Nero Belladonna
Age: 18
Titles: 'Oreilles' (According to Rumia and Ayami's daughter) Leo (Adelite) 'Muffin' (Bianca) (Feel free to suggest other titles)
Family: Blake Belladonna (Sire), Ilia Amitola (Dame)
Home: Menagerie
Aura Color: Neon Green
Color Code: #0AFF00
The son of two ex-white fang operatives, Nero was born on Menagerie and spent ten years growing up there with his mother Ilia while Blake went off to start the Black Ribbon Mercenaries. Blake still found time to be with her family, but was often away for months at a time, too stubborn to risk taking her wife and child along on dangerous missions. With one mother gone frequently and the other doing her best to raise him, the young boy found it difficult to make friends. From the earliest age he can remember he had difficulties socializing in the same way others could. When he came of age Nero was sent to study at the primary combat school "Gryphon". He studied there for several years until he was deemed old enough to be safely brought along with the mercenaries. Nero would eventually get his first real taste of action when he turned fourteen, from there he began training under Blake herself and being involved in small scale jobs that carried lesser risk.
However, with this new lifestyle came a lack of being grounded in one place for very long. Black Ribbon traveled the world over, and Nero was along for almost every single destination. Still...The young faunus took it in stride, never holding it against his parents. In fact, he pushed his efforts harder in order to please them. A yaer later Blake allowed Nero to return to Menagerie alone to complete his schooling at Gryphon and spend one more year living a relatively "normal" life. While finishing his studies at Menagerie he met his first girlfriend, a fox faunus named Nadeshiko. Sadly with his studies complete and his preparations to rejoin the Black Ribbon, the pair broke up. Nadeshiko was destined to stay in Menagerie, and Nero was always destined to be a mercenary.
With one year behind him, Nero said goodbye to Menagerie and his first love. The following year Nero and the Black Ribbon spent quite some time in Haven working directly under the Knights there. That was when he met many people, some friends, some potential rivals, others were...Complicated, among them eccentrics like Ayami's daughter. But among the people he came to know during this time was one Adelite Mars, the pair worked together on several missions and became close quickly. Despite Adelite seeming abrasive to many people, Nero's unique perspective allowed him to see through the surface. Likewise Adelite was able to do the same for him. They began dating in-between the chaotic work the two groups found themselves in. Despite how close the two became...By the end of the year it was clear that Black Ribbon was moving out again, and with it Nero. Adelite was a woman who had a path to follow, one that the faunus respected greatly. With no hard feelings the pair split up, staying good friends despite everything.
His career continued just as it had, he was quickly approaching early adulthood, and his parents were trusting him with greater and greater jobs. Black Ribbon was making a name for themselves, and he was at the forefront of it. With greater success the Black Ribbon soon found themselves gaining more recruits to their efforts, including the boy who would eventually become Nero's third ex; Jasper Braun.
The pair became very close lovers, not unlike his relationship with Adelite had become. Jasper was one of the very few people to peer past the "Mask of professionalism" Nero put up around those he wasn't very close to. Although unlike perhaps many others, Jasper came to appreciate that mask as well. He understood that it was something that made Nero more comfortable socializing, and it was that mask that was intertwined with his career as a mercenary.
Unfortunately Black Ribbon was a mercenary group that was working towards those who sow peace. Jasper recognized that there's no place for Mercenaries in a world that only knows peace. And for someone like Nero whose entire life had been shaped by that career path...The idea of Nero losing what appeared to be "everything" to him was sickening...While on a fateful mission in the southern forests of Mistral, Jasper and several other rogue mercenaries betrayed the Black Ribbon and went off to form their own mercenary group funded by what was left of the Akuma, a group known as "Chernabog". A lot of things happened and Nero was dumped by another person and stuff. He doesn't really like to talk about it.
He's a faunus modeled after a Caracal, that's why he's got tall ears!
Weapons and Equipment
Rhizophora
Bow Form
The primary and complete form of Nero's Rhizophora. A brilliant green, and white bow made of a specialized reinforced titanium alloy acquirable only through specific Atlas connections. Gold fittings are themselves also a special gold alloy that allows for greater flexibility across the entire weapon. The bowstring is made of a steel thread which much like the body allows for maximum durability; as a result however the bowstring requires wearing gloves to safely use. Additionally, the bow features two extra lines which are designed for maximum stability. These can be adjusted to increase or decrease the draw strength as the user requires.
The design is something Nero and Adelite came up with together; it is designed to invoke the look and feel of the natural world, much like standard bows are made of materials found in the wild, this weapon is made to match a wild aesthetic. The white wings match the wind and the wings of the birds which fly in the sky. The green elements match the vegetation found all across Remnant's continents while the sharper light green parts are designed with the harsher plants in mind such as thorny vines. The gold fittings are meant to symbolize the rich resources provided to all living things from nature. The overall design of the entire bow is sharp but elegant to match the brutality and beauty of the natural world that exist in balance.
Much like other specialized weapons in Remnant, Rhizophora is designed to transform; however this transformation process is unique and exists in multiple stages. The transformation process begins with the bowstring and stabilizing lines detaching with the press of a switch. From here the user can use Rhizophora like a staff. However the true transformation comes when the user presses hidden buttons on the gold fittings closest to the bow's grip. These buttons are activated only once the strings have been retracted and once pressed release the wings from the bow's grip. With the wings released, Rhizophora's next form is acquired...
Blade Form
... With the wings detached, the gold connectors that once attached them to the grip become hilts. Pulling the hilts down extends the black leather grips. Finally by spinning the gold fangs at the end of the blade they will retract the green spikes and lock into place, transforming the bows wings into cutlass-styled swords...Both wings transform, allowing Nero to dual-wield in a style that was taught to him by Adelite Mars. The presence of two blades means that even if one is disarmed he will still have one left. Both blades feature gold alloy spikes that protrude in front of the lower half of the blade. They are exactly as sharp as they look; allowing Nero to use his blades as bashing weapons if he should find himself in tight quarters that disallow swinging a sword.
Whenever the user desires to return to bow form they need only press a button in the hilt that pops out once the blade form is set. This button will unlatch the grip and gold fang ornament, allowing them both to be brought back to their initial state. From there one needs only reattach the wings to the grip and Rhizophora will be restored to its default state.
It should be noted that while using the wings in Blade form, the grip is a fully separated piece and can be safely stored on one's person until they're ready to reassemble the bow. However...Should Nero be disarmed of both blades, the grip serves one last function. Without the wings, the bow's grip becomes...
Dagger Form
... A piercing, stabbing, puncturing punch dagger. The last piece of Rhizophora's arsenal and the one piece that requires no additional transformation. A special Katar dagger that is designed to be held one-handed with the user's index and middle fingers on either side of the blade's base. The shape of the grip allows the user to hold their hand in a fist for maximum punching strength. Being able to thrust straight ahead makes the dagger form ideal for tight quarters much like the blade form's piercing needles.
The dagger's short range and lack of defensive options means it is Nero's last resort in many situations. This is by no means a sign of its capabilities however. Rhizophora's punching dagger is designed to leave lasting wounds that are difficult to heal from. The faunus can often be seen carrying this piece of the weapon on a belt worn around his waist when blade form is being used. It can be quite easily reattached to the wings of the bow to bring the weapon back to its primary state at any time.
A simplistic and seemingly primitive tool, despite the lack of transformation options Rhizophora's dagger is reliable and made from all the same alloys that allow for maximum durability. With enough force the blade could even puncture through armor and shields. One would be wise to remain cautious if they should see dagger form being used as Nero is granted higher agility and faster attacking speed with this form than with any other form of the weapon.
Hyacinth
Nero's first weapon. The bow he created while attending Gryphon combat school as a child and the weapon that set him down the path of mastering bows. It is very simplistic compared to Rhizophora. The grip is made of a flexible steel while the wings are made of a carved mangrove wood found in the swamp regions of Menagerie. Nero shaped and painted the wings himself. The brilliant green and gold accents are designed to mimic the colors of a forest.
Hyacinth does not transform like Rhizophora, has a lighter draw strength, less overall stability, and cannot adapt to close range combat. And yet...It holds a lot of sentimental value to him. He slayed his first grimm in the wilds of Menagerie using this weapon; a titan dinosaur grimm. And though he no longer uses it in battle it served him well when he first joined Black Ribbon. It currently hangs on a wall in his room back at Menagerie to serve as a reminder of where he came from and how far he's improved.
He still occasionally tells the story of his first hunt with Hyacinth to close friends, though the way he tells it makes it sound a lot like a fairytale, calling the incredible feat into question for many.
Dust Arrows
Though Nero primarily uses regular steel arrows in combat, he keeps with him a set of arrows with special dust crystal heads that are swapped in and out depending on what the coming missions call for. The solid dust arrow heads cause the fired arrows to create a wide variety of effects upon making impact with chosen targets. He tends to use them sparingly however due to both the cost of producing them and the volatile nature of carrying them. The selection of dust arrows is as follows:
Fire ArrowsArrows tipped with fire dust crystals. Upon impacting a chosen target they burst in a brilliant explosion of flames that spread quickly if striking anything flammable. The resulting blast is effective at handling multiple targets with a single shot as whatever doesn't catch them alight will almost certainly send them scrambling.
Ice ArrowsArrows that have a head made of pure ice dust. On impact the arrow sends out a wave of sub-zero temperatures that will instantly freeze anything within the immediate impact site. Can be used to slow down targets just as much as it can be to damage them. If used on water it can cause boats to upend themselves or stop completely, or perhaps for the daring it can create stepping stones to cross quickly across lakes, rivers, and ponds.
Lightning ArrowsThese arrows tipped with lightning dust will - As the name implies, send a wave of electricity surging through whatever is struck by them. While it will have little effect on things that don't conduct electricity bare skin, water, or natural materials will find themselves perfect conduits for the stunning effects of these arrows.
Warning: Do not use on "Thunder Thighs" or masochistic individuals.
Wind ArrowsThese brilliant green arrows carry the power of air. Anything struck by them will be met with an instant expulsion of high pressure winds; if the impact of the arrow doesn't knock a target down, the gale force wind that follows likely will. If even the most stubborn wall stands in your way, these arrows may prove the perfect choice.
Water ArrowsThough used infrequently by Nero, these blue tipped arrows send out a small tidal wave of water upon striking a chosen target. It will do little against an enemy, but if one finds themselves dealing with lots of fire it can be incredibly effective in combating the heat.
Stone ArrowsArrows with tips that glow a deep orange color, their usage is perhaps a little more basic than the others, but serves this usage quite well. When a fired stone arrow meets its mark a pillar of rock will rise into the air either beside the landing point or above it, entrapping targets and creating temporary, effective barricades.
Vine ArrowsArrow heads that are dark green in color and are shaped after a thicket of brambles. Made from plant dust - An element of dust rarely seen in combat, upon hitting anything solid these arrows will begin to sprout thorny vines which wrap around the target and constrict tightly. Can be used to tie up escaping enemies or to seal something shut. Their very nature as arrows with a rarer dust type make them quite a surprise against opponents who may not be prepared for this move to be made against them.
Smoke Screen ArrowsA set of arrows with unassuming dull gray arrowheads. What many don't realize from a glance is that these arrow heads are coated in a payload of water and fire dust that combine to create steam dust. When striking a surface these arrows explode into a thick cloud of steam that obscures and blinds anyone in its immediate vicinity. Much like water arrows, Nero doesn't employ these very often, however in a panic situation they can be used quite effectively in creating a window used either for escape, or launching a counterattack.
Gravity ArrowsAn ominous purple glow emits from the tip of these arrows that are used to great effect whenever a mission calls for their deployment. Their effect is simple enough; when struck by this arrow, an object or person will find themselves immediately becoming heavier. Each additional arrow will increase this by weighing a target down further. The effect of gravity arrows eventually fades, however it is potent enough to last for half an hour or longer depending on how many arrows were used.
Hard-Light Arrows
Hard-Light arrows are perhaps the most powerful tools in Nero's arsenal. Unlike the other dust arrows, hard-light arrows carry out a purpose different from simply applying elemental affects to a shot. With a specialized arrowhead these arrows project a holographic laser tip that is powerful enough to pierce solid steel plating by burning through it using pure light energy. Nero deploys these arrows in scenarios which feature heavy machinery or robotics. Even a powerful tank can be punched through using the power of hard-light dust. The general rarity of hard-light dust however means these are used sparingly whenever the faunus archer needs to take down a heavily armored target in a hurry.
Explosive Arrows
Explosive arrows are basic wooden shaft arrows that have a high-end explosive payload tied to the end. A mixture of gunpowder and combustion dust makes up the contents of a small bag tied over the arrowhead. When this arrow's cloth pouch strikes enemy and inanimate object alike the kinetic force creates a chain reaction which results in the contents being naturally activated and expanding into a high powered explosion. These arrows are made of common low cost materials and are lightweight enough that Nero often carries at least a few of them no matter the mission.
If precision isn't required then these can hit with power rivaling even hard-light arrows, and can be used against all the same targets as well. They are versatile but not recommended if the user wishes to preserve the target they're firing at. One must also be careful to handle them gently or else risk being blown up themselves. Nero often ties thick leather covers over the heads of these arrows when carrying them to avoid that exact disastrous scenario.
Hook Arrows
The heaviest and overall largest arrows in Nero's arsenal. Their usage is very specific and the bulkiness of them require that they be brought only on infiltration missions where combat is already ill-advised. Their size means that even when Nero makes use of them, he's likely to only bring one. However, just because they're not ideal for combat does not mean they're useless. Grappling Hook arrows open up paths that would otherwise be inaccessible by creating climbing points both vertically and horizontally. The ever present nature of these arrows means an entire team can make use of them as well. And if push comes to shove...Being conked on the head by one of these arrows will almost certainly hurt even the toughest opponent.
These arrows work via a mechanism hidden inside the solid steel casing which activates as soon as the arrow reaches the apex of its firing arc. Grappling blades hidden in the sides of the casing quickly expand outwards when the mechanism is triggered, allowing the arrow to...Well, carry out its intended purpose of course. A secure cable is attached to the bottom of the arrow, allowing the user to pull the arrow back or climb to the secured point whichever the case may be. If necessary the cable can be carefully detached, allowing the arrow to be used as a proper projectile or freeing someone who finds themselves tangled in the cable. The weight of this arrow means it has a very short range however, so careful planning should be made when deploying these.
Semblance and Abilities
Enhanced Senses
Being born a faunus resulted in Nero having heightened natural senses in line with a predatory animal. He can see in much darker spaces than his human counterparts with eyes that adjust to a higher spectrum of colors. His ears allow him to pick up not just a greater range of sound but also allow him to pick out the more subtle details of the sounds he hears. And last but not least his sense of smell is more attuned than normal, allowing him the ability to better identify specific smells as well as picking up some that others might miss.
Chameleon Cloaking
Nero inherited Ilia's chameleon genetics, allowing him to cloak his entire body by changing his colors to match his surroundings. It took many years of practice to fully grasp this natural ability, but with hard work he has become able to shield himself from being spotted by anyone short of those with sharp eyes and careful senses. One might think the idea of a cat that can change colors would be absurd, but in a way, he's not so different from a cheshire. Thankfully for everyone else's sake he's forgone the creepy grin and simply kept the ability to disappear. Naturally this ability carries the same weaknesses you'd expect from a real chameleon. Normally this ability only manifests in the colored strands of hair on his head, but on the job he frequently uses it to augment his infiltration capabilities.
Semblance: Sea of Shadows
Nero's semblance allows him to sink into any shadow that is being cast so long as he makes physical contact with it. While within a shadow anyone outside cannot physically interact with him, and he can't be seen within. He can travel instantly from any point within the shadow and exit out of it at will, even if the shadow is in a location he physically can't reach - If that shadow is touching a point, he can go there instantly from within the shadow. If a shadow is cast through a window, or from the bottom of a building to the very top, he can pass through into the interior, or scale that building with no effort on his part.
As with any other semblances however, there are drawbacks. He cannot jump between shadows that are disconnected without first exiting one and diving into the other. This means on a battlefield with little to no shadows being cast his semblance is effectively rendered useless. Additionally, if the object casting the shadow he has dived into is removed, he will be forcefully ejected from where the shadow was. Finally, while diving inside a shadow his aura is constantly being drained at a slow rate. Should his aura completely deplete while inside a shadow, much like the previous example he will be forcefully ejected from it.
All in all this semblance is well suited to stealth and infiltration, but in the heat of combat also works as a high mobility-class semblance as the instantaneous travel from within shadows means Nero can theoretically move faster than even an opponent equipped with a powerful speed-based semblance. Additionally, with evolution this semblance can allow the user to manipulate and create shadows by absorbing light in the environment. May be capable of even more than that, however additional testing will have to be done to learn the limitations.
Appearance
Menagerie Mercenary
The outfit Nero wears most often, and the one he deems as his "Mercenary Uniform". The level of professionalism achieved with this outfit is questionable, but the clear personal preference in wearing this in the field is respectable. The design consists of a black undershirt with an attached hood. The undershirt fits tightly in order to allow for maximum upper body flexibility. Over the top of the undershirt he wears a lightweight Kevlar-fiber tunic dyed white and sporting a variety of accenting colors, primarily blue and purple. This tunic provides a little extra protection from projectiles without sacrificing mobility.
His hands are fitted with black form-fitting gloves that feature focus-points for aura to be channeled through on the palm and fingertips. Palm strikes can be given greater hitting power thanks to this added feature, while focusing aura into the fingertips allows one improved grip, an excellent feature both for climbing, and for using his customized bow Rhizophora. Combining both fingertips and palm aura leads to the wearer being able to better block attacks with an open hand. Wristbands that attach to the gloves allow for better shock-absorption that safely carries the energy of any impacts away from the wrists and finger joints.
While at a glance his pants may appear to be baggy, there's actually a thick layer of insulation within to better block sharp blades from piercing through to his legs. This added insulation also works well in cold environments, adding just a bit more protection against the biting winds of blizzard-prone regions. Finally, a leather outer layer adds one extra touch of protection from blunt strikes and slashing attacks alike. His pants are dyed in rich muted colors of dark blue, crimson, and black.
Last but not least are Nero's boots, designed with maximum durability in mind they're suitable to all environments. Dark blue boots are accented with black and white to bring out a vibrant range of colors that isn't painful on the eyes, and are muted enough for missions that call for stealth.
All-seasons Backpacker
For many people in Remnant "hiking" is a strange concept. Nature may be beautiful but it's ripe with grimm that prey upon humans and faunus alike. Those who are not strong and haven't awakened their aura cannot possibly imagine being relaxed outside the safety of a community. It wouldn't be strange to say that in this world hiking is considered an extreme sport. But for Nero...It is his hobby, and one he's passionate about. For as long as he can remember Nero has appreciated the beauty of nature and found himself drawn to spending time within it. Perhaps a consequence of living in Menagerie where even civilization isn't without vast vegetation and wildlife.
Whatever the case, Nero needs an outfit more suited to long term walking within nature, something durable but not necessarily designed for combat. For this purpose he has a full set of hiking gear that he wears whenever he expects to be out exploring the wild during his off-time between missions. This backpacking gear consists of several layers. Starting from the top he wears three layers over his torso.
- A heavy white parka with an attached leather pouch and several pockets for storing small things. Weather-proofing makes this coat well-suited to rain or snow both and several layers of insulation keep the wearer warm and dry.
- A thin gray hoodie which fits perfectly underneath the parka and can be taken off or put on quickly and easily. Several additional pockets feature on the hoodie.
- A green waterproof undershirt that fits tightly to Nero's body. The fabric is both breathable and resistant, making it perfect for swampy or humid environments.
- A pair of swimming goggles that work both for their intended purpose and to shield his eyes from high winds.
-A trekking pack made of a tan nylon fabric that is designed to be durable, waterproof, and more importantly; lightweight. Nero often clips a lantern onto the side that can be lit for late evening travel.
Each layer of clothing can be removed and put back on as needed depending on several factors including environment or temperature. Moving past the torso he also wears a pair of black hiking pants which much like his coat are designed with weatherproofing materials. Lastly, a pair of black and green leather trekking boots finish things off, allowing him to traverse any terrain safely and without bringing damage to his footwear. With adaptable clothing and plenty of storage Nero is prepared for anything mother nature can throw his way.
Training Noire
Whenever Nero needs downtime to train, this is the outfit he is almost always seen in. It's a variation of his regular mercenary uniform designed for maximum lightness and flexibility. Though while it's certainly efficient it also provides a more necessary function for training: Comfort. On his torso he wears a modified variation of the black undershirt featured in his regular uniform. This one is still form-fitting and retains the single-sleeve design but forgoes the attached hood and isn't QUITE as tightly fit to his body as the aforementioned undershirt. The right arm is completely bare to allow better acclimation to bow training.
Additionally he wears lightweight wide-leg pants made of simple cloth fabric. They're stylized to match the normally leather-armored pants he wears in combat - Not because it offers any kind of advantage when training, but simply because he's more comfortable with things that are familiar to him. He most often trains barefoot but has a pair of simple black and green sneakers he wears with this outfit when the situation calls for them. A minimalistic outfit that leaves nothing that can get in the way of focusing his mind and body. Though this is its primary purpose he often wears it when lounging around as well. With that in mind this could also be called his casual clothes.
Gentleman's Formal Attire
A suit fit for formal occasions, parties, and special events. A clean white dress shirt underneath a sleek tan and black vest and topped by a complimenting green tie. Perfectly fitting black dress pants and a pair of shiny black shoes finish this ensemble to create an outfit that almost makes Nero look like a completely different person, and certainly accomplishes the feat of changing the aura surrounding him. This outfit also comes with a black overcoat that can be worn in colder temperatures or when in general outdoor settings. Additional accessories include a pair of tightly fitting black gloves and golden cuff links.
You may think Nero owns this outfit because he wants to appear like he belongs to high society. The truth is that he finds greater comfort in nature and would rarely consider something like this a priority. However...His mother Ilia insisted that he would have better luck in romance if he had an outfit that presented him in a gentlemanly light. Blake agreed it would be good for him, but more specifically because he could "Blend into elite parties better during missions". Not one to ignore the advice of his parents, Nero went along with it and paid a high class Atlesian tailor to sew together a suit that's not only form fitting, but feels tailor-made for his particular style as well.
Though he never brings this suit on missions for fear of damaging it, he did invest in a lightweight bullet-proof vest that he can wear underneath his dress shirt if he so chooses. While it doesn't provide the same level of efficient defense his mercenary uniform offers, it can still serve its purpose well-enough when paired with one's natural aura so long as it only sees light combat. With the suit designed for comfort, class, and flexibility, if he ever let go of his reservations, it would allow Nero to fight in style.
He doesn't wear this outfit anymore after the betrayal.
Fairytale Ball
An outfit that doesn't quite exist yet. Or perhaps one that existed in another time and place. Formal wear going for a style much different from the formal suit he normally wears. It consists of a white dress coat accented in brilliant forest green and gold, a black vest worn over a clean white dress shirt, and a green bowtie to top it off. Black gloves fit his hands much like the ones he wears in his other suit, and across his chest is a green sash which features a striped green ribbon on the bottom end of it. This outfit forgoes the dress pants to instead feature a pair of sleek black dress shorts with white hems on each leg.
This ensemble is finished off with a pair of pure white ankle socks and shiny black dress shoes. A suit that is formal yet whimsical, like a character in a fairy tale showing up for a tea party hosted by a mad hatter. Its purpose is perhaps one not dissimilar from his other formal attire, but it gives off a much different feeling than the gentlemanly vibe of that one.
(Note: I actually have no idea where this one would be used, but I'll probably find a use for it eventually.)
Summer Soleil
Naturally being as interested in nature as he is and considering his home's most common environment, Nero does in fact have clothing suited for a nice relaxing day at the beach. Though it's certainly more modest than what most would choose to wear. None the less, his beach attire consists of a straw sun hat with a tropical flower ornament adorning the crown of the hat. A breathable summer jacket sits on his shoulders in a simple white coloration and underneath he wears a black short-sleeved t-shirt. Naturally the jacket is very lightweight and small allowing for easy removal.
Below this he wears a pair of forest green swim trunks with a tropical pattern featured on the legs. He most often chooses to be barefoot when it concerns being on the beach, but if there's rougher terrain he has a simple pair of leather sandals to protect his feet. Finally, if the sun gets too bright, he carries a pair of stylish sunglasses in his pocket where-ever the beach takes him. It's a very simple outfit with little in the way of specialization - Unlike many of his more involved attires this is one you can probably mimic after a short trip to a department store. (Faunus ears not included)
Personality
Nero's personality consists of several layers. There is not just one element to him, and he only opens up beyond each layer as he grows closer to someone, learns to trust them, and becomes more comfortable around them. Some may pull away those layers faster than others, but as long as one persists in interacting with him, they will all eventually reach the same endpoint. To talk about his personality it would be best to cover each layer separately.
The first layer and the one that exists to hide all others is like a mask. A mask in which Nero projects an air of cold, detached, professionalism. He is unchanging and laser-focused, exchanging very little small talk, and no conversations beyond what is absolutely necessary to do his job. Most people will see this outer layer and assume that Nero is a hardened mercenary who doesn't care about life, and cares even less about the people around him.
However the truth is that this mask of professionalism is something of a coping mechanism to hide his sometimes crippling social anxiety. When Nero dons the guise of a cold mercenary he is able to interact with others without breaking down whatsoever. Some would call his stoic expression while on the job "The world's greatest poker-face" as he can stare down terrifying situations with an unchanging frown. Those who really know him however know that he's often just as scared and nervous as anyone else, he has just become amazing at not showing it physically. There are of course - Obvious tells if you know to look for them. His ears and the color-changing strands of hair tell all.
Underneath "Professional Mercenary" Nero is the next layer of his personality. The face he shows those who he works with but isn't close to. He is unflinchingly polite, afraid to "rock the boat" or even complain about anything. He can make small talk and - Rarely even hold long conversations, but he will never speak much of his personal life beyond what he has to. It's clear to anyone interacting with him like this that he's nervous, and that unchanging stoic face of his when on the job is long gone. He says exactly what he thinks will make the other person happy to hear, not out of any intention of deceiving or manipulating them, but simply because he's too nervous to risk offending them. Some might compare this layer of his personality to Pyrrha's friendliness. TOO friendly, almost to the point of being annoying.
But for those who hold close bonds with Nero, his "Final" layer of personality will shine through. That is - the Nero that isn't being held back by social awkwardness or anxiety. The true Nero is...Actually a normal, well-adjusted happy person. Despite his upbringing appearing "hectic" to outsider observers, despite seemingly being railroaded into a career as a mercenary...Nero has no complaints about where he is in life. He loves and respects his parents, he doesn't take issue with having to travel, and his Exes (Save for one...) all broke up with him on mutually amicable terms; they still stay in contact! That isn't to say he lacks any trauma or sad memories...He's certainly had his fair share of hardship, but he simply takes it all in stride. To Nero these are the things he doesn't want to define him. He doesn't want the proverbial mask he wears on the job to change who he is when he feels most comfortable.
All in all Nero has many layers that make him who he is, and while to outside observers the outer-most layer may paint him as an edgy loner, the truth is very far from that. If you choose to form a friendship with him it may require patience, but it will pay off in time like a blooming flower that has been carefully watched over. Naturally as one would expect, Nero has also inherited elements of his parents' personalities. From Blake one can find that when Nero enters combat he can become quite fierce. He strives to ensure his opponent is properly neutralized as a threat. That intense efficiency echoes Blake's own combat prowess.
On Ilia's side of inheritance...Nero is unflinchingly loyal to those he's formed close bonds to. He will almost literally carry the world on his back for you if he cares deeply about you. But the other element he got from Ilia was her strong emotional output; he can be VERY emotional despite otherwise being a generally happy person. His emotions show both in his actions and through the colorful strands of hair that stand out from an otherwise all-black haircut; These strands will change color in accordance to his current emotion.
Green represents perfect neutrality. This color marks the fact that he isn't feeling any particular emotion strongly enough for it to change.
Pink represents embarrassment. While it's not uncommon for this to be paired with a deep red blush across his face, pink coloration in his hair appears when he is embarrassed about something. It betrays his attempts to remain composed.
Red represents anger or aggression. If the likely angry face he's sporting when this color appears doesn't make it clear enough, the fiery red strands of hair make it clear that he is mad.
Blue represents sadness. Drooping ears, tears falling from his eyes, a deep frown, if these things are absent, a deep blue shade spreading across the highlights of his hair make it clear he is sad.
Yellow represents both caution and anxiousness. Whatever the case may be, when this color appears, Nero is apprehensive about SOMETHING. He might be extremely nervous about a social situation he has to enter, or perhaps he is running into a combat scenario which is giving even him pause.
Purple is the color that represents pure confusion. Disbelief, dumbfoundedness, feelings of sheer bafflement. Whenever Nero is presented with something so absurd that his mind can't even really process what he just witnessed, that's when the strands of hair on his head turn a deep shade of purple.
Despite these varied colors one thing should be clear, they will only appear when EXTREME examples of these emotions appear. If he is mildly agitated he won't sport a red color, nor will he wear blue when he is only slightly disappointed. Despite this however, Ilia was no doubt proud to see her son carry on an element of her physical makeup. It often goes unnoticed by Nero himself, but it is another unique element of his layered emotions; his emotional state can sometimes manifest very literally in a series of brilliant colors.
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