[ he's quiet for a few moments at that, eyebrows furrowing as he thinks it over ]

Hades already mentioned how Vergil and I disappearing could influence their decisions, if we're Thancred's primary motivation. But I believe they'd operate under the assumption that I am still in Hell somewhere, and that we will find our way back. Which does mean if they don't keep the agreement we'd still have to kill them when the time comes.

What truly concerns me is what would happen if you were to disappear. Would they believe they're rid of you for good and decide to protect their world across every possible timeline?

That, and the rest of their companions. Noah already agreed to keeping to his timeline once, and that all went southways when Thancred appeared. Even should Thancred take a more active role in gaining the cooperation of his friends, it is not guaranteed he would manage. What of their Hero? If they find their way here, would they truly agree to this?

If they were logical creatures they should. But they're clearly not. And they're seeing timetravel the same way as they see actual murder.

[ a pause, and he sighs ]

I suppose ultimately I don't, no. But I'd like to.