Even though we took out many soldiers, there was still the odd one here and there, seemingly hiding in the corners. I would be running down the hallways, where one squire or knight would hop out of nowhere, and try swinging wildly at me. The first one caught me by complete surprise, slicing clean through my hood and shirt, cutting deeply into my skin. It seemed that they were just as surprised as me, as immediately after the strike, they stumbled and fell over. Absolutely pissed, I lodged my axe deeply into the poor fools skull. One major thing when it comes to melee combat, if your aim is to kill, make sure you go for the chest or the head. Anything else will just waste time and energy. I looked at the blade the bastard used, and of course it was a hardened Aura. I pulled out a syringe of medi-gel, and applied it to the wound. Though it was bleeding a lot, it was mainly just surface damage.
Now that I was aware that there were still stragglers, my guard was up. Whenever another squire or knight would leap out, I was able to dodge their attack, delivering a quick, and deadly attack. By the time I finally got to the location of the target, I must have downed at least ten people. There were a few casters, all of which went down easily. They would try and cast one of their holy spells at me, however it would prove laughably ineffective. Once they realized their attacks were pointless, they attempted to run. But soon dropped dead, after a few well-placed shots in their backs. The real challenge was the ones armed with projectiles. They functioned much like guns, however their ammunition was hardened Aura, and could only be used by them. A few got the lucky shot on me, though they were definitely panicked, and not aiming for anything critical. Just like Arc rounds, Aura rounds were still physical bullets, just coated in their respective energies. So while I wasn't affected by the aura, I still got freaking shot. I took down the bastards and continued my surge.
When I got to the suspected location, I heard the sounds of metal bashing against other metal, along with voices speaking to each other. Whatever it was, it must have been dire. I switched focus to look for Aura, and saw that two powerful Aura users were fighting. Comparing them to the others I've seen, these two must have been Crusaders. Which meant that my target was inside. The two seemed to be mostly talking, though one definitely had the advantage, as one seemed to be on the ground. I approached the door, and found it locked. I was unsure if the target was the one standing or not, but if it was, I had to act quickly. This seemed to be a standard magnet lock, which meant there was an access panel nearby. It didn't take me long to find it, and I would rip off the covering to reveal a variety of wires. I had to find the power cable, as that was what was keeping the door closed.
The two figures appeared to still be talking, though I couldn't tell what, as most of it was muffled. But my gut told me that their conversation was coming to a close. I would end up finding the power cable, and slicing it, depowering the door. Though the magnets were inactive, it didn't immediately open the door, as that would have to be hand opened. I began to pry the doors open, as I switched to Aura to see how things were going. It seemed as if talks were over, and the two seemed to be fighting once more, though it would seem as if it would be a quick match, as one found themselves back on the ground. By the time I actually opened the door, one of the two auras vanished, leaving only one remaining. It may have not been too late, and my target could have been still alive. Seeing as stealth would be too slow, I burst inside, axe drawn, ready for anything.
In front of me, with a bloody sword three times my size, stood a very tall individual. They wore similar white armor, with the imperial crest, however if the paladin I saw before wore plate, this person was wearing a tank. Just the pauldrons were five inches thick, decorated in elegant gold drawings. They wore a white cape that was lined with gold, and their helmet looked like a classic Templar cross helm, but with golden wings at the top. If I didn't know any better, I would have believed this was not a man, but a robot. But I knew better. The empire would never use robots, and robots were incapable of having aura, much less this much. Though I couldn't see their face, it was clear the hulking holy man was closely looking at me, most likely sizing me up.
In a deep, metallic tone, the Crusader said something. "Lady…. Rena?" It asked, in a questioning tone a small child would use.
Honestly, I had no idea what to expect. I know these guys can use spoken words to cast their miracles, but they generally tend to be more, to put it bluntly, holy. Not some freaking question. Not exactly sure what to do, I just stood there, cocking my head in confusion. "Uh… excuse me?"
The giant dropped its sword, and took a few steps towards me. "Lady Rena, is that you?"
I took a few steps back, and raised my axe. "Uhh.. are you the target? Ya know, the guy who isn't a traitor to the empire?"
"No Lady Rena, I am not like the others. For now I remain true to the empire."
"Oh hell yeah! I was worried that it was you who was dropped." I lowered my axe, as it seemed as if this guy wasn't hostile. "So uh, do you think you could come with me?"
"Lady Rena, it has been too long. When I heard the news, I was devastated. But to see you alive and well, it brings me so much joy."
"Uh hey buddy, I have zero idea what you are talking about." I tried to say, but things soon took a horrible turn. The giant charged at me at insane speed, arms wide open as if to grab me. I tried to lift my axe, in some attempt to defend myself, but it was no use. The giant grabbed hold of me, wrapping his giant arms around my small frame, pressing my face against the shiny white armor. I would have said it felt like a hug, however the pressure he was putting on me was too damn much. "What… the… hell…" I managed to croak, before my airways got too crushed.
The giant began to cry. "Lady Rena, I blamed myself for it all! If only I was able to convince Arthur to forgive you, we wouldn't have been separated for so long! Maybe… Maybe…" His crying seemed to grow in intensity, making deciphering what he was saying impossible. As he cried, he continued to apply more and more pressure. I started to feel my bones begin to snap, as my vision started to go blurry. I knew I had to do something. The man took off his helmet, to reveal what's best to call an angelic face. He had shining golden eyes, golden hair, and very soft features. Shining tears were trickling down his face, as he looked down at me. This seemed to be my chance. I squirmed my way close enough to his face, and took a large ol bite. This seemed to be a massive mistake though, as it seemed his skin was made out of concrete or something, as all I did was hurt myself. The guy didn't even seem to notice my sad attempt, and continued to apply more pressure.
At this point, I realized I was pretty fucked. Even if I somehow got out of this, most of my bones were probably broken, and organs were probably ready to pop. There was a brief moment where I was given enough room to take a breath, and I took advantage. "Oi ya fuckin dumbass, I am not this damn Rena! My name is Mordred!"
It seemed as if I said the magic word, as the pressure was immediately relieved, and I flopped onto the floor, body entirely numb. "I… but…" The giant began. "Lady Rena would never use such language.... but that name..." Whatever was said next, I had no idea. The numbness started to fade, and the pain was unbearable. As the Crusader looked at me in concern, the world went dark, and I was out.
Though I was out, I still had some sense of what was going on, as there were moments where I regained consciousness. The Crusader checked to see if I was alive, and tried to apply some of his healing miracles on me. Seems like he didn't get the memo. He then looked through my supplies, to see if there was anything to stabilize me, but medi-gel only works on surface wounds, and these were definitely not surface. He tried to ask me some questions, but I was too out of it to understand. Eventually, he got a hold of my phone, and saw the location I was supposed to head next. He then grabbed his sword and my gear in one hand, and lifted me onto his shoulder with the other. He ran through the hallways of the outpost, slicing through any traitors that were in our way. Rather than looking for an exit, the tank found the closest point to the evac zone, and started to literally beat down the wall. And as impossible as it should have been, he managed to bust on through, running into the active warzone. A few traitors and mercs took the odd shot at him, but anything that got close was reflected off of a golden shield that surrounded us.
We did eventually reach the evac zone, where the giant was adamant about holding onto me. The Alliance suits who were doing the pick up, allowed him to, as they allowed us onto the shuttle. The giant placed me onto a stretcher, and continued to hold my hand. Whenever the medics tried to administer aid, he would give them a hard time, threatening them if they caused me any harm. But he would eventually concede and allow them to do their jobs. I have no idea what they did, but the pain would eventually fade, and I started to feel really damn good.
I guess I was out for awhile, as the next time I awoke, I was laying in a crappy bed, in a very white room. The pain seemed to be gone, but my body was freaking sore. It took a lot of effort to move my neck, but I was able to look around the room. Now I have seen medical rooms before, never have I seen one this clean. Everything looks like it was freshly sterilized to the point that even the oxygen molecules were asked politely to sanitize themselves. I could hear a steady beeping sound, probably a heart monitor or something. There also appeared to be many tubes and stuff connected to me at various points. My actual body was entirely wrapped in bandages, though it seems like everything was still there. Finally, and I really didn't want to acknowledge it, there was the giant Crusader in his full armor, holding a cheap gift shop teddy bear.
Though it was a struggle, I did manage to sit myself up. I turned to look at the Crusader. "So, are you guys always in that armor or what? Or do they just not make clothes big enough?" I said, struggling to make the shitty joke.
"Lady Re... I mean Lady Mordred. You are finally awake!" The big lug said, nearly falling out of the chair, which was much too small for him.
"Yeah, though I feel like absolute hell. Is that how you normally say hello to people? Cause if it is, man do you need to learn how to hold back."
"I am terribly sorry about that Lady Mordred. I just... lost control... I thought you were..." He started to say, but it was clearly a struggle, as he tried to fight back tears.
"Hey hey hey, no need to do all that crying stuff. I am clearly okay... ish. Point is I am alive, and that's all that should matter!" I said, not really wanting to console a giant killing machine. "Anyways, who even is this Lady Rena person? and why'd you mix me up with her?"
"I... should have known better. It's just that you look so much like her. You even have her scarlet red eyes...."
"Okay, I mean I GET that there aren't many red eyed, white haired people in the greater universe, especially none as awesome as me, but i am still failing to see..."
"Lady Rena, was my lord's wife. For the longest time, in addition to serving as royal guard, I was also appointed as her trusted guard. She was always so kind and gentle to everyone, and managed to bring about the best in all those she interacted with. When she was around, Arthur was much more relaxed and level headed. It was no stretch to say that she was important to the empire."
"Uh.. you said was. I take it that something bad happened to her?"
"Yes... You see, due to a deal with a devil our emperor made when he was a child, he was obligated to hand over his first born. However by doing so, he would be putting the greater universe in danger. So despite his and our ladies desire to have children, Arthur refused. For a while, Lady Rena accepted this fate. But as time went on, she desired a child of her own. She would plead with Arthur, causing a great many arguments. Eventually, Arthur got tired of her repeated requests, and ordered her to have her reproductive organs removed. This... did not sit well with Lady Rena, and she stoutly refused. Seeing her defiance as a tratiours offense, rather than killing her, Arthur had her excommunicated instead. I do not know what happened to her after that, but I have always feared the worst."
"So when I burst into that room, you thought I was her, and tried to hug me to death?"
"That... was not my intention. I was overjoyed to see her again, and I lost all control."
"Well, you are lucky that medical science is freaking amazing, or you might have killed your Lady." I said casually. "Anyways, now that you know i am not this Rena chick, how come you are still around? Shouldn't you be in jail or whatever?"
"After we brought you to this medical station, and the healers began to operate on you, I spoke to the men in suits. I agreed to go along with them, with no issue. However, my only request was that I remain by your side until you awake, and after I have a chance to speak to you."
"Uh huh. And why exactly do you want to speak to me? I mean, beyond trying to crush me and all that."
"First, I want to apologize. I never intended to make you wind up like this."
"Yeah, it sucks. But we already went over that and stuff. There's gotta be more right?"
"Yes. Though I now see that you are not Lady Rena. It is very strange that you have the name that you do."
"What, Mordred?"
"Yes."
"Okay, what of it? You're gonna tell me you have another lady, who also has red eyes, white hair, and shares my name?"
"No. The reason I am interested in your name is because it shares a connection to my lord."
"How so?"
"Back when the Empire was being established, our God gave Lord Artorius a vision. This vision was of thirteen blades, created from the light of great warriors. These warriors would give their lives for their emperor, who would in turn turn their dedication into a sword, which would protect him for all time. All thirteen blades had their own names, along with criteria for who will fill that position, and what purpose that blade will serve. Now mind you, one does not have to share a name with the blade to become it, they only must be recognized by the emperor, and meet the criteria. One of the thirteen blades was named Mordred. This blade was claimed to be very powerful. Its criteria however, was concerning to say the least. The one to become blade must be a child of the emperor, hard headed, and ruthless. Their role was to be loyal to their lord, but will eventually end up betraying them, spilling his blood."
"So lemme guess, I will become this sword or something?"
"No. The thing about the criteria is that it is up for interpretation. The child it calls for, does not need to be a biological child. Rather, it could easily be one of his subjects, as he refers to us as his children."
"Okay... So what's your point? Still seems like this is pointing towards me being a freaking sword."
"No, as the sword has already been created. However, the knowledge of the thirteen blades is only known to certain members of the empire. The fact that you bear that name, and look like Lady Rena, cannot be a simple coincidence."
"Alright, I see where this is going buddy. I know you are going to say that my dad is the freaking emperor, and that my mom is this Lady Rena. Well imma spoil this now, that crusty emperor dude is definitely not my dad. My dad is that goddamn bastard Vanex. But for all I know, he might have gotten with that Rena person, since I never knew my mother."
The Crusader got to his feet, handed me the bear, and started to make his way out. "I see. Well then, I shall not bother you any further Lady Mordred. Though I suspect we will meet again, and soon. But if you ever need assistance, I have left you a charm that will call out to me. It requires no magic or Aura, all you must do is hold onto it, and say my name aloud."
"And what would that be?"
"Lord Tyrus William the Third. But you can call me Tyrus."
"Alright Tyrus, I guess I will be seeing you."
"Indeed. Take care my Lady." He said, bowing low. He made his way out of the room, leaving me alone with the damn bear. I didn't care for the way it stared at me, almost in a mocking way. Frustrated, I tossed the bear into a nearby chair.
"You know that's kinda rude right?" Said someone just to my right.
I nearly jumped out of my bed, if I could actually move. I quickly looked to my right, to see Ross just sitting there. "What the hell?! When did you get there?!" I said, not trying to hide my fright.
"Hey, I've been here the whole time." Ross casually said. "It's not my fault you were too focused on the large lad in armor."
"I... uh... Well I guess you got a point..." I admitted. "What are you even doing here? Shouldn't you be doing paperwork or something?"
"Oh, I've been doing that from here." He said, as he gestured a touchpad. "But as to why I am here.... I was worried about you."
"Oh really funny Ross, why are you really here?"
"I'm seriously Mordred. I was honestly worried about you. When I heard what happened... Well saying I was scared is an understatement,"
"I mean, I'm a merc, you manage mercs. You shouldn't get all anxious every time one gets hurt."
"Normally I don't, but you are an exemption..."
"Wha..."
"Mordred, there is something I gotta tell you. And it's really important, now more than ever."
"Uh... okay? What is it?" I said, feeling uneasy.
"We have known each other for years Moe, I have seen you charge into many dangerous situations, and everytime I was worried I might never get to tell you this. But everytime, you are fine. And everytime I just chicken out. But not today. Mordred, I truly love you. I have loved you since the moment we met, back when we were just street rats. I know how badly you wanted to become a mercenary, and I wanted to help you anyway I could. But I was too weak to do what you could, so I set myself up to support you anyway I could. I did all of this, even getting in touch with Pink Pride, because I truly do love you, and want to see you happy."
I was stunned. I was in shock. I felt my guts churning in utter anxiety. "I uh... wow...."
It was clear this was not the ideal reaction, as Ross immediately turned red, and became flustered. "Uh, I meant just kidding! Forget I said anything!"
"N... no..." I sheepishly said. "Ross.... I care about you a lot. Hell, you are my only normal friend. You have always been there, even during the hard times. But... I just don't feel the same way... at least not like that..."
"Oh..." He said, with utter defeat."
"No! Not like that at all!! It's really hard to explain, but I really don't see anyone like that... In a romantic way that is. I have never really felt that urge ya know? "
"Oh..." He said again, this time a little less defeated.
"I don't know, maybe there is something wrong with me or something. I just can't get myself to feel that kinda stuff. Trust me, I tried. I have seen how you act around me when we are not on the clock, and I wanted to try and be what you wanted. But I just couldn't bring myself to feel that way... But... I do care about you a lot. Hell, if something were to happen to you... I don't know what I'd do. I just... I don't know...."
"Mordred..." Ross said softly. "You don't need to force yourself to be something you are not. Hell, it's your personality that I fell for. Just because you can't be romantic doesn't change anything for me. I still care about you. I still will remain by your side. I want to see you happy, and spend so many days together with you. Because well.... I don't know any better way to say it, but I truly do love you..."
"So you can live without kisses? Without me being all mushy? Without me doing any of that sex stuff? You really can live without any of that?"
"For you.... Yes. I would do anything for you." He gave me a smile. "Plus, I've still got my hands on that stuff anyway."
"Heh, you keep that up, you'll end up rubbing it raw."
"Hasn't happened yet!"
"Listen Ross.... I do care about you... But I think I need some time to figure this all out... To figure myself out. Can we just remain as friends for now? But like... close friends?"
"I wouldn't have it any other way Moe." He leaned over to give me a hug, which I struggled to give back. His embrace felt warm, and very kind. I don't know how long we were holding each other, but it didn't matter, this felt way too nice. But it did eventually have to come to an end, as Ross broke away from me. "Well, I've gotta get back to the office. I need to finish up the paperwork from the mission, along with getting you all set for Pink Pride."
"Oh, that sounds like loads of fun." I said, with heavy sarcasm.
"You bet!" He said, unsarcastically.
"Any word on when I should be out of here?"
"Well, they have you on the fast track healing plan, as payment for the mission, so you should be out tomorrow, better than ever."
"Damn, those higher class assholes get much better healthcare than us! Back on Outlier, I would have been a goner."
"Yeah, it's not a system I particularly care for... But it's the one we have to deal with."
"I guess..."
"Anyways, I gotta head out. I'll see you tomorrow alright?"
"Alright. Try not to work too hard... Or get a papercut." He laughed as he exited the room. Now it was me, all alone in this sterilized, empty room. There was too much to process, my mind couldn't even figure out where to start. Everything Tyrus said. The fact that he might have known my mother. His tone when I mentioned Vanex. All of it severely unnerves me. And to add to it all, Ross' confession. I hope I wasn't too harsh, but I really did mean everything I said. I can't get myself to feel all that romantic crap. But I do care about him a lot, more than anyone else. Is that love? What the hell is love? God damn it, I'm supposed to be focused on work, games, and manga, not freaking love! "That's it, imma punch him."