MM Reawakened: Chapter 26

Chapter 8 – Nature’s Wrath Unleashed; The Blue Bomber’s a Conservationist?!

Yellowstone National Park – 10:46 AM

Almost a month ago, I traveled to the Amazon rainforest to stop CutMan from tearing it apart. It wasn’t an easy battle I assure you because I had to contend with trying to stop him from severely damaging the planet’s ecosystem. Fortunately I saved the day and since then, the rainforest is still as it was when I first dropped by. Now I have to contend with a new problem. I just received word that a robot master has been spotted at Yellowstone National Park, a national park that extends across 3 states. The strange thing was that he was simply occupying it as if it was his home. Something strange was going on. I know it.

All right, made it. I arrived after receiving the call. I saw a good view of the park and it felt like a major nature retreat.

If I weren’t on duty dealing with Wily’s robots, this would be a great place for me to get some time off. All throughout the week I have dealt with all sorts of crap. Whether it’d be Wily’s new robot army, Denise’s depression or grandpa’s lame crappy excuses, it’s what I consider to be a motto for me: same crap, different day. I apologize but I’m just frustrated. It’s better we continue.

I took the plunge jumping off the high point in the Yellowstone Grand Canyon. Reaching the ground gave me a very good look at the place. I closed my eyes hearing everything around me. Birds chirping, water flowing through the river, leaves gracing through the wind. It felt quiet. It was something I wanted in my life. Too bad I’m never getting it. I hardly ever get any free time as long as that madman is out there. But anyway, I pressed on hoping to find the last Robot Master. They said that someone was occupying it and not even tearing it down. This was really strange.

During my trek, the communicator began to beep on my Mega Buster. I pressed a button checking to see. “This is Mega, what’s up?”

“Robert where are you?” That voice. It’s Higsby. I stopped what I was doing.

I replied, “Higsby, what’s going on? Shouldn’t you be with grandpa working on some kind of secret project?”

Higsby was annoyed by what I said. He says, “I already know from Dr. Light you’re upset. Do you have any clue how ticked off he is?”

“No and quite frankly, I really don’t care,” I then went on and asked him this. “I want to know right here, right now. What in the hell have you, Gramps and everyone at the labs been doing?! I’m sick of the lies, the excuses, everything! I want to know now!”

My shouting made Hisgby a bit startled. I really can’t blame him. Putting the headset back on, he explains, “I’m sorry Robert. I’ve been given an NDA by your grandpa. I can’t tell anyone what we’re working on. It can put not only my job at risk but also everyone’s. You need to understand that we have a reason for doing this.”

“Then why the hell are you even here at the basement lab?” I asked, “Shouldn’t you be helping Dr. Light?” My voice became fierce. I was angry.

“I got the day off. Dr. Light just gave it to us on a whim.” He says, “Like I said, I really don’t know. He just came in this morning and then told all of us no work today.”

“Just like that?” I wondered.

Higsby answers, “Yes. Just like that. I’m beginning to wonder if it has anything to do with you.”

My worry was then replaced with anger. “Why should it be? We just had an argument this morning. He couldn’t even tell me at all!”

“He has his reasons.” He reassures but then follows up with this. “I suggest you shouldn’t worry about him right now.”

But I reassured him by replying, “I have every right to worry. He’s hiding something and once I’m done here, I’m going to get to the bottom of this! I’m sick of his lies! His excuses! His reasons why he can’t even spend a few minutes to give me at least some moral support! I want answers and I’m going to get them even if I have to literally strangle him to do it!”

My shout gave Higsby a scare. I’m still angry. Gramps having the gall to hide the truth and not tell anyone is the reason. I didn’t say anything. I waited for Higsby to say something. Anything. Sadly, he didn’t speak. This tells me that even he was part of this little gig.

“I’m going to find out what he’s up to when I see him. For now I have more important things to deal with.” I said, trying to find a way to compose myself.

Higsby then gives me a sharp warning. “Don’t do anything rash Robert. Remember that you shouldn’t let your feelings cloud your judgment.”

“Let me guess…” I asked, “That’s something grandpa would say to me right?”

He nods and responds, “Yep. That’s your grandpa alright.”

“Figures.” It was all I could say. I’m done being distracted. It was time to get to work.

I was on the move. Higsby has a point with this. I can’t let my feelings get the better of me. Only one Robot Master remains and he’ll prove to be a real challenge. So far things have been quiet. There were no robots and I was enjoying the nice scenery here at Yellowstone National Park. My guard was up. I know that something will happen. Why? I can feel it.

It’s quiet… too quiet. I had my buster ready. I know they’re expecting me.

But then I hear something far away. It was a wolf howl. Guess the quiet day thing I said didn’t work. I then saw a blue wolf robot come in at high speed. It appears before me ready to attack. I dodged its fire breath retaliating with a few Mega Buster shots. It took the abuse well attacking with another blast. The flames hit a nearby tree causing it to burn. I fired one more shot blasting it to bits. My instincts were kicking in so I used an aqua-based battle chip to put out the flame.

“That’s too close for comfort.” I always remember the lines a certain bear would say on TV. “Now I got to keep on going.”

I continued further trekking the forest evading Wily’s bots. Alongside a Friender, there were two robots that look like chickens. They ran at me so I evaded countering with a shot from my Mega Buster. It took some abuse. I was then attacked by another chicken robot having me hit the floor. This bot just decided to go Kukku on me.

“Enough of this! Battlechip, Tornado!” My buster turned into a small fan.

I aimed at one of the Kukkus and fired. Wind started forming around it until a tornado appeared dishing major damage. The other Kukku was scared. I then went and used a second Tornado blast destroying it. All that remained was the Friender. It was a no-brainer. I swapped into my Mega Buster, the Friender attacks, I dodged and then countered with a Charge Shot.

So much for them. I saw them all scrapped like junk piles. What do you expect me to do? Weep?

Anyway I was on the move yet again. More Kukkus started to show up racing toward me. I get my Mega Buster online and attacked. The two were reduced to scrap after a few shots. Another Friender appears from behind using its flame attack. I used a Bubbler battlechip shutting its attack down following it up with a jump kick wrecking it. More robots would show up so I need to get on my feet. But it’s then I was hit with yet another interruption.

A swam of bats flew from the sky stopping my progress. One minute they move in one direction and the next, they turn and do it again. It was ridiculous. My Mega Buster won’t help me with this because it’s not just one bat. It was a whole swarm of them.

I shout. “Battlechip, SuperVulcan!” My buster turned into a rotated chain gun. “Now to clear these bats.”

I let out a few rounds aiming at them Battons. Some were swat down while the rest went for another attack. They are making this way too easy. I had my aim straight at them. They were coming closer. I could go at it again with another shot but it’d be a careless move. It wouldn’t matter so I took a chance firing. The blast took down some bats but one got away. By then I was out of ammo and it got me upset. The remaining Batton will tell whoever’s in charge that I’m here. I then realize that it was a double-edged sword. He would find out but that bat will lead me to him. Works for me, I guess.

Deep within the park was a robot master sitting in a chair made out of wood. He’s a robot made completely out of wood. No, I’m serious. This robot master looks like a tree stub. But would a tree stub have arms and legs? Tell me, does it? Whatever. Anyway it was enjoying a peaceful day petting a nearby Friender. It looks up seeing the peaceful sky but the sight of a Batton catches his attention. The bat went closer activating a viewer showing me on the move.

“So, Mega Man appears. Exactly as Doktor Wily says.” It speaks, “Prepare for arrival. He will feel power of nature.”

The Batton nods flying off to the sky above. It then continues enjoying his time petting the Friender and relaxing. Meanwhile, I continued my fight taking down many robots that dare get in my way. I was up against a Kukku who had a new companion; a blue rabbit robot that jumped and attack with small missiles that look like carrots. This is already a pain as it is. I took down a Kukku but the Robbit launched some of its missiles striking me. What’s even unexpected is that the missiles it fires can go in different directions. This makes the fight a lot harder.

“Now this is getting annoying. I feel like a stupid hunter that can’t catch a wascally wabbit.” Did I just say that? “Battlechip, QuadNeedle!” My buster opens revealing sides of a bow.

I fire a few shots and took it down with little to no effort. I still have two Needle Arrows so I saved them for later. Fortunately it was that time as another enemy showed up.

I turned to see it and say, “Can this get any worse than this?”

I saw what appeared to be a large monkey robot. It was red, reminded me of GutsMan (and his ass) but lacks the brain circuits that it had. If I didn’t know any better, I’d say that this guy came right out of Kongoland or something. That didn’t sound right. The big ape was on the attack using its fists. I dodged a few and retaliated with a blast. It didn’t faze him. Though him grabbing a tree made it worse. I dodge his swings. I couldn’t attack because he may strike if I get careless.

So I decided to go for a different approach. I ran toward the big ape firing a shot. It used the tree to deflect my attack so I went for a second shot dealing damage to the Monking. Following up with a kick and another buster shot, I was able to take it down. But something caught my interest. I looked to see if the environment was different. There were more trees as usual. I must be getting close. I went inside a deep patch of the forest. Things seem quieter when I entered. I can hear birds chirping on the treetops. Many animals were moving about. Like I said earlier, if I wasn’t doing stuff like this, I would prefer enjoying a peaceful day here. I really would.

“This place… it seems so quiet and good.” I said, “Higsby, I wish I’d come here after all this is done. It feels so relaxing.”

Higsby retorts, “You and me both. But it’d be better if you and your grandpa went. You two would definitely need a break.”

“Yes, I know.” I became upset for a bit but he did have a point. “Thanks for the advice.”

“I know you’re upset but I don’t want to see you down in the dumps. I know you can do this Robert. I really believe you and even now, I root for ya. You’ll have time to talk with your grandfather later. I’m detecting something straight ahead.”

“That has to be the Robot Master.” I said, “I’m heading there now.”

Following Higsby’s advice, I went to the destination he told me. The area now becomes deep with trees reaching higher into the sky. Like before, it has become quiet. I know there are no enemies around here. If any, I already took some of them down. But I then see someone sitting on a chair made out of wood. He was petting a Friender with kindness and love. I don’t know if attacking right away does any good. I decided to wait. He then looked at me with a cold stare. Silence was heard between us. My Mega Buster was aimed at him. I know I’ll be in for a hell of a fight.

He then decides to speak, “You are Mega Man. Wily told much about you and how you ruin plans.”

“I don’t just ruin plans big boy,” I reply, “I make sure they get shut down.” WoodMan wasn’t impressed with my remark.

“You prove very difficult to handle. All Robot Masters fallen by you. I am only one left.” He says. His tone sounded different than the others, albeit limited.

“I just want to know one thing; who in the hell are you?” I asked.

He didn’t talk long to answer my demand. “I am WoodMan. I am last of robot masters made by Wily. I make you suffer.”

“You? Make me suffer?” I replied, jokingly. “As if. Every other Robot Master I dealt with got the beat down. What makes you think you’re any different?”

He chuckles for a bit. I wonder if it meant I wasn’t taking him seriously. “You talk big but act small. I’m toughest of all Robot Masters. Doktor Wily name me favorite.”

Favorite? You got to be kidding. This big log is Wily’s favorite bot? Now I’m really confused. I still had my Buster aimed at him.

“Time for talk ends. Now… time for battle!” He got up from his chair. The Friendog ran off somewhere. “Are you ready?”

He raced toward me delivering a punch to the face. It really hurt bad but it intensified once he goes for another shot, this time to the chest. I got sent flying 18 feet smacking into a tree collapsing upon impact. He casually walked closer to me. I had to do something and fast before I get tossed around again.

“Liked being punchy ain’t ya? How about some of this!” I fired a few shots from my Mega Buster.

I was acting in desperation. My shots were repelled one by one. Nothing was working. My stupidity began to crank up so I went straight for him with an attack. I jumped into the air delivering a flying kick. It hit but it didn’t even faze him. I noticed that my kick not even laid a dent on his armor. WoodMan scoffs off with a laugh. I was in major trouble.

“This how you fight?” He demands, “Pathetic! My armor is made of wood. Finest wood in mother Russia.”

Now things get weird. “Wood? From what I can tell, you look like a giant tree trunk!”

“Is that an insult!? Like before, pathetic!” He shouts. He tried to grab on me but I moved out of the way.

“Eat plasma branch breath!” I fired a charged shot at point blank range.

I only wish that it would be enough to at least deal damage. The smoke cleared and I got a look. Like my previous attack, he didn’t feel anything. All it did was leave a dent on his chest. He was angry. He was pissed. I know now I’m up for an ass whipping. Wait I already said that. I decided to go for another round so I fired a second charge shot. It did hit but singed his chest even more.

“Two charge shots and still nothing works.” I wanted to go for a third shot but I realize my energy would be depleted completely by then.

“Puny weapon for puny hero. Now these…” He shows me his fists and then says, “These are real weapons. I am stronger with them. Nature is my calling, my passion, my purpose.”

“Your purpose like all the others is destruction. Why you, a robot made out of wood would have a function as pure as that? I want to know! Why?” I shouted.

“It is what I was built for.” He says, “I may be built for battle but I was made to protect life.”

I try comprehending what he said. Wily making a robot that’s not only for battle but also built to protect nature? I thought if he did have a conscience but I shake my head. There’s no way Wily would ever have one especially after all he’s done, not just to me but also to my family and the world. I shake my head a bit focusing more on the fight. I had to stop him. Wily only has WoodMan left and once I beat him, then I go after the madman himself.

“You seem conflicted. That will cost you dearly.” He says.

I responded, “Shut up!” I fire a shot hoping to make good on that.

He saw it as an empty threat. “Still blind. Now time to see if you can handle me. Defend yourself!”

He charges ready to take me down. I simply switch into a WideSword and did the same. Our clash was a fierce struggle. WoodMan was slow, heavy but his strength and defense were off the charts. I was fast on my feet getting a good few strikes before he got another hit. I switch between blade and plasma wearing him down. WoodMan counters by trying to punch me. I evade and counter with another shot. He continues his offense until he decides that another method should work

“You’re quick like an insect. Let’s see you evade this.” He goes into a defensive stance. “Leaf Shield!”

He then summons four large leaves that encircle forming some kind of barrier. They look like leaves but were bigger in size, sharp around the edges and controlled by electromagnetism. Moving in a circular fashion prevented me from dealing damage. I don’t know what he was planning but it isn’t good. It isn’t at all.

“No weapon can penetrate my shield. It’s hopeless!” he yells.

I disagree so I take a chance. I use my Mega Buster firing a few shots. They did absolutely nothing. WoodMan lets his Leaf Shield summon several more leaves that went up to the sky. Reaching the top, they take aim and attacked. I evade at least five of them but the other two lay dents on my armor and the last nearly hit my face giving me a scratch that was noticeable. As if that wasn’t enough, he uses his circulated Leaf Shield as a projectile. I evade going on the offensive.

“Battlechip, FighterSword!” My hand transformed into a sharp blade suited for fighting.

I race toward him and attack striking his head and his chest. My mind became a blind haze. I wasn’t thinking clearly. I simply went in attacking over and over. WoodMan blocks some blows but others I simply hit where it hurts. I did one more strike and it reels him back. Higsby was getting a look at the fight from the basement lab monitor. Even he wonders what’s going on.

What’s with Robert? He seems angrier than before. He presses a few buttons getting a look at my internal readings. What he sees worry him. His emotions are spiraling out of control. I got a bad feeling about this.

Back at the fight, WoodMan was reeling. I continue my offense against him delivering another strike. He fortunately evades my strike. Now I wonder if he’s the one who’s cowering away. I dash for another attack but WoodMan gets out of the way and punches me square in the jar. It simply hurt like hell.

“I sense your anger. The ground, the wind, the trees… They tell me of your feelings.” He says.

“What feelings? You don’t understand anything about me!” I shouted.

I was ready to attack him again but he responds, “I do! You are like me, a reploid. We are much different than humans. Unlike them, we understand each other.”

“What do you mean?” I asked. “What are you trying to tell me? If it relates to my problems, keep them to yourself!”

“It does relate to you. The way you fight… filled with hate. You hold grudge. It hinders you.” He speaks in a way that a shaman would. I was curious.

“So you’re saying to me that I’m fighting with something holding me back?” I ask wondering if he knew what bugs me. “Is that it?”

“Yes.” It’s all he can say right now. I still had my FighterSword ready but he notices I still carry anger inside.

“Are you determined to fight even in state of mind you having?” He asks. I gave him a nod. “Fine. You leave me no choice.”

He then grabs one of his sharp leaves with his huge hand. It then transforms into a long blade. It still has the sharp edges that the Leaf Shield had earlier. At first I thought it would be like a normal blade but that was going to change.

“You are blinded by anger blue bomber. I will show you the error of your judgment.” He threatens.

I simply don’t waste any time so I went in on the attack. The two of us use our blades to the fullest. Clashing sounds were hard representing our different styles of battle. One represents a hero who to the eyes of the people is their savior. The other is a robot in tune with life with the order to destroy and above all else, serve a madman that wants the world. I was the hero while WoodMan was the villain, not by choice.

“You put up good fight. But I have more up sleeve.” He says. I saw his Leaf Blade begin to change form.

It changed into some king of long whip. He twirls it for a bit forcing me to be on the defensive. If I were to make one mistake, I would be in for a major lashing. I can’t cower nor falter. I have no choice but to fight. I race toward WoodMan to go for a strike. He blocks my attack and counter with his own. He attacks me three times with that whip. One strikes me in the back, one hit my right arm and the third struck my head causing serious damage to my face. He then uses the whip to ensnare me. It ends up grabbing my blade.

“I possess advantage yet you still fight. I will enjoy destroying you.” Says WoodMan.

“Not if I destroy you first!” I respond, “You’re all that’s left! Once I defeat you, Wily’s next!”

“You will not reach Wily if you fight like that!” What the hell is this guy, some kind of mind reader? Feeling checker? I want to know!

“Enough of this!” I switch into my Mega Buster and access a weapon I would have used sooner.

I went for the Atomic Fire and fired a shot. It did hit WoodMan alright but some remnants hit a nearby tree sparking a fire. This was something I didn’t intend to happen. WoodMan didn’t either. He sees me in anger. Now I wonder if what he’s saying is legit. The fire suddenly begins spreading all over the area entrapping us.

“See the flames around you… they represent humanity’s corruption! Their desire to destroy!” He goes on saying banter regarding how humans desire nothing more than slaughter and destruction. For some reason, I’m starting to think if this guy’s a hippie.

“So what!” I yelled, “Humanity may have made mistakes in the past but they’ve always rectified in doing what’s right!”

“Look around you!” I see the fire constantly blazing. “This is result of human greed. They destroy forests, pollute oceans, and blacken skies all for lust and power! Even you and I! We are made by humans to serve them and their greed!”

“Is that all you’ll say because I’m tired of your damn banter!” I fire another shot of Atomic Fire.

It hit WoodMan in the chest dealing severe damage. Parts of his outer armor begin to melt away. I go for another shot but he stops me giving me a punch to the face. I respond with a punch myself hitting WoodMan. Though I do deliver damage, he struck harder draining my energy. By then I was already down to about 30%. WoodMan had plenty of fight left. Even if I fight back, this guy will hammer me down.

I go for another shot of Atomic Fire but I didn’t fire it… yet. I went for an offensive attack. WoodMan blocks it but that was his mistake. I fire an Atomic Fire at point blank range. Unlike my previous shots, this one was charged to at least level two. More of his body began to wither away revealing a metallic body. He tries his best to get the fire out of him. I can’t say the same for the area around us. This really is a death trap.

“Had enough? Guess you went from tree trunk to bad bot!” I shout. WoodMan didn’t care.

“Even if my body withers, you will never defeat me! I will show you nature’s true power!” What I saw next literally blew me away.

He went into a powered-up stance building up energy and he envelops himself in some sort of aura. The environment around me started changing. I saw the fire suddenly disappear and the trees were returning to normal. In only a few minutes, the fire was gone. Wily must really have done some serious stuff on this bot.

“Incredible…” It was all I could ever say.

“See this? See the power I possess!?” WoodMan demanded. I was simply silent. I didn’t say anything. “You are speechless.”

“No, I’m more pissed off!” I respond, angrily.

“It matters not. Your end finally comes!” He continues to build up more energy.

“Higsby…” I replied, “Are you getting this? Power levels are climbing like mad!”

“I’m getting it alright.” He answers, “For some odd reason, WoodMan is drawing energy from the planet itself. He just used some of the energy to quell the flame. Now he’s drawing it back.”

I then make a query, “Could it be that this guy is like some kind of eco generator or something?”

“Probably.” He replies, “I warn you Robert. This bot is simply one you really don’t want to mess with.”

“I know.” I gulp, knowing of the consequences. “I’ll take my chances.”

WoodMan finishes up gathering energy. He envelops himself in a green aura covering his robotic body from head to toe. It’s not the fact that I see him become like this but I’m up against someone who is the embodiment of nature itself. That’s just out of proportion but you get my point. I silently had my weapon at Atomic Fire set. WoodMan was ready to bring out the full force of his power. I would experience it first hand.

“I have nothing against you,” He takes a deep breath before continuing, “But I have orders. I must break you. Pulse of Life!”

His strength energizes tenfold in an instant. I was unable to do anything as he attacks. Each blow he unleashed gave me pain all over my body. I tried my hardest getting out of the way but his attack prevents my escape. Seeing him use Pulse of Life like that astounded me. I look at my Buster finding my energy reserves down to at least 14%. I also see that I was still charging up the Atomic Fire. I had no idea that HeatMan’s weapon had an added charge feature. Learning something new I guess. But anyway, I continue dodging WoodMan’s powered up Pulse of Life attacks. It was a massacre.

“You will not run away from me!” He shouts. He then uses his powers to summon vines from below the ground.

They ensnared me. I couldn’t move an inch. I became an easy target to this beefed-up freak. Power was all the way down to 10% but I continue charging up my attack. You can think of this in two different ways. I can either be massacred by a pulsed up WoodMan or pull off a last-ditch effort that can take him down. I’ve dealt with stuff like this many times before and I always come out on top. WoodMan stares me down for he was ready to finish the job.

“Your end has come. This world will die as long as humanity drives their greed down. Moy gospodin i povelitel’ Wily will teach humanity error of their ways.” His fist became charged with natural energy. He primed himself up for a finishing blow.

“As much as I want to hear your constant badgering,” I replied, “It’s not my time to go.”

He retorts, “It is now!”

But I disagree. “Battlechip, Sword!” My buster turns into a blade and slashes the vines.

“Chto eto!?” He responds, shocked by my actions.

I then change into my Buster hand, switch for the Atomic Fire and aimed. By now, the Atomic Fire that I built up has hit full power. All I did was fire and the rest speaks for itself. A torrent of flame expunged from my Mega Buster. At point blank range, I’m certain that it won’t miss. Good thing too because I just about had it with this bot. I see him literally get incinerated from the blast. He struggles trying to rid it but it was too much for him to bear. I saw him hit the ground charring from the aftermath of my attack. Dear god that was an ordeal.

I was breathing in and out heavily. The fight literally took a lot out of me. To be frank, every fight I’ve gone through has been hell, one after another. It has not only affected me physically but emotionally. I walk closer to him seeing his charred and battered body. I touch his arm obtaining the Leaf Shield. It’s there that I hear him but just barely. If he has anything to say then I’m listening.

“In the end, it is you who is victorious.” I look at WoodMan getting a good view of his burned face.

“Yeah,” I replied, “It was me who won.”

“Now there’s nothing left. Wily remains.” He says. His tone of voice became quiet. It’s as if I did damage to his vocal functions.

Before I turn to head for home, he had one other thing to tell me. “Mega Man!” He shouted, getting my attention. “I will be watching you! Understand?!”

I didn’t say a word to him. He’s already gone nuts. I notice entrails from his Pulse of Life attack going into the ground. It formed various weeds, vines and leaves to come out of the ground ensnaring him. I could help him if I wish but it isn’t worth the time. He then had one other thing to tell me. I don’t know why but what he says would haunt my mind in the days to come.

“You are one who is created by man to do their bidding. But after facing you, you are something else.” He says, continuing his banter.

I ask, “How so? I want to know.”

He then responds explaining something ominous. “Your body may be of a reploid but your soul… is tormented. Tormented by tragedy, love and despair. It is said that there’s no such thing as a normal life. Humans cherish their lives every day but you. You never did cherish the life you had.”

“What in the hell are you trying to tell me?” I question. This is where I literally get sick of his words so I walk off.

“The path you walk on has no end. Battle will come at you left and right. Your friends can’t help you. Your family won’t save you.” He explains. It’s as if he has seen the future or something. “Your existence will be hindrance to everyone around you. Only when you no longer live will all find peace.”

“My death will only bring tragedy. I have a reason for living and it’s to make sure humanity has a future,” I reply, “I won’t let you or anyone hinder me from doing what I must do. You and Wily will be stopped. No matter what the cost!”

“So be it.” He says, “If this is choice you’ve made then mistake you’ve made greatly.”

I saw him go offline. His body was then covered with moss and soil turning it into some kind of grave. I activate the teleporter setting it to take me home. I wanted to get his words out of my head. At the same time I know that what happens next is inevitable. I needed answers and only one person has them… Dr. Thomas Light, my grandfather.

Light Residence, Basement Lab – 2:59 PM

With just 8% power left, I arrive back home. To my surprise, he was here as well. My guess it has to do with the project that he has been working on for days. He’s been under constant scrutiny and it’s not because of how I act toward him. It’s the fact that he put a gag order telling everyone NOT to reveal any info about it. I don’t know if he’s doing this to avoid any leaks or to prevent Wily from obtaining it. But he shouldn’t hide it from the people that care for him especially his grandson.

I turn to Higsby and say, “Here. Analyze the info on this chip. I got a date with the old man.” I then focus my sights on gramps. It wasn’t going to be pretty.

“Alright old man, I want answers!” I shout, catching his attention. “I’m done with the lies and the excuses.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about Robert.” He replies, “But you have no right to speak to me in this manner.”

I slam the table he was working on and yell out, “Is that right? Then tell me this! What the hell have you been working on!?”

He doesn’t say anything to me. He knows I’m on to something. I looked at some papers and notice something peculiar. That’s when it hit me.

“I knew it,” I said, “No wonder you never told me anything. You’ve been working on weapons haven’t you?”

He turns to look at me. Just hearing that literally gave him chills up his spine. The both of us went into a stare down. I was angry while my grandpa was furious. Okay, I fib. We’re both pissed.

“I ordered everyone involved in the project not to disclose any information. You are jeopardizing what I have planned by doing this.” He then turns to Higsby and says, “Did you tell Robert about the project?”

He replies, angrily. “No way Doctor! Even if I did, I won’t risk my job just because of an NDA you gave on all of us.”

Hearing this made me turn to see Higsby. “You were in on this too Higsby? I had no idea.”

“I’m sorry Robert,” He apologizes, “I had no choice but to comply. He just came in and got us all working on something. He told us not to tell anyone about it or we get fired. My guess it had to do with the airship you brought back a few days ago.”

I turn to my gramps and say, “You really are out of your mind are you gramps?” He doesn’t say a word. “Well! Aren’t you going to say anything?”

“I have nothing to say to you… to either of you.” Dr. Light grabs his paperwork and storms upwards. I quickly follow him while Higsby looks at the situation exploding.

“Where do you think you’re going?” I ask in anger, “I still need answers old man! What the hell are you up to? Why are you doing this?”

“The way you’re acting toward me is irrational yet you are clueless toward what’s going on. You thought that I’d be working on weapons weren’t you?” He asks me.

I simply nod and respond, “Dad said it himself years ago that New Light Labs would never be involved in developing weapons. He said it himself after the failed test of the Sniper Joe! Why are you going against what my father has stated in stone? I want to know! Why?”

He didn’t say anything. I’m getting close. I can feel it. “Silence isn’t going to help you gramps. You may as well tell me now!”

“Why should I?” He questions, “You already figured out that we’re working on weapons. You can learn the rest from Higsby.”

“I don’t need Higsby to tell me anything else. I want to know from you right now!” I don’t know if I was either stupid or crazy. I had my Mega Buster aimed at Dr. Light.

“You really are a fool aren’t you Robert?” He rants, “Are you mad? Do you think that threatening me will force me to talk?”

“I’m not threatening you! I only want to know the truth! What are you doing? What are you planning? Why won’t you tell me anything? Why?! I want to know. Why are you doing this?” I demand.

Gramps was persistent and replies, “I can’t tell you. Doing this would jeopardize everything I worked so hard for.”

“Just so you can work on something that Wily may get his hands on. You really are an old hag.” My remark insults him.

“You still haven’t learned anything, have you Robert?” He responds, with his tone rising. “Ever since you were brought back, you’ve been nothing but a problem not just for me but to everyone around you! If anything, you should learn a little more about respect because I don’t see any coming from you.”

“Is that right?” I countered, “Then how come you’re never around when I needed support? Were you busy working on something that needed your time away from me? Away from your only family?! Tell me! I want to know!”

“I have nothing to tell you or anyone. All information regarding what I’m doing is classified.” Again with the excuses! I’m already fed up!

“Damn it! Why do I have to be so literal with your stupid overgrown old ass?!” I shouted, “I swear if you don’t tell me right now,” My Mega Buster was aimed squarely at him. “I will shoot plasma through your stubborn skull! I will kill you where you stand Dr. Thomas Light!”

Now things are getting serious. My Mega Buster was priming up despite the fact I’m low in power. Dr. Light looks at me with anger in his eyes. He wasn’t pleased but how can he? He hates what I’m doing yet he knows that telling me will save me the trouble. He just doesn’t want to do it. I swear I literally want to go through with it and shoot already. For some reason, I just can’t.

“What are you waiting for? Are you willing to risk your freedom over something so trivial as information?” He asks, “You know the first rule of Asimov’s rule of robotics yes?”

I reply, “I do. A robot must never harm a human being under any circumstances. What’s your point gramps?”

“The point is this. You are letting your anger cloud your judgment. It has happened to you many times even when you’re human.” Oh crap, not this again. “Not even your father was able to raise you properly. That alone tells me that he failed as a father.”

“You’re in no position to say anything about my father!” I yelled, “He may have made some bad choices but he always did the right thing for me. He always did! Always!”

“But he never showed an ounce of care toward you. Always focused more on his work than his own grandson.” He responds, calmly. “You are Anthony’s child. It’s no wonder you are like him in so many ways.”

“I may be a reploid but I’m still my father’s child!” I shouted, still looking at him with anger. “I’m going to tell you this one more time. What in the fuck are you up to!?”

“So what do you plan to do Robert Light? Are you going to shoot?” He asks me. “You know what the consequences are if you do this.”

“I know,” I replied, knowing the risks. “I only wanted answers from you. That’s it. I guess I’ll never get the answers I wanted.”

My aim on my buster is still straight at him. I wanted to shoot all because I simply hated what he’s doing to me. Lies, excuses, shutting everyone around me out is simply ridiculous. Dr. Light knows I can’t do it because of the major consequences that follow. He sees that I couldn’t do it. To him, my action was of cowardice. I see him walk closer to me. He lifts his arm and slaps my face. It’s his way of saying that I needed to be disciplined. Too bad I never had any in my previous life.

“You disappoint me Robert. Not only has a human but also as my grandson.” He says. I look at him in disappointment.

I put my Buster arm down and felt my right cheek. “You hit me. You god damn hit me!”

“If I had to knock some sense into you, this would be it.” He explains, “You truly are a reckless child.”

I was seething with anger in my eyes. I spat in anger, “You know full well not even my own dad hit me! Even if he did, he would break a promise to my mother. I never even have seen my mom!” Tears added alongside my anger.

Gramps disappointed by what I’m doing responds, “Nobody ever told you about your mother. You were too young when she passed away. Your father and I tried really hard to raise you yet no matter what we did, it felt like you simply wanted to be away from us.”

“You should have never brought me back,” I assumed, “It would have been much better this way.”

“Maybe you’re right.” He replies, agreeing with my comment. “I should have never started Project: Reawakened if I knew the risks having to do with you.”

“At least I would be with my mom and dad, wherever they are.” I then say the three words that will haunt me for the rest of my life. “I hate you.”

“The feeling’s mutual, Robert Light.” He responds, seeing my remark as a way to sever my ties. “Wily is now in your crosshairs isn’t he? I suggest you use this time to think about your actions toward your family and I.”

“What are you going to do? Finish up your project?” I ask him.

“No. I’m abandoning it.” He replies, shocking me completely. “I realize that doing this meant hiding the truth from you. As far as I’m concerned, my grandson is dead. I hope you are satisfied with what you have now Robert Light because I will no longer be a part of your life. Never again.”

He walks off carrying papers in tow. I just stand there having experienced what many consider as the ultimate form of disrespect not just toward me but also to him. A variety of emotions began flowing inside of me. It all related to these three feelings; sadness, rage and frustration. I know I regret what I’ve done but I feel like I wanted to explode.

“I hate you… I hate you…” I keep saying these three words over and over. Each time I say it, my voice built up. I kept on going only this time tears start flowing down my cheeks.

Eventually everything that happened today was let out in a self-destructive scream. It is something I know that will haunt me the instant these words came out of my mouth. “I HATE YOU!”

Denise’s Apartment – 4:11 PM

It’s been a few hours since Tron and Teisel encountered Denise, who nearly went suicidal. Fortunately it ended in a positive note as she only wanted help. Right now Denise is at the moment taking things nice and slow. Her friends assist in cleaning up her apartment giving it a much-needed improvement. Things were slowly returning to normal but the main problem was telling her parents. They have no idea that Denise’s job, as a cop was a major ordeal. After getting out of the shower, she wears an outfit that makes her feel right at home. It consists of a pink short sleeve shirt and orange pajama pants. Tron and Teisel get a look seeing her feeling a lot better.

“So tell me Denise, how do you feel now after a nice shower?” Tron asks, smiling.

Denise replies with joy. “I feel a lot better. Though I wonder what mom and dad are going to say when they find out.”

“Just don’t worry about it okay,” reassures Teisel, “The most important thing is what is best for you. Whatever decision you do, just know that you have us to support you.”

“Yeah,” says Tron, having a look of optimism. “No worries Denise. We got your back. Isn’t that what best friends are for?”

“Tron… Teisel…” She sheds a tear before continuing, “Thank you. Thank you so much.”

The two go and hug their best friend. I know that Denise didn’t take the plunge and you know. You get the idea. Their hug lasts for a few seconds. It’s a kind moment but it’s going to get interrupted by someone she knew. They hear a knock on the door catching their attention almost immediately. Denise goes to check. To her surprise it’s someone she hasn’t seen in a while.

“Denise! I got the call, are you okay?” she says, looking concerned.

“Yeah, I’m fine. It’s good to see you again Liz.” Denise gives her older sister a big hug.

Liz or Elizabeth Marmalade is Denise’s older sister. She’s part of the Marmalade family, one of three families that were responsible for the change that led to New Light City. She was in her mid 20s with brown hair and hazel eyes. Her uniform was like her sister’s except it had a badge that shows a different district. Consisting of a blue short sleeve NLPD shirt, a blue work tie, long black pants and blue work shoes was the norm for all officers. These two are no exception.

She looks at the two Bonnes and says, “These two are your friends right? Tron and Teisel yes?”

“They are. You haven’t seen them since you graduated from the police academy years back.” Replies Denise, helping her sister remembers them.

“It has been too long. How are you guys?” she asks, “I take it you two are doing alright? I know my little sis told me much about ya.”

“We’re alright. By the way what should we call you?” wonders Tron.

“You guys can call me Liz. Everyone else is just Elizabeth.” Answers Liz.

“Oh okay Liz,” Replies Teisel, “By the way, what brings you around here?”

“Simple. Got word my sister was in a slump so I’m here to help but,” she says, but has something else to say. “I’m here because mom and dad told me to come by.”

“What?” Tron wonders, “Your mom and dad are coming here?”

Liz tells them, “They are.”

“But sis, why?” She questions, getting worried.

“Denise,” Liz says, having her eyes straight at Denise. “Your mom and dad worry for you a lot. When they found out about your slump, they were worried.”

Denise then asks, “Did you tell them sis?”

“No.” Liz retorts, “But someone else did.”

Liz and Denise look at the Bonnes in confusion. It’s a no brainer here people. Of course Tron and Teisel have everything to do with it.

“Tron, Teisel? Did you two talk with our parents?” Liz asks them.

“We did. We only wanted to help Denise,” answers Tron. “She’s our friend.”

Before Teisel can say anything, Denise’s parents show up. I can only assume that they’re here for the same reason Liz is here. It’s Denise. Tron and Teisel sit at a nearby sofa and watch. If I was there with them, I would have every right to know what’s going on. It isn’t going to be pretty.

“Mom, dad… what are you doing here?” She asks them.

“Simple. We’re here for you dear.” Responds Mrs. M.

Denise doesn’t buy this and shouts, “I don’t believe you. I want to know now. Why are you both here?”

Mr. and Mrs. M become baffled by her daughter’s tone. Liz can tell right away that this was troubling.

“Sis,” she tells Denise, “They know about your depression. Don’t you think you should be out with it?”

“I know. They already know about it but they don’t know that I almost killed myself if it wasn’t for Tron and Teisel! These two have no idea. None!” Denise responds, becoming more enraged by the second.

“Suicide?” Mr. M wonders, “How come I was never told of this?”

“Because I didn’t want anyone to know,” Denise starts getting fearful of what her parents would do.

He then turns to the Bonnes with a look of anger. “I had no idea my daughter almost killed herself. As a father, I am upset and disappointed yet I ask… why didn’t you tell us this from the beginning?”

Tron explains, “We had no idea she was going to do it. Teisel and I tried numerous times to talk to Denise. They all end with her shutting us out.”

Teisel then follows up immediately with this, “Uh huh. It’s true.” He began to blush beet red but for a different reason altogether.

“I’m sorry,” mutters Denise, “I can’t hold this in anymore. Mom, dad… I need to tell you the entire truth.”

“We’re listening dear,” assured Mrs. M. She sees her husband looking in anger. “Don’t mind your father. He’s just angry.”

Denise takes a deep breath and explains everything. Liz looks on as well and so did the Bonnes. She explains that her sister motivated her to be a police officer. Hoping to make her family proud, she joins the force at a young age. Although her parents backed her up, she faced abuse from everyone she worked with. She was called names, pushed around even going around as far as physical abuse. The experience affected her physically and mentally.

By the time the day ends, she would drown in tears isolating herself from everyone around her. It lasted for almost two years and what happened a few days ago with the airship explosion drove her to the breaking point. After all that’s said and done, Denise crawled into a ball and cried. Liz and Tron came to comfort her. Mr. and Mrs. M were in shock. Teisel sees Mr. M looking upset. His fist clench in fury, he had no idea. Neither did his wife.

“Uh Mr. Marmalade,” Teisel questions him, “Are you alright?”

“Alright… am I alright!?” He yelled, scaring everyone around him. “I’m not! How can I be alright if all this was happening to my daughter!”

“Daddy, please.” Denise pleads, “I’m sorry. I should have told you both all this sooner. It’s my fault.”

“You’re not to blame Denise. You really are not.” You need to do better than that Mr. Marmalade.

“It’s my fault. It’s all my fault that this happened.” Denise said, trying to calm her father. But then she says this, “I should have never been an officer.”

“Denise…” whispers Mrs. Marmalade. Her motherly instincts are already kicking into overdrive.

“What are you saying Denise?” Her father asks.

“I know you all really want what is best for me. I appreciate that.” Her words then take a turn for the unexpected. “But I have something to tell everyone here.”

Everyone became silent after Denise got to speak. She first let off a gulp. She was nervous, taking a deep breath. I can’t blame her but regardless, I know it has to be done.

“Guys… I’m quitting.” Denise says, shocking everyone in the room. “I can’t handle being a cop anymore. I just really can’t.”

“You’re not serious?” replies Mr. M, “You’re throwing away three years of hard work just because of a mess-up?”

“It’s not that dad!” She shouts, feeling more agitated.

“Then what?” He hollers, trying to put two and two together. “What’s the reason why you’re doing this?”

Liz then replies, “Dad you’re not helping.” She then looks at her sister in worry.

“How am I not helping when it has to do with your sister Elizabeth?” counters Mr. M. His voice begins building up.

“Liz!” Denise rasps, trying to keep the tension between the two to a minimum.

Mrs. Marmalade didn’t say a word. She’s worried that her family will fall apart due to Denise’s decision. Mr. Marmalade however seems agitated.

“You better give me a good reason why you would break a tradition that has been with our family for three generations,” He says, trying not to get angry, “You said it yourself that you would make us proud. Now you plan to just throw it all away! I want to know. Why?”

Denise tries her best in coming up with the right words to tell her dad. She looks at her family then her friends. But she knows that she can’t run away. I know because I want to run away. With no more tears to shed, she looks at her parents and states her reasons.

“Mom, dad, as much as I want to make you proud, I simply can’t. You both should have known that everyone on the force was mistreating me. I filed complaint after complaint but no one helped me. They all were against me. Do you have any idea of the hell I went through?” She shouts.

“No one ever told us. We thought you were just doing what you did best just like your sister.” Mr. M replies.

Denise then asks, “Do you have any idea why I joined the force? Other than my sister who motivated me.”

Mrs. M finally decides to speak up after being silent for so long. “You only told us that your sister is the reason. Was there any doubt?”

“No mom, there wasn’t.” Denise answers. She then states her reasons. “The only other reason I joined the police force was to find them. It took me two years of my life but when Mega Man came into the picture, I knew they were out there. When I found them, I felt so happy. I knew they were still alive.”

“And that’s your reason for being part of the force? To save your friends?” Her father asks. Denise simply nods.

Although he wants to continue tradition, he didn't want to put too much onto her daughter. Mr. M looks at his wife before looking at Denise again. He lets off a sigh possibly because it’s too much to bear. Denise went through hell and didn’t bother telling anyone about it. If my dad was here and it happened to me, I would tell him without question. Believe me.

“I could be angry at you but I can’t. I really can’t. You’re my pride and joy just like Liz.” He says, trying to be composed.

“Daddy…” She replies, looking at him fiercely.

“Denise, if you feel that being a cop is too much for ya, I won’t stop you.” He says having a smile on his face.

“So you mean you’re not angry?” Denise asks. Her father gave a nod saying he isn’t. “Oh daddy, thank you!”

The two share a hug ending what might have been a serious problem. Denise however is still tense from all that happened today and needs time to get herself back on her feet. With the choice of leaving her life behind as an officer, she has plenty of time. Before things got better, a phone was heard in the living room. Liz went to see and the screen says “Light Residence”. You can guess where this is going.

“Hello? This is Marmalade Residence,” She answers, “Yes? I see. I’ll put her on.”

“Who was it sis?” asks Denise.

Liz replies, “Tron, you got a phone call. It’s from Higsby.”

“Higsby?” She wonders. Taking the phone, she answers to see. “Hello?”

“Tron, this is Higsby. I hate to say it but your boyfriend has went through major hell.”

“What do you mean? What’s going on with Robert?” Tron asks.

“He just had an argument with Dr. Light. It ended real badly with him saying that Robert is no longer a part of his life. All he keeps saying in the end is just these three words: I hate you.”

“Oh no.” She worries. I’m still upset over what happen earlier with my gramps. “Is he alright?”

“For now, he isn’t. He’s torn apart and I don’t know if he’ll be in check. He already defeated the eight Robot Masters so now only Wily remains. If I were you, I suggest you get over there because from the looks of things, you’re the only person who can get him back on his feet.”

But Tron then says, “Why me? Why can’t Dr. Light do this?”

Higsby explains, “He’s shut himself out of Robert’s life. He wants nothing to do with him and I fear that in a state like this, it’ll only get worse. I don’t want to tell you this but… I’ve been checking his neurologic patterns.”

“And what did you find out?” She asks him.

“Well I discover that he’s… crying inside. His readings are normal but his neuro-patterns are going insane. It’s taking an emotional toll on him and even now, he feels just like Denise would feel right now.” What a way to be brutal Higsby.

She mutters to herself, “Robert, why?” But her face changes into one of seriousness. “I’m on my way Higsby. If what you’re telling me is true then I know the solution.”

“Okay, thanks. Robert really needs the help more than ever. Take care.” The phone hung up leaving Tron with just one option.

“I got to head back to Robert’s place. He needs my help.” Says Tron.

Before she went any further, Denise asks, “Tron, can I ask you something?”

“Yeah? What is it?” She replies.

“Tell Robert not to worry. I’m alright now and thanks.” For a request, it’s one that everyone approves of.

She nods before departing for my place. Today has been a thrill ride for all of us. I beat all eight of Wily’s new robots acquiring their powers. I confronted my grandpa only for it all to go way downhill with me showing my unbridled hate toward him. Denise makes her choice to leave the police force. Though it’s a hard decision, it was one that her family approved of. She needs the help now more than ever. I know it.

As for Tron and Teisel, they succeed in helping their friend. The question now is what happens then? I have to go through Wily but not in the state I’m in. I’m still torn up over earlier. I fear that it will only lead to problems for not just me but everyone. But I know deep inside that I have to do this. I can’t ignore this. I really can’t. The world is on my shoulders and I can’t let them down. I only hope Tron makes it before things go from bad to worse.

つづく

Next time on Mega Man: Reawakened

The aftermath of his confrontation with Dr. Light has now pushed Robert to the breaking point. Wily’s in his sights but it takes the work of a certain Bonne to get him back on the right path. Mega heads for Wily’s fortress but is armed to the teeth with anything and everything at his disposal. Made worse is that Wily sends out a dynamic duo of trouble. While that happens, Teisel has plans to help Denise forget about her troubles with a few surprises. What are they? Only he knows. Things accelerate as our fair hero tackles the mad scientist but will our blue bomber succeed like before? It’s a one in a hundred and ten million shot so place your bets in the next episode, Race to Wily’s Base; Start of an Onslaught.

A hero isn’t born, it is created.