayne only stares at the floor, thinking deeply.


The cameras zoom in closer on the Dante as he pass back and forth in front of Brimstone’s main gate.

Dante: Hey Red! I know you’re in there! You better give back what’s mine or I’m coming in!

Guards gathered along the walls, ready to take down the interloper.

Minutes later, Rayne and Kashus were in security room, workers at each station watching a angry young man tapping his foot, and looking directly at one of the cameras.

Rayne: Geez, there’s just no putting this guy down is there?

Kashus: This is the boy you were referring too?

Rayne: Wow, you are smart.

Dante: That’s it!

They both looked into the video screen as Dante walked off.

Rayne: Guess he gave up.

Kashus: Not quite.

Looking that the screen, there was nothing. Then four beams of light appeared, they grew brighter, and brighter.

Kashus: Sound the Alarm! He’s going to ram the gate!


Chrissy smashed straight through the gates like rock through paper. Stopping after a few feet, a blur smashed through the windshield. Landing in a crouch, guns ready, Dante kept sharp. Glass rained from his head as he shook off the debris. Soldiers were already upon him firing; trotting along, Dante dodged ever bullet. After all the were just humans…

The Brimstone security was having a hard time keeping track of Dante, as he zipped to and fro across the grounds. Whenever someone had him in their sites, he just disappeared.

Guard1: Where is he?

Guard2: I have him, wait! I lost him! Confirm location!

Guard3: Here’s in my sights…what the?

The guard looked up in surprise, to find Dante standing in front of him; Dante gave him a salute and a strong kick to the face. The man was on the ground as soon Dante landed on his feet. Two guards from opposite sides appeared, without looking, he shot both their trigger fingers off, they both grabbed their hand, clutching it in agony. One more guard showed up, before taking aim, Dante instantly appeared in front of him.

Guard4: Huh?


There was chaos in the security room, workers at the station had a hard time pinpointing Dante’s location. After he had taken out several more guards, he was inside.

Kashus and Rayne merely stood back and watched, though Rayne just about had her fill.

Rayne: Enough of this bullshit. It looks like I’ll have to do something about this.

Walking off, Kashus didn’t bother to look; he only watched Dante’s progress on the monitors.

Security: Looks like we have someone else outside the grounds.


Sitting against a dead tree, Enzo took another sip from his lukewarm beer. The taste already gone, he threw it away in a depressing sigh.

Enzo: Geez Dante, you could have at least bought a cooler or something…

The crunch of a leaf alerted Enzo, on his feet and ready to run.

Enzo: (whispering) Whose there!? Dante? That you?

A blinding light completely engulfed Enzo.


Dante was becoming more and more impatient, each room he came to, he only found more annoying guards, they didn’t provide much of a challenge.

Dante: Man where the hell is that bitch? This place is huge…

As if on cue, a sharp blade appeared in front of Dante, moving to safety, he was already firing upon the owner. Rayne cartwheeled, avoiding his shots.

Dante: Ha! Found you!

Rayne: Did you miss me that bad?

Dante: Ha! You wish! I just came to get back what you stole, now hand it over!

Rayne: I don’t know what your…the amulet….Sorry don’t know what your talking about.

Dante: Lady, your one bad liar. (Firing again, missing Rayne)

Rayne: And you’re an awful shot.

Dante: Fair enough, how about some swordplay!

Pulling out Rebellion, he swung, the massive blade only inches away from Rayne as she flipped backwards. Her own blades out, ready, she charged. Each one tried to deliver a series of attacks, but the other either parried or blocked. Dante stabbed forward, propelling his body and sword like a huge spear. Catching his sword in her own blades, Rayne felt her entire body move across the hallway, her heels sparked along the ground, digging into the ground.

Weapons and eyes locked, they both stared deep into the others eyes. They both knew the other had anger in their eyes, but there was also an unnerving feeling deep down. The blades started to glow cherry red, where they made contact. Both were determined to break the other’s weapon to pieces

Kashus: That will be enough of that Rayne, back down.

A stare from Dante and Rayne both looked at Kashus standing, arms behind his back. A cigar was in his mouth, puffing away. Guards were everywhere, their guns armed and ready to take down Dante.

Dante: (Whistling) Quite a nice organized little party you have here.

Kashus: Brimstone employs nothing but the best, Son of Sparda.

Rayne: Sparda?…I’ve heard that name somewhere before…

Rayne saw Dante’s eyebrow cock up a little, surprising they both let up on their blades; backing away from each other slowly, still ready to go at each other again. Kashus walks up to Dante and Rayne, Dante grips his sword tighter, keeping a dark eye on this strange person.

Kashus: Yes I know who you are, and who your father is. The great legend himself even worked with Brimstone a few times in the past. We owe a lot to him, and his son. (Bowing) Your starting to earn quite a reputation in your town.

Dante: Yeah well it helps pay the bills. But enough talk about my father, I just want what this bloodsucking bitch stole from me!

Rayne only shot Dante the finger and crossed her arms. Kashus reached into his pocket, and pulled out the amulet. Ivory was in Kashus’ face, along with the sound of severl weapons being readied.

Dante: Mind giving that back?

Kashus: Of course (Handing the amulet back)

Dante snatched it from Kashus’ hand, he looked at the red stone, and remembered the past. Putting it around his neck and holstering Ivory, Dante gave Kashus a salute.

Dante: Well thanks and all, I got what I wanted. Nice place you got here, sorry about the mess. Oh and fuck you red.

Rayne: In your dreams whitey, (to herself) little prick.

Kashus: Wait.

Dante stopped walking, but didn’t turn around.

Kashus: Brimstone is interested in hiring your services Son of Sparda. One that pays a very hefty reward. Your manager is already talking with one of my masters as we speak.

Dante: Say again?

Rayne: You have to kidding me!

Chapter 6 - …Unwanted Partnership

Location: Brimstone European Branch 5 (Unknown) : Underground Library

Enzo takes another sip of wine, letting the effects kick in, his face beet red. Lazily he leans on the desk in front of him; his eyes in a daze.

Enzo: I tell you, this guy….is one hell of a guy! The things he does…(belching, grabbing for another leg of smoking turkey laying on the table.) mmm…this is ssoo good!!

The front doors flung open, Dante looking very unpleasant came through.

Dante: (marching up to Enzo) Enzo!

Enzo: H-heyy- Dante!…

Dante: What the hell have you gotten me into this time! (grabbing Enzo by the collar)

HoodedMan: Please, sit Son of Sparda…

Dante looks at the man seated at the desk; his face covered in the deep violet hood. Dante smelled death, ancient death. Letting Enzo fall to the ground, he grabs a huge chunk of turkey, snatchs up the bottle of wine on the table, and takes a bite and gulp. Falling down in the chair Enzo was just in, he throws his legs up on the table, belching.

Enzo: Hey that was my chair…

HoodedMan: Allow me to tell you a story…

Dante: …great…(taking another gulp)

HoodedMan:
Long, long ago…

Dante: Boring! Heard the story over and over of my pops. Don’t need a crypt keeper like you to tell it to me.

HoodedMan: (Looking in Dante’s direction slowly)

Long, long ago,..before Sparda rid the world of demons…Before the Great Ruler of Hell himself conquered humanity…

Dante seems to be more alert now…

There was a great demon king by the name of Belier. A cruel and beastly monster, indeed made early man live in hell Killing, raping and spawning un-earthly creatures.. Then they came, Beings from the skies who radiated of beauty, light, and great wisdom. They fought against the demons, driving them back to hell; their leader killed Belier in a single stroke. They were exonerated, treated as saviors from the heavens, but that was before we found out the truth. Instead on beings of light from the skies, they were death from above…feeding on us, like livestock.

Dante: (munching on turkey meat) Get to the point!

In the end, the dark leader, who made himself the new king of Earth, was up surged by his most loyal general. The king, truly Immortal, was imprisoned forever. Without their leader they were unorganized and weak, they scattered to dark corners of the Earth, then there was peace.



Dante: Uh huh…

HoodedMan: But now it seems that the dark leader has been freed…please Son of Sparda, we ask this of you. If the blood of the legendary knight does run through your veins…Help rid the world of this evil, before it is too late. Right now he is weak, defenseless, you will easily be a match for him…

Dante: Yeah, ok…look…

Everyone turned to look at the red-headed woman marching through the front doors, now barely hanging on the hinges, after being knocked open for the second time; Kashus walked behind looking at the broken doors.

Rayne: No Fucking way!

Kashus: I’m sorry, but she insisted…

Rayne: This one is mine! Your not going to give it to some half bit mutt are you?

Dante: (mouth full of turkey and wine) Who you calling mutt!?

Rayne: (Hissing at Dante)

Dante: Kinky one aren’t you?…

His hand raised, Rayne silenced, she knew what the heads of Brimstone could do. She’s crossed them before, and right now she wasn’t in the mood to tangle with one right now.

Dante: (turning towards the Brimstone Leader) As I said, I’ll take this job on two conditions…First! I want to be well paid for this job, to take on something like this has got to be expensive,… say one million?

Rayne: One Million?! I’ll do it for free!

Dante: Second! I don’t trust you for shit, so I want you to let Enzo access to these book. I want to know the real truth; something tells me your not telling me everything and the answers might be in here.

Enzo: (Snoring)

Rayne: Bullshit! (Slamming her fist on the table) If what that bitch said is true, then this is my fight, if anyone is going to kill a member of my family, it will be me!

Dante: (eyeing Rayne quizzically)…

The Member of Brimstone sat there, both Dante and Rayne looking at him, expecting his response…

HoodedMan: Done…

Getting up with Kashus’ help, he left the two standing there in bewilderment. His and Kashus’ footsteps were the only thing that echoed throughout the library walls.

Kashus: Do you really think this is a good idea? Half-breeds, against an Immortal?

HoodedMan: Though only half, they both possesses proud souls. They will be enough…

Kashus: I meant those two teaming up…

Dante & Rayne: (Turing) What the hell does that mean!? (looking at each other)


Location: St. Jude’s Church, East Germany.

Father Kantor, was in hell, or at least something close to it. He felt the blade sink deep into his body one again, chunks of his flesh and innards laid in a bowl at his feet. He looked down, seeing another organ fall into the bowl, blood splattered on the dress of the woman who held the glowing knife that was butchering him alive.

Dr. Faulk: Does that hurt priest?

Father Kantor: …why…?

Dr. Faulk: Why? (Setting down the knife on the cart next to her, she grabbed four red tubes with needles on the end.)

Slowly, she slide the tubes in specific points on his exposed heart. What ever mobility he had left, he showed it, shaking violently on the cross he hung from.

Dr. Faulk: My you are a twitcher aren’t you? You comrades didn’t even struggle this much.

The rest of Father Kantor’s congregation were hung up on crosses as well, each one in their own pain, tubes pumping their blood to Kain who sat cross-legged, staring at the cross, looking at the effigy suspended in great pain. Dr. Faulk walked up, caring the bowl of the monk’s organs, floating in blood. She laid the bowl at his feet, kissing his hand, and walked off.

Kain: That boy…

Dr. Faulk: (Stopping) The demon-half breed? I don’t know who he is, but I may have an idea. After you were imprisoned, the demons came back. One of their own kind, rebelled and single-handily defeated them all, locking the Demon World away from the humans.
He was know as Sparda…

Kain: Sparda…

Dr. Faulk: Some say he had spawned offspring…this could be one of his…

Kain: I see…and that woman…she was of my blood…(anger boiling in his blood)

Dr. Faulk: She is indeed of your blood, mixed with that of humans…our race has lost it’s way Father, they care nothing of purity like you did.

Kain: (Grabbing a bloody organ from the bowl) Soon, they will…

Chapter 7 - The King Returns

Location: Blood Kettle Pub, City of Hentz, East Germany

A deep blue light bathed the entire bar, the patrons sitting about at booths and tables, enjoying glasses of fresh squeezed blooded from vagrants, who thought they were donating blood for charity. An ambience scene indeed was the safe haven for vampires and dhamphirs alike, some engaged in acts usually seen as torture, but the look of ecstasy. A black fog appeared in the middle of the small dance floor. Everyone stared in astonishment as two figures appeared. One a small bald woman, the other, a massive white eight-foot giant, they surveyed the area, looking at the startled faces.

The bar owner, a vampire himself, walked from behind the bar.

Owner: Nice entrance, but this pub is for private members only. I’m afraid you’ll two have to leave. (Snapping his fingers, out came an ogre-like creature. Twice the height of Kain, he brandished a very large spiked club.

Dr. Faulk: (sadly looking at the creature) This world, has been cruel on our race…

Lifting up the club and bellowing, the monster swung downward, a hand from Kain stopped the attack. Bewildered the vampiric beast tried to pull back it’s weapon, but Kain’s hand held firm. With his other hand, he dung his hand deep into the beast’s stomach, grabbing the spine. The three vampires, sitting at the booth barely had time to avoided the dead hulk, hurled at them.

Licking his fingers clean, Kain looked down at the scared owner, before the vampire could run, two sharp fangs sank deep into his back. Dr. Faulk drank deep of his blood, and essence. After another minute of struggling, the bar owner fell to the ground a dried up husk. Dr. Faulk and Kain looked around, fangs sharp and ready; everyone panicked running for the doors and windows trying to escape, but everything was closed tight. A yellow glow surrounded each door and window.

Kain: Now it shall begin…


Location: Brimstone European Branch 5 (Unknown) : Main entrance.

The sky changed from black, to blue, dawn approached. Dante and Kashus walk down the main steps towards Chrissy, she looked like she just came off the assembly line.

Kashus: About two hours ago, we received word of an attack on a vampire safeden. A safe heaven for all vampiric during the day, everyone there was massacred, butchered, a few were strung up like the party guests at the museum…

Dante: But that’s a good thing, isn’t that helping you guys out?

Kashus: Not like this, (Handing Dante a folder) everything you need will be in here. You should be able to make it in little under a day in this vehicle…

Kashus looking over Chrissy, only a few hours ago, the entire front end had been demolished, but now everything had reformed. An impressive possessed vehicle, quite unique from the other few he had encountered before.

Kashus: Quite a remarkable car, never seen anything like it, not a single scratch on her…where did you find it again?

Dante: Oh I picked her up from a junk collector out over in Hindensburg big ass junkyard, this puppy was roaming around, running folks over. A shitty paying job, but hey I picked up this sweet baby. (Looking over his shoulder) Hey Red what’s taking you so long?

Rayne stood at the doorway, looking down at the two, and that car…

Rayne: Maybe it’s cause I’m not stepping foot in that car with you or any vehicle with you. Also the damn windows aren’t tinted…

Dante: (looking at Chrissy’s crystal clear windows) What’s wrong with that?

Rayne: (rolling eyes) Idiot, I can’t survive in the sunlight that long!

Dante: Oh…Well there’s always the trunk. (smirking)

Rayne: Eat shit.

Kashus: That will be enough from both of you…(looking at Dante) Really Brimstone can provide transportation that is, much more… efficent than your car.

Dante: No thanks, I not going anywhere without my baby.

Kashus:…Is there anything you can do about the windows then?

Dante: (Patting the hood) Come on baby, show that dame what you can do.

A second later, the windows slowly change, turning a midnight black.

Leaning against the car, Dante gives her a friendly wave. Rayne curses to herself stomping down the steps, past Dante and Kashus to the rear passenger door, looking over across to Dante and giving Kashus a dirty look.

Rayne: Lets hurry up, the sun will be up soon.

Dante: As you wish Madame (mock bowing)

Kashus: Good luck to the both of you.


She had to admit, the car was pretty comfortable, the red leather interior felt really pleasant, the a/c ran cool. Outside, everything looked clear, as if the whole windows were actually two-way.

Rayne: Impressive car, sorry I really did land on it, but there’s no harm done.

Surprised, Rayne felt something thin and wide wrap around her throat tight. She struggled, but found herself restrained by other seatbelts. She couldn’t breath, or move…things were getting black…

Dante: Hey knock it off!

The straps relaxed, grabbing her neck Rayne gasped for air; darkly she looked at Dante…

Rayne: What…(gasping) the FUCK was that?!

Dante closed the front door and started up Chrissy, heavy metal blasted from the speakers.

Dante: Sorry, she still is kinda mad at you for landing on her hood you know? No hard feelings? You could always just ride up front with me..(a mischief grin on his face appeared)

Rayne: Great In a killer car, and a horny loudmouth…Drive…

Dante: Sure thing!

Dust kicked up from the rear tires, flames blasted from the exhaust as Chrissy charged down the trail to the main gates where workers were already repairing the gates. A worker barely avoided being fender stains, by dodging out of the way.

Worker: I think I just went…

Dante: YYEEEHHHEEEAAAWWW!!!!!!!!!

Kashus watched as the vehicle trailed off into the forest a long dust trail left behind. The rays washed over his face, his eyes reflecting back a dull glow of eyes long past dead.

Chapter 8 - At The Club

Location: Heart-Break Club (vampire safeden), City of Hentz, East Germany, 13 Hours Later….

Brimstone members were everywhere, collecting evidence and taking pictures of yet another mass killing. Some had to go outside for a while to stop from becoming ill; one member finally couldn’t stand it and threw up along the curb. Chrissy pulled up, stopping only inchs away from the sick person, now more scared. Rayne jumps out from the car, the look on her face shows she didn’t enjoy the car ride at all. Ignoring the startled man, she talked with one of the others, who hadn’t completely lost it. Dante, looking down at the puddle and the owner, he’s pretty much surprised to see him, as the Brimstone member is to see him.

Dante: Hey buddy…

Sickman: (In German) Huh?

Dante: Uh…nevermind…

The stench of something rotting and burning hit Rayne and Dante’s noses, the foul smell was unbearable for a moment, before they got used to it.

Dante: Oh man that smells worse than Enzo’s feet!

It was apparent that Brimstone was aware of the stench too, their expressions however said of something much worse. Following Rayne, Dante walked into the club; only to bump into Rayne who stood like a statue.

Rayne: My God!...

There were a lot of things that have almost made Rayne’s stomach turn, this became one of them. Bodies of dead vampires hung from the ceilings, at least three dozen. Headless, and hollowed out, they looked like carcasses hanging in a slaughterhouse. The heads had been stacked neatly on top of each other. Each face expressed fear or shock, the very last head stacked at the top had the worse expression out of all the others.

Dante: My God is hardly the term…

Those of Brimstone not sick from the site or smell were cutting down and bagging the damned souls; standing next to the pile of heads talking with several aids, was a old man dressed in a brown coat. Turning to the new visitors, he motions them over.

Officer: (In German): Welcome Rayne, we had expected you earlier. Was there trouble?

Rayne: (German): Don’t get me started...(looking around) what happened here?

Officer: (German): Chaos, that’s the best I can come up with…my unit is spread completely thin checking out various other slaughters at other vampire safedens scattered across this city. That reminds me, (signaling, an aid approaches carrying two phones. Handing them to the officer, he walks away. He hands both to Rayne)

Officer: (German) You and your partner each have calls waiting for you.

Rayne: (looking at the phones.) From who?

Officer:(German) One is from the 5th branch, the other …is some person named Enzo.

Rayne: Ohh…(Shouting to Dante) Hey it’s you pal of yours! (Throwing the phone, Dante catches it)

Dante: Yo Enzo what do you have for me?

Enzo: Dante you son of a bitch! This isn’t funny at all! It’s cold, damp, and smells like my aunt’s ass! And to make matters worse, I can’t even leave this place! That Kashus guy is really creepy, all he does is look through books, smoke cigars, or just look at me…

Dante: Yeah yeah whatever, what do you have?

Enzo: (Sighing) So far, not much, I’m kinda having a hard time getting access to certain books down here.

Dante: Figures…Well what do you have so far?

Enzo: As far as that big white dude, nothing. But I did find out some tidbits about that bald chick you mentioned. The best I can figure out is that she’s called Muse in one text, the others just mention her as some sort of sorceress. She’s well know in the Alchemic Arts, maybe one of the first true masters. As for her being a bloodsucker, it’s really sketchy, she’s pretty clever, a certain number of kingdom’s destruction can be linked to her…

Dante: Anything else?

Enzo: Not much…

Dante: Keep looking, and come on Enzo, (whispering in the phone) I know your too slick to let some boy scout rejects harass you.

Enzo: Dante..your..(click)

Pocketing the phone, Dante looks at the mound of heads….

Dante: There’s something not right about any of this…
Location: Pad-Lock S&M(vampire safeden), City of Hentz, East Germany

These dhamphirs were putting up more of a fight then the others Kain had encountered at the other nests.

Kain: Hiding from these lower beings like some sort of wounded animal…How far have my people fallen? (Snapping a cleaver-wielding dhamphir’s neck, kicking another to the side)

Five more jumped out from nowhere, holding chains and spikes, stripped from the walls of the torture room themed club. Two got sent into walls, one was impaled with her own weapon, and another had his head crushed in by Kain’s foot. The last one attacked, slashing Kain’s body left and right with two razor blades. Kain toyed with her, before ripping her throat out.

Kain: Even still pathetic…these, rejects can’t put up a decent fight.
He remembered holding Rayne, that dhamphir…of his pure blood. His blood, tainted with humans! He could have erased that mistake, if not for that boy; the demon-halfbreed.

Kain: Sparda…(Ripping open a screaming dhamphir’s jaw apart, blood geysering in Kain’s face)

Muse laid down on a love cushion, sipping away at a bloody mixture of intestines and brains. Kain sat down next to his daughter; with her tounge, she wiped away the blood on his face.

Kain: Tell me all that you know about Sparda…

Location: Streets of Hentz, East Germany

The car ride was silent for the first few minutes after leaving the site, Rayne in the backseat, in deep thought; Dante sat back driving, pretending not to ignore the uncomfortable feeling in the car. The radio turned on, playing a sad 50’s rock song.

Dante: Hey! Knock it off…

Rayne: (short laugh)

Dante: What’s so funny?

Rayne: You two are a cute couple…

Dante: Haaa…So tell me, what’s next on the agenda?

Rayne: Find those two and kill them. Plain and simple.

Dante: So how do we do that?

Rayne: So far, most of the safe dens attacked, were mainly for dhamphirs…
She flashed backed to when Kain held her high in the air, squeezing the life out of her. His face, filled with hate towards her…just because of what she was…

Dante: Hey Red!

Rayne: Huh? What?

Dante: You ok?…

Rayne: (Grunting) I’m fine…anyway, so far the only place that hasn’t been hit is The Blood Moon, the biggest, most exclusive club in town, and also biggest dhamphir safeden, its very popular, especially tonight.

Dante: Sounds like you’ve been.

Rayne only smiled at the pair of eyes looking at her through the rear mirror.

Rayne: Once or twice…

Dante: You think that it’s “them”?

Rayne:…(looking out the window) maybe…

Dante gripped the wheel, and pushed on the accelerator. He felt it in his bones, this was going to be one hell of a night! Chrissy, speed up down the streets, barley hitting a few pedestrians.

Location: The Blood Moon club, Hentz, East Germany

The Blood Moon, was packed tonight, more than usual. Humans and vampire alike danced in a frenzy to the dance music playing in the hanging DJ booth, shaped like a moon. Tonight was Devil Night, the clubs yearly party. The DJ booth bathed the entire club in a blood red hue. Torches hung from the walls, to add onto the effect; everywhere people engaged in various acts of drugs, sex, dance, and playful torture.

Outside, though, the scene was completely different, the very large vampiric bouncer turned down scores of people lined up to the entrance to the club to get inside. With quick efficiency, he picked out those who looked the best and hottest, the rest he told to get lost, or he just threw them out. That’s when Rayne and Dante drove up, everyone turned to watch as a red-headed beauty and a white-haired hunk got out, several people in the line were either yelled at or slapped by their date for looking too hard.

Bouncer:( German) Well this is one hell of a site…(eyeing Rayne) You may go in sexy…(facing Dante with a hard look) …You…you don’t smell right, (looking at the large sword on his back) and no weapons allowed.

Dante: What he say?

Rayne: I’m afraid your not one of the “In Crowd”, sorry

Without another word, Rayne entered the club, heading down stairs. She was only halfway before the bouncer flew past her down the stairs. He landed in a crumpled heap, groaning to himself, Dante casually walked down the stairs, smacking dust off his hands.

Dante: Let’s party!

Chapter 9 - Date At The Club (Part 2)

Location: The Blood Moon club, Hentz, East Germany

For the past 2 hours nothing happened, aside from the few fights started in the club; one by Dante involving a very jealous boyfriend. While Dante took to the dance floor, Rayne sat alone in a booth, cradling a drink he bought her, and “babysitting” Dante’s sword.
For a hour she sipped at the blood-alcohol mixture. Several men, mostly dhamphir, asked her to dance, she “tastefully” declined each one. She was too busy scanning the crowd, looking for Muse and Kain. They were going to strike here, her feelings told her that, with the number of people packed here tonight; how could any monster avoid a fest like this, Rayne couldn’t…She then thought of Muse’s revelation about her family….

Dante got bored with floor after the first hour, the girls who did dance with him, had boyfriends, or cock-blocking friends who led his dance partner away before he could really have some fun. The fight he finished, started when one drunken dhamphir female asked him to dance, sure he didn’t know what she said, but he understood her body language. After things really started to get interesting her boyfriend appeared, along with the bouncer from earlier. The boyfriend threw the first punch; Dante broke his arm and leg, along with hurling him into the bouncer. A swift kick to bouncer’s head put him down for good. After that incident, it got pretty much dull, boyfriends and friends kept close eyes on Dante, so he just sat at the bar and drank a beer. Turning around he searched over the crowd looking for trouble, so far nothing. The most he did notice was that aside from two other people, he and Rayne were the only ones who didn’t seem to be in the partying mood.

Dante: This sucks, none of these babes want to dance, and those that do are far too pasted out. (Looking over in Rayne’s direction)


Rayne: This is starting to get boring, maybe they struck at another club, or maybe they are gone to another town…(seeing Rebellion laying across the booth from her.)

The more she looked into the skull’s eyes, the more she thought it was staring back. Going to Aura Vision, she looked more at the blade, at first nothing happened. Then, slowly the blade reacted, the eyes starting to glow a dull red… reaching, she grabbed the sword, lifting it up in the air. It was quite a heavy sword, a wonder how someone like Dante could wield a weapon so easily. The blade reflected her face under the blood glow of the moon hanging above.

Dante: Not the first time a woman has “handled” my sword like that.

Rayne: Yeah well, I’ve “handled” bigger. (tossing the sword to Dante. Grabbing the hilt, Dante supported himself with it)

Dante: It doesn’t look like they will show up.

Rayne: (Darkly) No, they will…

Dante: HHmmm, well sitting there all night isn’t going to make them appear any faster. (Grabbing Rayne’s arm.)

Rayne: !!??

Taking her by complete surprise, Dante pulled her out the booth; with her other free hand, she grabbed her blade.

Rayne: Let..go…

Dante: Look, if we are going to spend most of the night waiting for them to show up, you might as well have some fun at least. Your depressing looking, sitting there just watching.

She was ready to take his head off, her eyes told him enough.

Dante: Would one little old dance kill you? Or maybe it’s cause you can’t dance?

Anger flared up inside, but it subsided.

Rayne: I know they will strike, I know it!..(sighing) Alright, (retracting her blade) fine, one dance. But if you even think about letting your hands do a little wandering, your going to lose them.

Dante: (Letting her go, smiling) That’s more like it! (Whistling loud, surprisingly, along with the rest of the crowd, the music stopped!) Hey DJ! (pointing at the booth) Play something hot!

Screaming, and on fire, the DJ flew out of the booth; like a falling star, he crashed to the dance floor. Everyone scattered as he hit the ground in a crunch, still burning; his screams subsided afterwards. Stunned, Dante looked at Rayne.

Dante: Uh, that’s not what I had in mind…

Rayne looked up and hissed; Dante followed in motion. Up in the burning booth emerged Kain, looking over the scared crowd with hate and malice.

Kain: Such debauchery…

That’s when he spotted Rayne and Dante, sneering Kain leapt down. Booth feet created craters as he landed; gathering their wits, those closest to Kain took flight, clearing a huge space between him and them.

Dhamphir1: Is that him?

Dancer: …I heard other places were hit…

Human:..wow, that was cool man…

Dhamphir2:…everyone was slaughtered, no survivors…

Emerging from the crowd, Dante and Rayne walked up to Kain.

Kain: Again we meet…(Looking at Rayne with such disgust) You…(eyeing Dante, who had his guns in each hand) and you, I’ve heard of the exploits of your father…Sparda…

Dante: Really? Quite a good story ain’t it?

Kain: Yes…quite a fairy tale. A demon, who, alone faced the armies of Hell, and for what? (Indicating the humans in the crowd) These mortals…and to spawn with them…(pointing at Rayne and Dante.) Had I not been betrayed I would have seen births like yours prevented! Your bodies roasting over a high fire, while those who sinned, flawed!

Rayne: Enough chitchat! Lets do this!

Dante: I second that…(targeting Kain)

Kain: Yes, lets…

Rayne gripped her blades, holding them tightly, her palms sweating. That’s when she felt strange. A pulling action on her body, as if gravity’s force intensified, looking down, she saw a strange yellow circle at her feet. Script revolved around each other in a bizarre pattern. As she tried to move, the force and glow grew, her feet sinking into the ground!

Rayne: What!?

Dante: Huh? Rayne!

He tried to reach for her, but it was too late, the floor swallowed her up, along with the seal. Kain smiled.

Kain: It’s just you and me, she will be dealt with later.

Dante: Let’s go nasty! (Firing away)

Rayne landed on the ground hard, there was a hard musty smell. Her Aura Vision revealed that she must be under the club. The foundation was made up of old concrete pillars, years of neglect and age covered each one.

Muse: I must apologize my dear, but Lord Kain insisted on facing Sparda’s spawn on his own. He seems to be infatuated with him ever since I told him Sparda’s tale.

Muse floated in mid-air above Rayne, she looked like a black angel, her black dress catching an unseen breeze.

Rayne: Kain is it? And your name is Muse correct?

Muse: (Bowing) Yes my dear it is true, daughter of the true lord of this land, Kain. How is it that you don’t know who we are? Didn’t my son Kagan teach you anything?

Rayne: Me and my father never really did get along. You can ask him why, when your burning in hell!

Muse: (Laughing) We will see…Oh, I almost forgot…

Dust from the foundations fell to the ground as something disturbed the area. The ground rumbled as something from the darkness approached. As it appeared, Rayne recognized the form. It was the scorpion-like demon from the museum, only he was bigger, redder, and a whole lot more dangerous looking.

Muse: Delmar is very upset that you killed his little brother, Vauldrick.

Delmar: I’m going crush you slowly…

Rayne: Uh-huh, that’s just about what your brother said before he became a smear on the floor. (Reading herself) Come on bad boy! Show me what you got!

Chapter 10 - Date At The Club (Part 3)

Location: The Blood Moon Club, Hentz, East Germany

The bullets missed their mark, Kain had teleported away from them, they did however hit members in the crowd. Those injured went down, some not moving.

Kain: Surely Sparda could not have made a mistake like that.

Dante pulled the trigger, again Kain moved, and another person was hit. Dante was getting angry.

Dante: Damnit, my guns are useless against him! People are just getting hurt…Alright big, tall, and pasty. (Reaching for his sword, charging his power) Are you ready?!

Launching himself at Kain, Dante disappeared, then appeared in front of Him. With heavy strokes Dante pushed Kain back. Blood splattered the floor and crowd as he kept swinging; charging up Rebellion. Dante then performed a series of jabbs again and again into the gut of Kain. With one final jab, releasing all his charged power into Rebellion, Kain flew across the dance floor, into the bar.

Dante: Sleep tight…

Dante looked over the crowd, there were mixed looks of relief, fear, several more looked on him with hatred. Those injured by Dante cradled their injuries, one however wasn’t moving. A man, a dhamphir, from the looks of it, knelt over his friend, crying out in pain for his death.

Dante: Everyone, you must all get out of here! This place isn’t safe!

Dhamphir1: Of course it isn’t, with a demon like you!

Dhamphir2: Trouble didn’t start, until you and your bitch friend showed up!

Others in the crowd joined in on the resentment.

Dhamphir3: Who knows? Maybe he’s the one that’s been doing all those killing!

Dante: What?! Hey I’m the good guy here!

Human1: Good guy? That’s what you want us to think. Never trust a demon!

Two Dhamphirs from the crowd holding very large knives, others also came forward, holding guns, chains, and sticks; all barred their teeth and hissed at Dante.

Dante: I just saved your asses!

In crowd, Dante saw them. The all too familiar glowing yellow eyes, everywhere, throughout the crowd, glowing orbs stared back at Dante.

Dante: Oh no…

Delmar struck at Rayne with one of his twin stingers; quickly she rolled out of the way, only having to move again to avoid the other tail.

Rayne: Shit, he’s a lot quicker than the other one…

Delmar: You killed my brother! I shall make sure you die slowly! (Opening his left claw, a brown mist shot forth)

Some of the mist entered her lungs, she found herself on the ground coughing, gasping for air.

Delmar: Heh Heh Heh, It’s over for you pretty…

His eye stalks appeared from his armor, looking at her, hot pink drool oozed from his mandibles, as he marched towards Rayne.

Rayne: ( Coughing) That’s right you big ugly fuck, come closer…

Delmar’s stingers reared back ready to strike; as they raced towards Rayne, she made her move. Rolling, then leaping forward, she catapulted herself towards Delmar’s eyes. One slice severed the stalks from Delmar. He was now blind!

Delmar: GWWAAHH!!! (Rearing back on its four back legs)

Rayne: Bet that hurts like a bitch.

Floating above, Muse clapped, not caring who the victor of the battle was.

Delmar: Stupid half-breed! Just because I’m blind, doesn’t mean I can’t sense you! (His right claw opened, revealing a mouth, with a lot of teeth, and a long tounge.)

As the mouth opened wider, everything started to be sucked in, even Rayne.Digging her claws deep into a support pillar, Rayne held on with all her strength. Debris bounced by, some hitting her in the face. They all flew into the claw-mouth, swallowing all that entered it’s mouth.

Delmar: You can’t hold on forever! Ha ha ha ha!!!!

Rayne: He’s right, I got to do something or I’m bug food!

Dante: Behind you!

Armed Dhamphir1: Nice try! Not going to work!

The screams of people in the crowd got everyone’s attention. Chaos erupted; possessed corpses somehow had slipped into the club. Everywhere they attacked, clawing and biting people left and right. One jumped towards a wounded girl, a bullet from Ebony, sent the corpse falling to the ground in a crumpled mess.

Dante: Don’t just stand there like idiots! Get these people to safety!

Not knowing what to do, they reluctantly began helping. Fighting off the monsters, and getting people safely out of danger; a few more rounds from Dante finished off a number or corpses; before Kain grabbed him from behind and sank his teeth into Dante’s neck. He tried to scream but he couldn’t. Kain drank deep of Dante’s blood, letting the devil blood burn in his own veins. It took eleven shots from Ivory to force Kain to let go. Staggering away, Dante held onto his wound, and kept his gun aimed at Kain. Blood gushed at the tear in his neck, Dante fell to one knee, he felt very feint.

Kain: By the Goddess…your blood is strong! I can feel your power!

A new rush of energy entered Kain; he hadn’t felt this way since he killed Belier, drinking the demon dry. Kain felt the change in his body again; His hands growing into stone hard claws, his body’s strength increasing. As he walked towards Dante, the ground shook. Lifting up Dante by the collar, he stared into the half-breed’s dazed eyes.

Kain: Though your blood is strong, you are not.

Kain held Dante in the air high, walking towards the wall, Rebellion in his other.

Kain: For unlike Sparda…(Pressing Dante up against the wall, a force took over, holding Dante firm Kain walked towards the nearest group of victims).

Kain: You can’t even save a group of humans and half-breeds. (Snapping his fingers, the exits sealed shut) Now watch your failure…Son of Sparda…(Raising Rebellion, Kain swung downwards)
Rayne managed to crawl behind the pillar, holding off Delmar’s suction for now.

Rayne: Shit! What to do? (She spots a fallen pillar in front of her. It’ deep in the ground, but..)

Firing her harpoon, it drilled into the stone, slowly, she pulled on the chain; trying to free the chunk.

Delmar: You will die! Ha ha ha, Just go ahead and admit defeat!

Rayne: (Straining)You know, your starting to sound like a broken record! Why don’t you stop “sucking” and fight like a real demon.

Delmar only laughed louder; somehow the suction grew stronger.

Rayne: That’s right help me out stupid…

With Rayne’s efforts, and the increased suction, the pillar unearthed, the chunk rolled straight at Delmar, with great speed. He tried to block with his left claw, but the stone shattered it to pulp. Behind the boulder and leaping in the air, Rayne pointed her blades downwards, aiming where Delmar’s eyestalks had been.

Rayne: KKIIIAA!!!

Both struck deep into the armor, piercing the demon’s brain. The entire body went rigid for a moment , before slumping to the ground. Pink salvia bubbled out from the mouth of the slain demon.

Orange goop coated Rayne’s blades as she pulled them out.

Rayne: EEEWWW…(Looking up towards Muse) Now it’s your turn you bald-headed bitch!

Muse: Such language…anyhow, other plans have been made for you my dear. (Muse vanished, her voice trailing in the air) till next time…

Rayne: Hey come back here! I’m not done with you yet!..(Something wet landed on her shoulder) Huh?

As she looked closer, and tasted it, she knew what it was, blood. Like a morning shower, blood started rain from the ceiling.

Rayne: (With her harpoon, Rayne began scaling one of the pillars) What has happened up there!?

Once at the top, it took only a few good kicks to knock loose a floorboard. Rayne emerged topside, and was shocked. Everyone dead, not a single soul left alive, except for Dante, he sat on his knees, looking at the carnage before his eyes.

Rayne: My God Dante…what happened?

He didn’t respond, he only looked at his bloody sword, blood, still fresh dripped off the end.

Rayne: Damnit Dante, what the fuck…(lifting Dante up by his collar, Rayne saw his eyes. They were filled with tears.)

Dante: I didn’t save them…I was too weak…just like last time…

Chapter 11 - Two Birds With One Stone

Brimstone European Branch 5 (Unknown): Underground Library

Rayne: He What?!

Enzo: (Cringing) He left, I tried to reach him on the phone, but he’s not picking up.

Rayne: That stupid…Any idea where he’s headed?

Enzo: Dante? Who knows…

Rayne: Fuck…(Turning and walking out)

Enzo: Uh, hey what about me?

Rayne: You keep reading up on Kain and Muse, I’ll deal with Dante…

Enzo: Crap…

Location: Uroboros Hotel, New York City

Kagan: Yes……that feels nice…

Kagan, Lord of U.S. Vampiric Nation rested on his back as the dark, stony skinned beauty massaged his back. Her medium-sized hands worked his huge back, working along the stitches, and the shards of crystal imbedded in his back. Across from him sitting in a chair receiving a foot massage sat Arius, CEO of Uroboros Int. a powerful media conglomerate that has it’s hands in most of the news that goes out to the general public of the world.

Arius: Heh Heh heh, So is she what I told you?

Kagan: Yes, you were correct, she is quite lovely…you are a true master; she is a work of art.

Arius: (Smiling) Please, you flatter me Kagan…(lighting a cigar)…Now down to business.

Kagan: Yes of course…I have a little problem…

Arius: Something The Great Kagan cannot handle?

Kagan barred his teeth at Arius.

Kagan: Careful what you say!

Kagan’s masseur pressed down on Kagan’s back pinning him to the bed.

Arius: And you remember where you are. This is my domain.

They looked at each other, after a while the masseur released her grip.

Kagan: I’m looking for a weapon. A sword, a very ancient and powerful one…

Arius: Ah…(leaning back) there are many swords lost to the modern world. Some very powerful indeed…

Kagan: This one is special…one wielded by the original devil…a sword that can take away souls with a single stroke…

Arius: That sword… Yes I know exactly what your talking about…That sword I’ve seen with my own eyes too. Surprisingly, it is in the hands of one of your fellow Lords.

Kagan raised up from the bed surprised, he looked at Arius’ curiously.

Kagan: Who?

Arius: Enoch…

Kagan clenched his fists, Enoch was one of the Vampire Lords, ruling over the HellMouth lands. Like the others, Kagan loathed him the most, many times Kagan thought about rallying the others to finish him off like the other Nobles, massacred long ago.

Kagan: How sure are you of this?

Arius: Very; like I said, I’ve seen the sword with my own eyes. Enoch invited me over, to his castle not long ago. As you know, he’s a collector of the Old World, gathering old relics of long kingdoms, and gods worshiped. He had a certain “text” that I needed and he was more than willing to sell it to me. One of the many items he has and cherished, was that particular sword. Quite a masterpiece…(Stroking his goatee, then eyeing Kagan.) What do you want with it?

Kagan got to his feet and another woman, much like the masseur, dressed Kagan in a white robe with Arius’ logo on the back.

Kagan: I intend to give it back to the owner.

Arius: Really?

Kagan: Thank you for your hospitality Arius. (Bowing) Next time your in my kingdom, I will show you mine…

Arius nodded his head and leaned back into the chair, the masseur stood behind him, relaxing his shoulders. Kagan turned and left. Outside of Arius’ office Ferril, Kagan’s acting bodyguard for the night finished off another of Arius’s secretaries. The Sorcerer’s creation screamed one last time before Ferril snapped her neck.

Ferril: Ha ha, Die you fucking doll!

Kagan: Ferril!

Ferril: (standing up, flicking the blood off her long claws) Father!

Kagan: (Looking at the carnage in disgust) Egh! Come, we’re leaving!

Ferril: At once Father!


Kagan and Ferril walked down the hallway, passing another of Arius’ creations, as Ferril passed her by, she snapped at it. The secretary, jump back against the wall, Ferril smiled.

Ferril: I’m glad to get out of here! I hate those freaks of nature!

Kagan: Ready my chopper! Get in contact with Ephemera; tell her to prepare for my arrival.

The mention of her sister’s name turned her stomach, though she was the strongest and fastest of Kagan’s children, Ephemera, was held highest in her father’s eyes.

Ferril: At once father…

Kagan: Time to get rid of some old trash…

Brimstone European Branch 5 (Unknown)

Kashus: Gone you say? How long ago?

Rayne: Who the fuck knows! Enzo isn’t sure himself! Damnit! (Kicking a chair into the wall) When I see that bratty punk I’m going to rip his arms off!

Kashus: Please Rayne, remember he has been through a lot. This defeat was very hard on him.

Rayne: What? The Great Son Of Sparda can’t handle one lousy defeat!? (muttering) fucking kid…

Kashus: Though he is the son of the Legendary Dark Knight, he is still part human. And humans can feel pain, much like you.

Rayne: We have nothing in common.

Kashus: You both have more in common than you know.

Offering Rayne to sit down, she declines and just leans against the wall.

Kashus: You know Sparda bore a son, Dante.

Rayne: No shit

Kashus: But there is more, Sparda’s wife born him not one, but two sons…twins.

Rayne: ?!

Kashus: There is much you don’t know about…

Location: Small Villa in Northern Spain

Kain stood on the roof of the mansion, looking at the stars; Dante’s blood had long passed through his system, reverting Kain back to his normal form. The half-breed’s demonic blood had brought back the memories of when Belier’s blood had been in his veins. It had always been said that demon’s blood is fatal to his people, but he had never felt more alive! Not only did he take in the blood, but also the knowledge of Belier, his vast knowledge of the demon arts, and his great wisdom of the known worlds.

The night air, brushed across his body, his long white hair blowing in the breeze. Wielding Dante’s blade, reminded him of his very own sword, the one he took from Belier’s dead hands, and the same one he ripped the demon to pieces with. Ah to hold it in his hands!

Behind him Muse appeared, followed by Ephemera.

Kain: What is She doing here?

Ephemera: (Bowing) Great Kain, allow me to introduce my father, Lord Kagan…

From the shadows, Kagan came forward, he and Kain locked eyes, though Kain flinched back in disgust at Kagan’s face. The stitching and crystals all his face were jut sickening.

Kagan: It is an honor, to meet the great king himself. (giving only a half bow)

Kain: Honor? (spitting) What does someone like you know about honor? Spawning half-breeds! Tainting our blood! My Blood! (Moving towards Kagan, Ephemera slowly backed away, but Muse stopped her from moving any further)

Kagan: Half-breeds have their use..Urgh!

Kain’s punch knocked Kagan to his knees, Kain reached down but a sweep kick toppled him over. Both men were to their feet, charging at one another. Locked in each other’s arms, they wrestled around, till Kain slapped Kagan off the roof, sending him into the courtyard. Luckily Kagan caught himself on a tree branch, landing on the ground, he looked up. Kain wasn’t there, he had appeared behind the vampire lord, chunking a stone bench. Kagan teleported away, reaching for an another bench, throwing it as well. Kain took the blow, only barley fazing him. That’s when Kagan tackled him into a tree, uprooting it.

Muse: Impressive fight, I wonder who will win? (Handing Ephemera a glass off blood.)

Ephemera: Yes, it has been a while since father has had a good fight.

Both women sat on the edge of the rooftop as Kagan and Kain battled below in the courtyard. Licking her fingers clean of blood, Ferril walked up to Muse and Ephemera, Muse handed her a glass as well.

Ferril: If the owners were still alive, I’d say they would be pretty pissed at the mess. (Looking down.) So that’s the great Lord Kain huh? He’s kinda cute.

Ephemera: Sister, he’s your great grandfather.

Ferril: So!? Why not keep it in the family? Besides, I like his idea of keeping our blood pure! Dhamphirs are second-class trash anyway.

There was a thunderous crash, then slience, all three looked down intently.

Standing, looking at each other, Kain and Kagan heaved, breathing hard.

Kain: Quite impressive.

Kagan: You impress me as well…

Both men stood up, somewhere; there was a sign of respect…

Kain: So, why have you come, I know it could not be to pay your respects.

Kagan: True, very true. To be honest, I only know much about you from my mother. She told me great stories about you. How you conquered the world, subdued these humans, kept the demons at bay, but that was long ago, before my birth.

Kain: She told me all this.

Kagan: Yes, but did she tell you everything? How she herself was imprisoned?

Kain: No…she did not tell me…

Kagan: Then let me tell you everything, trust me or not. You can always ask her.

Kain looked up at Muse sitting on the ledge, she saw from the look in his eyes, that Kain knew something that would get her in trouble; she cringed back.

Kain: …Speak

Chapter 12 - The Baron

Location: Country road, Two Hundred Miles From 5th Branch

Laying in the backseat of Chrissy Dante tried to sleep, but it was hard for him to find any peace. Images of the recent past, mixed with other painful memories assaulted his mind.
Finding himself back in the club pinned to the wall, Dante witnessed Kain slaughter innocent lives, even if some were vampires, none deserved to die that night. To make it more painful, Kain used Dante’s own sword to murder. Looking like an unholy demon, Kain laughed in Dante’s face as he cleaved another person in half.

Kain: (Laughing) Are you enjoying this Son of Sparda? Do you think your father would approve?

Dante: (Struggling against the unseen biddings) No! Stop it!

Kain: Make me! Your suppose to be these mortals protector…

In Kain’s huge claw, a woman pleaded not to be killed, her eyes full of tears.

Kain: Protect them! (Spearing her with Rebellion, blood painted the blade red.)

All Dante could do was scream.

Woman’s Voice: Why couldn’t you protect me?

Boy’s Voice: Your weak! You let us die!

Dante: Mom…Vergil!?

Standing below him, coated in blood, stood his mother and brother. Both of them looked at Dante, sorrow and anguish on their faces.

Eva: Dante…why?

Behind them, Kain emerged, holding Rebellion high…

Dante: No! Stop! Run, get away!

They didn’t respond, with a quick stroke, Kain took both their heads off; they rolled to the ground, looking up at Dante, expressionless…

Vergil: How could you?

Dante: Noooo!!!!!!!

He woke up in a cold sweat, at first he didn’t know where he was, but then he remembered everything. Quietly he exited the car, he had slept for only three hours, but it felt like an eternity. The sun hung high overhead; around noon, the best he could figure.

Dante: I need a drink….

Chrissy turned on a classic 50’s rock song, trying to cheer Dante up, he didn’t react, just jumped into the front seat, and started up the engine. After a while, the radio tuned off.
Location: Brimstone European Branch 5

In the 5th branch’s training room, Rayne worked off her frustrations and anger. Dante’s disappearance, her encounter with Muse, the massacre, Dante’s family, her family, everything! The punching bag she was abusing couldn’t take any more punishment; one final jab sent it flying across the room into some training equipment, exploding into dust.

Rayne: ErrrAAAHH!!!

Leaning over, she took deep breaths, sweat pouring down all over her face. Taking two more deep breaths, she went for a towel. As she wrapped it around her neck, Enzo ran in, there was a look of joy and relief on his face.

Rayne: Ever heard of knocking? I thought you were supposed to be in the library getting everything about Kain and Muse.

Enzo: That’s the thing. I got something!

Rayne: What do you have?

Enzo: Nothing…

Rayne: …

Rayne: I’m not in the mood for jokes.

Enzo: Wait, I know., but the thing is this. All the books that had informantion about them came up zip, except! For one, (Pulling out a notebook.) According to one, History of the Black Ages: Volume IV, A certain vampire baron, Enoch by the name, raided the Vatican Libraries. He made off with quite a number of important scrolls and books; including certain ones pertaining to your grandma and granddad. (Smiling)

Rayne: Enoch, never heard of him.

Enzo: Oh, I have.

Rayne: Say what?

Enzo: Not as a vampire anyway, he’s known as a reclusive guy, living in a big ass mansion not farfrom Dante’s and me town.

Rayne: Really… Come on then, (Walking to the exit)

Enzo: Uh, where are we going?

Rayne: To pay Enoch a visit.

Enzo: ?
Location: Enoch’s Mansion, 5 hours later.

Enzo: Um…I think I’ll wait outside…

Rayne: No, you’re coming with me.

Enzo: What!? Hey, that’s not how me and Dante do it!

Rayne: I’m not Dante, and yes you are.

Enzo: What if something happens?

Rayne: Like me cutting your dick off?

Enzo:…

Rayne: Good boy, lets go…


The mansion was huge, and well maintained; Enoch took great care of his estate and possessions. His place contained objects Rayne couldn’t describe, paintings, statutes, tapestries, silverware, furniture; it was a museum!

Enzo: (whistling quietly) Man, this guy is loaded! I bet you a lot of this is worth well over millions of dollars. (looking around, picking up a golden spoon. The detailed handle gave Enzo a broad smile.)

Rayne: Put it back but before you leave something behind, like maybe an ear.

Enzo: (Pouting) Oh your no fun…Damn, bossy as Dante…(setting the spoon back down)

The main hallway lead out into a courtyard, lavish flowers and trees were carefully arranged all over. In the center, a water fountain of 3 snakes, intertwined together reaching for the heavens, spat water up into the air.

Rayne touched one of the trees; its strange red bark attracted her, especially, the weird brown fruit hanging from the trees. Carefully, she picked one; the lemon shaped fruit was soft and rubber-like. The sent it gave off, tickled her nose and senses.

Enzo: Hey, what about not taking anything?

She bit into the fruit, the meat was of gel substance, and it the taste, sweet. Hungrily, she devoured the rest, then grabbing for another.

Rayne: This fruit, I’ve never tasted anything like it It’s like blood almost…

Enzo: Um…Rayne…(backing away towards the exit)

Rayne: What is it? (looking at what Enzo was looking at.)

The statues of snakes were moving, all faces turned at the intruders, Sharp fangs emerged from the mouths, the water, now running black, poured forth, dripping out like burning tar.

Rayne: Oh this isn’t good…

Rayne readied herself while Enzo ran for the exit, only to find it blocked but a strange field. One snake went for Enzo, the other two-attacked Rayne.

Enzo: Damint I can’t believe this is happening! (Turing around) AAAAHHHHH!!!!!

Enzo took a dive to the side, the snake crashed into the field, his body filled with cracks and missing chunks of stone. The snake looked at Enzo, in a strange daze..

Enzo: OH MY GOD!!!!!!!!

Meanwhile Rayne tried to avoid being eating by the other two stone snakes; their massive bodies torn through the courtyard. One striked; Rayne avoided it by landing on it’s back. She delievered five consecutive hits, before being knocked off, chunks of stone flew from the snakes backside, it wriggled around the ground before coming to it’s senses.

Rayne: Great, should have know something like that would have been usless.

The two snakes reared up, they both circled around Rayne till she was in between them both, they shifted their heads back and forth together, ready to attack.

Rayne: That’s it, come on guys make a nice Rayne-sandwich.

Both snakes striked, timing it just right, Rayne jumped out of the way, they both cracked severely in the faces, looking almost like a crazy jigsaw puzzle..

Rayne: Ha! You boys don’t seem to be that smart. This will be easy..Ahhh!

The third snake, having lost intrest in Ezno, head-butted Rayne in the back, she smashed into a tree, falling to the ground.

Rayne: Shit that hurt! He got me good…

All three snakes converged on her, ready to finish her off for good. From Enzo’s hiding place, up in a tree he watched as the stone snakes moved in for the kill.

Enzo: Come on Rayne, don’t give up yet!

Voice: Yes, um Rayne was it?

Enzo: (Startled) !!!!

Voice: You said Rayne, that’s the young dhamphirs name right?

Enzo: Uh…yeah…

Voice: Ah yes good then, (about to shout but stops) oh dear…

Enzo looks, just in time to see all three snakes strike at Rayne’s hunched over form. All three hit their mark.

Enzo: Oh no….

Voice: Oh yes! Quite impressive! She is quite strong for a dhamphir!

Enzo: ?

Enzo looked over and was surprised indeed, standing up, holding all three back with her blades, Rayne held her ground. Her entire body radiated with a red glow, even her blades, which now had turned black and doubled in size gave off an unholy aura.

Enzo: What is that?

Voice: She’s channeling her emotions, her very soul. Quite remarkable!

The snakes pressed on their attack, pushing Rayne back a few feet before she retaliated. With her added strength, she knocked them back. Leaping high in the air, she sliced one nicely in half. The other two recovered, only one found Rayne mid-air, repeatedly kicking it’s face in. In a matter seconds, there wasn’t a head left. The other snake backed off, after seeing it’s fellow brothers destroyed, it backed away towards the fountain.

Rayne: Whats the matter? Only a few minutes ago, you were ready to swallow me whole. I’m not good enough for you now?

The snake returned to the fountain, twisting into the sky, only now it appeared to be crying: water pouring from it’s mouth, but also slowly out from it’s eyes.

Rayne: Pussy…(The glow slowly faded away)

She saw Enzo trying to get out of the tree he was in; he fell to the ground on his back.

Enzo: Wow! That was cool! I’ve never seen anything like that! I bet you could really give Dante a run for his money if you and him ever really did go at it!

She was about to speak, when they both heard the sound of someone clapping.

Voice: I’m impressed! Quite good! Good indeed!!!!

Rayne: Whose there? Show yourself!

A strange man appeared in front of Rayne, his long ears and nose were his most striking features, giving him a rat-like appearance. His eyed her with his bulging gaze, rubbing his long hands together.

Man: It has been a very long time since I’ve ever seen a “full grown” dhamphir, especially a powerful one at that. (Bowing) My name is Enoch, “Baron Enoch”, and you are my dear?

Rayne: Just looking for answers, what do you know about certain a vampire lord named Kain? And his bald-headed bitch daughter?

Enoch’s ears twitched, those two names felt like an icy knife cutting into his backside. His teeth chattered as the chill went down his back.

Enoch: And what do you wish to know about…those two…

Rayne: Just tell me how to kill them, that’s all.

Enoch: (Smiling, looking at Rayne) You have a brave spirit in you. Come, let us have something to eat.

Enzo: Um…

Enoch: Don’t worry, I have food for mortals such as yourself.

Enzo: (sighing)

Enoch turned, heading for a doorway, Rayne and Enzo hesitated before finally following Him inside.

Chapter 13 - Wounded (Part 2)

Location: Striker’s (Pub), The HellMouth Lands, and Dante’s Town.

The bar owner ducked for cover as another drunkard flew past him. Tears filled his eyes as he looked at the destruction caused by Dante. Broken chairs, tables, and bottles were scattered all over the floor. Broken bodies of several bar participants littered the floor, they moaned in pain, those who didn’t join in the fight only stood against the walls, looking at the young white-haired youth standing in the middle of the whole mess.

Dante: (looking around) That the best you guys got? Huh!?…

Dante felt the cold metal of a barrel press against his head; holding the weapon was the bar owner’s bruised daughter.

Daughter: Please…just go…we don’t want any trouble…

He just stood there, not making eye contact, the barrel started to shake, the girl trembling, not knowing what would happen.

Dante: Alright,… fine, I’ll go…

He turned and left heading for the door, as he was almost out she yelled.

Daughter: He just wanted to talk with me, that’s all. You didn’t have to be rough with him…

Dante walked outside into the streets; like any other day the town still looked like shit to him. Home sweet home. Trash built up all along the street corners, the garbage men had gone on strike because of poor conditions and healthcare. Various vagrants, mixed with the common folk walked the street, like everyone else, Dante was lost in his own thoughts, though for a moment he felt being watched; the feeling was gone after a minute. It was only a few blocks from Dante’s home, so he walked, rather than drive Chrissy around. Besides he felt like walking anyway.

Dante: Home sweet home…

The door creaked open, dust flew across the floor, a cockroach made a run for a hole in the wall, but a metal slug pulverized it into pulp.

Dante: Need to hire an exterminator one of these days.

Quietly he threw his jacket onto his jukebox, and guns on the floor; a cloud of dust fluffed up as he crashed onto his couch. Slowly he massaged his head, looking up at the ceiling. He was about to fall asleep when he noticed a blinking light; it was the phone from Brimstone. Dante flipped it on, there were several messages, all from Enzo, all asking where he went to, except for the last one…

Message: Hey Dante, come on you can’t run away like this. (sigh) Look, I found out that someone might know how to take out Kain. The guy lives out over down Hollow Hill, you know where that is right? Rayne,and me are going to see if he knows anything at all. We could really use your help. (In the background Dante hears Rayne’s voice: Look if he wants to go and cry somewhere let him. I can handle this...)…(sigh), Ok Dante, Ciao..

He placed the phone on the floor, and tried to sleep.

Enoch’s Masion

Enoch lead Rayne and Enzo up a long staircase, blue flames illuminated the way up, various paintings hung along the walls. As they went, Enoch would point out who was in the painting, or who painted it.

Enzo: I say you really do have a nice place here, especially these works of art.

Enoch: Thank you, I take great pride in my collection. There are quite a few here that are my works as well…

Rayne: Yeah, I bet you’re quite the Picasso…

They came to a hallway lit with blue flames as well. Enoch opened a door that lead to a small dinning room. Upon it a feast lay, different cooked forms of meat, vegetables, and pastries lined the entire table.

Enoch: Please sit wherever you like, though I must warn mister, Enzo yes? Yes Enzo, please try to avoid eating any of the food, from the pickled jackal, (pointing to the carcass of a animal simmering in a strange purple sauce.) All the way to the candles, (Indicating to the large candle piece placed in the center of the table.)

Enzo: Of course! (running to the table, piling different meats and pastries on a giant plate. Enzo bit down on a turkey leg, he closed his eyes and moaned in pleasure.) Oh my god, this is heaven!

Rayne ignored the feast, she was busy looking up at a large painting of an almost familiar looking man dressed in purple. He was standing there, with a katana, face looking forward. To Rayne, it seemed that the man was looking straight at her, with a face full of strong pride and spirit.

Enoch: You like my work yes?

Rayne: This is one of yours?… Not bad, quite a handsome guy, who is he?

Enoch: (Looking up at the picture with almost a sense of hallowed respect) He one of my greatest subjects that I have ever had the liberty to paint. He is the Great Demon Warrior Sparda. The demon…

Rayne: Who turned on his own kind for the sake of humanity…so this is Dante’s father, the great knight himself, (Looking hard at Sparda’s face) how could Dante ever be his son?

Enoch: Ah, you know the story.

Rayne: I’ve heard it before, as a fairytale when I was little.

Enoch: Whether a demon, he was a proud person. For years he wandered the earth, making sure evil was balanced. I really think he would have been quite a match for…Kain…

Rayne: That’s why we are here, tell us what you know about him.

Enoch: Yes, Yes, all in good time, but first lets eat, you must be starving after fighting my pets…

Rayne: Look, we don’t have time to sit down and have tea and crumpets, Kain is out there right now, killing vampires, dhamphirs specifically. I want to know why, and how to stop him!

Enoch: All in good time dear Rayne, but first, please eat, how else will you be able to keep up your strength the next time you fight him?

Enzo: (Mouth full) Come on Rayne, just sit and relax, (stuffing his face)

Rayne: Shut up and keep eating you fat shit…

She didn’t trust Enoch, but she was hungry and weak from the battle. Slowly she sat down at the table, and began to pick at the different food, she recognized the strange fruit she had tasted from the courtyard; grabbing several, she ate. Enoch sat down as well, taking his time picking at the vegetables, some Rayne couldn’t even recognize.
Dante’s Office

Music woke up Dante from his weary dream, he looked over to see his jukebox playing a old classical piece, one he couldn’t recognize, and one that shouldn’t even be playing at all. He got up and walked over to the music box, picking up his guns as he went.

Dante: What is this crap?

Muse: Orlock’s 6th Movement. He wrote it just for me…

Dante fired at Muse, who appeared on his desk, the bullet froze in mid-air.

Muse: So this is where the Son of Sparda goes to lick his wounds, (looking around) just as I expected.

Dante: Where’s Kain?!

Muse: Father has some business with a dog and reclaim what’s rightfully his. I sensed your presence and father decided that I take care of you.

Dante: Oh? Why didn’t he come himself? Scared? I got a bone to pick with him.

Muse: Ha! Your no match for father, you’re a pathetic demon half-breed! You couldn’t even save that trash!

Dante: Bitch! (He fired again, as before, the bullets only froze.)

Muse: (laughing) Come now, that the best you can do? Guns?

Dante was about to fire again when a possessed corpse palmed him in the head, Dante went sprawling to the floor in a daze. He recovered but another one appeared, knocking him in the arms of another, who kicked him to yet another, and so forth. Muse sat and watched as eighteen more corpse threw him onto his pool table. Hands grew from the corners, holding Dante by the limbs firm. He tried to move, but no avail, Muse walked over Dante, holding a long knife.

Muse: I met your father once…He was quite handsome, for a demon, (touching Dante’s cheek, he snapped, biting her.) To bad your nothing like him…

She let her blood drip all over his face till the wound healed.

Muse: Your father had a remarkable healing ability, (Jamming the blade deep into Dante’s chest)

Dante tried to scream but he couldn’t, the blade felt like it was dispersing into his body.

Muse: Like the pain? It’s an old weapon, a reminder of where we came from.

The blade’s metal traveled through Dante’s body, filling in his veins, causing pain to shoot all over. As the pain intensified, his eyes began rolling in the back of his head; everything went black.
Enoch’s Mansion

After the meal, Enoch and Rayne sat down at a fireplace, the same blue flame burned, Enoch handed her a glass of blood wine.

Rayne: No more stalling, what do you know?

Enoch: First, drink…

Rayne didn’t know what to do, Enzo was passed out, she took a sip; the blood tasted sweet, yet strong.

Enoch: What do you think?

Rayne: Not bad, who died to make this?

Enoch: Dhamphirs,… infant dhamphirs…

Rayne almost gagged.

Rayne: What the fuck?

Enoch: