Robert changed after killing Shroud. It was obvious to everyone the first few weeks. He was more closed off. Agitated. It didn't help that the news had somehow gotten footage of the moment. Soon, Robert was plastered on every news site choking Shroud to death. And his identity as Mechaman was obvious. Who else would want to kill Shroud like that? So violently...

The little respect Mechaman still held in the public eye quickly dwindled to nothing and Robert was fired from SDN after public outcry. Heroes don't kill. Especially like that.

It was only natural that Robert became the new leader of the Red Ring. He had orphaned an entire group of villains, who felt just as lost as he did now. And Robert knew what it felt like to be orphaned.

Everyone accepted it. Mechaman was a villain now. Robert was a villain. With a new dark recolor of his suit and mech, but no mask. What was the point of a mask when everyone knew who you were?

Everyone accepted it but you. You knew him. You had worked with him. You thought you were friends... maybe even more. The idea that Robert could change so drastically, so suddenly seemed impossible to you. You wanted Robert back.

Regardless, knocking on the front door of the Red Ring's hideout was a stupid idea.

Your head throbbed after being knocked out. Your vision was blearly and all you could make out was the fact you were in a dark room. After trying to rub your temple, you realized your wrists were tightly tied down to a lawn chair. A quick kick of your leg made it clear your ankles were too.

"Ah, you finally woke up. I was getting worried you might never wake up. Sorry, I'm still training them," a familiar voice came from behind you.

Robert from behind you, coming into your blurry vision. Your eyes locked on the large M logo across his chest, the new color almost chilling. He snapped his finger in your face to pull your attention up. His grin obvious and wide even when blurred.

"So, here's what's gonna happen. I'm going to hang you off that railing and you're gonna tell me why you're here. Or I'm going to drop you to your death,"

Robert suddenly gripped your arms, pushing the chair backwards until it hit metal railings. He groaned, bending down to grab your ankles and lift you up. He had a tight hold on your legs as he leaned over you while dangling you over the side of the rail. Below you, there was a long drop to the concrete floor of the warehouse with Red Ring members cheering as they looked up in fascination.