When I reach Zero, he's not in good shape. Sparks fly from his motionless body. I feared he was ready for the scrap heap, but his voice immediately reassures me.
" X... " He said slowly. "Facing Sigma without you... wasn't... a good idea."
"Be glad you're still functional. Why did he spare you?"
"I don't know. He said something... about a strong bond... between you and me."
"A strong bond? Like friendship?" I asked Zero, curious.
"No... not that."
"Love then?"
"NO!" Replied the red Reploid and he seemed able to speak more easily. "We're Maverick Hunters. There's no room in our circuits for love."
"So what was Sigma talking about?"
"I think it's about the fact that we're very close, like comrades-in-arms, oil brothers. Not just friends or lovers. Thus Sigma would have spared me to save you grief."
"That doesn't make sense. Unless..."
I shake my head sharply. It's impossible. Sigma can't love me. He's a Maverick. As I prepare to carry Zero, he tells me to leave him there.
"Defeating Sigma is priority number 1, X. Don't worry about me. I'll send out a distress signal and another Reploid will come for me."
"But...!"
"Don't argue and find Sigma! He mustn't escape!"
"Very well."
I leave my comrade-in-arms and run to follow Sigma's trail.