A Kusari Story

[Catbert]

It turns out that the research section occupies three floors and that they’re all connected by a separate staircase inside. The plan to corner the intruders fails faster than I can say “Freeze” as I notice another man in black running up the stairs. He notices me too and fires several shots from his pistol at me. I barely manage to dodge and take cover behind the nearest table. The intruder fires more shots to keep me pinned, but it seems like he’s actually trying to escape. A logical choice, given the circumstances.

As sparks and debris fall on the floor I try to change my position and get to the staircase. It turns out that the enemy already retreated. Out of options (I can’t make it back to Aiko and catch up with the intruders afterwards), I decide to follow. The intruders seem to be heading for the third research floor, since the door to the second floor is sealed.

As I slowly move upstairs, my laser pistol aimed at the doorway. It turns out that the third research floor is almost empty, except for plenty of boxes with Shinchoku’s sign, which are probably filled with various equipment and furniture. What’s worse, I notice two more attackers carrying a cylindrical metallic container to one of the elevators. I rush ahead with my pistol ready, trying to intercept them…

Then I receive a kick in my stomach. It turns out that the man who fired at me mere seconds ago hid behind one of the boxes and attempted to ambush me. As my weapon slips from my fingers I counter-attack and turn the enemy’s arm away split second before he can fire his pistol at me. The shot alerts the two attackers who by that time have almost reached the elevator.

Luckily, they can’t fire on me because their accomplice would get in the way. But he alone is a problem enough. In a desperate attempt I manage to disarm him and push his pistol away as well, but leave myself open for his attack. A hit in the face sends me on the floor and I realize that I’m about to kick the bucket.

However, it turns out that the intruders are in a hurry and can’t waste their time finishing off a security guard. My opponent runs off to the elevator as I try to regain my consciousness. A bell indicates the the doors have closed and the elevator started moving. On all fours I crawl ahead, grabbing a laser pistol which my hands run across. I stand up, trying to get used to the blurry surroundings. Then I start limping to one of the other elevators.