TEORA – Maroo 5 – Chapter 3

**

…Transform

Along with Maki and her staff, they proceeded to the operation table.

[… Are sure about this Neito-kun?]

Listening to the concern coating the project’s head researchers words…  It was clear that this operation is a serious thing.  It’s not like I don’t understand Maki’s worries; but I’ve already made my decision.

[Yes, I’m sure of it. Though it’s a bit scary I must admit. I’m a coward after all.]

[That’s not true…]

[It is in fact, true but I’m also excited… What form will my spirit take? And stuff like that]

Neito tried to laugh it off.  He couldn’t just back down now.

Ikeno, along with his subordinates, set up a defensive line.  They mustn’t let Maroon pass through.

[Even if we use the crystal, I think we won’t get as much power as the [Chevalier]. The simulation went well, but if ever there’s too much power released, the spiritual energy will overload… Neito-kun won’t be himself ever again… Thinking about it scares me and…]

Maki was really worried. She always looked out for Neito’s well-being. But now isn’t the time for that.

[It’s okay, please do it. Spiritual energy overloading? It’ll be okay. My spirit won’t break…  I told you we are going to conquer the world together. That’s why I’ll fight.  Ikeno, Tsurugi and the others are also fighting… That’s why Maki-san, you must also fight.]

Maki’s battle was to make his operation successful. Neito tried to put on a strong face.

[…… I understand. That’s right, we’ll now begin the operation… Please rest assured. I’ll definitely make this operation a success.]

[Alright.]

I never doubted you in the first place…

Neito took a shot of anesthesia and fell asleep.

**

As Neito entered the operating room, Ikeno finished giving orders to his men.

They’re after the research lab? Let them come if they want. We’ll be ready for them.

They thought about splitting their forces to intercept the oncoming enemy forces, but they decided that it would be better to fight inside the research lab.  Maximizing the weapons they had at hand, they could intercept them easily inside.

The research lab had a lot of equipment and the corridors were not too tight. It’s true that they wanted to preserve as much of the equipment as possible, but their main object wasn’t to protect the equipment, but rather delay the enemy. They didn’t have too many options.

The research lab had two wings. One housed the equipment while the other housed the workstations. In the middle of those two are the auditorium and the testing grounds. Its structure was similar to a school but built to provide a defensive position.

Two hours had swiftly past. Following Ikeno’s commands, everyone was set up and ready to intercept. It took more time than expected, but they finally managed to settle into their defensive positions.

According to his calculation, Maroon should arrive here in a few minutes.

Niina, along with a few other subordinates were on the third floor of the first wing, watching the feed from the security cameras through the glass monitor and informing everyone via radio.

[Niina, relay my orders within three seconds… You’re going to be a key person in this plan..]

< Understood >

Ikeno would relay his orders to Niina, and in turn Niina would broadcast it to all the members fighting in the front lines. As a precaution, Ikeno situated all the weak members in the control room, while Ikeno would head off to the frontlines himself if needed.

Ikeno equipped himself with Break-Gun-Blade. A blade that was able to send supersonic waves via its blade, while also being capable of shooting bullets. His weapon was obviously heavy for its size, but Ikeno had the muscle to wield it.

The best plan called him to fight on the front-lines while commanding his troops.

At least that’s what he thought.

< Ikeno-san, they’re here. >

Even before Tsurugi warned him, they already knew via the surveillance camera. Along with the Maroon five, were one hundred other Guardians. Among the researchers and scientists, their fighting force only consisted of twenty-three members.  There was no one pulling them back, since the others had been safely evacuated to the shelters.

Eighteen seconds left… seventeen, sixteen, fifteen…

[Niina! Activate the Shelter’s Dome]

< Aye sir >

The ground vibrated and a field surrounded the perimeter of the facility.  They planned to fully operate it for a whole five minutes.

The dome was an energy field that was designed to protect the facility in case of an attack.  Enemies shouldn’t be able to break through easily.

The dome had its limits.  Unless they want to use up all the energy inside the facility, the energy field would only last a maximum of ten minutes.

Hey Maroon Five and fellow Guardians, Are you seeing this?

It was hard to initiate an attack if the dome entirely covered the facility. If they waited any longer, reinforcements would come from Metallica.  They wouldn’t expect researchers to react so quickly.

Or so they thought.

Their enemies would just have to wait ten minutes for the power to run out. If that happened, there was only a metal wall between the facility and the Maroon Five. There was no doubt that the Maroon Five’s telekinetic power could destroy it easily.

Ikeno watched the plan become a success in the monitor.

However, Maroon five using their telekinetic powers were able to teleport inside the dome, appearing in midair.  Cameras one, three and six showed the spots they were in. Ikeno desperately tried to get a glimpse of them using the security camera.

On the other hand, the Guardians who were but normal human beings, couldn’t follow them inside the dome.

That was their true objective. Now, with the Guardians temporarily out of the picture, only the Maroon Five were a problem.  Also, Ikeno didn’t plan on facing the five of them head on.

In the first place, each of the Maroon Five had their own distinct powers as well as skills. So if they decide to move fast, they would quickly become separated in the facility.

The first Maroon Five member who arrived wore a blue camo suit.

He specialized in long distance teleportation and movement, which made him the fastest of the group. He teleported himself on the testing grounds in between the first and second wing.

Ikeno immediately relayed out a new order.

[Alpha team, move two meters east from your current position. Once in position, face the intruder and open fire!]

Their predictions were slightly off in regards to the entry point, but there was no problem since the enemy was still in range.

Alpha team, situated on the second floor of the first wing, stuck out their barrels from the window, and started to engage the blue suited enemy.

(TLN: Because of the long names, I’ll be simply calling this Maroon Five member “Blue” for convenience)

They knew of course, that they can’t easily defeat the Rocks organization like this. Blue deployed a barrier to shield himself from the bullets.

[Damn… So you were just waiting for me… huh? But…!]

Blue’s outline started glowing brightly in the monitor.

But it was all in Ikeno’s plan. Five seconds until he teleports.

[Teleportation incoming! Alpha team fall back! Niina, open the roofs of B-block!]

< I’m already on it! >

Ikeno dashed out of the room and ran through the third floor corridor.

He wasn’t some superhuman, but he was still someone who could run one hundred meters in eleven seconds.

Blue’s presence disappeared from the testing grounds. A moment later, he appeared on the second floor of the first wing.

Ikeno confirmed it with his own eyes.

According to Niina’s investigations, there was a hidden spot in the second floor ceiling which could be slid open. It was installed on every floor of the research facility to hide and communicate between floors.

[Ha–!]

Ikeno jumped out from the secret compartment on the third floor and swung his blade at Blue who was currently on the second floor.

[Wha–?!]

Ikeno didn’t dare engage Blue over a long distance.  He had psychic powers after all.

This was good in its own way.  The more he gets delayed, the better.

[Alpha team, open fire at your ten o’clock!]

As he was shouting, Ikeno jumped sideways.

The Maroon Five were psychic soldiers. They may have psychic abilities, but aside from that, their physical build and reflexes were just that of a regular human being. There was no other option than to  deploy a barrier to protect himself.

It had only been twenty seconds or so since Blue appeared on the testing grounds. Ikeno had successfully separated him from his comrades.

Amidst the chaos, Ikeno still received reports from the control room.

[Yellow is coming! Tsurugi, lead the delta team and engage! Lead him into the auditorium!]

[Niina! As soon as Yellow enters the auditorium, bring down the bullet-proof shutters!  He can’t teleport while he’s inside!]

[Keith, take Jairus with you and set up a sniper position on the roof top. Provide cover for every group!]

Ikeno carefully aimed the Gun Blade at Blue and pulled the trigger.

While simultaneously fighting with Blue, Ikeno was giving out orders to every group.

Ikeno thought to himself.

By splitting up and assigning five members to deal with each Maroon Five member, we have successfully increased the efficiency of each member. There’s no way that Komori could’ve thought of a plan like this.

Do you understand now Komori? This is my capability.

The operation should be done by now. Although we are controlling the battle well, we are just barely making it. The enemy force would overwhelm us soon.

Without the modification operation, they would undoubtedly be crushed by their enemies in a second.

I did say it didn’t I? If ever we have a talented commander and a modified human, we could make it out alive.

I’ll fulfill my end of the bargain, so you must hurry!

For the following minutes, Ikeno continued delaying the enemy.

**

[Damn! How did this happen?!]

It had taken far more time than Maroon Five’s leader, Beni Koutarou, had expected.

Our information was sure that the research facility had no information, much less fighting capability to go against them. Although they didn’t know if there was a modified being with them, it was a gamble that they’d taken when they decided to attack.

There was no reason for them to lose…

And yet.…

[Haa-!]

[Take this–!]

He was currently fighting a man who jumped down from the ceiling wielding a Japanese sword. Even though he would counter-attack him, he would just fall back and strike again.

He must be just a regular guy. He got injured just like a normal human being, but it seems like he is experienced in battles. In comparison to my psychic ability, he should pose no threat.

But the man’s tactics were beyond average. He comes out to attack, and immediately withdraws even before Koutaro made a move.

Koutaro was a psychic soldier. His specialty was telekinesis. If he focus on an object, he could lift it up even without the use of physical strength.  He could knock back his enemy as well as deploy a barrier around him.

But, Koutaro’s enemy was agile and quick to escape. He needed to focus on a target for a short time before he could use his powers.

Of course, Koutaro would never lose. No matter how fast and nimble the enemy was, he wouldn’t be able to easily bypass the barrier.

[ [What’s the matter? Aren’t you the leader of the Maroon Five? Why don’t you come at me? You don’t have to get your hands dirty… I’ll take care of you real quick.] ]

His voice was projected on the building’s loud speakers.

Koutaro unleashed his powers on the dark cloud of dust, but he only hit the wall of the corridor.

He was having difficulty using his telepathic powers.  For some reasons, the building was full of gimmicks. Shutters suddenly close and even the sprinklers sprayed some sleeping gas.

Since this was a facility meant for creating modified humans, maybe they built it in case if one of their experiments goes rogue.

Koutaro could never be sure of the reason. He was just waiting for any opening his foe might show.

Given time, he could easily defeat the enemy in front of him. If he feels like it, he even could bring down the whole floor to the ground.

But he didn’t have time to spare. It looked like the enemy was just buying time. It was improbable that he was delaying for reinforcement to come from the main island, but there was no other explanation.

Koutaro had been separated from his group. Although it was no reason for him to lose, he had a bad feeling about the situation.

( ( Can you hear me Koutaro? ) )

A voice called out to him from the back of his brain. Normally, he would be called Blue during operations. There was no other than Kogure Souichi that would call him by his first name. If they could communicate telepathically, it meant that they were fairly close to each other.

( ( Sou-chan, where are you? Let’s regroup! ) )

Souichi was his childhood friend and now a comrade on the battlefield.

Koutaro was about to be mentally broken by the inhumane methods of teaching at the school, but thanks to him, he managed to pull through. Though rough, Souichi was a good guy.

Koutaro would never forget the day they met. He was just some wimp in the school who was always crying because of the bullying, but Souichi always asked him [What are you crying for?] and even picking a fight with his bullies to help him. [I didn’t even mean to help you.] was his response every fight.

After that, Koutaro began to brighten up and started making friends. He got along with everybody, and together, they became heroes.

Along with Souichi and my comrades, I’ll grow stronger.

( ( Damn, those guys from Metallica are surely up to something. It could turn out for the worse if we don’t finish it soon. ) )

Souichi had the same idea as Koutaro.

( ( Agreed. That’s why… ) )

( ( It’s no use. You continue going up. Rei’s psychometry detected a control center inside the second wing. Its two rooms deep on the top floor. If you can disable it, you would interrupt their communications as well as all the traps and gimmicks this facility holds. You’re the closest, go and disable the control room. ) )

Unlike Koutaro, Souichi was calm during battles. Although he was the leader of the Maroon Five, it was Souichi they relied on when it came to making snap decisions.

( ( Understood Sou-chan, I’ll head on up. Wait for me, after that we’ll regroup. ) )

Koutaro immediately dashed away from he man with a Japanese sword. There was no worry of him following.

[Koutaro-kun, use the stairs. I’ll hold him off]

[Thanks! Wait for me, I’ll be back soon.]

His comrade, Yamabuki Kaoru came to reinforce him. Kaoru might look like a simpleton, but she had a good spirit and was a hot-blooded comrade. There was nothing to worry about.

After reaching the top floor, Koutaro saw the control center at the end of the long corridor.  He only needed to destroy the doors and disable the control room.

It would all soon be over. It was thanks to everybody that they made it this far. This time, they’re going to win.

But then…

An elevator door opened alongside the corridor. The elevator was still in Metallica’s control. Therefore a member of Metallica was on that elevator.

[Who’s there?!]

Koutaro stopped and prepared himself for the oncoming enemy.

At first glance, the man that came out looked like an average human. He was tall and slim, and he wore a suit.  Looking at his face, no doubt he was a villain.

[……Please move aside…]

Koutaro issued a warning.

[………]

The man ignored his words and walked towards him.

In order for him to reach the control center, he needed pass through this man.

He didn’t like fighting, but he would fight if he needed to.

“If you possessed the power, you would crush those who are weak in order to achieve your goals.” He was full of that ideology. That’s why he decided to fight evil. Even if he couldn’t save everybody, he’ll do whatever he can within his power to protect their happiness. That’s why…

[Please stop… If you don’t…]

The man called out in a small voice and gave Koutaro the chills.

What’s this atmosphere that surrounds this man?

[I will defeat you.]

Koutaro didn’t intend to lose. He’ll take away what little happiness Metallica possessed. He couldn’t forgive them, that’s why he’ll stop them at all cost.

[Is that so…? Then let me ask. Why do you fight?]

The man stopped walking and asked him in a calm manner.

[In order to stop people like you who sacrifice others to fulfill your goals.]

Koutaro answered naturally.

[Hmm.. then do you know what my goal is? World domination… Then you are wrong. It’s not a goal but a method.]

[……I could care less.]

Koutaro finished charging his psychic powers. He could fire it anytime he wanted to. Normally, all five of them would use this at once, but it was no problem with him using it alone. He could project the charged psychic power from his fist for a great distance. That was Maroon Five’s version of a Justice Hammer.

The man before him was enveloped in black. Though his detection skills were below average, he could tell just from the looks of him. His spirit and soul were black. There was no need for him to hold back.

[All allies of justice are the same. You strive to protect every piece of the chessboard without even knowing the master plan of your opponent. We villains don’t hesitate on discarding pieces to achieve our goals.]

The man held a straight and serious face. He’d never experienced a conversation that was evil as this. Koutaro was about to be enveloped in the mysterious darkness the man possessed.

[I’ll…I’ll never accept that! Sacrificing in order to achieve your goals… how is that even right?!]

Behind him, Koutaro’s conscience slowly agreed with him.

[How do you know what lies ahead without checking? To most people, you are a symbol of hope, but to some, you are just an obstacle to the world they want to live in.]

[……Even so…!]

Koutaro knew what he was talking about. The current world wasn’t perfect. No doubt that there are many of those who want to change the world.

But most people didn’t want that. If they needed to break something and hurt someone to change the world, then there was no need for such world to come into existence. That’s why Koutaro would fight to protect this current world.

[That figures. I don’t think I’m right either… On the contrary, your version seems much more beautiful. But I’ll still move on. In the end, we still need to fight. Come at me.]

The man stopped and looked a Koutaro. He knew the heroes ideals couldn’t be easily changed.

[…Here I come.]

Koutaro drew back his right fist and covered it with his right hand. His hand shined bright as energy gathered. If he were to score a direct hit, it would be all over.

[JUSTICE HAMMER!!]

A stream of energy shot out. The light soon engulfed the man.

[………]

Before the impact, the man’s lips moved.

He was whispering something, but he couldn’t hear him.

The energy hit him and the light soon became an explosion.

As the shockwave travelled, Koutaro took cover from the blast he released.

The man disappeared as the flames of the explosion engulfed the scene.

[……It’s finally over.]

Koutaro, who was sure of his victory looked at the flames once again.

The man wasn’t there.

Instead, [Something] stood in his place.

As the light faded and the flames died down, the [Thing]’s outline was more visible.

It had horns like a goat, sharp and long nails, a black body and eyes gleaming red.

It had the wings of a bat at it’s back, and its lower half was similar to a boar. There was no doubt that this was a dark being.

Spewing out a dark aura, its intent to kill was reeking all over the place.

Koutaro had no other words to express the [thing] that lied in front of him but one.

Demon.

It was like it had come out of a fantasy book. It was the embodiment of absolute evil and ruthlessness.

It was a demon that had taken a liking to their world.

It was then Koutaro knew and comprehended, what that man said before his Justice Hammer hit him.

The man certainly said,

[…… Transform]

There was demon standing in front of the heroes of justice.

Cold sweat ran down Koutaro’s back.

I’m just a nobody. Spare me.

TEORA Maroo 5 Chapter3**TransformAlong with Maki and her staff, they proceeded to the operation table. Are sure about this Neito-kun?Listening to the concern coating the project's head researchers words It was clear that this operation is a serious thing. It's not like I don't understand Maki's worries; but I've already made my decision.Yes, I'm sure of it. Though it's a bit scary I must admit. I'm a coward after all.That's not trueIt is in fact, true but I'm also excited What form will my spirit take? And stuff like thatNeito tried to laugh it off. He couldn't just back down now.Ikeno, along with his subordinates, set up a defensive line. They mustn't let Maroon pass through.Even if we use the crystal, I think we won't get as much power as the Chevalier. The simulation went well, but if ever there's too much power released, the spiritual energy will overload Neito-kun won't be himself ever again Thinking about it scares me andMaki was really worried. She always looked out for Neito's well-being. But now isn't the time for that.It's okay, please do it. Spiritual energy overloading? It'll be okay. My spirit won't break I told you we are going to conquer the world together. That's why I'll fight. Ikeno, Tsurugi and the others are also fighting That's why Maki-san, you must also fight.Maki's battle was to make his operation successful. Neito tried to put on a strong face. I understand. That's right, we'll now begin the operation Please rest assured. I'll definitely make this operation a success.Alright.I never doubted you in the first placeNeito took a shot of anesthesia and fell asleep.**As Neito entered the operating room, Ikeno finished giving orders to his men.They're after the research lab? Let them come if they want. We'll be ready for them.They thought about splitting their forces to intercept the oncoming enemy forces, but they decided that it would be better to fight inside the research lab. Maximizing the weapons they had at hand, they could intercept them easily inside.The research lab had a lot of equipment and the corridors were not too tight. It's true that they wanted to preserve as much of the equipment as possible, but their main object wasn't to protect the equipment, but rather delay the enemy. They didn't have too many options.Theresearch labhad two wings. One housed the equipment while the other housed the workstations. In the middle of those two are the auditorium and the testing grounds. Its structure was similar to a school but built to provide a defensive position.Two hours had swiftly past. Following Ikeno's commands, everyone was set up and ready to intercept. It took more time than expected, but they finally managed to settle into their defensive positions.According to his calculation, Maroon should arrive here in a few minutes.Niina, along with a few other subordinates were on the third floor of the first wing, watching the feed from the security cameras through the glass monitor and informing everyone via radio.Niina, relay my orders within three seconds You're going to be a key person in this plan.. Understood Ikeno would relay his orders to Niina, and in turn Niina would broadcast it to all the members fighting in the front lines. As a precaution, Ikeno situated all the weak members in the control room, while Ikeno would head off to the frontlines himself if needed.Ikeno equipped himself withBreak-Gun-Blade.A blade that was able to send supersonic waves via its blade, while also being capable of shooting bullets. His weapon was obviously heavy for its size, but Ikeno had the muscle to wield it.The best plan called him to fight on the front-lines while commanding his troops.At least that's what he thought. Ikeno-san, they're here. Even before Tsurugi warned him, they already knew via the surveillance camera. Along with the Maroon five, were one hundred other Guardians. Among the researchers and scientists, their fighting force only consisted of twenty-three members. There was no one pulling them back, since the others had been safely evacuated to the shelters.Eighteen seconds left seventeen, sixteen, fifteenNiina! Activate theShelter's Dome Aye sir The ground vibrated and a field surrounded the perimeter of the facility. They planned to fully operate it for a whole five minutes.The dome was an energy field that was designed to protect the facility in case of an attack. Enemies shouldn't be able to break through easily.The dome had its limits. Unless they want to use up all the energy inside the facility, the energy field would only last a maximum of ten minutes.Hey Maroon Five and fellow Guardians, Are you seeing this?It was hard to initiate an attack if the dome entirely covered the facility. If they waited any longer, reinforcements would come from Metallica. They wouldn't expect researchers to react so quickly.Or so they thought.Their enemies would just have to wait ten minutes for the power to run out. If that happened, there was only a metal wall between the facility and the Maroon Five. There was no doubt that the Maroon Five's telekinetic power could destroy it easily.Ikeno watched the plan become a success in the monitor.However, Maroon five using their telekinetic powers were able to teleport inside the dome, appearing in midair. Cameras one, three and six showed the spots they were in. Ikeno desperately tried to get a glimpse of them using the security camera.On the other hand, the Guardians who were but normal human beings, couldn't follow them inside the dome.That was their true objective. Now, with the Guardians temporarily out of the picture, only the Maroon Five were a problem. Also, Ikeno didn't plan on facing the five of them head on.In the first place, each of the Maroon Five had their own distinct powers as well as skills. So if they decide to move fast, they would quickly become separated in the facility.The first Maroon Five member who arrived wore a blue camo suit.He specialized in long distance teleportation and movement, which made him the fastest of the group. He teleported himself on the testing grounds in between the first and second wing.Ikeno immediately relayed out a new order.Alpha team, move two meters east from your current position. Once in position, face the intruder and open fire!Their predictions were slightly off in regards to the entry point, but there was no problem since the enemy was still in range.Alpha team, situated on the second floor of the first wing, stuck out their barrels from the window, and started to engage the blue suited enemy.TLN: Because of the long names, I'll be simply calling this Maroon Five member Blue for convenienceThey knew of course, that they can't easily defeat the Rocks organization like this.Bluedeployed a barrier to shield himself from the bullets.Damn So you were just waiting for me huh? But!Blue's outline started glowing brightly in the monitor.But it was all in Ikeno's plan. Five seconds until he teleports.Teleportation incoming! Alpha team fall back! Niina, open the roofs of B-block! I'm already on it! Ikeno dashed out of the room and ran through the third floor corridor.He wasn't some superhuman, but he was still someone who could run one hundred meters in eleven seconds.Blue's presence disappeared from the testing grounds. A moment later, he appeared on the second floor of the first wing.Ikeno confirmed it with his own eyes.According to Niina's investigations, there was a hidden spot in the second floor ceiling which could be slid open. It was installed on every floor of the research facility to hide and communicate between floors.Ha!Ikeno jumped out from the secret compartment on the third floor and swung his blade atBluewho was currently on the second floor.Wha?!Ikeno didn't dare engageBlueover a long distance. He had psychic powers after all.This was good in its own way. The more he gets delayed, the better.Alpha team, open fire at your ten o'clock!As he was shouting, Ikeno jumped sideways.The Maroon Five were psychic soldiers. They may have psychic abilities, but aside from that, their physical build and reflexes were just that of a regular human being. There was no other option than to deploy a barrier to protect himself.It had only been twenty seconds or so sinceBlueappeared on the testing grounds. Ikeno had successfully separated him from his comrades.Amidst the chaos, Ikeno still received reports from the control room.Yellowis coming! Tsurugi, lead the delta team and engage! Lead him into the auditorium!Niina! As soon asYellowenters the auditorium, bring down the bullet-proof shutters! He can't teleport while he's inside!Keith, take Jairus with you and set up a sniper position on the roof top. Provide cover for every group!Ikeno carefully aimed theGun BladeatBlueand pulled the trigger.While simultaneously fighting withBlue, Ikeno was giving out orders to every group.Ikeno thought to himself.By splitting up and assigning five members to deal with each Maroon Five member, we have successfully increased the efficiency of each member. There's no way that Komori could've thought of a plan like this.Do you understand now Komori? This is my capability.The operation should be done by now. Although we are controlling the battle well, we are just barely making it. The enemy force would overwhelm us soon.Without the modification operation, they would undoubtedly be crushed by their enemies in a second.I did say it didn't I? If ever we have a talented commander and a modified human, we could make it out alive.I'll fulfill my end of the bargain, so you must hurry!For the following minutes, Ikeno continued delaying the enemy.**Damn! How did this happen?!It had taken far more time than Maroon Five's leader, Beni Koutarou, had expected.Our information was sure that the research facility had no information, much less fighting capability to go against them. Although they didn't know if there was a modified being with them, it was a gamble that they'd taken when they decided to attack.There was no reason for them to loseAnd yet.Haa-!Take this!He was currently fighting a man who jumped down from the ceiling wielding a Japanese sword. Even though he would counter-attack him, he would just fall back and strike again.He must be just a regular guy. He got injured just like a normal human being, but it seems like he is experienced in battles. In comparison to my psychic ability, he should pose no threat.But the man's tactics were beyond average. He comes out to attack, and immediately withdraws even before Koutaro made a move.Koutaro was a psychic soldier. His specialty was telekinesis. If he focus on an object, he could lift it up even without the use of physical strength. He could knock back his enemy as well as deploy a barrier around him.But, Koutaro's enemy was agile and quick to escape. He needed to focus on a target for a short time before he could use his powers.Of course, Koutaro would never lose. No matter how fast and nimble the enemy was, he wouldn't be able to easily bypass the barrier. What's the matter? Aren't you the leader of the Maroon Five? Why don't you come at me? You don't have to get your hands dirty I'll take care of you real quick. His voice was projected on the building's loud speakers.Koutaro unleashed his powers on the dark cloud of dust, but he only hit the wall of the corridor.He was having difficulty using his telepathic powers. For some reasons, the building was full of gimmicks. Shutters suddenly close and even the sprinklers sprayed some sleeping gas.Since this was a facility meant for creating modified humans, maybe they built it in case if one of their experiments goes rogue.Koutaro could never be sure of the reason. He was just waiting for any opening his foe might show.Given time, he could easily defeat the enemy in front of him. If he feels like it, he even could bring down the whole floor to the ground.But he didn't have time to spare. It looked like the enemy was just buying time. It was improbable that he was delaying for reinforcement to come from the main island, but there was no other explanation.Koutaro had been separated from his group. Although it was no reason for him to lose, he had a bad feeling about the situation. Can you hear me Koutaro? A voice called out to him from the back of his brain. Normally, he would be calledBlueduring operations. There was no other than Kogure Souichi that would call him by his first name. If they could communicate telepathically, it meant that they were fairly close to each other. Sou-chan, where are you? Let's regroup! Souichi was his childhood friend and now a comrade on the battlefield.Koutaro was about to be mentally broken by the inhumane methods of teaching at theschool, but thanks to him, he managed to pull through. Though rough, Souichi was a good guy.Koutaro would never forget the day they met. He was just some wimp in theschoolwho was always crying because of the bullying, but Souichi always asked him What are you crying for? and even picking a fight with his bullies to help him. I didn't even mean to help you. was his response every fight.After that, Koutaro began to brighten up and started making friends. He got along with everybody, and together, they became heroes.Along with Souichi and my comrades, I'll grow stronger. Damn, those guys from Metallica are surely up to something. It could turn out for the worse if we don't finish it soon. Souichi had the same idea as Koutaro. Agreed. That's why It's no use. You continue going up. Rei's psychometry detected a control center inside the second wing. Its two rooms deep on the top floor. If you can disable it, you would interrupt their communications as well as all the traps and gimmicks this facility holds. You're the closest, go and disable the control room. Unlike Koutaro, Souichi was calm during battles. Although he was the leader of the Maroon Five, it was Souichi they relied on when it came to making snap decisions. Understood Sou-chan, I'll head on up. Wait for me, after that we'll regroup. Koutaro immediately dashed away from he man with a Japanese sword. There was no worry of him following.Koutaro-kun, use the stairs. I'll hold him offThanks! Wait for me, I'll be back soon.His comrade, Yamabuki Kaoru came to reinforce him. Kaoru might look like a simpleton, but she had a good spirit and was a hot-blooded comrade. There was nothing to worry about.After reaching the top floor, Koutaro saw the control center at the end of the long corridor. He only needed to destroy the doors and disable the control room.It would all soon be over. It was thanks to everybody that they made it this far. This time, they're going to win.But thenAn elevator door opened alongside the corridor. The elevator was still in Metallica's control. Therefore a member of Metallica was on that elevator.Who's there?!Koutaro stopped and prepared himself for the oncoming enemy.At first glance, the man that came out looked like an average human. He was tall and slim, and he wore a suit. Looking at his face, no doubt he was a villain.Please move asideKoutaro issued a warning.The man ignored his words and walked towards him.In order for him to reach the control center, he needed pass through this man.He didn't like fighting, but he would fight if he needed to.If you possessed the power, you would crush those who are weak in order to achieve your goals. He was full of that ideology. That's why he decided to fight evil. Even if he couldn't save everybody, he'll do whatever he can within his power to protect their happiness. That's whyPlease stop If you don'tThe man called out in a small voice and gave Koutaro the chills.What's this atmosphere that surrounds this man?I will defeat you.Koutaro didn't intend to lose. He'll take away what little happiness Metallica possessed. He couldn't forgive them, that's why he'll stop them at all cost.Is that so? Then let me ask. Why do you fight?The man stopped walking and asked him in a calm manner.In order to stop people like you who sacrifice others to fulfill your goals.Koutaro answered naturally.Hmm.. then do you know what my goal is? World domination Then you are wrong. It's not a goal but a method.I could care less.Koutaro finished charging his psychic powers. He could fire it anytime he wanted to. Normally, all five of them would use this at once, but it was no problem with him using it alone. He could project the charged psychic power from his fist for a great distance. That was Maroon Five's version of aJustice Hammer.The man before him was enveloped in black. Though his detection skills were below average, he could tell just from the looks of him. His spirit and soul were black. There was no need for him to hold back.All allies of justice are the same. You strive to protect every piece of the chessboard without even knowing the master plan of your opponent. We villains don't hesitate on discarding pieces to achieve our goals.The man held a straight and serious face. He'd never experienced a conversation that was evil as this. Koutaro was about to be enveloped in the mysterious darkness the man possessed.I'llI'll never accept that! Sacrificing in order to achieve your goals how is that even right?!Behind him, Koutaro's conscience slowly agreed with him.How do you know what lies ahead without checking? To most people, you are a symbol of hope, but to some, you are just an obstacle to the world they want to live in.Even so!Koutaro knew what he was talking about. The current world wasn't perfect. No doubt that there are many of those who want to change the world.But most people didn't want that. If they needed to break something and hurt someone to change the world, then there was no need for such world to come into existence. That's why Koutaro would fight to protect this current world.That figures. I don't think I'm right either On the contrary, your version seems much more beautiful. But I'll still move on. In the end, we still need to fight. Come at me.The man stopped and looked a Koutaro. He knew the heroes ideals couldn't be easily changed.Here I come.Koutaro drew back his right fist and covered it with his right hand. His hand shined bright as energy gathered. If he were to score a direct hit, it would be all over.JUSTICE HAMMER!!A stream of energy shot out. The light soon engulfed the man.Before the impact, the man's lips moved.He was whispering something, but he couldn't hear him.The energy hit him and the light soon became an explosion.As the shockwave travelled, Koutaro took cover from the blast he released.The man disappeared as the flames of the explosion engulfed the scene.It's finally over.Koutaro, who was sure of his victory looked at the flames once again.The man wasn't there.Instead, Something stood in his place.As the light faded and the flames died down, the Thing's outline was more visible.It had horns like a goat, sharp and long nails, a black body and eyes gleaming red.It had the wings of a bat at it's back, and its lower half was similar to a boar. There was no doubt that this was a dark being.Spewing out a dark aura, its intent to kill was reeking all over the place.Koutaro had no other words to express the thing that lied in front of him but one.Demon.It was like it had come out of a fantasy book. It was the embodiment of absolute evil and ruthlessness.It was a demon that had taken a liking to their world.It was then Koutaro knew and comprehended, what that man said before hisJustice Hammerhit him.The man certainly said, TransformThere was demon standing in front of the heroes of justice.Cold sweat ran down Koutaro's back.I'm just a nobody. Spare me.