Proto Merkabah.
An ancient abomination brought back to life. A nefarious mechanism with the power to annihilate an entire planet. Another accursed invention from Joachim Mizrahi, a deranged lunatic who left behind a legacy of horror.
Well, there was one exception, of course; and she was leading us right to Proto Merkabah's reactor. I wonder how MOMO felt, helping to destroy one of her father's creations?
Actually, I couldn't begin to imagine how she must be feeling right now. And if I wanted to keep a cool head, I'd better not.
I didn't want MOMO to come with us, even though she knew the fastest route. I wanted her to stay behind in the Durandel, where she'd be safe.
But the truth was, she wasn't really safe anywhere. Not as long as he was still alive. That's why I had to put a stop to him right now. And that's why I never wanted to leave her side again
It wasn't much farther. According to MOMO, the reactor was just beyond the following hallway. As we all hurried toward our goal, I decided to pick up my pace. I had no doubts that he would be waiting for us there, and I wanted to be the first one to greet him.
Once we reached inside, we all stopped in front of the reactor, which was only a short distance away. But I wasn't concerned with the reactor right now. I darted my head in every direction, trying to look for any sings of a trap. Looking around, I couldn't find anything suspicious, or even anyone besides us. As the old saying went, 'It was quiet. Too quiet.'
But I knew he was here somewhere. The whole room reeked of him. I could feel the hairs behind my neck standing on edge. Where the hell was he?
"You're late!"
I felt my stomach tighten from the insidious greeting. The voice came from above. Instantly, I lifted my head up.
"I was about to give up on you, Rubedo!"
There he stood, right atop the reactor. As soon as I layed eyes on him, I started to feel all of my hatred and anger building up again, but I told myself to remain calm.
"Take a look, this thing's got a full belly already." Albedo mused as he stroked the metal casing with his hand. Looks like I took longer than I thought. But it didn't matter, since I knew he wouldn't pass up a chance to challenge me again. Afterwards, he dropped down from his position, landing right in front of us. My fists clenched tightly as he slowly stood up, greeting me with that arrogant smirk of his.
"So then, what shall we do now?" He gleefully asked. "Shall we continue where we left off?" He really was hellbent on fighting with me. This whole siege of Proto Merkabah was probably just a ploy to get me to fight him. Fine then, at least I wouldn't have to worry about Merkabah's weapons firing on Miltia. Also, a part of me was just as anxious to tear him apart.
But just as I was ready to start the battle, a strange bluish glow began to surround Albedo. The haunting light formed above him, taking the image of a ghostly projection that resembled the monster himself, blinking eyes and all. I've never seen anything like it, especially not from him.
"Wh-what is that?" I questioned nervously. "Are you…how are you doing that…?" "Don't be so surprised." He mocked. "This is the power of will, a fundamental power that exists within everyone. What you are witnessing is simply your perception of it". And you know what? Perception and pain are but one and the same."
I didn't have a clue what he was on about. At this point, I also didn't care. Things have just gotten more complicated regardless. If he was only using the power he gained from U-DO, then I would have at least been somewhat prepared. But with this new ability, this 'will' of his, I had no idea what to expect. I could only assume that he was even more dangerous now, and that was the last thing I needed. But I wasn't going to back down now.
"So, go ahead…" Albedo challenged. "Feel my pain for yourself!"
And just like that, the bluish ghost was gone. All that remained was a similar trail seeping through Albedo's fingers. Lifting his right hand up, the lunatic made a challenging gesture to me. I was just as eager as him to settle our differences, but something about the look on his face made me feel a bit uneasy. I almost felt as afraid as I did when we last fought on First Miltia, fourteen years ago.
But things were different now. I had chaos and the others for support, and as much as I'd hate to admit it, I needed their help to beat Albedo. I hated that bastard even more for involving them in our dispute…and for involving MOMO.
That's right. Before I did anything, I had to plan ahead. I couldn't just rush in and fight him, as much as I was dying to. I had to make sure that I was as prepared as possible. But most of all, I had to make sure that MOMO wouldn't be involved, no matter what.
I quietly called out to Shion, who was standing behind me. Assuming that she heard me, I started whispering. "Me, chaos, and gramps here are going in first. Tell KOS-MOS to give us support, but not to jump in immediately". As the leader of sorts of this team, I felt it was best if the three of us went in first. I've known chaos long enough, and I trusted that the old man would be cooperative as well. And if my hunch about KOS-MOS was right, she should be able to record any move Albedo made, that way she could fight him while fully aware of his attacks. If we couldn't beat him, then everything depended on her.
"One more thing." I spoke to her in my most pressing tone, since this was what I needed from Shion most of all. "I want you to stay right here, and keep an eye on MOMO. Protect her at all costs, and if it looks like we're losing, I want you to take her with you and escape from here. Don't let that scum go anywhere near her."
Just saying those words nearly caused me to boil up inside. No matter how much I tried, I couldn't stop thinking about what Albedo did to her. The look of pain on her beautiful face; The cries of torment that escaped her fragile voice; The utter helplessness I felt as I stood by, watching her suffer; And the pure hatred I felt for Albedo, as he continued to invade her subconscious, all the while laughing mercilessly at our combined suffering.
"Shion." I called to the young woman again, trying to mask the revulsion I was feeling. "Promise me."
A few seconds passed, but eventually I got the response I wanted. "Alright, but you have to promise me that you'll come back alive." She added.
I didn't like to make any promises that I couldn't keep. That's why I nodded in response to her request. I was confident that I would survive this, and that I would make Albedo pay for everything he has done. And I knew Shion would keep her end of the bargain, since she obviously cared for MOMO as much as any of us did. Besides, I wouldn't want her to get caught up in my conflict with Albedo either. And so the three of us began our march toward Albedo, with chaos by my right, and Ziggy by my left. I decided not to look back at Shion and MOMO. I kept my eyes fixed on my opponent the whole time, staring him down with my spirit, as he did back to me.
"So, what IS your plan?" chaos quietly asked.
"Don't have one." I answered back, still staring at Albedo. "Just improvise. If you see an opening, take it." I didn't hear any objection from chaos, so I assumed he wasn't worried about us walking in blindly.
"We've seen each other perform during battles." Ziggy added, sounding monotonous as usual. "We're all aware of each other's abilities. Just make sure to synchronize and support each other at all times. I'm sure we can win by doing so."
I had to hand it to the old man. He was definitely experienced when it came to battle tactics. I'm sure the three of us could provide Albedo with a sufficient challenge, and we wouldn't have to involve the girls. And I wouldn't have to resort to my dangerous power, either.
We stopped just a few feet away from the enemy, who had his eyes fixated on us gleefully, like this was all a game to him. Finally, his eyes focused directly to me, just as I wanted it. I wanted him to focus all of his attention and blood lust to me, if it helped to draw attention away from the others.
The two of us stood there, for what seemed like forever, staring. We were scanning each other's faces, looking for any traces of fear, anxiety, anticipation, or hatred. It felt strange, if not overwhelming, to have Albedo towering over me like a giant. I didn't let his height intimidate me, though, since deep down he was the same as I was. Or rather, he used to be the same.
Finally, he broke the silence. "Now this is a bit of a letdown. Just the three of you will fight?" There was a slight hint of disappointment in his tone.
I decided to put Gaignun's advice to the test. "Hey, against a punk like you, the three of us should be more than enough for you to handle." I retorted back in utter confidence. I felt strange talking down to him like that, calm and disdainful, but I played along anyway, hoping it would throw him off a little. "Why don't you just leave this old junk heap behind, and the two of us can settle things somewhere else?"
Albedo chuckled a bit, more amused than discouraged by my attitude. "Well, it's about time you put up a brave front, Rubedo. You're actually pretty charming this way."
Without another word, the conceited adult lowered his upper body, as if he was taking a bow. But once he reached the floor, his arms suddenly wrapped around his chest like a bat folding it's wings. A surge of Ether power began to surround the crouching madman. I instantly recognized this technique. He was using his Ether to boost his speed. As he continued powering up, he lifted his head towards me.
"But I know it's all smoke and mirrors." He continued, his tone becoming more sinister. "I can smell your doubt, and your fear. It's a rather foul scent, truly pathetic. It doesn't compare at all to 'her' invigorating aroma."
The charade was over as soon as it began. My fake smirk immediately faded, and was replaced with the rage I was truly feeling.
"Jr." chaos whispered, trying to calm me down.
"Ah, yes, and her tears were as bright as the stars themselves." Albedo mocked again, his grotesque descriptions pushing me over the edge.
"Shut up." I demanded, my tone reserved yet furious.
"I still have her sweet taste in my fingertips." He went on regardless, bringing his right hand up to his face. "Such a wonderful taste, as sweet as honey." His face began to twist hungrily, and his breathing was rapidly forming into a chuckle. I couldn't hold back my rage any longer.
"Shut your damn MOUTH!!" Enraged, I drew out my twin pistols, and charged up an Ether technique of my own, increasing my own speed, along with those around me.
"That's right, Rubedo!" The bastard fervently shouted, and then shifted his arms into a fighting position. "And I still hunger, so you'd better do your best to satisfy me!"
I couldn't hold back my emotions any longer. He was nothing but a beast that hungered for blood. If it was a battle that he craved, then I'll feed him to death with my enraged spirit!
"Eat this, you bastard!!" With a pull of the triggers, the sparks ignited the battle that I had put off for fourteen years. The three of us quickly jumped out in all directions, each trying to find the best vantage point to subdue our foe. Albedo evaded the first volley of bullets effortlessly, thanks to his increased speed. But the three of us still managed to keep up with him due to our own increase. Yet even though we were all moving at twice the speed of a normal person, everything around me felt like it was all happening at a snail's pace.
Ziggy was attacking Albedo from his right, throwing an assortment of mechanical kicks and punches, while chaos was attacking from the left, shooting a dazzling array of his angelic blasts, while I continued blasting away. Yet even with this three-on-one assault, Albedo's eyes remained focused on me the entire time, his repulsive grin growing by the second.
His arrogance only fueled my intensity, so I pressed on even harder. My fingers clicked away relentlessly at the two triggers in my hands, and I tried to throw some variety into my steps to throw him off, like an old fashioned boxer would. I even took a daring flip into the air, still firing like mad, even shooting away from my target, hoping that he would run into the bullets while he moved. But Albedo continued to evade all of our attacks with little effort, and a sickening grin.
It was then that chaos intervened with a strike from behind. An Ether-powered chain materialized from his hand, and wrapped itself around Albedo's foot, nearly causing the slippery villain to topple over. I finally had the opportunity I needed, and charged toward the distracted foe, both guns aimed right at him. But as soon as I started shooting again, Albedo countered the assault by throwing his entrapped leg in a swift kick. chaos, still holding onto the chain, was immediately flung toward me. I quickly rolled to the left, skillfully avoiding my friend-turned-projectile, while chaos was able to regain his footing and land safely next to me.
I quickly
turned to face Albedo again, who paused momentarily to kick off the
chain around his foot. While he was preoccupied,
however, Ziggy was ready to strike Albedo from behind with his blade!
But just when it looked like the old cyborg had managed to catch
him off guard, Albedo suddenly turned and blocked the blade with his
right hand. Even though the attack failed, it still bought me enough
time to attempt another attack. Without wasting another second, I
practically jumped toward the distracted opponent,
firing my twin Marokovs as fast as I could.
I quickly rolled into the ground to cushion my fall, and immediately stood up to continue my assault on Albedo. But the only person in my line of sight was Ziggy, standing alone with a confused look. I cautiously looked around, making sure not to be caught off guard. It was then that a surprise laugh came from behind me. The three of us quickly turned around. Albedo stood a far distance from us, unharmed and clearly amused. His arms lay folded across his chest as he laughed away, to my disgust. It may have been a surprise insult rather than a surprise attack, but the blow stung all the same. I shouldn't have been so surprised. I figured things wouldn't be so easy, and I had no problem putting more effort in order to beat him.
I was just worried over how much effort it would take to win, and if I could still stay sane afterward.
Ziggy and chaos were standing next to me as I watched our bemused enemy, who had ceased his repulsive laughter, and just stood still, as if waiting for us to make the next move. I decided to make full use of his invitation.
"Alright, chaos, time for Plan B." I whispered to the young fighter, still keeping my eyes on Albedo the whole time.
"Plan B? I didn't even know there was a Plan A." chaos answered bewilderedly, but still as patient as ever. "What is it?"
"The old man's plan of course." I confidently retorted. "Go on ahead. I've got your back." I pointed my gun up to his level of view as a sign of assurance.
I didn't hear chaos object, so I assumed that he was okay with it. "You got that gramps?" I asked Ziggy, who was standing at my other side. A small murmur confirmed his acceptance to my 'plan'. I lowered my gun, and proceeded to move it behind me, hiding it from Albedo's sight. Slowly, I began to concentrate on my Ether, transferring the energy into the concealed weapon, filling it with power for my next attack. Once I felt that the gun had collected a sufficient amount of energy, I gave chaos the sign to proceed.
"Go."
With that, chaos boldly ran towards Albedo at full speed. For a slender, skinny guy like chaos, this kind of maneuver would be stupid to try on a bigger opponent, but I had faith that he would still be able to give me the opportunity I needed. I quickly took a look toward Albedo, who slowly lowered his hands from their folding position. Even though chaos was only a few feet from making contact, the cocky bastard didn't seem to be in a hurry to defend himself. As much as that irritated me, I kept focused, waiting for my chance to strike.
Just when it looked like chaos was about to collide with Albedo, he proved his deceptive talents by immediately jumping straight into the air. I admit that I wasn't expecting such finesse from him, but luckily, neither did Albedo, who focused his attention on his airborne opponent. With the opportunity I've been waiting for now available, I drew out my pistol, fully charged and aimed squarely at Albedo's head.
With one quick click of the trigger, the energy stored inside the gun escaped in a colorful blast, and at dazzling speed. Despite the speed of the bullet, the time it took to reach its target felt like an eternity for me, as I silently prayed for it to be a bullseye.
It seemed just this once, God answered my prayers, as the bullet successfully made contact with Albedo's head, exploding into splashes of colors and lights upon impact. A cloud of smoke resulting from the blast covered how much damage my attack did, but given my past encounters with him, I doubt it was enough.
Apparently, it seemed Ziggy wasn't willing to wait for the smoke to clear, because the aged mercenary charged right into the smoke, with his arm blade extended. After he disappeared into the clouds of smoke, a piercing sound could be heard from inside. My stomach squirmed a bit, as I instantly recognized it as the sound of a sharp blade tearing through deep flesh. Hearing that gruesome sound caused me to wax nostalgic about the old days, during the war. The fact that there was a time when those sounds of death and destruction would lull me to sleep like crickets chriping in nightfall, proved far more unsettling than Albedo's taunts.
Finally, the smoke cleared, and I was able to witness the aftermath of the struggle between Albedo and the old man. Both men faced each other, and upon further discovery, I could make out Ziggy's blade shoved several inches deep into Albedo's chest. The villain himself was staring down at his fresh wound, looking as if he couldn't comprehend what just happened to him.
But after bursting into more of his insidious laughter, it seemed Alebdo wasn't concerned with his newest wound at all. Once his laughing died down, the conceited bastard began to speak.
"I don't know which is more amusing, Rubedo." He boasted. "Were you holding back because none of you considered me a valid threat?"
After asking that question, Albedo suddenly grabbed Ziggy's blade, still embedded in his chest.
"Or did you actually think this little planned ambush would actually catch me off guard?" Slowly, he began pulling the remainder of Ziggy's blade further into his chest. The surprised look on Ziggy's face was pretty alarming, but the maddening expression on Albedo's face was far more daunting.
"Please, which one is it Rubedo? I was never really good at figuring out your jokes." As the blade moved deeper into Albedo's body, and the sound of flesh slowly tearing apart grew louder, I started to find myself feeling afraid, an emotion I had hoped to have left behind along with my past. But as the look of insane bliss on Albedo's face increased, I came to realize that both my fear, and my past, where catching up to me at a horrifying speed.
Almost on cue, Albedo further demonstrated his madness by twisting the blade upward through his body, tearing right through his shoulder! Gallons of blood sprayed all over like a geyser, but I could see the satisfaction in Albedo's face, even though he was mutilating his own body.
Once the blood flow died down, Albedo's shoulder quickly regenerated, the scarred tissue and flesh sewing itself back together, until the wound was completely closed. The only traces of his injury that remained was the bloodstain on Ziggy's blade.
Our plan had failed. I should have known that a strike to the heart wouldn't have an effect on a heartless bastard like him. Now we were left wide open for Albedo's counterattack. But the worst thing was, I actually believed we could have won had we caught him off guard.
But now Ziggy was the one caught off guard, as Albedo made his first move by striking the old cyborg across the face. Ziggy was instantly thrown a few feet across the room, crashing hard upon the floor. I turned and faced the fallen cyborg, and was shocked to learn that he passed out instantly, from just one blow! While I was busy observing the old man for any signs of life, a new wave of sounds came from my blind side. Turning around, a blurry shape whizzed right by me, toward the direction where Ziggy fell. Looking back, the speeding shape landed just a little further than Ziggy. On closer inspection, it was chaos, who became the next person subdued by Albedo. Both Ziggy and chaos were down, just like that.
Now it was KOS-MOS who was taking the offensive, as the android girl charged right toward Albedo. Her speed was remarkable, looking like she would reach the madman in less than a second. But as I turned to face Albedo, he looked as if he had all the time in the world, as he slowly jammed his fist into the ground, conjuring up a strange black-colored glob from the floor. I didn't recognize the technique, but I definitely wouldn't take it's deadliness lightly. However, KOS-MOS kept charging toward Albedo and the glob, as if she didn't even notice it. Was it part of her programming to be this damn reckless?
The ball of energy collided with the speeding android, evaporating into black mist. Afterward, KOS-MOS dropped down to one knee, looking unfit to continue fighting, despite the usual lack of emotion on her face.
Almost instantly, three of my allies were knocked out by Albedo, and in just a couple of blows too. I couldn't believe it; even if I fought all of them with my real power, I don't think I'd be able to beat them that quickly. Even worse, I couldn't sense Albedo's movements at all when he attacked them. Was that a taste of his true power? Or was he still holding back? How much stronger had he gotten anyway?
It was just me, Shion, and MOMO left. And since there was no way that I would allow either of them to join in, everything rested with me now. That's how it should have been from the start. It was stupid of me not to have devised a better plan to fight Albedo, but it was even stupider to allow anyone to join me. Albedo was my problem, and mine alone. I wouldn't dare share that burden on anyone else, not even an enemy. Nobody here had any idea of what he was capable of, except perhaps…MOMO.
Of all the people to suffer from that monster's insanity, why did it have to be her? How could I have allowed such a thing to happen to her? I could never forgive myself for failing her. I couldn't even turn and look at her now. All I could do at this point was help close the wounds inflicted on her, and protect her from any further torment. I looked toward my eternal enemy, who stared back, truly hungering for our battle.
Fine, then. For every human, Realien, and URTV who has suffered, I would gladly suffer in their place. It was the least I could do, especially with such a puny body. I began walking forward to my opponent, while he did the same. As we drew closer to each other, I felt my heart begin to beat rapidly. Not because I was afraid, but because of the realization that MOMO was about to witness a side of me I wish she would never have to see. For the first time in fourteen years, I was fully prepared to fight this battle to the end. I didn't intend to show this scum any mercy, as he had none. This battle would not end until one of us was dead.
I really wanted to turn and see her just one more time, just in case I wouldn't get another chance. But I convinced myself not to, and save it for later. Seeing her smile again would be my reason to come back alive.
Albedo and I were now mere inches apart from each other. Both of us came to a stop, staring each other down. I'll admit that I felt a little intimidated having Albedo tower over me, looking down on me like a vulture spotting it's prey. But I just stared right back, refusing to turn away. Still, I couldn't help but notice a slight change in his normally maddening eyes. Something about them seemed more focused, as if he was taking this encounter with me seriously. Perhaps he was just as anxious as I was to finish our prolonged battle? His arrogant grin suddenly stretched a bit further, almost in amusement. "It must be a terrible feeling." He began to speak. "Living in comfort for so long, thinking that all your troubles were behind you. One moment, you're living a sheltered, yet undoubtedly peaceful life, with no cares or worries. And now, you're stuck in a miserable, abandoned hellhole; coming face to face with your past, the past you tried so hard to forget about, as well as carry the burden of saving an entire planet from complete annihilation. Tell me, Rubedo, doesn't it sicken you that your peaceful days are now over?"
I was more sickened by his smug tone, but he did have a point. Yesterday, I never would have dreamed of being in this kind of situation. It wasn't too long ago when my biggest worry was cleaning out my gun collection in time for the next exhibit; or to remember to lend out those books to Mary; or to give Shion and the others a proper tour of the Kukai Foundation. I really had taken the past fourteen years for granted. I never stopped to realize how happy my life had become after the war. Even if I was stuck in an ageless body, I was at least able to put my old life behind me. Now, it feels like I just fell from heaven, straight into hell. But I shouldn't completely kid myself.
"Don't flatter yourself." I rebutted. "Yeah, life's been good, but I never really believed you were gone for good." I thought back to all those moments, late at night or whenever I was alone in some far-off mission. Every time I heard a noise in the dark, or a dark figure in the shadows, I always thought 'Would this be the moment when my past would come back for me?'. I never felt truly at peace.
"It
must also seem strange facing me this way, huh Rubedo?" Albedo
continued, ignoring my last statement. "I certainly find it a
bit odd looking down on you like this. Though that form does seem
fitting for such a spineless punk like yourself. At least that much
hasn't changed in these last few years."
"Better
than the monster you've become." I answered back. I
wasn't envious at all of his adult body. "It'll
just be that much more humiliating for you when I kick your ass."
"One thing that definitely hasn't changed…" He was ignoring me again, and his eyes were focused on something else. "…Is her beauty. In fourteen years, she is still as lovely as when I last laid eyes on her."
My heart skipped a few beats. I could feel the blood pumping into my brain, causing my anger to rise. Between all the hateful thoughts though, I managed to try rationalizing with him just one more time.
"Leave her out of this." I spoke calmly, despite the rage I felt. "She's not the same girl from before. And you're not the same person either."
"No…she
isn't." Albedo responded, rather sincerely. "She's
become so much more, no longer bound by the fate of aging flesh or
sinful temptations. And I couldn't be any happier to be free of
my weak, mortal prison." I wasn't getting through to him.
In fact, I was only further increasing his perverse lust.
"But
you're still the same, aren't you Rubedo?" His eyes focused
back to me, which at this point was actually a relief. "Is this
why you decided to defy time itself? Are you that afraid to accept
your destiny? Who's the real monster who refuses let go of his
past?"
"Look." I decided to ignore his nonsense
for just a bit longer. "If you have any humanity left in you,
then I'm begging you to leave her and anyone else out of our
feud. If you really want to settle things with me, then I'm all
yours. I won't back down."
A brief stint of laughter was his response. I felt foolish even attempting to reason with him. He was far too gone at this point. I was through wasting my breath.
"You really think this is all about you, isn't it Rubedo?" Albedo mocked. "Kidnapping the girl, seizing Proto Merkabah, threating billions of lives; All just so I could get my revenge on you. Is that what you think?"
Honestly, yeah. "Then why?" I asked, frustrated. "Why do all this?"
"Perhaps...as an experiment?" He teased.
"Experiment for what?" I shot back, even more frustrated.
"Sorry, that's all you get for now." He teased yet again. "Perhaps if you live through this, you might find out. That's a very big 'if' though. You are right about one thing, Rubedo. As petty as it may seem, I still desire to make you suffer the most painful death imaginable."
"It might not be as easy as you think." I responded, calmed somewhat after his earlier comments. "I haven't been slacking off this whole time, you know. I did a little preparing in case you were stupid enough to take me on again. And based on what you've shown so far, I think you'd better start worrying if you'll be the one to lose."
"You know, you're really starting to bore me, Rubedo." Albedo responded, looking as bored as he claimed. "I told you before, you're pathetic acting won't intimidate me. I of all people know what a scared little boy you really are." His eyes moved away from me again. "If you don't start backing your words with action, then I'll have to look elsewhere for amusement."
The malicious grin on his lips clearly explained what he meant. "Take your eyes off her right now, you bastard, before I gouge them out." I threatened.
"Don't get me wrong, I still have plans for the girl." He continued, still staring at his prey. "But I just don't think I can help myself right now. I just have to have another taste…"
"Goddamn you, I'm through playing around!" I drew out my Marokovs in anger, and pointed them directly at Albedo's head. Only then did his eyes focus back to me.
"You'd better give me all you've got, Rubedo." He spoke quietly, yet sinister in tone. "It's no longer just your life on the line." He turned his body fully in my direction. "Go on, you coward, stop holding back!"
"Here it is, then!!" I ended our little chat with a shot to his head. Still under the effects of his speed boost, though, Albedo managed to dodge the blast effortlessly. I knew he would, however, so I continued firing a dozen more shots. The agile villain continued to dodge them as well, stepping backwards with each missed shot. I kept my pace consistent with his, rushing forward after him with more bullets. No matter how many shots I fired, Albedo kept dodging every single one. But at least I wasn't giving him a chance to retaliate.
It was during that split second where I finally realized; he WANTED me to use my real power against him. He knew the risks I would be taking if I did. He wasn't being kept back from the bullets, he was just toying with me. But it didn't matter. I refused to succumb to his demands. I know I can beat him without using it. I just had to wait for the right moment.
Albedo jumped midway to avoid the next few bullets, but as soon as he put one foot on the ground, he suddenly sprinted forward in my direction! It looked like he was through dodging, and instead came at me in full force.
This was the right moment!
As soon as he was close enough to make contact, I jumped straight into the air, like chaos did before, and avoided the strike. Flipping a few times to gain momentum, I directed my body for a safe landing. Though instead of the ground, I aimed myself to land right on my attacker's shoulders. I succeeded, to his surprise. The look on his face definitely proved that he wasn't expecting a maneuver so daring…or stupid. I wrapped my legs around the bastard's neck tightly, hopefully strangling him a little in the process. He definitely wasn't comfortable, as he began to stretch his arms up high, trying to pry me off. Before he could reach me, though, I already had my Ether loaded into the next bullet, and pressed the charged gun directly to his head.
I tried to hide the enjoyment I felt with pulling the trigger. I just hoped it would really hurt. And with the next click, everything went white.
The blast knocked me right out of Albedo's shoulders, causing me to fly a few feet away. I felt the hard pavement greet me when I landed. After waiting a bit for my head to clear, I slowly stood up. I was definitely sore from the landing, but I bet most of the pain came from firing a Mystic Nocturne at point blank range. It was worth it, though, because despite the aching I was feeling, or the ringing in my ears, Albedo definitely received the brunt of that attack. And even though I doubt the blast killed him, he definitely won't be regenerating from that in a hurry. It'll buy me enough time to plan my next strategy. If I continue giving him surprises like this, hopefully it will be enough to bring him down, without resorting to my trump card. Everything will be determined once the smoke around him cleared. I kept a sharp eye on the surrounding vapor, just to be safe. He won't be catching me by surprise this time.
"JR!!"
A voice from behind. It was Shion, and she sounded urgent. I turned around as quickly as I could, and came face to face with a whitish blur. Before I could identify it, the answer hit me square in the stomach. My senses went completely blank upon the impact. The last thing I recalled was that Albedo had somehow caught me from behind. My vision blurred out as well, but I could feel myself sink down to my knees, my hands pressed down on the cold metal flooring. The pain was stinging all around me, even though my lower body was numb. Even worse, I couldn't get myself to breathe, and started to choke from the lack of air. I tried to take a deep breath, desperate to get some oxygen in me.
What happened instead was another surprise blow, right to my face. My entire body vibrated from the shock, like I was being electrocuted. I thought I would pass out instantly, but my decent on the ground became the rude awakening I needed to stay conscious. I was in even more pain, and it felt like I could just lay on this dirt covered floor forever.
But somewhere between the last hit, and my crashing unto the floor, I could have sworn I heard someone call my name. Whoever it was, I felt a duty to get back up, and defend that voice with everything I had left.
Slowly, I struggled and ached to lift myself up from the ground. It felt like I had a whole truck on my back, as lifting became another lesson in agony. I also couldn't tell if anything was broken from those last attacks. But since I'd at least managed to lift my chest up, I probably didn't break anything important. My hands were pressed down on the floor again, supporting my upper body from falling. It was here where I noticed that I still couldn't breathe properly. I tried again to get some air into me. I huffed my lungs as much as I could, but the internal pain caused me to cough out instead. I could feel a sticky liquid escape my mouth, dropping into my hands and knees, but at least I was able to breathe again. After spending a few seconds replenishing my air supply, I was able to partially restore my vision again. In between the spots, I was able to make out my hands and knees…and they were soaked in blood. My blood.
"It's a good start, Rubedo," Spoke Albedo, who I could only identify from his black boots. "But something tells me you won't be able to continue the performance." The gratification in his tone helped in recovering my anger against him. I lifted my head up, struggling and grunting along the way. Despite the pain, I refused to address him on my knees. I finally managed to greet him face to face, a twisted smile plastered around him as usual. Even though his expression angered me further, I just couldn't keep my gaze on him for too long. My fatigue gave way, and I was forced to lower my head in agony, and in shame.
But then, whether as an act of humility or arrogance, Albedo lowered himself down to my level, his malicious gaze meeting mine again. Naturally, I was prepared for the worst, but I kept staring at him as bravely as possible. I refused to have him dominate me.
"Why do this to yourself, Rubedo?" Albedo questioned, lacking any formality in his tone. "Why do you hold back so much? I know you can do far better than this."
Slowly, Albedo stretched his hand toward my face, stopping just a few inches from making contact. His grotesque fingers stretched out like knives, pointing directly at me. Still, I didn't show any signs of fear.
"I want to face the 'real' you." Albedo spoke again, sounding a little more serious this time. "I want to witness the power that utterly destroyed my former body. I want to see the power that could supposedly destroy time and life itself. And I want to see the look of hate and malice that you expressed so long ago. Do you not feel any concern for your own flesh, for your own life?"
I didn't care. No matter how much he planned to torture me, no matter how many bones he wanted to break, or how much pain he wanted to deliver, it didn't matter to me at all. It was my flesh, and my life, and I would do with it as I pleased. No matter how much he would try, he could never replicate the true pain I felt inside, the pain I felt watching the people I cared about suffer. If I could offer my life as a sacrifice to this beast, then I would gladly do so. Let him do his worst.
A deadly grin stretched across Albedo's face once again, as if he came to a realization. "You look a bit tired, Rubedo. If you are unable to continue, then perhaps I should seek a different playmate." His eyes turned a bit to the side, focusing on a new target. I didn't need to look to see who he was referring to.
In that moment, I had completely forgotten about my wounds, and instead felt a rush of hatred swell up inside me. The rage I felt served as a painkiller throughout my body, converting my torment into pulsing strength. I glared at my sworn enemy with furious anger, but it did little to intimidate him.
"Why so angry, Rubedo?" The monster sneered. "Ah, I know. You're just angry that you weren't the first."
I was a bit confused by what he meant by 'first', but I hardly gave it a second thought.
"Admit
it, you would have done the same thing to her, had I not intervened.
Too bad, but she's no longer the pure, unspoiled flower that you
longed to pluck."
My eyes widened in shock. I couldn't stand
another moment of hearing his insane rantings. My blood
lust clouded my thoughts, as I envisioned putting a bullet
directly to that bastard's head. I reached down to my holster in oder
to recreate that fantasy.
"Now, now, no need to get so upset." I could vaguely hear what Albedo was saying this time, as I was preoccupied with retrieving my pistol. My hand had almost reached the holster. "If you want, I could share her with you next time."
Upon reaching the holster, I silently cursed at my rotten luck. The guns were missing, no doubt dropped between the last couple of hits. I was running out of options.
"No, what am I thinking?" Albedo's tone suddenly showed signs of anger, causing me to listen in surprise. "I would never share anything with you, especially not my precious angel. Just like how I would never allow anyone to join my future paradise! No one but her!" I couldn't stand to hear anymore of his horrendous statements. In one brief surge of adrenaline, I managed to rise from my position and stand on two legs again. Blinded with rage, I charged toward Albedo in a screaming fury. Being unarmed was no longer a concern for me, as I was content enough to tear him apart with my own bare hands. Like a wounded animal, I lashed at Albedo with all the strength I could muster, throwing an assortment of punches directly at him.
I wasn't too far gone in my fury to realize that I stood no chance this way. If Albedo was able to dodge speeding bullets, then he certainly had no problem avoiding my clumsily thrown punches and kicks. I was at my most desperate stage.
Yet, at this point, I also didn't care. If I could land even just one punch, just one shot to his stupidly grinning face, I would be completely satisfied.
Several missed swings later, it started to feel like I was heaving AGWS-class rifles around. My wounds were serious enough as they were, so an added sense of fatigue wasn't helping things. And I knew Albedo was just humoring me at this point, as he had plenty of opportunities to strike back. But I refused to give up, no matter what. And above all else, I would not use that power against him, even if my life depended on it. I would rather die fighting like a man, then become a monster like him.
Unfortunately, it seemed Albedo grew tired of playing around. In a quick change of pace, the madman began throwing his own set of punches, which were much faster than mine. And much more accurate, as the first few blows succeeded in making contact with my face. Before I could even register the pain coursing through my cheeks, another set of blows collided with my chest, followed by my stomach. Soon enough, my entire body was being bombarded by a whirlwind of speeding punches, decorating me with further injuries and even more pain. It was so overwhelming, I felt like I could pass out on my feet. But Albedo continued with his assault, refusing to let me lose conscious.
After an eternity of agony, the blows finally ceased, leaving me in a bloody, staggering mess. I felt my body begin to sink, as I could no longer move a single muscle. I didn't even have enough energy left to hate. All I wanted was to lay on the metal padded floor, and sleep...even if I would never wake up.
But now it seemed I would be denied that as well. Just as I was about to hit the floor, a pair of arms latched themselves around my right one, keeping me from hitting the ground. Since my right eye was swollen shut, I was unable to identify the person who grabbed me, but I had no doubt it was Albedo again. I could feel his cold hands wrapped around my arm, twisting it around, and causing more misery for me.
"It was you that she kept calling for, you know." The unseen tormentor spoke. "It was your name that she kept calling." Despite the ringing in my ears, his words still came across clearly for me. Surprisingly, for the first time since we began fighting, Albedo was actually sounding serious, almost upset.
"No matter how much I tried to manipulate her mind," He continued. "You were all that she thought about." As if growing in anger, his grip around my arm began to tighten, forcing me to grunt a bit. "Your name rang synonimous with her cries."
I could feel the joints in my elbow beggining to bend to dangerous, and excruciating, levels. I didn't know how much more my bones could endure.
"Just like back then." Albedo continued to rant. "Always thinking of Rubedo. No matter how many times you've failed her, no matter how many times you've neglected her, she still thought only of you." He was growing angrier with each word, but I tried not to listen. I knew fully well what he was refering to, and I didn't want to hear it. I refused to think about my past, or my sins. "What about me, then!?" My arm was reaching its limit. One more turn, and it would surely snap. But there was no way for me to break free. I wondered which would break first; my arm, or my sanity. I just wanted him to get it over with, and stop forcing me to remember. "Why were my feelings always ignored? Did she not realize how I felt? Was I not worthy of her affection!?"
In one final twist, my arm shattered completely. My screams echoed across the room, describing my agony, and humiliation, to everyone around me. I grabbed the damaged arm with my left hand, gripping it tightly in a feeble attempt to lessen the pain. After softly trailing my fingers around the injured appendage, I was able to determine just how badly Albedo had broken it. It wasn't just one clean break; my joints were completely shattered into several pieces. It was still possible to repair the damage, but it wouldn't be easy, or painless.
I could feel Albedo towering over me, no doubt reveling in my suffering. This time, I definitely didn't have the energy to stand up again, no matter how much hatred I had left. For now, I was truly at his mercy, a trait he threw away long ago.
Looking at the floor, I noticed the large shadow cast over me start to grow and spread. Albedo was kneeling down to my level. Would this be the finishing blow?
"So, you still won't fight me with your true might, even after all this?" It turned out he just wanted to mock me some more. At this point, I would have preferred a clean death. The hairs behind my neck began to stand, and a cold sweat dripped down my spine as well, as I felt that monster's ice cold breath grow closer. His face was practically cheek-to-cheek with mine. I wished he faced me directly, so I could at least spit at him with my final breath. "Would you really face death, rather than face your true self? Are you really that afraid, Rubedo?"
"Go back to hell...you bastard..." It seemed I would use my last few breaths to curse his name instead. Good enough, I would imagine. "I'll never bring myself...down to your level. You can have...your goddamn revenge."
I closed
my eyes tightly, ready to accept my fate. I wanted so badly to defeat
him, but if my life would help pacify his mad reign, then I would be
happy all the same.
A few seconds passed, followed by a few more.
After a while, I couldn't help but open my eyes again. I looked ahead
of me, and was surprised to see a pair of familiar black boots walk
away from me.
The pair of adult legs stopped about midway, and that same demonic voice spoke to me once more. "If you truly wish to die in your pathetic delusions, then I'll have to convince you otherwise. If you really have no value over your own life...then what of the lives of others?"
Even in my
near-death state, I was still shocked by what he was implying.
Quickly looking forward, I could see where Albedo was heading. Shion
and MOMO were just ahead, just a few feet away. Even worse, Shion had
her back turn, completely unaware that she was that bastard's new
target!
"Don't you dare...!" I tried to protest, but
my voice was just about ready to give out. I didn't
even have enough left to warn Shion in time.
"I told you, Rubedo..." Albedo mused, as he started walking toward his latest victims. "If you couldn't entertain me, then I would have to look elsewhere for satisfaction. And I know that ma pêche would never let me down."
And with those final words, I felt my vision give out, and my head had started to sink downward. I couldn't die, not yet. I swore that I would never fail to protect MOMO again. I swore that I would never leave her side. I couldn't give up!
Was my power not strong enough to defeat him? Was my hate not strong enough...?
To Be Continued
