Chapter 12

Ripper had an inkling that Genji wasn't from around here, most likely from Aeruna, based on his name and appearance. However, he remained unaware of the true extent of Copperhand's danger. As someone from Ironhelm, Ripper was well aware of the risks associated with crossing paths with Copperhand. This led him to regard Genji with a mixture of curiosity and skepticism, as if he believed Genji might be a lunatic.

Charles, overhearing Genji's question, burst into laughter, mocking Ripper, "Holy shit, Ripper, you really found someone insane, haven't you!" Genji, observing Ripper's bewildered expression and Charles's mocking laughter, felt a pang of embarrassment. He turned to Ripper and asked with a hint of uncertainty, "How dangerous is he, really?"

Ripper responded by promptly silencing Charles's laughter with a punch to his face. Turning back to Genji, Ripper explained, "While Copperhand might not be the most dangerous criminal in the city, make no mistake, mate. He practically runs the slums. Crossing paths with him is never a good idea."

Genji understood that Copperhand posed a significant threat, but he hadn't realized the extent of his control over the slums. However, even with this newfound knowledge, Genji questioned his motives. Was his desire to take down Copperhand driven by a genuine wish to make the city safer, or was it merely a means to his own survival and finding purpose in this new world?

Ripper glanced at Genji, assessing the determination? etched on his face, while sensing the underlying doubt. Letting out a resigned sigh, he acknowledged the gravity of the situation and responded, "I suppose taking him down is our best shot. Running won't do us any good anyway."

Surprised by Ripper's unexpected support despite their recent acquaintance, Genji couldn't help but question, "Are you really willing to help me? We barely know each other." Ripper met Genji's gaze with a resolute expression and replied, "Mate, if I were looking to escape, I would've done it already. If death awaits, I'd rather face it fighting, you know?"

As they contemplated their next move, Genji asked a question that had been on his mind, "Why do the poli—I mean, the guards not do anything?" He quickly caught himself before mentioning the term 'police,' recalling from his second death that the robot he encountered belonged to the 'Ironhelm Guard.' Ripper let out a cynical chuckle and replied, "The guard? Mate, they couldn't care less about us in the slums. They're too busy lining their own pockets to bother with the real issues."

Charles, still tied up and feeling ignored, yelled out, "Hey, shitheads! What the hell are you going to do with me?" Ripper turned towards him with a sly grin and replied, "Oh, don't worry, mate. I'll take care of you. Just be patient." Genji couldn't help but be reminded of Ripper's casual attitude towards death. He then asked, "Do you think there's anyone who can help us?" Ripper paused for a moment, pondering the question, before responding, "I can think of a few, but I can't guarantee how helpful they'll be, mate."

Genji took a quick glance around the room and agreed with Ripper, saying, "We should probably leave this place." Ripper nodded in agreement, but then added, "I'm gonna miss this place... Nah, who am I kidding? I won't." He turned his attention to Charles and said, "Since you don't like witnessing death, how about you step outside while I take care of Charles, mate?"

Genji looked at Charles for a moment, the weight of his recent actions still fresh in his mind. After a brief hesitation, he nodded and made his way out of the building to wait outside. Ripper, with a sly look on his face, turned towards Charles and uttered, "Well, time to meet your end, Charles."

Stepping outside the building, Genji took in his surroundings, feeling the stark contrast between the vibrant market he had encountered earlier and the desolation of the slums. Dilapidated buildings stood tall, their worn facades telling tales of neglect and hardship. The streets were relatively quiet, with only a few weary individuals passing by, their expressions reflecting the struggles of their daily lives.

Despite the early afternoon hour, the atmosphere felt heavy, as if time itself had slowed down in this forgotten corner of the city. Genji couldn't help but feel a sense of desolation, a sharp contrast to the bustling market where he first arrived in this world.

He didn't have to wait long before Ripper emerged from the building, his arms covered in blood. Despite the shocking sight, Ripper's demeanor remained unfazed, a faint smile playing on his lips.

"Alright, let's go find the people who might be able to help us, mate," Ripper said, his voice tinged with a hint of amusement.

Genji's eyes widened as he observed Ripper's blood-stained arms, taken aback by his seemingly nonchalant attitude. Concern filled his voice as he questioned Ripper's actions and the potential consequences of their appearance.

"What did you do?" Genji asked, his voice trembling. "And won't people be alarmed or concerned when they see you covered in blood like that?"

Ripper glanced down at his bloodied arms, the smile on his face unwavering. "In these parts, mate, blood is an all-too-common sight," he explained, a hint of amusement in his voice. "Violence is unfortunately a part of everyday life here. The people we seek assistance from won't be fazed by it. Let's not waste any time."

Reluctantly, Genji pushed aside his unease and nodded, realizing the harsh reality of the slums and Ripper's seemingly carefree outlook. Together, they set off towards the individuals who might offer them the help they needed, Ripper's blood-stained arms serving as a macabre reminder of the world he was about to navigate.