"If I do not violate this oath, may I enjoy life and art, respected while I live and remembered with affection thereafter. May I always act so as to preserve the finest traditions of my calling and may I long experience the joy of healing those who seek my help."
"Hmm. Rhodes Island chose a good cause to be inspired by. Then may they, who are inspired by humanity's valor, enjoy their life and their art, respected by all men, and at all times, much like the Knights of the Ark."
- Philemon, likening Rhodes Island's motto to the Hippocratic Oath of the Knights Hospitaller
CHAPTER 2
AN UNJUST GAME
"Fine. Have it your way. I can't wait to see you fail."
For the first time, Ren and Crownslayer were on the same page.
The kid who just entered the battlefield, now known as Mephisto, entered into a conversation with his redhead ally. Their talk was somewhat amicable, but he didn't miss the tone on Crownslayer's voice. She must not really be on good terms with him, and the air is quite uneasy. As soon as they ended the conversation, however, Crownslayer turned towards Ren and glared at him.
"This isn't over."
"Oh?"
Mephisto's joyful smirk grew wide at Crownslayer's words. Ren would be as well, except they are enemies. If they were buddies or something, she would be great as a sparring partner. Her vicious attacks and agile movement was akin like that of a wolf, trying to catch her prey. It's a good thing he's speedy enough, and experienced enough to handle her assault. He can feel his battle expertise getting enhanced through that encounter, despite the exhaustion. He really needed the exercise, and fast.
"We're leaving."
With that simple command, Crownslayer and her squad headed northward, leaving the park and leaving Rhodes alone, only to leave them with another leader and his squad in which Ren was certain is going to be an equally big pain in the ass. Amiya and Dobermann rushed over to the Doctor, sensing the short reprieve.
"Doctor! Are you alright?"
"I'm fine. But keep your guard up. I don't like this kid at all."
"I'm with you on this. Not to mention that Reunion's forces still vastly outnumber us."
Dobermann wasn't wrong. Ren can see hordes upon hordes of Reunion Soldiers behind Mephisto. What's worse, there's another kid next to him who was holding a crossbow and being awfully silent, bringing his own contingent of Snipers. An underling of sorts? Before he can see just how fucked they are any further, Mephisto started speaking.
"Since you lot are done speaking, allow me to apologize on Crownslayer's behalf. You can call me Mephisto." Mephisto spoke in a courtly manner that Ren can tell is utter crap.
"Let's cut to the chase. What are Reunion's goals?" Dobermann spoke, leaving no room for courtesy or messing around.
"Well, nothing comes to mind, really. I was just told to cause as much chaos as possible. In fact, I'm fine enough just letting you guys go, seeing as you're not our main targets."
Mephisto spoke in a casual tone. But Ren can tell that there's more to his words, so he decided to call bullshit on his statement.
"You're not letting us go, are you?"
Ren's remark made Mephisto laugh.
"Hahaha! Yes, yes! You see, I've seen how you people fight. Your battle tactics, your personnel configurations. They're all so interesting."
"Interesting? You think all this bloodshed is interesting?" Amiya spoke up, her rabbit ears shooting up.
"Yes. I believe you lot are from…Rhodes Island, was it?" Mephisto's question made Ren tense up.
"What of it?"
"Oh, nothing. It's just, I thought you people are from a mere pharmaceutical company. Looking at you now, though, it seems you people have gotten too ambitious, wielding weapons instead of playing with beakers and concoctions back home. Leaving you be would make things too boring, don't you think?"
The kid's jovial manner made the whole situation even more disturbing. Ren himself can feel disgust crawling up from the sight of Mephisto's face. From the corner of his vision, he can hear Amiya and Dobermann whisper.
"Amiya, prepare yourself. Depending on the situation, we may have to break through with force. Doctor Ren and I will get his attention."
"Mm. Alright."
Even though he's not part of the whisper fest, the plan is loud and clear. He's handled a few plans that involved distracting the opponent a few times back during his Palace heist days. Instead of drawing attention by dishing out pain, it's time for a war of words.
The first move? Dobermann's supposed flare gun(?), which was fired upward. Mephisto watched as the flare flew high up before dissipating. Amiya was already gone, already looking for possible escape routes.
"What was that, just now? Why send that flare up?"
"None of your business." Dobermann answered in an annoyed matter.
"Come now. We're all professionals. We should all display a sense of courtesy."
"If only your courtesy isn't fully nonsensical, I would have obliged." Ren immediately replied with a look of disdain.
"Well, now. You wound me, good sir. I am just trying to be amicable, is all." The silverhead responded in a faked hurt tone.
"If you want to be amicable, why don't we let bygones be bygones like gentlemen, and leave us alone?"
"I would, like I wanted earlier, but I can't really let people of interest go. Besides, I want to compete with you all. A test, ritual, what have you."
"You know full well we won't comply that easily."
"True, true. This is coming from a someone formidable, after all."
Dobermann can't help but be impressed at how well Ren is doing at distracting Mephisto, his words are delivered in a calm and composed manner, with a neutral tone that grips the interest of his fellow speaker, all done with an air of confidence. Though to be fair, the old Doctor was adept at public speaking, so the fact that he managed to reclaim that capability of his that fast is surprising.
As for Ren, he was fully grateful that he was able to put his public speaking skills to good use, all taught to him by the Man of the People, Toranosuke Yoshida. Back then, he originally aided the candidate in his campaigns in exchange for his instructions in speaking in public, which he used to negotiate with Shadows in exchange for money, items, or their aid by becoming one of his Personas. Back in Tokyo, Yoshida has managed to become a high ranking man within Japan's political circle, being the head of the Citizen's Liberal Party. By that time, no more will be he known as "No-Good Tora" along with his Three Strikes. Now, he is known as the Man of the People, due to his charisma, open-mindedness and kind upbringing, willing to listen to the people and fulfill their needs as well as his tendency to mingle with the common folk. Any scandal that would be thrown at him was instantly cleared up with the help of the police. Ren can remember the times he would visit Café Leblanc just to catch up on the good old days of him being his assistant, as well as their chance encounters at the local beef bowl shop in Shibuya.
While the talk took place, Amiya returned to Dobermann. She looked pale as she whispered her report.
"Instructor. All of our escape routes have been blocked off!"
"What?! How is that possible?! We've only been here for a few-"
"How uncouth of you."
The instructor and Amiya turned to face Mephisto on high alert.
"I went to all the trouble of inviting you all, yet all you want to do is running away?!"
"What did you expect? We do not have time for this."
Ren's reply turned the silverhead's frown upside down as he turned back to his jovial tone.
"A fair point, good sir. So how about we put it like so? You see, my friends here are really eager to kill you all. As long as you all don't die, you'll be able to leave my grounds. Sounds simple, yes?"
"Considering that near manic smile of yours, I doubt it."
"Ah. It seems I've been found out."
Ren is right. Mephisto's expression now is a very disturbing one. It was the look of someone who is insane in the membrane. He wouldn't be surprised if he derived pleasure from the very chaos around them.
Such a look demands retribution, and Ren was happy enough to do so, when the time comes.
While the talks continued, Dobermann proceeded to holler over to Ace for a situation check.
"Ace! How are we faring against this kid's forces?"
"We are ready to break through their encirclement. Once we hold off their attacks, it should be smooth sailing out of here!"
All of the Rhodes Island personnel present are now battle-ready against Mephisto's forces. Seeing it all, Amiya spoke up towards Mephisto.
"Why are you all doing this?! There's a Catastrophe coming towards us! If we don't escape here from Chernobog, we will all be-"
"Don't give me that talk."
And so his manic smile came back.
"You see, Catastrophes are the best time to celebrate such events, don't you think? All this bloodshed and fiery ruin, along with their screams of pain as we kill them. It's all so wonderful!"
"You…You're insane."
"Seconded."
Thus came Ren's silent acknowledgement of Amiya's spiteful remark. Mephisto can only laugh at her words. His goons seem all raring to go with a bloodthirsty vibe around them. Compared to Crownslayer's squad who are as silent as a shadow, Mephisto's squad seem to be all nuts. Knowing that he may not have room for more talks, Ren prepared his knife.
"Ah yes. I forgot to tell you something."
"What?"
"We know what you did back at the central area."
Mephisto's declaration sent chills throughout Rhodes Island, Ren especially. It seems his theory that the goon they dispatched right after he awakened is a scouting force. Or were they already discovered right when they managed to reach the outside?
"Good sir, I must say that you make me very curious."
Amiya immediately became wary when Ren was addressed by the silver head. Ren himself immediately schooled his calm demeanor and replied shortly.
"What of me?"
"I will say this. Crownslayer is the type of person who would keep thinking on what you do and where you go, just so she can get the jump on you people. But me? I'm more curious about what you are and where you're from. Someone, who managed to attract the attention of that Lupo redhead who normally cares for almost nothing in this great world."
He supposed that held some significance for Ren, seeing that Crownslayer, someone who gives zero fucks for barely anything actually became interested in something or someone, specifically him. Even though it isn't wrong to assume that she has some beef with Rhodes Island in general, the fact remained that she said those parting words while glaring at him of all people lent some credence to Mephisto's words.
Speaking of Crownslayer, that silverhead kid called her a Lupo. Racking through his brain at his memories of Futaba, he remembered that Lupo means fox in Italian. How did he know? He can blame Futaba for randomly translating the name of the Terran races on a bunch of small paper slips that ended up being glued to Ren's crafting table with industrial grade duct tape back at Leblanc. How the hell did she get that level of duct tape in the first place?!
"I'd be so honored if we were only buddies. Really I am." Ren chose to reply in a mocking tone.
"Well, if you wish, why don't you come with us? You can tell us a lot of things, from you are, what your allies are capable of, or you can tell me about that device in that facility that preserved your life."
Oh, if only he knew that he was dead in that box.
"So, how about it? Come over to us, and your allies can go free unscathed. Not a bad offer, yes?" Mephisto offered with a devious smile.
- Take Your Time –
"Doctor! You're not possibly going to…?!"
Everyone's eyes are on Ren now, Amiya is looking at him pleadingly, Dobermann is glaring at him, Ace is looking at him hopefully. Everyone is pretty much banking on the decision Ren will make. Whether he will stay with Rhodes Island and stay true to his vow or betray them and join Reunion and their Infected rebels is anyone's guess.
As for Ren, need he say more? Yes. Because he's going to drag this out by flexing on everybody with his top-tier speech skills. He nodded to Amiya and began to speak.
"You know, when I first heard of you people, those who belonged in Reunion, I originally thought of you lot as a simple rebel group with a just cause, who strived for nothing other than equality between the general public and the Infected who suffered under them. You lot, having the same ideals as Rhodes Island, the people who found me and nursed me back to health, who want to get out of town just because that up there is about to rain hell upon us."
Ren pointed up at the dark clouds, the clouds bearing the warning of a Catastrophe. Everyone became silent as he said his speech, much like an audience during a presentation. Even Mephisto deigned to be quiet, which mildly surprised him. His smile didn't, however.
"I'll be honest. I don't really care who found me first. Whether Rhodes Island or Reunion found me first or no. If Rhodes found me, I would have joined them in devising a cure for Oripathy despite my amnesia, all while handling the problems the Infected have such as their oppression and discrimination. If Reunion found me, I would have helped you all in tearing apart those who dared to torment the Infected for so long, even if I'm not Infected. Believe me when I say I hate the corrupt authorities as much as you are. If I'm with you Reunion guys, I would have not stopped with just Chernobog. No, I would have led you lot northward to the capital of Ursus itself next, and we'll lay waste upon them all like ants."
"Doctor…please…"
Ren spoke with such fiery spirit that Mephisto's smile grew wider. Amiya's voice trailed off, bearing a look as if she wanted to cry. Dobermann was just about wrap her whip around Ren's neck, planning to choke him to death while thinking that their rescue mission is a massive mistake. Even Ace's hopeful look began to falter, along with most of Rhodes Island's personnel.
"But!"
That alone made Amiya look up at Ren, now all teary eyed.
"That all changed the moment I saw what you people have been doing. Committing arson, dragging civilians out into the open to kill them in cold blood, causing mass vandalism, and taking control of innocent animals to use as cannon fodder. All of those actions really insinuate what you people really are. No more you people are a misled group of rebels who wish to bring justice to your kin through terrorism. Reunion…no, YOUR people are nothing more than devils who revel in the carnage you sow, and laugh upon the remains of the innocent as you torment your own brethren for sins they did not commit! I would rather side with this ragtag group of ambitious pharmaceutical folk than join the likes of you and your vengeful ilk."
Amiya's gained a hopeful glint in her eyes, extremely happy that the person they saved, the person she cared for and trusted the most, wouldn't forsake them after being reunited for so long despite his current state. Dobermann and Ace on the other hand, along with most of Rhodes Island, especially the Sarkaz Operators, were shocked to hear that Ren would compare Mephisto and his company to devils, which is the lowest form of insult towards the Sarkaz race. To end things off, Ren pointed his knife at Mephisto.
"You have nothing to offer me. So take your questions, take your threats, take all your worthless wankers, and piss off!"
After the speech ended, there was a long lapse of silence. The entirety of Rhodes Island became quiet. No one spoke a word, yet a burning spirit enveloped their souls that day. A resolve to fight on behalf of the Doctor's convictions. Despite the darkening day, their souls shone brightly as Ren's words inspired them into a renewed vigor, skyrocketing their morale.
As for Mephisto's group, their morale was slowly rising during the middle of the speech, only to be sent crashing down as the Doctor denied Mephisto's offer with pure contempt. In turn, their battlethirst was going up at high speeds, and their fury was getting uncontrollable at the thought that this man before them had the gall to call them devils. The sniper that was with Mephisto was already getting ready to shoot Ren on the head before Mephisto cackled and burst into crazed laughter.
"Haha…HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! What a wonderfully rousing speech, only to be wasted on someone who is nothing more than trash! If you would call us devils, how would you call yourself then, you with your holier-than-thou attitude?!"
"If I were to be so bold, I would call myself a demon lord. One that would shatter the chains of fate and bring the Infected and non-Infected into a freedom of coexistence, even devils."
Ren's calm and composed answer only served to make the silverhead kid laugh even harder with a deranged smile, along with even more shocked faces from Rhodes Island.
"Really? Really now?! In that case, let us play a game, demon lord! Do not die and you shall escape, though I doubt it's possible, seeing that you have drawn the ire of all my men. I would love to see you crushed into the ground, sliced into pieces as I laugh upon your dismembered body!"
"Fine by me. This game has been unjust at the very start. Do not dare think that victory is with you on the start."
Turning his back upon the highly unstable Mephisto and his sniper buddy, he saw the entirety of Rhodes Island, ready at his beck and call, fully recovered from the surprises Ren dished out.
"Everyone, sorry for leaving you all out like this. We have a deranged kid and his pack of bloodthirsty thugs that needs to be taught a very painful lesson on coexistence. Are you guys with me?"
"Always, Doctor! You can count on me!" Spoke Amiya in an energetic manner.
"After that hell of a speech you gave? I'd be a fool to say no." Dobermann smirked as she gave her reply.
"Of course I will, Doctor Ren. Shall we raise hell on them, Demon Lord?" Ace spoke with a trusty, yet teasing look.
"Yeah, don't call me that ever again. I just said that to make a point."
Both Ace and Ren proceeded to laugh as the latter turned to address all the teams.
"Well, your leaders just said their answers, but what about you guys? Are you with me?!"
"YEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH!"
Thus came the cries of fervor as they displayed their resolve before the reborn Doctor. Ren nodded over their agreement to stand with him until the very end. As he turned to face Mephisto who has already rallied his troops, the silverhead yelled his command out.
"Go, my men! Crush that fool and his Rhodes Island people to dust!"
In response, Ren uttered his own command.
"Everyone! We just gotta break through this encirclement! Grit your teeth, and raise your spirits! Fight with everything you have! GIVE THEM NO QUARTER!"
As war cries were bellowed out in the entire park, the heated battle between Mephisto and his Reunion forces and the "Demon Lord" of Rhodes Island ensues.
And to think, all this happened because Ren wanted to flex.
- Take Your Time -
Screams of fervor, the clanging of steel, and bursts of Arts decorated the battle of Southern Chernobog. Mephisto, who has mostly calmed down because of his dark haired sniper friend, displayed the full extent of his leadership, turning his thugs into a fierce army under his command. He leads his forces by declaring chess moves, which has been a staple for Mephisto's troops up till now. Not only does his way of command confuse their enemies, but it provides numerous moments to catch their foes off guard. The only issue with this way of command, is the very opposing player he's facing in this game.
The so-called Demon Lord of Rhodes Island. A man who embodies the very spirit of defiance with a lofty dream of freedom of coexistence between Infected and non-Infected. Truth be told, Mephisto cared not for his ideals. He is content enough just following orders and causing chaos merely for his own amusement, especially when tormenting the non-Infected public. The fact that he insulted him for just enjoying himself with the lowest form of scorn is enough to drive the silverhead into destroying the trash before him into pieces. However, with every move he makes, he always seemed to be able to counter him with a move of his own, as if predicting his actions in this chess game. The amount of intuition and intellect his opponent is showing is off the charts.
When Mephisto tried to flank their line with his Soldiers and Crossbowmen, the Demon Lord managed to outflank them with an ambush from his Vanguards. When he ordered a rush in with his Shielded Soldiers against his defensive line composed of Guards, they instead got smoked by the Casters that were hiding behind them. And the silverhead certainly didn't forget the time that man preemptively ordered his Snipers led by that Savra to shoot OVER his Heavy Defenders to hit his Casters with the protection of his Defenders, which is actually very smart considering the lizardman's squad is full of long bowmen. Those who survived ended up getting shot by his other Sniper squad led by a Liberi loaded on crossbows who flanked them from the side. He even had the guts to duel a Heavy Defender, kill him by taking his helmet off and stabbing his head, and rob him of his blast shield, proceeding to kill any troops that veered off formations despite his sluggish movement because of the insult he threw at them. Great lack of strength aside, not only was his opponent in this game terrifyingly smart and charismatic, capable of rousing the morale of his minions in a pinch, he was resourceful and utterly shameless, not being afraid to fight dirty. His actions reminded Mephisto too much of that mercenary, and goddamn, she was, and is a bitch.
Yet, Mephisto was enjoying this all too much. No one has managed to keep up with him in this contest of leadership, much like keep up with his tactics. Seeing the masked man ditch the blast shield, he felt compelled to applaud him with a smile of excitement.
"Good sir. I must say that you have made this game far more interesting than I expected! You met me, move for move! The way you command your pawns to take control of the board is exhilarating! Dare I say, you have a very real possibility of winning this competition!"
With all the rampant throes of battle occurring everywhere, it took Ren a lot of effort to stave off their attacks. Thankfully, his brain immediately switched into shogi mode the moment he heard Mephisto declare chess moves. He's had to thank Hifumi Togo for teaching him shogi in the first place. At first, under Morgana's suggestion, he requested that she teach him shogi so that he can employ the tactics he learned from her when fighting Shadows. Now, contrary to the past, she has risen up to be a true shogi master, earning the title "Venus of Shogi", all done through tried and true matches, free of any interference. Hifumi would be a frequent visitor as well to Leblanc back in Tokyo, enjoying the coffee blends Ren doles out. If the café was in its quiet hours, Hifumi and Ren would often engage in shogi matches together, knowing she always brings her shogi board with him.
Employing unspoken improvised shogi tactics in this situation however was entirely new to Ren and would make Hifumi proud no doubt, given how over the top she can be when declaring moves at times. Seeing that Mephisto used the lull in battle to address him, the Trickster deftly replied.
"I am not so low and ignorant as to call my allies minions, pawns even less so. I'm no tyrant like you. If you admit so much, why not admit your defeat right here and now? You still have a chance to turn back.
Ren spoke his offer, calm as ever. His expression on the other hand proved otherwise since he's smirking cockily even though no one can see it. Mephisto answered with his hands outstretched up high and smiled happily in a disturbing manner.
"Turn back? Right when the fun is all up in its peak?! You jest, Demon Lord of Rhodes Island! I live for these moments! You know the rules. You and your minions live as long as possible, and I'll consider leaving you escape! Too bad for you though. I'm not letting you go until I see your body turn up into a lifeless corpse!"
The manic smile was met with a shake of the head full of lamentation.
"Your loss. Remember my warning then, that the game you propose is an unjust one. A rule of thumb in battle. Anything can happen, and whether it's an advantage or a detriment is anyone's guess."
"Anything can happen? Do tell me then, good sir! What do you think will happen?!"
The universe seemed to have deigned to give Mephisto an answer. The answer came in the form of loud crashes from the eastern entrance to the park that sent groups of Reunion soldiers flying into the sky. Mephisto's smile quickly shifted into shock, while Ren simply pointed his finger at the direction of the newcomers while leaving behind a single word in a mocking tone.
"That."
With that said, Ren proceeded to rush back to Amiya and the others for their report on the newcomer. Mephisto however had a plethora of emotions convulsing in his head. One thing is certain though.
"Who…."
He was pissed.
"Who dares to interfere in this game?!"
- Take Your Time -
Ah. It felt so good to drop an unexpected bomb on that insufferable brat. And the timing was perfect too!
Rushing past the field of battle, knife in hand and stained with the blood of vengeful Infected, Ren speedily made his way towards Amiya, Dobermann, and Ace, who were busy fending off Mephisto's army. Morale was still at an all-time high for Rhodes Island despite suffering a few casualties, but it pales in comparison the amount of damage Mephisto's troops have sustained. Noticing the brown bunny ears in the distance, Ren hastened himself to meet his stalwart assistant. By the time he reached her, he was gasping for breath while holding his knees.
"Doctor! Are you alright?" Amiya spoke her question for the umpteenth time.
"I cannot blame your exhaustion, but you mustn't overexert yourself." Dobermann chided Ren, much to his chagrin.
"You must be the Doctor, then. I was wondering why you went and used that signal flare, Miss Dobermann. But now I see why. Radiant Knight Nearl of Kazimierz, at your service."
After recovering himself, Ren carefully rose up to address the woman that introduced himself. She was wearing a black dress and boots with white armored plates covering her chest and shoulders. On her hands, she carried with her a diamond shield and what is seemingly a warhammer, though Ren was more inclined to call it a mace of sorts. Long blonde hair with bangs on the sides tied into a ponytail, along with a tail and ears that Ren can vaguely tell to be like horses. He racked his brain for the duct taped notes, and found that Nearl falls into the Kuranta race, which is Esperanto for "running".
OK, Ren needed to get his memory checked. Sure horses are agile runners, but… Nearl first.
"You came at the right time, Nearl. Afraid we don't have time for pleasantries, though. Amiya, what's the status?"
"We're beating back the Reunion forces, Doctor! But they just keep on coming! We can't break through their encirclement no matter how hard we try!"
Amiya gave her report quickly. At the same time, Ace ran in to join the crew with his own report.
"That blockade he's set up is as hard as a metal wall! I'm sorry if we can't break through, everyone. We need to somehow rattle them into letting their guard down. Anyone have any ideas?"
"Well. That's easy."
Ren's nonchalant reply diverted all attention to him, with Nearl breaking the silence amidst the chaos of battle.
"Do you have any plans, Doctor?"
"We just need to agitate Mephisto. Nearl, can I trust you to do this?"
"Of course, Doctor. In fact, I have a few choice words to say about his leadership and overall behavior." Nearl spoke with a look of disgust towards Mephisto.
"Perfection. Just go nuts."
The valiant knight nodded with a smile as she headed off towards Mephisto. The masked Doctor has other plans, however.
"Amiya, Dobermann. I'll be leaving the chain of command to you two."
"Where do you think you're going, Doctor Ren?"
"I'm gonna go lead a few squads into more advantageous positions into battlefield. If we're gonna break through, we need all the strength we can get."
"Alright, Doctor. You can count on us."
"Thanks."
Nodding gratefully to Amiya's reply, Ren immediately left the scene, leaving the 3 veteran operators behind.
"Are you really sure about this, Amiya?" Ace began his questioning.
"I know Doctor has a plan for all of this. He always does." Amiya responded earnestly as he watched the Doctor join the battle once more.
"Sometimes I wonder if you trust him too much for your own good."
Dobermann can only sigh. On the other hand, her thoughts began to wander.
'The amount of foresight Doctor Ren is showing so far reminds me so much of him back when Rhodes Island came to be. Well, we should be grateful that his current behavior is not as undesirable as his old self. This could play for the better.'
- Take Your Time -
Mephisto was having a hard time trying to compose himself. The silverhead refused to believe that some outsider decided to stroll into the board unannounced and make minced meat out of his men. He won't have any of it!
"Just…what is with that woman?!"
"You there."
Just his luck. The woman of the hour is right in front of him.
"I saw how Reunion fought. They worked like well-oiled machinery when they came and took over the strongholds all over Chernobog. But you. You and your people act like deranged thugs."
It was taking most of Mephisto's self-control just to stay quiet at the woman's words.
"Mindless slaughter, city-wide arson, dragging out innocents for murder. All this, just for your sick and twisted amusement and pleasure, is it not?"
Scratch most, it was taking ALL his self-control.
"Someone so low and pitiful like you, being able to plan all these meaningless and senseless crimes can't even think, much less be capable of plotting to take the entirety of Chernobog. It was under your leader's orders to cause all this chaos. But in the end, you fell to your own tastelessness and perversion."
That's it. Now he wants her dead.
"…Faust, I want her shot in the mouth, now."
The sniper, now known as Faust, silently nodded and took aim quickly. the Radiant Knight barely managed to guard against his ballista shot as she slid a fair distance, coughing from dust kicked up from the force of the fired bolt. Shocked at Faust's power, Amiya, Dobermann, and Ace rushed over to her.
"Nearl!"
"I'm fine! But…"
All four of them turned to face the Sniper. He was being awfully silent, but his eyes betrayed no one. He will kill them under Mephisto's command.
"This sniper is ridiculous! One more shot and Nearl will not be able to defend anymore! We have to retreat!" Came Dobermann's hasty evaluation of Faust's weapon.
"No. I can't afford to let him bring harm to the other teams, especially Doctor Ren. I have to intercept them no matter what!"
Nearl's ardent resolve only served to anger Mephisto even further.
"This…this woman! I don't care if she can block Faust's attack with that insignificant shield! I want her full of holes!"
Faust didn't speak, but he immediately sped off in a direction which caught the Operators off guard.
"He's fast!"
4 seconds later, a ballista bolt was fired once more.
"On your right!" Came Amiya's warning, and not a moment too soon.
"Oh no you don't!"
Ace's timely interference managed to save Nearl from getting pierced, surprising Faust.
"Snipers! Fire upon the southern platform!"
Sensing the hail of crossbow bolts, Faust immediately went on the defensive, using his speed to save himself, angering Mephisto even more.
After the bolt rain ended, the bunny eared girl made her inquiry to Ace, wiping the sweat off his forehead.
"Did…did we get him?"
"I doubt it. The best we can do is put some pressure on him."
"Amiya, we can't let him attack us again. Team E3 will handle this Sniper. You go ahead and make your move! Doctor Ren trusted you to do this!"
Ace's goading steeled Amiya's resolve as she began giving out commands.
"Team E1! We're going to suppress the Reunion forces! Team E2! Hit the enemy blockade with everything you've got! Ops Team A4! I need your help in supporting E2's attack!"
All teams began to move out under Amiya's command as they fulfilled their duties. Once again, Mephisto was on the losing side, and his anger contorted his face beyond reason.
"You…you filthy insects… Why won't you all just roll over and die like the ants you are?! I…I want to kill… kill every last one of you!"
"Imbecile."
Mephisto's unbridled fury was replaced with unfettered shock. How did the Demon Lord of Rhodes Island managed to get to him unnoticed, incoming at very high speeds no less?!
"Wha-what?! How did-"
"Checkmate."
- Take Your Time -
It was as if tens, if not hundreds of Reunion soldiers were crying out for bloodshed and vengeance, and were suddenly silenced.
The feelings of shock invaded the whole Reunion ranks like wildfire. Even Rhodes Island became completely silent. The cause? A very loud and seemingly bone-crushing impact that rattled the ears of all those present due to how gruesome that sounded, along with the sound of someone grinding across the dirty ground and crashing into the wall.
Mephisto happened to be the unfortunate person who crashed into the wall, suffering a bloody nose which was caused by the heavy impact he suffered. The wall crash shook his senses as his world became white for a second, gasping for air as he held his possibly broken nose, surprised at the blood he felt on it. He stared upon the man in the distance with wide eyes, with a look that is described as deranged fury that demanded his head on a pike. The very same man that called him a devil and declared himself a demon lord, who outmatched him in this game of bloodshed.
As for Ren, he had a triumphant grin on his face after he managed to give that runt the surprise and vibe check he so sorely deserved. His fists pulsed briefly as a light bruise decorated his hand due to the powerful punch he dished out, lightly massaging it with his other hand in a carefree manner. Rising up slowly as he watched everyone's faces, he yelled out his final command for this battle, raising his knife upward.
"Everyone! Prepare to charge through the blockade! Their chain of command has crumbled! Break through them in one fell swoop!"
The first ones to break out of their stupor was Amiya, Dobermann, and Nearl.
"A-ah! Instructor!"
"Right. Everyone, listen up! Doctor Ren has managed to land a decisive blow against the enemy forces! Are we just gonna let his efforts go to waste?!"
"Team E3! Continue putting pressure on the enemy Sniper with the ballista! Everyone else, with us! Let's bust through them!
Hearing of the Doctor's achievements roused the Rhodes Island forces from their stupor, eliciting a war cry that rattled the Reunion forces even further as they resumed their attack against Reunion, sending them into a panic as they were sent flying, shot, and thrashed left and right, eventually breaking through the encirclement, leaving Ren behind. Mephisto slowly rose from where once was, covering his bloodied nose with one hand as he practically screeched his command out. He cared no more about Rhodes Island.
All he wanted now is the death of this insignificant man.
"Kill…KILL THAT MAN! I WANT HIS HEAD GIVE TO ME RIGHT NOW!"
The remaining Reunion forces were instantly driven into panic, seeing Mephisto this angry for the first time. Not wanting to be on the receiving end of the kid's torture should they fail, they frantically charged towards Ren who was busy falling back to the now open escape point. The Trickster however is a swift fellow, deftly evading their attacks as he looked behind. A Reunion Soldier a few meters in front of him was prepared to strike as he focused on the back. But just as he was about to land a blow…
"Doctor Ren!"
Ace barged into the scene, knocking the Soldier out of his retreat route before joining him.
"Ace!" Ren spoke out in a relieved tone.
"Happy to see you're all fine, Doctor! Whatever you did to them must have pissed them off. You know what, what did you do?"
"I just broke that kid's nose. That's all." Ren replied smugly, which made Ace smirk.
"Nice. I never really liked that kid. Anyway, Greythroat has done her best in pinning down that other kid. Guard on the other hand has already secured the escape point. We're ready to retreat on your call, Doctor."
"Great. How's Amiya and the others?"
"They've managed to retreat safe and sound."
Ren let out a sigh as he caught his breath.
"It's all done. Call for the retreat, Ace. And one more thing."
"Anything, Doctor." Ace's smiled cooly with the shades on.
"Once we shake them off, I want you to carry me. My adrenaline is almost out."
- Take Your Time -
The first thing Amiya saw after they discussed that battle that happened minutes ago with the others was Ace and his team approaching. Particularly Ace, who was carrying the Good Doctor on his shoulder as if he was a bag of cement.
"Ace! Doctor!"
The whole Rhodes Island extraction team rushed over to Team E3, the Medics quickly tending to their wounds while Ace laid Ren on the ground gently. Seeing the masked man's condition, his clothes are even more tattered than before, suffering cuts from bladed weaponry. His hands are all red with blood with a bruise on his right hand, and barely any motion was detected from him. As a Medic tended to the Doctor, Amiya assumed the worst.
"Is…is he going be all fine? Doctor can't… he can't possibly be…"
"He's fine, Amiya. He's just extremely exhausted. He'll be fine if we stop now to rest, but…"
The medic trailed off, knowing that the Catastrophe will come upon them at any moment now, but Amiya knew that as well. However, it would be detrimental if they pushed onward with escorting Doctor to the extraction point while the man himself seemed as if he's on his last legs.
"It's fine. We should let Doctor rest for now."
"Got it, Amiya. I'll go to Instructor Dobermann to report."
"Okay."
With that said, the Medic Operator left Amiya alone with Doctor, who was breathing softly behind his mask, letting out soft grunts every once in a while. Someone else decided to come to Amiya instead.
"Doctor…Ren, was it?"
Nearl spoke quietly as she stood beside Amiya, wishing to inquire more about the Doctor more while looking over his current condition.
"Yes, miss Nearl. I don't think he'll remember you though."
"Why is that?"
"He lost his memories."
That reply made Nearl look all sullen, making her sympathize with the Doctor.
"It is unfortunate. I once had a friend back then. She too lost her memories, much like him. Even so, I can see why you look up to him so highly. He has the capability to inspire his followers with a fiery zeal, the foresight and intellect to guide them all, and isn't afraid to join them in battling his opposition. He is a great leader and warrior, through and through. Was he always like this, Amiya?" Nearl questioned with an inquisitive look.
"Yes, but not for the latter part. He has just learned to fight recently, though he has improved rapidly. I remember seeing Doctor talking to Rangers about wanting to hold a gun, even though it's impossible since he doesn't have any aptitude for Arts. I'm sure he's forgotten about that as well."
What Amiya speaks of holds true. In the land of Terra, gunpowder is non-existent. Due to this, most ranged non-Arts forces in the military resort to bows and crossbows along with varied melee weapons. Even if you were to have a gun, most of the guns produced are made by Laterano, homeland of the Sankta race. You even need a license if you're a Sankta who wants to wield a gun, and aiming with guns in the first place requires great focus.
Though, saying that the Doctor doesn't have any aptitude is stretching it. It's more appropriate to say that they don't know at all.
"I see. Well, maybe you should break the news to him one day. Regardless, he has fought valiantly. I remember Ace telling me that Doctor here shook the whole enemy forces to their core by directly punching their leader in the face in a surprise attack. Since we know he's either incapable of fighting or just hiding his true strength, I don't know if he's just exaggerating, or…"
It was then a thought crossed Nearl's mind, along with a look that made Amiya curious.
"Miss Nearl, what's wrong?"
"Amiya, you don't suppose…"
"Urgh…"
Ren's grunting diverted the attention on Amiya and Nearl's conversation over to Ren himself, who was trying to get up.
"Doctor! Please don't move just yet!"
Amiya's exclamation made the Doctor drop himself to the ground. Choosing to listen instead of getting himself forced to the ground by Nearl, who is no doubt stronger than him by a long shot.
"Nrrh… I must have been wasted so hard, wasn't I, Amiya and…Nearl?"
"I don't know what you mean, Doctor, but you overexerted yourself again! You know you lack the strength, yet you keep pushing yourself!"
The very experience of being chided by a girl who looks at least 14 years old over his efforts made Ren laugh weakly.
"Sorry, sorry… I just get easily caught up in the moment, you know? Can't really let you all down since I'm the leader after all. All this time I've been running on…adrenaline."
"Even if you're our leader, you can't just force yourself to fight alongside us! Just leading and guiding us is enough!"
"I'll…I'll keep that in mind."
"Doctor Ren."
Ren slowly shifted his head to face the Radiant Knight, who was looming on top of him.
"May I inquire something of you? It is fine if you can't answer now."
"Better now than forgotten later. What is it?"
"It's regarding that order you gave me earlier. Did you command me to agitate that silver haired boy knowing that he'll send that ballista sniper to kill me?"
Nearl's question was thrown to him with a quiet but calm stare which made Ren go silent. If he were to be honest, he was banking on Mephisto being incapable of fighting at all and would send that Sniper kid towards her as a diversion. He knew the others will support Nearl in the endeavor, but it was still a risky and potentially reckless plan nonetheless. A single mistake and she would be very much dead to that dark haired kid's powerful shots. He was lucky that the plan worked at all and no lives were lost, even though he would certainly be on Reunion's hit list because of that vibe check.
Still, that doesn't excuse what he did. He practically used Nearl to put his plan into motion.
"I…I'm sorry, but yes. I'm sorry for putting you in danger like that, Nearl. Truth be told. The fact that he sent that sniper to kill you was on sheer luck. I didn't know what would happen if he got agitated like that. I'm not happy that I used you to ensure the success of that diversion plot, this I swear."
Amiya had a sad expression as Ren gave the answer Nearl wanted. She can tell that's he's genuinely guilty about what he just did just by his tone, full of regret. The Kazimierzian Knight gave Ren a small smile with a look full of understanding as she nodded to him.
"I understand what you mean, Doctor. But you should know that everyone in Rhodes Island trusts your judgement, even if it means wagering our lives for the cause. I know you have lost your memories, so it would be best for you to learn to trust us again, as much as we trust you. You have just recently come back to us, after all. It would hurt if you decide to distance yourself from the others knowing that."
Nearl's words struck a lot of bells within Ren. The people in Rhodes Island place a lot faith in him based on their experiences with 'him' in the past. It would be cruel of him to not place the same amount of faith in them as well. They are his allies. But more importantly, they're his newest friends, and nothing will change that,
"Yeah…yeah. I'll try to do so, Nearl. I may have lost my memories, so I'll just make new ones with you all. Simple, right?"
Both their expressions, Amiya's and Nearl's brightened with his response.
"Well spoken, Doctor Ren. Thank you for answering my inquiry."
"You should go rest now, Doctor. We still have a long way to go before we can safely escape Chernobog. I'll wake you up when it's time to go."
"Thanks, Amiya. I'll excuse myself then."
Feeling fatigue draw upon him once more, the Trickster fell into a deep slumber once more. On one hand, he felt happy to be in the comfort of his allies/friends. Dependable, trustworthy, with a variety of different personalities that will keep his life interesting. Ren mentally vowed to stick by them to the end, no matter what happens, and aid them in any way they can to achieve their goals. He did declare that he'll bring the freedom of coexistence between Infected and non-Infected, after all.
On the other hand, Amiya's behavior reminded him too much of Morgana every time he wanted to go out after exploring the Metaverse. Not really a good memory, isn't it?
Notable Review Time!
Memofang: Now if only he can get his own construction company. Then again, pharmaceutical company.
Rambukala: I haven't. But I have my Discord buddies to guide me. Arknights is loaded on theories all the time. And my guy, dammit, you're loaded with E2s! I just got E2 Cuora 2 days ago! Now I'm jelly.
The Rupture: Let's call Doc's skill Eagle Eye for now. There's a reason why I went with Third Eye despite Eagle Eye existing. This is in par with my current plans for Ren's Personas, which I will divulge on a later chapter.
kerrowe: Someone already figured it out in the comments. Go seek it out! Plus, it's on his first battle! 0-1!
RealEWF: My guy. Wow. Just wow.
If there's a reason I didn't summarize Evil Time, this chapter is one of the reasons. And damn it felt good!
Evil Time Part 1 is over, and now Part 2 will come soon. Soon the Catastrophe will land upon Chernobog. How will Ren and his folks handle the chaos?
As per usual, this chapter is loaded with references. Well...some. See if you can find them!
By the way, I decided to add a few things to the previous chapter. Nothing much, I just want to cover a few things. Someone's gotta be making Ren's Battle Records, right?
And as a little question, who do you think Ren will first form a bond with? Whether it's by Social Link or Community System?
And as always, take your time.