20. Mask (Part 9)_3

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The Mantis and the Beetle quickly climbed onto the roof, using the remaining few fire extinguishers to put out the flames, which gradually died down. As Azdahak lay slack on the rooftops, he blinked at Roland with a mocking and condescending look.

"The farce is over, Azdahak."

"It seems… indeed, it is. Just kidding, it's still… too early…"

In the cold laughter, a mixed voice, indistinguishable between Hammer and Azdahak, emerged. The man in black struggled to rise from the foam, his body, suffering from burns and frostbite, made an odd "squeak creak" noise. The foam covering the left side of his body slowly slid off, revealing the scenery beneath.

"Is this… your true form?"

"That's right, this is me."

Gears, wiring, pipes, light tubes—parts that should've been human flesh and organs were replaced by cold, light-reflecting components that ran making moribund noises, sending chills down Roland's spine with their eerie calmness.

"Mechanical…"