Chapter 115: Gospel from Ghosts of the Past! Forte of Vengeance!

Last time in Tales of the Cosmic Wars Ben was finding that even his vacations were hectic when he Lacus and Hiryuumon went in to the closed down sector of the El Ecstasy resort, the Witch Dome in order to help their new friend Banjo and Kazooie try and find Banjo's sister Tooty. However, while they had there doubts from the start the hero's soon found that their suspicions were well founded when as they went in they found out the whole thing was a trap set by the bear and bird's persistent foe the witch Gruntilda

! It seems the old hag at put together her ultimate trap for her long time pests and with the stolen machines she took during her time as an "indentured servant" to Lord of Games to stack the odds in her favor! However while her world of pain was indeed a formidable arsenal, her fatal flaw was not counting on them bringing guesses!

And while she had heard stories of the powers of the Enji Knights before, she was horrified to see just how much power they had! While she threw everything from a revved up version of Banjo's friend Mumbo Jumbo's cyborg imposer Mingy Jinjo, to various robotic horrors, to even another one of her odd quiz shows, none of this could stop the forces of good to her dismay! When she was forced to see just how out matched her magic was against Ben and Lacus she shocked everyone by giving up! While it seemed like the Witch's surrender was for real when she leaded them to where she had imprisoned Bottles Tooty and the real Mumbo, Lacus found out the hard way it was just another last ditch trap of hers!

Using the Stop N Swop machine she had planned to use on Tooty the vile hag was going to use it on Ben's child hood friend to take her body as her own and leave Lacus stuck being a skull floating in a robotic body! However not realizing just how much mysterious and different magical powers Lacus welded was her last mistake as the machine backfired, and with one last attack Gruntilda was reduced to a skull once more!

The skull realized at last she was finished and surrender just as Cloud, James, Terra and the others arrived! However it seems not all was accosted for, when to everyone's shock Lord Of games reveled that he not only did not take Gruntilda 's leave from his company seriously, but he also let Team Plummet take their hostages!

It seems LOG was so focused on obtaining his business results that he could care less about manipulating the Enji to put on a show to make good publicity for him! While he did not see any wrong doing in his actions, the Enji Banjo and his friends clearly did and after going through a few changes the CEO soon fallowed Gruntlida and the Team Plummet members to jail to face his crimes.

In the end, even after the day's unexpected turn Ben was able to salvage the rest of his time off to get the relaxation he needed. And most of all, he and Lacus seem to be getting closer by the day and with Brad no longer looming over her shoulder Ben's deepest dream, to have Lacus love him, seems to becoming closer to a reality. However, while Ben got it easy this round, all of his true enemies like the Zeon Federation and the Zannacross Empire are not just going to go away. Ben may have been able to mostly get over the pain he felt over Max's cruel death, but he will need to be sure he is able to perform his best for the ever increasing deadly challenges awaiting him that will decide the fate of the entire cosmos!

Just what are theses challenges you might ask? Well, only one way to find out, and that's to begin today's chapter so everyone ready? Lets a go! Today's chapter begins around a day after the last one ended. The Enji having sadly run out of time for their vacation had to say good bye to the near paradise planet of Peda and the grateful citizens of El Estacey.

However Ben did not return empty handed even counting his much needed if brief relaxation. While even after being freed from the "employee" of Lord Of Games he still had to his home world with Kazooie Tooty Mumbo and the others to help get things back in order.

At least with LOG's recent revelations, and his true name being Stuart Wata, he was at once fired and the Mony corporation's new management under chief game designers Shigeru Miyamoto and Hironobu Sakaguchi have insured the Lylat Kingdom and the Enji that they would insure that the Mony corporation would never stoop to such lowly practices again!

However Banjo did give Ben a token of his appreciation by giving Ben what appears to be a prized possession in his world, a golden Jigsaw piece! He also gave Ben a giant ice key and the last car/plane/boat/ whatever kind of vehicle LOG gave him but the owner of the Star Sword was not sure what use either of those things were and just took them so he could give them to someone in the Enji order that would be able to make use of them.

In fact, we now turn to are hero just as the ship he and his friends used to get back home, the ever upgrading Neo-Highwind spaceship under the command of Cloud's friend Cid Highwind. Ben is looking in bewilderment at the giant sword sized ice key as he feels the ship beginning to descend through the capital planet of Cornelia's atmosphere and as he walks to the exit sector as he says," I kind of get that vehicle's importance, but why would he randomly give me a key?

It's cool that the ice seems to be powerful enough to not melt, especially since Banjo told me he had this for ten years! Still, if he could never have figured out what it opened I don't know what use I'll be able to make out of it."

Hiryuumon and James are on his sides and his digimon buddy shrugs as he says,"Maybe he just wanted to get rid of it? I would if it was hogging up freezer space for so many years."

James chuckles as he retorts with a sly," Heh, no need to make such a big deal out of it Ben.

If you don't want to use it as a nice wall addition then you can always give it to someone else. I am sure someone in the order will want to at least do research on it. Even that bizarre contraception of a ride might be of value to some of the guys who are car buffs. Hehe, Cid even made a comment on it when we were loading it. If you want to get it of your shoulders fast you better talk to him before the other Cid's become aware of it. Otherwise you might get in to a lethal bidding war. "

Ben just chuckles as he hears the bell like noise that says the ship is preparing to dock as he goes out to the nearby window and says," Haha, oh I don't want to be involved in one of those. Still, you are right James. One thing you can say for sure about the head quarters of the Holy order of the Enji Knights, you will never find yourself not finding at least something related to what you're aiming for."

With this he and his friends look out to see an ideal view of Ben and all other Enji Knights' current home, Hallowed Bastion. Despite its abnormal name the massive castle lodged in-between the capital planets mountains still is one of the most impressive sights in the cosmos, even if it's still being under repairs.

Ben is relieved to see the damage to the castle that it suffered from the attacks of the Titan's Special Forces under the command of the treacherous son of the Grand Master of the Enji Kira Myers, along with the damage he caused himself through his psychotic alternate personality of evil Darth Idious, have almost been completely repaired. He then takes a deep breath as he mutters a glad," Whew, glad to see even with all the special agriculture it's nearly back to looking good as new. Glad to see that King Atem wanted to show everyone that the Enji Knights and the Lylat Kingdom were still on good terms even after the whole order 66 fiasco by repairing damages post haste. Still, I have to make sure this place never suffers this kind of damages again. Or at the very least, by my hands."

James just pats Ben on the back,Don't worry, all of us want to protect are homes, and no matter how desperate are opponents are we just can't afford to let them win. Anyway, let's get going, Cloud, Lacus and the others are waiting for us and I believe Grand Master Myers is waiting for us at the hanger."

Ben nods and says," Ah, then I would hate to keep everyone waiting. Let's go. "

With this Ben does as he says, and a minute or so he is with his friends just as the ship's docking bridge is extending. Cloud notices that his squad has just arrived as he declares a keen,"Well Ben, looks like you made it here just in time. What's wrong, eat something to fast?"

Ben laughs nervously as he says,"Oh you know me, when I see a good meal I tend to eat faster than I can swallow. Although that's only really for dessert haha."

Cloud just nods,"Its fine, normally landings are no big deal after all. It's just that Master Myers is waiting for us."

Ben nods as tenses up ," So I heard, is something wrong?"

He then hears Lacus chips out a reassuring," Don't be so tense Ben, he just wants to thank us for a job well done. After all, we did set out to stop one bad guys plot and ending up thwarting three."

Ben turns around to see his friend with her team and winks before he tries to look slick and says,"But of course. After all, a hero's aim is to meet higher then expectations whenever possible. Er, right?"

Lacus and the others giggle as she just goes over to Ben and puts out a playful," Oh Ben, even when you're trying to act cool your lack of confidence shows. "

Ben just looks embarrassed as he says," It's that obvious?"

Lacus suddenly has her face soften before retorting with a tender," It's ok; you don't need to emulate anyone, just be yourself."

Ben smiles and says,"Thanks Lacus. Your right, after this short but sweet vacation made I feel good about myself again. Ah, I wonder how everyone is doing? Well, guess I know who to ask first."

With this Ben and the others exit the ship and step foot on the castle. At once sees a man standing in the center of the extension plank.

Ben knows the man dressed in formal gold and blue battle armor. Attached to his armor vie a fancy sheath is a powerful and large blade called the Primus sword. He is a man that is possibly nearly a hundred years old and yet still is more fit then most men can ever hope to achieve. He is the Grand Master of the Enji Knights and one of its founders,

Rodimus Myers! Seeing his fellow warriors of light walk forward in one peace causes the man to smile warmly and when Ben and the others are within hearing distance he says," Ah, it's always nice to see ones friends returned from a trip unharmed."

Ben smiles back to the man who he sees and respects more than his real father before putting out a polite," Hello Master Myers, thanks for coming to great us. Er, I hope you being here is not the arrival of bad news. "

Myers laughs and snaps back with," Not at all Ben, I was just in the area that's all so no need to be anxious. I hear your mission had a few unexpected bumps in the road."

Hiryuumon then laughs and says,"Yah, but it will take more than a surprise attack from a bodiless witch with a bunch of powered up toys to take down the likes of us! "

Ben nods as he adds a collected," And in the end it turned out to be a plus even if it did not seem like it at first. After all I managed to met a new friend, save him from a trap from his archenemy, and free his world from being imprisoned by a deluded CEO in the process! And since I managed to somehow get some time left for vacation I guess the mission was completed with interest!"

Lacus giggles and adds," That's quite a way to spin it Ben. However, don't try and pass of what I did as your own work. If you think I'll let you get away with taking credit for my work you have another thing coming! Remember, if you let your ego swell your head to much its easier to lose it! "

Ben at once panics and says,"Er no wait Lacus I would never do that I just, huh?"

He sees Lacus smiling as she says," I am just kidding Ben, you don't have to everything to heart. "

Myers laughs as he reacts with a casual," Hahaha, it seems you still have ways to go in your training when in comes to the realm of women Ben. But, in other terms, it does disturb me that even someone like the president of a corporation based on entertainment could have such twisted values. It would seem this war is truly brining out the true soul of everyone in this cosmos. But, it's also proof of how we must have the fortitude to be forever diligent to insure all life can one day be free. "

Ben and the others nod as he says," Don't worry, after everything that we have lost, it just means we have to win even more!"

Cloud then suddenly cuts in with a keen," Speaking about being vignette, what's the status on are adversaries?"

Myers turns to him and says,"The galactic situation is calm, for now. Since Weil's big plan backfired and his ultimate weapon has been revealed he has been un-normally quite behind the borders of the Zeon Federation. However, there is no doubt that he is up to something. And as for the Zannacross Empire, well they have made some minor strikes against some worlds to no doubt deal out swift retribution for the death of Xiza.

However, we have been able to match their advances and keep them at bay. However, there has been reports that numerous powerful and ruthless new beings have been sighted launching assaults on the Zannacross Empires command.

In fact Ezan, Squall and the others have just reported in to report they have defected a Zannacross Fleet and will return shortly.

But they nearly lost their mission due to what reports said was a extremely powerful and insane clown. Still, it worries me.

No doubt the ruination of their plan to use Halo to unleash a galactic massacre and break the seal on Chaos Zannacross Necron will cause them to resort to even more brutal and unpredictable plots.

Maybe these new sighted servants are part of their retribution. "

Ben then says," Maybe so, but I'll make sure we are ready. After all, it's my destiny to be ready, and I won't fail the promises I made to insure I complete it, no matter what."

James nods and says,"None of us intend to lose this war Ben. Don't worry, despite what you think you don't have to pull all the weight by yourself."

Lacus then walks over to Ben and says,"That's right Ben, don't ever forget that you're not alone. Even if you are the one chosen by the celestial ones, by Cosmos herself, we will fight with you to the end. After all, that's what friend do right?"

Ben looks in to Lacus 's eyes and sees her honestly showing through her eyes as he says," Thanks Lacus. Don't worry, by now I know I am not alone. "

Myers then says," Haha, what she says is true Ben. Whenever the darkness of despair creeps in to your heart just remember all of the people who believe in you."

As Ben nods he then looks at everyone and says,"With that, I see no further reason to keep you all from your business. Just check in tomorrow after lunch for the daily report and that will be all. Ah yes but I did forget something. Lacus, can I talk to you about something?"

Lacus flicks her hair back as she says," Is something wrong Grand Master?"

Myers just retorts with a friendly, " Not at all, I just thought you could help be go over the details of a report if you don't mind."

Lacus nods and instantly responds with a positive," Of course."

The leader of the Enji Knights looks at everyone and strokes his beard," Good, then with that your all dismissed. "

With this Myers turns away and goes to the elevator. Lacus then turns to Ben and says,Well, I better hurry up and get this over with."

Terra then eyes her squad mate carefully before reacting with," I hope it's nothing serious Lacus, what kind of report does he have in mind?"

Lacus just shrugs and says," Oh its most likely one of the last mission we went on or something. Well Ben, everyone, looks like I'll be seeing you later."

Ben smiles and says,"Good luck Lacus, hope it does not drag the fun out of the rest of the day."

Lacus giggles again as she says," Oh I am sure it's nothing to big, just more things that need to be taken care of. Don't worry, I'll be seeing you soon enough. See you later guys, have a good night Ben!"

With that she waves and at once dashes of in the direction of the Grand Master."

Hiryuumon then says,"Well, guess there is no point standing around here. Ah, I have a good idea? "

Ben looks at the dragon as he says,"Let me guess, it involves eating and lots of it right? Geeze, as if your breakfast was not massive enough. But, I do believe it's the day where dessert is always a special, so why not. Let me just unpack my stuff and see if Moz is around. Ah, I wonder if any of the others guys are around? With all that's going on its hard to have the right timing lately. "

All of a sudden he hears a bunch of male voices chucking before he hears someone say," True, but if your luck is going strong the timing just might be in your favor!"

Ben turns around and sees that several of his friends in the Enji Order have just stepped out of the parallel elevator!

Ben sees among the group his comrades and friends Lloyd Irvine, Luke Fon Fabre, Luenth, Guy Cecil, Vivi, Kyle Dunamis, Genis Sage, and even the new comer Yuri Lowell!

Ben waves to them all as he says," Ah hey everyone! What's up?"

Luke then says," Same as you I guess. We just got back from stopping Zeon forces under the command of General M'Quve and fleet commander Glemy Toto from taking control of another space colony around planet Motavia. "

Yuri chuckles as he cuts in with a brash," It was easy, theses arrogant Zeon troops rely too much on their machines. And while a few of them pack a punch they can't stand up to our resolve! Hahah, even Flynn would not forgive those sorry excuses for commandeers. Cowards, ran at the first sight of the Enji. I hate that so many times the people calling the shots are the ones that have no right to be there. "

Luenth then chuckles and says," You did well Yuri, er, thought you could have held back a little. Still, in the end it's rescuing the hostages that counts."

Ben then says," Looks like we all managed to get are missions done right."

Lloyd then chuckles and says," Maybe, but it seems like you got the best reward for getting yours done Ben. "

Collette giggles a she puts out a innocent,"Er, I kind of called Lloyd on the way back and told him everything."

Kyle then whistles as he adds,"Whew, nearly a whole weekend at the esteemed El Ecstasy resort! My dad was there two years ago apparently. He was in love with the place so much it took both my mother and Aunt Lilith giving it everything they got to drag him back home. My aunt even had to use her ultimate frying pan attack to seal the deal! Still, from what we heard you guys had a blast."

Ben then looks confident as he says,"Well, I can't deny that even with the unexpected guests the end result was still a nice one. "

Vivi two then says,"Well of course, because you got to have so much fun in the sun with Lacus right? I was talking with him just a hour ago and when I told him were you were he nearly had a heart attack! Haha, he was on another mission with Ezan and I guess the thought of him being stuck with him in some world that is nearly totally in sub zero temperature while you're having fun made his tail coil."

Ben then laughs as he says,"What can I say? I guess it was just luck of the drawl. "

Guy then chuckles as he says," And most of all it seems you having such quality time with Lacus must have made your day."

Ben just turns red as he says,"Well, yah it did. She is even more of a volleyball ace then I remember, and the whole day was much more fun with her around."

Genis then chuckles a she says," Ah, but most of all she must have looked rather great in a bathing suit. What was it like?"

Ben then looks up as he says,"Well, despite how strong she is she still managed to pull off looking great and her, hey wait a second! I am not going in to details like this!"

Luke then says," Hahah, oh well. Still, you must be glad that Brad is finally out of the picture. For a while we figured she would never break up with him but I am glad to be proven wrong on that.

Seems even she could not overlook just how many flaws that muscle head has, and that's just putting it nicely!"

Ben smiles as he says,"Believe me, I think I can say that out of everyone outside her parents I am so glad she finally saw Brad for the brainless ruthless selfish jerk that he is. It's so great being able to talk to each other without any tension in the way."

Luke then looks amused as he says,"Well, if it's really going that well Ben, then when are you going to make the next step?"

Ben at once takes a step back in shock as he tenses up and mutters," What, what are you talking about? You mean ask her to be my girlfriend? "

James chuckles as he adds a collected," It's pointless to deny to use just how strong your feelings are for her Ben, not after being your teammate and friend for so long. Now that Brad's finally not an issue why not go all the way?"

Ben just tries to mask his anxiousness on the subject as he says,"Well, it's not that simple James. Its true Lacus has broken up with Brad and that we are closer than ever. However, even so I don't want to rush things too fast. After all, I don't want Lacus to think I am being aggressive. The last thing I want is for her is to think I am just an opportunist or something, because that could ruin everything. Oh? Hey what's so funny?"

He is shocked and annoyed to see the majority of his friends laughing as he feels James pat him on the shoulder as he says,"I know Larxene and all your other girl trauma's in the past have really wrecked your confidence in these kinds of things Ben. But still, if you want anything to happen, more than anything you have to believe you have what it takes to get Lacus to love you. Lacus, knows you more than anyone.

But if you want her to return your feelings in my opinion I think you have to show her you're able to insure her your ready for it. Trust me on this Ben, what finally got me and Kate to officially become a couple was her seeing that she could trust me, in all areas. Basically it comes down to you showing you have what it takes for her to put her trust in you."

Ben just puts his head on his shoulder as he says,"Yah, well, the situation between me and Lacus is not quite like yours James. "

Cloud then retorts with,"Even so, you know Lacus is the women you love with all your heart right?"

Ben looks embarrassed before he says,"No doubt, I feel something with Lacus that I feel with no one else. If, if only I could put it in to the right way."

Cloud then says," As long as you know you have those feelings it's a start. Just remember Ben, if you hesitate forever you will be trapped forever. While you should not rush things, you should not wait till it's too late either."

Genis nods as adds a aggressive," He is right Ben, if you don't hurry you might just lose her again! In fact I remember hearing Zelos saying now that Brad's no longer with her he can put his eye on her again. "

This at once upsets Ben as he says,"Zelos? No way, he has his eyes on every women! I won't let him harasses Lacus with his charades! That's it, your all right, I should act soon and just get it over with. Because when it comes down to it, there is no other women I rather be with then Lacus Raystar. And, even while for so long thanks to Brad it seemed like that was nothing but a hopeless dream. As Max said, courage is the magic that turns dreams in to reality, and I will make sure this dream becomes a reality!"

Lloyd reacts to Ben's determined deceleration with," That's the spirit Ben! Heh, you know I remember Emil and Marta said they got the same motto from Richter long ago. Bah, not about to get off track now though. And you should be confident about yourself Ben.

After all I am not ashamed to admit that despite the difference between us in are combat experience, by now your nearly most of our equals, maybe just a little bit more thanks to the Star Sword. And even if Lacus was still with Brad, it would be a doomed relationship for sure since it seems there is a good chance not only is Brad going to be kicked out of the Enji, but be kicked right in to a maximum security prison!"

Hiryuumon then says,"They are right boss! No offense to Lacus but you have become a famous hero throughout the universe while Brad's just some bozo! If she could love him it should be a cinch for her to love a childhood pal like you right?"

Ben laughs at this and looks in to the setting sun as he says," Haha, when you put it that way then it seems easy enough. Whew, I am glad that she is finally over Brad though. No matter what I could never figure what she could see in a thug like him. Oh well, all that matters is that she finally sees him for what he is. All right, enough worrying, and more eating before I do some brief training before calling it a night."

Yuri chuckles and says," I know you don't want to become a dulled sword Ben, but are you really worried about getting out of focus when your all ready so powerful? Haha, whatever, in that case I am going to train harder to!"

As Ben and his friends then go there separate ways Ben's mind becomes locked on figuring out wherever or not to try and advance the next step with Lacus. However, little does he realize, that Lacus is not quite totally done with Brad as he has thought! And to get what I mean we now change are views to her!

Little did anyone know but Master Myers asking Lacus to help him was not just some mere paper work, it was to get questions out of her former boyfriend!

And with this we turn to Lacus just as she has taken one of the castles elevators to emerge on the highest tower of Hallowed Bastion, and as she steps on to a large white bridge with many fancy marble statues she sees in front of her eyes her destination, the massive white tower Where the Enji keep the highest level threats contained so they can interrogate and contain hostels, Sekkisek prison tower!

It seems the true reason that Master Myers asked for the young women's help in getting Brad to talk. You would think someone in Brad's position would try and do whatever he could to get out of his situation. However, Brad was never one to follow logic, and that's why for around two weeks now he has not answered any of the Enji Masters or the others questions and has either just mouthed of to them or causes a near toddler level temper tantrum to get everyone to back off! And that is why Myers is hoping that Lacus can get him to be more cooperative. As Lacus comes to the base of the tower she hears loud clanging noises before she sees to people step out.

They are twins that originate from the world of Cecil Harvey and the village of mages named Mysida. The male of the twins is a man in his teens with brown hair in a mushroom like set up. He is named Palom and he is one of the best masters of Black Magic in the entire Enji Order!

To his side is a woman with long pinkish red hair tied up in a pony tail and wearing a white and red outfit.

She is Palom's twin sister Porom. She is just as powerful in white magic as her brother is in black magic, and the only one who seems to know how to truly keep him in line!

Porom at once smiles at the sight of Lacus and produces a friendly," " Good day Lacus. Nice to see you."

Lacus smiles back and says," Hello Porom, it's nice to see you as well. I see you two are on patrol duty?"

Porom nods as she says," Yes, us Tidus and Captain Kratos Auron have been the ones on duty today to get something out of Brad. But, I am ashamed to admit are attempts have been less then successful."

Her brother snorts as he says," That's putting it nice for him being about being as polite as a wild bull or a deranged Behemoth! Nah, scratch that they are not being as crazed as he is!

Good thing he is sealed in just about the best cell in the cosmos or he would have torn through ten normal prison departments by now! Man, it's like talking to a freaking Gorilla! OW!"

He grasps his head in pain after his sister whacked him for his remark as she looks fiercely at him as he says," Watch it! Remember she dated him for years!"

Palom just moans before cutting back with a blunt," But he is! Seriously Lacus was he this way in, er, never mind it's not worth it."

Lacus just sighs and reacts with a solemn," It's ok, I know Brad can be hard to deal with. I use to have thought I knew the true Brad beneath his very rough exterior. However, after all this time, I wonder if that was just a fantasy I wanted to believe.

Even I can't condone his recent behavior. No matter how much he detested Max for looking down on him, I can never forgive him for treating Max's death as he did. And now his behavior has become totally unacceptable. And that's why no matter how close we use to be, I cannot just let his behavior, like those ruthless underground fight clubs of his slip by."

Palom then chuckles and says,"Good to hear, but maybe it would be a good idea to pretend just a little that's not the case. Because speaking of that we need to get out of him just how long and how many of theses illegal bouts, or more like shows of him pummeling the poor suckers for cash he has done while he has been in the order. If you can at least get him to spill out that and whatever behavior he has been up to we will be much obliged."

Lacus nods and says,"Leave it to me, I'll do what I can to get him to come straight."

With this the two steps aside as Porom says,"Remember Lacus, no matter what words he says, be strong."

Lacus winks as she responds with a resigned," Don't worry, it was my choice to break up with him and he has to expect that. I won't just be persuaded to change my mind over a few words. "

With that she enters the tower and begins to walk up the spiral staircase that leads to the confinement cell itself. As she walks up she can hear lots of banging and cursing and she sighs,"Brad, I know you always hated to bend a inch to the authority, but this is absurd. If you would just be a little more open, if you would just show a little more respect, then none of this would have had to happen. Sigh, I knew you were spiteful of everyone stronger then you, and seeing Ben Ezan and I progress so much really got you mad.

But, I did not truly see just how threatened you were by Ben when you showed you had contempt even for his cousin merely because Max was stronger. I guess you were really always that petty. Still, it's a shame because if you were. No, I won't go back now. "

With this she has arrived at the containment cell itself. Inside she sees a blank wide white room that is empty besides two chairs. She sees two men in the room. One is a man that while looks in his thirties in fact is thousands of years old. He has red hair and has blue and black armor.

He is Lloyd's father and a former elite member of the order of Cruxis named Kratos Aurion. To his side is a much younger man in his twenties that has blond hair and tan skin. He is wearing a yellow shirt and baggy black pants. He is an ace at the sport of Blitz Ball and is a good warrior to boot.

He is Tidus, the man who is in love with Yuna, hails from the world of Spira, and once was a friend of Brad's.

Tidus sees Lacus enter and says,'Yo Lacus! Glad to see you made it!"

Kratos turns to her and nods before he says,"Yes, we have pretty much exhausted are list of resources at this point beyond using physical force. And since we are warriors of justice that's not a option, and I think he might liked if we did that anyway. No matter what, he refuses to admit to anything."

Lacus then sighs as she says,"Does he understand just how serious the situation is?"

All of a sudden she hears a male voice chuckle as the voice says,"The question is doll, do any of you stiffs realize how serious the situation is? Of course you don't, you only want to see what all other people that are part of the system want, a clean and tight presentation of what fits their lame stale ideals!"

Lacus turns around and sees behind a wall of bars made of the strongest metal and enhanced with energy is her former boyfriend. At the moment he is en-wrapped in a special straight jacket and he nearly looks like Hannibal Lecter! He is a very muscular man, his hair is shaved like a crew cut formation, and his black eyes at the moment look wild like a animal! He is a man who excels in brute force, and has so much raw power that he can just blow through the most powerful of magical assaults like its nothing!

He is a crude man who seems to delight in following his instincts, especially the violent and brutal ones. For a long time Lacus was in love with this man, till even she saw him for what he is.

He is Brad Fowltror, the disgraced Genji, ( which is a rookie level Enji), who at last exhausted the patience his squad leader Sabin Fargo and the Masters had for him when he blew a great chance to capture the Zeon leader Weil Zabi for his selfish desire to take all the glory himself! Lacus sees Brad laugh at the sight of his former girlfriend before he stands up, even with the heavy chains bolted to his legs and walks to the edge of his cell before chugging out a low crass," Well Lacus, what are you doing here? Did you finally realize just what you were missing out? I knew after spending enough time with Benny boy and his do gooder chumps you would come to your senses and come crawling back begging for a second chance!"

Lacus rolls her eyes and responds with a flippant," You really seemed to distort what I told you Brad. And more than anything you really should take a better tone if you want me or anyone else to raise there opinion of you again!"

Brad just chuckles and says,"Say what you what doll, but you know you like the rough talk. So, if you're not here to get back together with me that means they Masters have become so desperate they are using you as there pawn to try and get me to spill my guts?"

Lacus sighs as she responds with a steady," They are not using me, I agreed to help them. I want you to come clean Brad, it's the only way we can all move on."

Brad just looks serious as he grunts out a cutting," Moving on, to what doll? People keep talking about changing, but no matter what they end up turning back in to who they really are. I don't buy all that psyche babble, in the end you are who you are. People who try and deny who they are and put on little masks to hide it are just fooling themselves.

I know who I am, and I don't give a damn who has a problem with it! Even if the whole universe wants me to play by their rules they can stick there rules and laws and shove it! An't matter who has a beef with how I do things, no one is going to stop Brad Fowltror, the Unstoppable Juggernaught!"

Tidus just looks annoyed as he walks over and says,"Dude, give it up with that all ready. I am not a guy who likes just flowing with the system either. But your just using that as a excuse to blame someone when you don't get what you want, and you want a lot! "

Lacus just looks at Brad and says," Brad, don't you care about anything other than yourself?"

Brad then looks serious as he says,"You know the answer to that Lacus. You are, you're more important to me then everyone in the freaking Lylat Kingdom!"

Tidus then gets annoyed as he says," Just great Brad, and I was trying to believe we were at least something. This is your problem, you just expect whatever you want to expect!"

Lacus then looks sad as she says,"He is right, you say you love me Brad, but do you really love me? More and more it just seems like I was your prized possession and anyone else that was close to me was a threat to you."

Brad just looks defensive as he snaps back with a gruff,"Of course I am protective, a man has to show who his women is! Come on, your twisting things I was just protecting you from all the guys who were hounding after you!

You know with your family status and your special powers you're the target for everyone who wants power. But they can't have you, you're my girl! I won't let that Star loser get away with turning you against me!"

This gets Lacus mad as she says," There you go again, always blaming Ben for everything!"

Brad looks furious as he bangs his head against the wall as he grins out a vicious,"It is his fault! Everything was find between us! But then this childhood wuss of yours had to crawl out of the gutter that he came from, by luck found some special sword angels just left lying around and warped your mind! Just because he defeated a bunch of weaklings hiding behind tricks like Xehamaru and Xiza everyone thinks he is some big hero now! HA, the one that's going to save the cosmos from the ultimate darkness?

Ben Auro is just a lucky punk who is too weak to ever have true strength! Him having his little mental breakdown proved he was weak, but you weak willed soft heart idiots rewarded him, and it made you soft Lacus!"

Lacus then looks stern as she says," I had enough of you talking down to Ben like that! You don't know anything about true strength Brad! Its true Ben is not the best at expressing his emotions, even now he can still be a little of beat. But I realized those things are minor compared to his strengths. And, he has proven to be someone who is truly kind, and while he has his flaws I know I can trust him. I believe he has the strength to truly save the universe! "

Brad laughs sarcastically as he says,"Yah that's great and all, if it was not you all just being caught up in a dreamers delusions! No matter how strong he becomes, he is still a weak hearted loser who depends on others for his strength. On his own he is nothing, and not to mention he is a bore to boot! Seriously, you really want to hang out with such a dull idiot? You really think someone like him can protect you?"

Lacus looks defiant as she says,"I don't need to be protected by anyone, but even so I know I can count on Ben. You look down on all of Ben's achievements but what have you done? Nothing but brutally beat down everyone in your path! Your carless bloodthirsty fighting style nearly always causes innocents to suffer as well. And it also causes needless complications to the missions. In fact, I think it's like what Master Myers said. If you were just a little more caring, then maybe Max would still be alive right now."

Brad rolls his eyes as he says," Now I see why you have been all upset, your minds out of whack because he died. Well, like it or not Lacus someone who had as many enemies as him had it coming! I still don't get why you care so much for that traitor. "

This upsets Lacus and Kratos steps forward looking like he is containing his disgust as he says," I would choose my words better if I were you Brad. Max did turn on the Enji Knights, but it was only because of the true cruel betrayal of Kira and Xiza's manipulation's that Max had to be denounced as a criminal. He paid the ultimate sacrifice doing what he could to expose the truth to injustice and protecting his cousin. Your boundless ignorance has worn out everyone's patience Brad. If you will not admit to your crimes then we will just freeze you in Carbonite."

Brad spits on the ground as he responds with a coy," Yah right, like that will stop me. None of your tricks can really put me away, I am the most powerful fighter in the cosmos and I won't be denied my rightful glory!"

Lacus then says," Enough Brad, you fail to see how serious this is but this is very serious! Now, time to get right to the point. Brad, if you want to not be seen as an unforgivable battle hungry man, just admit your crimes. Please, for me, just admit everything you have done."

Brad looks coy as he says," For you doll? Anything, but the problem is I have nothing to hide so your just all using me as a scapegoat to forget how much you all suck!" Lacus then puts out a weary," Give it up Brad! They all know about your illegal underground matches like in the Power Club!"

Brad grins as he responds with a energetic,"You all clam to know I was there, but you have any proof that I was there? NO, you don't otherwise we would not be having this little chat right? HAhaha, you do gooders are all the same, powerless to make any real acts because of the boundaries of such laws and rules!"

Lacus then responds with a flat," I was there Brad, remember? Your sorry excuse for dates clearly did not impress me as you thought they did. And, if I must, ill testify to make sure justice is brought."

Brad whistles as he says,"Justice, order, all just lies created by weaklings to hide the natural order! In the end you can build up a society all you want, in the end its going to fall in time anyway.

Only thing you can count on is yourself! That's why I don't waste time on such little nice ideals that are only there for confronting weaklings who need something to make them forget how worthless there life's are! In the end the ends justify the means, and the ones with the power make the rules! And that's all the more reason I should be the top dog, I climbed my way with nothing but my own gifted raw power! "

Lacus then sighs as she turns around and says,"So you say. Well, that pretty much makes you a anarchist but as long as you're not related to that Juggernaught project. "

Brad nearly flips out as he says,"Come on Lacus that's not even funny! You know there is no way I am linked to that freaky science experiment that Xiza was working on! I mean how the hell could I have been on some lab in Irazos when my parents were dirt poor in a different galaxy and were just about ready to kill each other?"

Lacus then turns back to him and says,"You are right, there is no logical way you can be connected to the Juggernaught project that Max and his friend Bacchus were trying to uncover. Still, I am just proving a point on how you make things more difficult than they have to be if you just were not so ready to attack."

Brad grins as he snaps out a easy going," I am who I am, I don't pull any punches and that's that! So Lacus, any more things you want me to make up?"

Lacus just looks annoyed as she walks back and says,"Yes, one more thing. Brad, tell me, tell me that you did not kill Max. You were not there when he died. And while both Kira and Ravxen seemed to be the likely suspect, both of them denied it and neither of them are ones that would not want to take credit for something like that."

Brad gets annoyed as he stands up and his face turns red as he says,"Quite trying to make me the bad guy! I admit I hated Max's guts but even I am not stupid enough to have killed him. I mean come on, you know me Lacus! I like settling face to face like a man, not hide behind like a worthless coward and snipe someone! After all those idiots trying to think they can one up me and breaking them to keep my title and get the prize money you think I did not want to bash Max in a fight to prove my point?"

Lacus just looks down as she says,"Your right, the way Max died was to uncharacteristic of you for it to make any sense. You have proved your point Brad, and also proven how bad a liar you are."

Brad raises an eyebrow as he says,"What are you talking about girl? "

Tidus just sighs as he says," Lacus got you to admit first handed you were taking part in all those illegal fights you were denying! Way to blow it man. "

Brad just turns red as he says," NO wait, you got it all wrong! "

Kratos then adds a vindictive," I think we got it just right. Brad, this is it."

Brad at once screams out in anger as his veins and eyes budged and he says," Another one of all of your damn tricks! And Lacus, you truly have become corrupted by them!"

Lacus sighs as she says," Sorry Brad, but doing what is right is not being corrupted. I am sorry it has to come to this."

Brad then looks livid as he says,"So now you're sorry doll? Oh no, you're not nearly sorry, but you will be!"

With this his energy begins to burst, before he unleashes so much power that he shatters the straight jacket! All of his muscles begin to increase as his size doubles before Kratos says,"

Damn it, the cell was reducing his power! How can he still have so much energy stored up still?"

Brad laughs as he begins to rise his power even more he says,"Don't you get it? No matter how much you press down on me, you still will never contain my power! Time I teach you all that nothing can contain me!"

Brad then goes to smash his way out of the cell, but the energy barrier just bounces the force of his punch back at him, and causes a cracking sound to be heard!

Kratos just looks at him and sternly states," Its useless, you won't bash your way out of this cell Brad. The barriers were customized for you. All the force you unleash will be reflected back at your body!"

Brad just looks even more demented as he says,"More of your damn tricks! Can't any of you fight like real men? The Enji Knights can't even stop me! Ill smash anyone who will, AH!"

All of a sudden through the glass Lacus hears a loud noise, but it's even worse where Brad is!

The cell's sonic disruptors seem to hit Brad where his massive power can't defend, his ears! At once he falls back to the ground as countless energy bars pour out of the room and constraining Brad. Falling down with a thud he screams in defiance and Lacus says," Brad, it seems you really will never change."

Kratos turns to Lacus and says," You don't have to stay any longer if you wish. Now that we got him to admit his lies, now the next stage will begin shortly. I am afraid it will likely involve a prison built just for him. Even if we have to create a pocket dimension to keep him sealed, we will find a way to insure he won't be able to escape."

Tidus then looks at her and says," He is right Lacus, no need to have to deal with all of this stuff any longer. "

Lacus smiles and says," Thank you. Yes, I can see that there is clearly nothing for me here. Good buy Brad."

She begins to walk out as Brad glares at her and yells out a vicious," You think we are done Lacus doll? Don't count on it. Ben may have your head in the clouds but believe me soon you're going to have to face the ugly truth about how reality works! We are both monsters gal, freaks of nature that the world will never expect! We are both fated to be together! Believe me girl, you WILL regret doing this! All that matters is how painful it is going to be when you find out the truth! "

Lacus is at the doorway as she turns one last time and seeing Brad grinning psychotically as she responds with a somber," No, I only regret not seeing the truth sooner. "

With this Lacus leaves the room and as the door slides shut and two more close around it she sighs as she takes a short cut by just jumping out the window and flying to her dorm with her magical energy and she says,"The way Brad acts it's like he has a plan to get back on me. But, I think he will have bigger problems to worry about soon enough. And, even if he does have something, I just will face it when the time comes. No matter what, I know I can't go back to the way it was in High School. Brad may have prevented me from becoming a social outcast thanks to the dragon outburst. But, even if he was there for me back then, things have changed now.

Ben may not have Brad's confidence, but he is the kindest guy I know. And, after everything that has happened to him, I know he is a true friend. And that's why, after all the pain he has gone through I will be there for him, no matter what happens. Still, I am glad that that last mission seemed to help Ben feel better. It gives me hope that this war can not only end, but end with things being all right. Or at least, I hope so. Now, I think I'll get some dinner."

With this Lacus fly's back to her room with hopes of having a peaceful evening. However, while she is glad that Ben is finally able to sleep well again, she has no idea that one of his friends is not nearly as stable! And with that it's my cue to at last shift views to one of Ben's alleys! Yes, and with this we turn to a place far away from Hallowed Bastion. For now the location is unknown but all we know is that where ever it is its dark. The undefined person is walking in the darkness and is not even sure why he is here or why he is walking. We don't know the man's identity just yet but this person is getting frustrated at the darkness as he says," What the hell is this? All of this makes no sense, where am I? Bah enough of this, if there is no way out ill make a way out!"

The man punches the wall, and it creates a large enough spark to show he punched a mirror! And with this we can see that this person is a man in powerful red armor with long blond hair in a ponytail. On his shoulder pads and on the helmet covering his head are red Z symbols. On his helmet is a blue crystal and on his chest are two similar gems. He is armed with a powerful beam saber that emits green cutting power that is called the Z saber.

He may look barley twenty put the fact is he has been alive for at least two hundred years! This man is in fact not a organic begin, but is a robot. However he is no normal robot, he is the SA class Maverick Hunter Zero!

Zero, having even fought death off more than once does not fear much, and even being in a room of total darkness does not get him to sweet. However the situation does make him get annoyed as he has his hand transform in to his powerful Z buster as he charges up energy and says," Bah, this is ridiculous I don't even remember how I got here! If this is some trick by Sigma or the other Zannacross goons then it's not funny! Hey! Whoever is playing this lame prank I am all ready sick of this so show yourself before I blast you out! Huh, what the? "

As the light caused from his charging blaster he sees the mirror again, and is shocked to see his reflection taking a different shape! He sees his mirror image forming a sinister grin as his color is turning a darker shade of red and his eyes are turning even redder! As the reflection forms a sinister grin it says,"

Why are you so upset Zero? This is something you created!"Zero back steps before he activates his Z Saber and he says,"

What is your game?"

His responds is a damning," Game? This is no game, this is the true reflection of your heart! Hahah, you have been clouded by delusions, so clouded you forgotten your true nature! Just wake up and see what you are really like!"

All of a sudden a flash of light blinds Zero and he says,"What the? You think your tricks scare me? You're a minute away from being scrapped so you might want to be serious! Huh, what the?" He sees all of a sudden the lights are on in the room and he can now see clearly, and what he sees is a room filled with destroyed robots! Shocked at this he says," What? How did I not, uh? No it can't be!"

He is horrified to see what is red fuel, the closest thing to robot blood on his hands! He then hears his reflection chuckle as he says,"

Why do you deny your true nature Zero? You are meant to bring judgment to unworthy life forms, not be there savior!"

An angry Zero turns around as he charges at his evil reflection and he says,"Shut up! Don't act like you know me! Huh, what the?"

He is shocked to see that just as he is about to impale the mirror the darker doppelganger of him vanishes! However in its place is a women that is dressed in a red and blue dress like outfit.

She is Iris, the women Replod that was the closeting women to Zero's heart, and someone he unwillingly killed in battle. Zero is shocked to see Iris as he says,"

Iris? How did you get here? No, you have been dead for so long, this has to be a nightmare?"

Iris looks angry as she says," Zero, do you remember me after all of this time? Do you remember how you killed me right after you crushed my dreams of having a utopia just for Replods? I looked up to you but I know now you're a heartless demon who only desires to fight and destroy everything in front of him!"

This hits home and Zero staggers back before he says," That's not true Iris! I never wanted you to get hurt! Huh, what now?"

He sees her image flicker, before it turns in to a much larger figure! This is a man in a red and white colonel outfit with a yellow energy sword. He is the second in command of the original replod military force Repliforce that goes by the name of Colonel! The taller man chuckles as he says," Don't think you can smudge the facts Zero, you killed my sister just as you killed me! If you did not destroy me my sister would not have gone mad trying to avenge me on Final Weapon! !"

Zero then gets mad as he snaps out a defensive," Don't try and shift the blame Colonel! If you the General and the rest of Repliforce had just not been so stubborn after the Sky Lagoon tragedy no one would have had to die!"

The reflection of his former opponent points his saber at Zero as he says," Maybe, but if you and Megaman X truly wanted to save the brave solders of Repliforce then why did you not defy your leaders more? Because we were too great a threat that had to be stopped at once?

HA! Face it Zero, you wanted to destroy me, you wanted to delete us! After all, when it comes down to it you Maverick Hunters don't care about justice or honor, you just value fighting and destruction! "

Zero then charges at the mirror with his Z saber as he says,"I had enough! Your nothing but a illusion, you won't be able to mess with me!"

With this he slashes the mirror in half and it shatters. However at once he hears a new sinister older voice chuckle before it says," Its useless to deny your true nature Zero. All your doing by holding yourself back is prolonging your suffering!"

Zero then turns around and says,"Even for Sigma, this is rather complex. Heh, I get it now, you're trying to use me to become your pawn again! Well it's not going to work, I know who I am! Huh? "

He sees two beams of light before two figures stand before him! One is a being covered in blue armor with a red jewel emblem in to the helmet on his head.

He is the Legendary Maverick Hunter, the successor to the blue bomber, and the template of all other Replods are based on!

The first robot that could think for himself and truly have free well, along with supposedly having unlimited potential, he is the masterpiece of the genius creator of modern robots Doctor Thomas Light,

he is Zero's best friend Megaman X!

To his side is a being that looks like he is a teenager.

He is covered in black and white armor and a helmet with a blue circle like gem in it is covering most of the red hair on his head. In his hands he has two unique pistols. He is in fact a proto type of the next generation replod 's that were able to transform in to any other replod in their data banks and were used for the Jakob project until there production was canceled for fear of their instability. A being who can transform in to others and was once a member of the Red Alert Syndicate,

his name is Axl!

Zero is shocked to see both of them here and he says,"Axl, X? When did you guys get here? Do you know what is going on? AH!"

All of a sudden he feels like he is being stunned as he falls to the ground in pain!

X then says," I know what is going on Zero, I know how to end all of these pointless conflicts. The only way for the deaths to end, is for the cause of this cycle of war to be terminated! And, it's you Zero! "

Zero then gets annoyed as he struggles to get on his feet before he says,"What are you talking about X? Huh, what is this?"

All of a sudden he sees more mirrors appear all over him. He sees Iris and Colonel in them, along with other friends he has lost over his and X's long years of battle.

Some of them are Gate, a misguide researcher and friend of X and Zero's top navigator Alia who found Zero's DNA and went mad before reviving Sigma once more.

Another is R, a leader of the resistance that fought against the Maverick Epsilon's rebellion in Giga City before he was killed by the true evil master of the rebellion Colonel Redpis.

Zero also sees other people from his past, and even people he swears he has never seen before like a young girl with blond hair in a pony tail and what appears to be a red robot with a helmet with shades and a scarf!

Axl then says," All of this pain is because of you Zero! As long as you fight it there will be even more suffering!"

Zero then says," That's not true! I decide my own destiny! Huh, AH!"

He grasps his head in pain and says," This pain, this feeling! This has to be another one of those nightmares! But it's been for so long, why have they returned now? Huh?"

He sees a giant blazing W appear on the wall behind everyone, and a man steps out of it! The man is hiding in the shadows and all Zero can make out of him is that he has a large mustache. However Zero remembers having dreams of this man before and the mustached man says,"

Zero, you cannot fight fate; you are merely delaying the inevitable! You are my master creation, the most powerful robot in the entire universe! Zero, you are only truly the god of destruction! It is your true purpose, and the more you fight it the more you will suffer! Now, stop this charade and become your true self at last, and kill your true target, Mega man X!"

Zero then lunges at the man as he yells out a defiant," Never! X is my friend, and I will never betray him for some old hallucination who thinks he knows me inside and out! Now go away! AH!"

He is about to reach the man before he feels heavy all of a sudden and falls flat on the ground! The man snickers as he says,"Ah, but I DO know you inside and out Zero! For I am the one who built you! Soon, very soon, Zero Requiem will arrive! And then everything will become clear to you my god of destruction! Hahahah, it would be a good idea to not resist any more, I would hate to have to totally erase your memory. But, my plans will not be stopped by anyone, not even you!

I have waited for revenge for so long, and I'll make even you see Zero, that my genius excels all! Soon, soon everyone will see who is truly distended to rule all! Ah, sleep well my masterpiece, soon you and everyone else will witness the true ultimate perfection! We will be meeting soon hahahaha!"

With this he extends his hand to grasp Zero's head. And Zero responds with,"No, I won't let you decide who I am! Ill, huh? What the?"

All of a sudden Zero stands up, and sees he is in an entirely new area! He looks down and sees he was standing in a recovery capsule that him and most other robots use to recharge their energy before he sees the Lylat insignia on the wall in front of him and sighs as he says,"Ah, so it was another dream. Still, it's been a while since I had that dream. Damn it, who is this guy that's always popping up saying he is my creator? All theses blasted years and I still have no clue! I don't really care who created me, but it would be nice to resolve the issue once and for all. That guy X always finds in those capsules that give him his armors, that Doctor Light.

For a long time everyone like Doctor Cain just assumed they were prerecorded messages. But, when I found one he acted like he knew me ! If I could only find another one of those capsules, but X has been over the entire planet by now. If only I could, huh? What is it, who is there? "

He then hears footsteps' charging in till he sees two figures enter, and to his relief he sees its X and Axl, and presumably the real ones! At once he sees Axl look anxious as he says," What are you doing Zero? How can you be the one slacking and sleeping late? Signas is going to go off again!"

Zero just grunts in annoyance as he leaps out of the recovery capsule as he says,"What is it? Another attack?"

X just chuckles as he says," You must have really been in a deep dream again Zero. Heh, no for once it's not another attack. However, it's something that's just as important. Even if lives are not on the line for once we can't afford to be late to this."

Zero just looks annoyed as he says," What are you talking about X?"

Axl chuckles as he says,"Did you scramble your memory banks or something Zero? Don't you remember we are going to get rewards at the museum of robots today? And that its national robot day, and that we are honorable guests?"

Zero just shrugs as he says,"Must have slipped my mind."

X responds with, a confident" We have been busy lately, but even so it is nice to be commended for are work. While normally I don't care about rewards, it is nice to think that maybe we can evolve past are differences and mistakes and truly create a utopia. "

Zero chuckles as he reacts with a amused," It's good to see that even after all of these years you're still stubborn enough to believe in such things X. All right ill take this medal. When is it again?"

The answer to Zero's question comes two days later to when Ben got back home, and we fast forward to a few hours later.

(Zero's nightmare in fact also happened two days after Ben and Lacus returned.) And with this are views now change once more, to the Neo Arcadia national historic museum of robots! This building was created after the Maverick Wars died down to both go over the history of that bloody rebellion, and to celebrate all forms of artificial intelligence with metal bodies! And every year a day is taken to celebrate the progress of robotic life! And this year a special set of awards are to be handed out by King Atem himself to X Zero and Axl to reward them for all the long years they fought for peace and a stable society!

While this is a peaceful joyous event and there is no true leads of possible attacks, like the old saying goes, better safe than sorry. And that is why several Enji squads are assigned to watch over the heavy media saturated event. And it just happens to be that once more both Lacus and Ben's squads were assigned to watch over the event.

And this is why we now turn to Ben and Lacus, both in their Enji uniforms watching over the admissions hall to insure no crazy idiot tries to literally blow open the event ! It's been an hour since they have went to their posts and the biggest event so far were Ben and Lacus helping a child find his mother. At the moment Ben is staring at a replica of a antique robot that was one of the first land reclamation robots. Little does he know that as he stares at the centuries old inactive red and yellow muscular robot with a large square jaw mouth. he is in fact looking at one of the original robot masters,

DRN-004 Guts Man !

Lacus looks over and sees Ben looking Guts Man, or at least his replica right in his eye before she looks curious and leans over before saying," What are you looking at Ben? Trying to see if he will tell his history? You have to press the button on his platform to learn his history. "

Ben chuckles as he says,"No I all ready heard it five times now. I am just trying to figure out how something as awkwardly designed as this could have been of any use. From what I heard it was little more than a walking bulldozer that was just as likely to crash in to the other side! I mean look at these things!"

He points to the robot to the left of him. The white robot with a red head and scissors on its head that was the first land reclamation robot, DRN-003 Cut man!

Ben points to it and says,"I mean, how would this guy be useful? Wouldn't it be easier to have a saw on its head or something?"

Lacus giggles as she reacts with a kind," Oh you know, they have to start somewhere. It's because of the basics robots like this that we were able to branch off in to the much more advanced inorganic beings like Realian 's. "

Ben grins as he looks down on the base floor and sees the leader of the Neo Repliforce walk in, the powerful large red and blue armored Optimus Prime before he nods and says,"I'll give you that one Lacus, everything has to start somewhere. Still, it's funny how sometimes you have no idea how a path will evolve till we get there."

Lacus looks curiosity at Ben as she says," What is it Ben? Are you feeling sad? Is it about Max again?"

Ben smiles before he says," Nah, not this time Lacus. I was just realizing how long it's been since this war has started. When I first set out to join the Enji Knights I never would have in my wildest dreams thought things would have turned out like this. To be honest sometimes I am shocked I am still alive. "

Lacus pats Ben on the shoulder as she says,"I never thought I would be in several battles that were to decide the fate of all mankind to, but even in the face of pure evil we managed to survive. I guess there are several factors involved, but I like to think its because we were able to work together. In essence all of us were able to rally together to overcome are enemies wrath. It may be a simple spin on it, but I like to believe the power of friendship is not just powerful in stories. "

Ben smiles as he responds with a melancholy," No, I know after all we have been through Lacus that the power of bounds are a very substantial and powerful thing. When my anger, sadness, and other dark emotions consumed me and allowed Darth Idious to take control it was because I saw that I still had friends that were not going to give up on me, like you Lacus."

Lacus blushes a little as she says,' Well, you know. We are friends after all, and I did promise Max I would watch after you."

Ben, attempting to see if he can elevate the situation moves a little closer as he says," And you have kept that promise Lacus. Even while being Brad's boyfriend, in the end you still stuck by me and refused to bend to Brad's will and throw me away. And that's why, Lacus, I ."

Lacus sees Ben hesitating before she blinks," Is something wrong Ben?"

The Enji quickly responds with," No, it's just that. After everything we have been through Lacus I just wanted to, "

Before he can finish all of a sudden a voice yells out," BOSS!"

This startles the duo, and they turn to the left to see the one who yelled was Hiryuumon! Hungry as always Ben's digimon partner went to the basement section to get lunch for everyone. However the digimon could not have had worse timing and Ben's eye gets sharp as he says,"Hiryuumon, I see you brought lunch, even faster than I thought. Your timing is always so, irregular. "

The dragon dashes forward carrying a tray of food as he says,"Well, I was hungry, and I figured you were all hungry to so I came here as fast as I, AH!"

With this he trips over something and the Enji pair hastily avoid getting there outfits dirty as the majority of there supposed lunch goes over the balcony and on the ground! As Ben hears a splat and several people yelling out in shock Ben nearly forms a anime sweet drop as he says,"Hiryuumon, way to blow it. How could you lose your footing like that? "

His responds is a nervous chuckle as he hears," Er, sorry boss. I must have tripped over something. Hey, there it is! Watch were you are going buster!"

He points angrily to a yellow hard hat with a green cross on it. At first Lacus thinks it's just a ropped garment, till she sees feet move up!

Seeing a small robotic head bob up till it walks over to the Guts Man statue and take out some tools before Lacus giggles and says," That's hardly someone to have a grudge over Hiryuumon, Te he!"

Ben nods and says," She is right, that's just a simple Met drone. These little guys just do basic janitorial work, and have been around for centuries! Sigh, and now you let something like that mess up are lunch! Now ill have to wait till after the big speech, and its suppose to be a long ceremony."

Hiryuumon panics as he says,"Don't worry boss ill say the food was bad and be back in a jiffy!"

With that he runs back of and before he is out of sight Lacus says,"

Don't lie, just say you tripped that's all! Sigh, well, life's full of unexpected events. I suppose you just have to not trip over them haha. Oh right, what was it you were going to say again Ben?"

Ben gulps before he says,"Let's see, ah that's right. Lacus, you and I have been friends for a long time. I know there was a gap in the time we hanged out, but your still my first real and closest friend. And, I was just thinking. That, maybe since we have come to a understanding of each other than just maybe we could, huh? What the, Hiryuumon why do you keep, huh? Whoa!"

He is annoyed when he feels someone tapping his shoulder just as he is about to ask Lacus if she would think about becoming his girlfriend, but when he turns around instead of seeing Hiryuumon,

he sees a women with long brown hair in her forties, that just happens to be his mother!

At once he sees his mother smiles as she waves and says," Hello there Ben, how are you doing sweet heart?"

Ben jumps back in shock as he says," What the? Mother? How did, when did you get here?"

His mother giggles as she says," Now son, I know I don't come to big events often, but I am disappointed to see you think I could never come to something like this. Ah, is that Lacus? Hello dear, it's good to see you looking well."

Lacus nods and says,"Hello miss Auro, it's good to see you again. How did you get in to the Robot Museum today?"

Ben's mother points to a older women starting at the Guts man display along with Concrete Man to his right before she says,"Remember are neighbor Eleanor dear? She had connections and was going to go with her dear friend mister Roberson; till she found out he was having an affair with her niece.

Er, anyway she had an extra ticket so here we are! I did want to be able to see King Atem up close once in my life. I never imaged I run in to you and Lacus though son!"

Ben laughs as he says," Oh you know, it just happened that her and my squad's new mission was to insure nothing bad happened today. Don't worry; there is nothing up, just better safe than sorry. Ah, to be honest with all the military and people like the Maverick Hunters here it seems like we are just over kill. To be honest I feel like I have gotten enough of a break, and feel better used if I were sent in to action again."

This causes his mother to worry as she says,"Don't say that son! This is an important duty as well! Why, just seeing you her makes me smile. I was worried when you joined the Enji Knights, but I am so glad it turned out better than I ever wondered. Still, even if you are becoming the legendary hero that's going to save the cosmos from ultimate darkness, you're still my only son. And especially after what happened to Max, I still worry about you every second you're not in my sight."

This embarrasses Ben as he sees Lacus giggle before he says,"Mom, cut it out, your making me look lame, and in front of Lacus no less!"

Lacus just keeps laughing as she says," Oh I don't mind, I think it's sweet."

Ben's mother then responds with a nostalgic," Ah, this reminds me of old times when you to use to play around after school. It is nice to see you two are friends even as Enji Knights. Ben does not have many of his old friends from that time left, not since Rick, and now Max died. Oh Ben always did talk about how much he liked you Lacus. "

This gets Ben to panic as he says," Cut it out Mom! You're going to give Lacus the wrong idea!"

The responds is," But it's true son, remember how when Lacus you were so upset you cried for a week and that after you got better you swore you would find her again and marry her? Find then son, just what is Lacus to you?"

An amused Lacus then looks Ben in the eye and says,"I never heard that story Ben. Well, just what do you think of me?"

Ben turns bright red before he walks back before he sees his back is literally to the wall and he laughs nervously as he says,"Well, you know you're one of my best friends right? I mean, well, you know. I guess, what I am trying to say is, oh?"

He hears a dinging sound before he sees everyone walking forward and a voice from above says," Attention everyone, King Atem will be beginning the ceremony in one minute. Please head to your designated positions."

Ben begins to sweet as he laughs nervously and says," Well mom, it's the king and all, can't keep him waiting right? I'll talk to you afterwords so see you there! "

With this he dashes off in a flash before his mother giggles and says," Honestly, no matter how strong that boy gets his confidence still just won't go up. Please forgive him Lacus, Ben's always been hard expression his feelings."

Lacus smiles as she says," Oh don't worry Miss Auro, I know how Ben works by now and I don't mind. I think I have just about mastered how to decipher his actions hehe. "

Ben's mom nods and says,"Glad to hear it. If I can't watch over him it's good to know he has one guarding angel watching over him. And while I know it's not an easy job, no matter how powerful he gets please watch over him. No matter what he says he still has a fragile side."

Lacus looks serious as she says," Don't worry, I all ready made my last promise to Max be that I would watch over him. And, as his friend I don't plan on failing that.

"Ben's mother nods and says," I am grateful to hear that. AH, then just one more thing I have to ask. Ben made sure to mention several times the last time he called that you broke up with that Brad Fowltror fellow. I won't try and understand your tastes Lacus, but now that you're no longer dating him I can ask this without repercussions Tell me, just what do you feel for Ben? Don't worry, no matter what I won't hold it against you. I am just curious."

Lacus turns beet red as she looks embarrassed and says,"What I, truly think of Ben? Er, well, I don't know. I mean, well. Er, I should get going now, I have to report in and stuff. See you later Miss Auro!"

With this she dashes out of the area and when she is gone Ben's mom sighs as she says," Sigh, those two are more alike than they are willing to admit. But, I think that's why they relate so much. I do hope that Ben can get some luck, as long as he can get his head straight. After all he has been through, he deserves some happiness. You hear that god? Don't screw my son over or ill never let you hear the end of it! Ah, I should get going. Oh where did you go Eleanor?"

As Ben's mother looks for her friend so she can get set, we now turn to where Ben is!

At the moment he is trying to find Hiryuumon as he still tries to contain his flustered feelings on the subject he just narrowly avoided he thinks to himself as he dashes through a corridor and says,"

Whew, that was close. Sigh, I wanted to kind of bring up that exact subject, but not like that! Good grief, first Hiryuumon, them my mom, it's like fate itself wants to screw me over in to the singles bin. Still, even if fate is my opponent I won't lose! I will make sure I get Lacus to see my true feelings, as soon as I can show them at a good time! Still, I think it would be better if I waited till I am not rushed to bring up that subject. Ah, for now I'll just find Hiryuumon and get to the chamber. Hey is that him? No, it's just some dog. Hey, no pets are allowed in here! Hey boy, lose your master? Huh, is that a dog?"

He was about to run in to the nearest elevator till he sees that what is in his path indeed looks like a canine. However, it's no normal dog; it looks more like a wolf that seems to be covered in a purple armored plating! Ben can see what ever this wolf is its not friendly because as soon as it sees Ben it growls! Ben, not sure if its friend or foe just tries to look friendly as he says," Easy, nice doggy. Er, looks like you could be another one of this museums stock holders exotic pets. Well, in that case come on let's find your master. Hey! "

He sees the being ready to snarl at him before he runs off. Ben just shrugs as he says,"Meh, being a guide to pets was not one of my duties today. Huh, I am not sure but that weird dog before. Now that I think of it, wasn't that the pet that the subcommittee member Albert Yurive had? Does that mean he is here? Well, it could be just a confidence. Meh, I'll think about it later, it's almost starting!"

Ben dashes off, however, little does he know that last occurrence was more important then he thought, and that purple wolf was not just a random mean dog!

For now we turn are view to that very dog, who has just jumped out of the third floor window of the Robotics Museum!

This dog shows it's very mobile as it leaps from the building to building before a block later it climbs right to the top of a skyscraper, where someone is waiting for him! This man is concealing his features with a brown cloak, but we can see he has a unique black helmet with yellow fin like ear things and a blue crystal on his forehead. As the dog gets in front of him he chuckles as he says,"

Ah, your early Treble. Good boy. Now then, there is no more time for delays. Show me the layout."

With this Treble barks before his eyes glow and his tail becomes a projector that shows him the layout of the museum!

The man chuckles as he says," Oh this is going to be too easy! Everything will go even better than expected, as long as you don't screw up, Dynamo!"

He then glances to a man to his left that appears to be his partner.

This being is a male with long blue hair and a helmet with green highlights and a red visor covering his eyes! His body is covered in black and golden armor, and in his hand is a dual edged red energy saber! He is in fact the Maverick mercenary Dynamo that helped the vile Sigma drive the space colony Eurasia nearly destroy Corneria nearly a hundred years ago!

Dynamo has always been a laid back villain and at his partner's outburst as he yawns and says," Relax, as long as I get my due ill get it done. Still, I don't know why you went out of the way to drag me out of retirement and make me your partner. There are several other guys who would help you pull this off for less cash."

His partner chuckles as he says,"Money means nothing to me, I sought you out because you had fought X and Zero before. "

Dynamo shrugs and says,"True that, but as good as they are there are a lot of those fancy uptight Enji Knights hanging around the target site to. I am good, but not good enough to deal with all of them stabbing up my butt at once!"

His responds is," Don't worry, leave theses warriors of light to me. I don't need you to fight all the Enji. I just need you to lure them out and get X Zero and Axl rallied up. Then you will get your rewarded and ill handle the rest. "

Dynamo eyeballs what Treble recorded and sees when he just ran in to Ben before he stops leaning on the buildings door and says,"So even the chosen hero Ben Auro is here? Oh this is going to be fun."

The cloaked man chuckles as he sees Ben's image and says," Ah, so I'll get to met the man chosen by the celestial ones to save the cosmos from supreme darkness eh? Ah, he may be the real deal, but even he will not stop me! I waited too long for this day, I cannot lose!"

Dynamo then looks at him getting excited before he says," I see you are fired up. Been waiting for a chance to settle things eh? Whoa!"

He is shocked to see his comrade smash the ground with his fist as he clutches it and says," You have NO idea! All of these years, waiting and waiting to be activated again, and after all this time having to watch from the shadows because "the timing "was not right! If it were not for the damn restraint bolt logged right inside my central CPU and all other systems making me his pawn, I would have done this long ago. Heh, but in the end it might have been worth waiting for this day after all. Because, now everything is in place, I can't lose now, I won't lose now! Yes, Megaman X, Zero, its time I prove who the true supreme robot is! And as for you, "brother", will set you in line for going against the," family". Now, no more waiting, it begins now! Let's go Treble!"

With this the man leaps in dramatic fashion and his robotic canine ally howls before he fallows his master! "

Dynamo just sighs as he says," This is going to be a fun day. While I was content just chilling and watching all of these guys rip each other apart, having a front row set to society finding itself being turned upside down is a treat to!"

With this he follows his partner, and gets ready to do, just whatever it is they are going to do! While it's likely not something rather nice, are hero's are not aware at all just what dark crises is about to unfold on their laps! All most of them are aware of is King Atem is about to begin the days celebrations, and with this we return to Ben once more! At the moment Ben has just ran in to his designated spot at the dressed up audience hall, and he sees James, Cloud, and even Hiryuumon waiting for him. Cloud sees Ben looks flustered as he says,"

Ah, just on time like normal Ben. Is something wrong?" Ben just shrugs and says," Not really, just a lot of little things that just won't go together easley."

Cloud chuckles at this and says," Well, it's the little things that make up life I suppose."

James just looks amused as he says," I take it it's about are chat a few days ago about your certain project? How did it go?"

Ben just looks embarrassed as he says,"Er, let's just say I am having trouble getting that topic have a proper ignition or something like that."

His friends laugh at that and Cloud says," Ah, well, if it helps Ben I think it's not just you who has trouble confronting women on the status of their relationships. But, for now let's focus on making sure today goes off without a hitch."

Ben nods as he says," Sounds find to me. So, did King Atem start yet?"

Before his friends can answer a new regal voice says," Not quite yet, but now that the assistance that had my medals was kind enough to wake up and get here it should begin in a moment."

A mildly shocked Ben turns around to see a man slightly shorter than him with elaborate red and yellow hair that is spikier then Cloud's. From the royal outfit topped with a cape and several different body guards surrounding him its clear he is someone important. But Ben is no stranger to this political figure. In fact after the things they have been through they are just about friends.

Ben smiles as he sees that the one who said that is the man with the mystic millennium puzzle attached to his neck, and the supreme ruler of the Lylat Kingdom King Atem! Everyone at once salutes the King as Ben says," Greetings your majesty, how is your day going? "

Atem smiles and responds with a pleasant,"No need for such formalities, you're not nameless faceless people to me, no need to act like we share no bond friend. But to answer your question it's about as good a day as you can get for a politician, still, at least it's going on schedule. I suppose I should not keep them waiting any longer. Is there anything to report?"

Ben shakes his head as he says," Expect for possibility a lost strange exotic dog not really."

Atem smirks as he says,"That's just what I wanted to hear.

So, how are you feeling Ben? I know Max's death could never have been something easy to get over."

Ben just looks assured as he says,"Thanks King Atem, I, am better then I use to be. Don't worry; I have gotten it over enough to concentrate at the matter at hand. "

Atem nods as he says,"I know you have the strength in you to do so Ben. Ah, well, let's start this performance. "

With this Atem walks out of the hallway, and in to the audience chamber, where his appearance at once triggers a standing ovation and cheering! The young but grand leader waves before he stands before his podium and he says," Ladies and gentlemen, I bid you all a joyous national robot day. Yes, are mechanical allies have helped us improve society as a whole a great deal. From the small janitor robots that clean are floors faster, to the data drones that store are money, to the war droids that fight are wars.

Yes, robots can both cause happiness and despair, but in the end no matter what they were created to do, whatever they do depends on the intent of its creator. However, we cannot abuse the intelligence of artificial life. They have come to the point of nearly surpassing there makers. Many years ago, this nearly came to a total war between organic and inorganic life.

Yes, a war that was waged for centuries was caused when many of the first generation of robots made by the late Doctor Cain, the first robots that could truly think for them self's called Reploids. Reploids under the command of the treacherous Sigma became Maverick when they deemed humans inferior and decided to rebel, and then massacre humans to create there independent rule!

I am sure all of you who know your history know just how bloody this war was, it was grave enough to be the final strain that caused the Galactic Alliance to collapse and the Lylat Kingdom to form, and this very capital planet was nearly shattered when Sigma nearly caused the space colony Eurasia to crash in to Corneria! However, thanks to the rallying of many brave warriors, and especially of the persistent Maverick hunters, the war was after a very long time able to reach its conclusion.

While the forces of the Zannacross Empire did bring out the two most evil leaders of the rebellion, Sigma and Vile back from the dead to serve their cause, even so the war between reploids and their creators was able to come to a conclusion, thanks in part to the work of my father and many important personal on both sides. When the war ended many were set on the idea of making all machines have no free will to insure no conflict would ever arise again. It's true after the war the relationship between us changed. After the Maverick wars ended most Reploids were replaced with the more, controllable Relalians.

And also the grave threats of robots with copy abilities were made clear and quickly became forbidden. However, one thing that has changed from this war, was that we were forced to value the fact that wither or not a mind is born from flesh or metal, a life is a life and all beings must have their wills respected or the pointless bloodshed will resume. That is why right now I shawl honor three brave men who fought for so long to create a new better world even after all of the bitterness they had to endure. And with this, I officially present the Lylat medal of lifetime achievements to Megaman X, Zero and Axl!"

With this three lights shine off in the opposite direction, before the trio emerges with their own spotlights! They all then begin to walk forward and as they hear everyone clapping for them Zero tries not to act like he feels anything from it and Axl says," Haha, after all of this time it's about time are efforts are notified!"

X chuckles as he says," Don't act smug Axl, we got plenty of medals for are efforts from the start. Still, it is nice to see the Lylat Kingdom try and make a real effort to make both sides have a place in it."

Zero just closes his eyes and says," Top brass will always be top brass. Still, it is nice to see all the fighting we have been doing is not in fact useless. Also, it is nice to see not everyone we but are faith in to is, huh? Axl, what is wrong?"

Zero sees his fellow Maverick Hunter is clutching his head, obviously in pain. But when he sees Zero he just chuckles and says," Oh, don't worry Zero its nothing. Must be a magnet nearby or something hahaha."

X sees this to and ponders," That's odd, and disturbing, it's almost like the symptoms of when he goes in to his berserk mode! No, not here of all places. Axl, don't make things go horribly wrong at a time like this. Oh?"

He sees he is right up to King Atem, and looks around to see that he can spot Ben Auro and the other Enji clapping them on, along with his allies like Alia and her navigator friends Layer and Palette, Douglas and Signas. X is then the first to walk up and Atem smiles as he hands out a medal and goes to X as he says,"

One of the chief designers of modern robots, Doctor Thomas Light, and your likely creator X, once said that, his biggest desire was to see a era where robots and humans could live in harmony. I would like to believe we are close to reaching that dream."

As he then hands X the medal the blue bomber smiles and says,"I think so to your majesty. Thank you."

As everyone claps Zero goes next and just silently expects his reward before moving on. Axl is about to go up next when all of a sudden he hears a voice in his head said," Hahah, equality? What a joke! Enough of this bad façade! Time to show everyone what the truth of the matter is brother! Awaken!"

Axl grasps his head again as he says," Who said that? No, not again! Ah, I can't stop it! NO!"

All of a sudden a burst of dark energy blasts out from the gem in his forehead and at once the Lylat King's top body guard the Dark magician Mahado appears in a flash in front of him and has his specter out in front as he says,"Stand back my liege! Something is not right!"

At once worried about the state of their comrades X and Zero run up to him and Zero says," Axl, knock it off!"

X then says," Normally he only enters the berserk state when fighting powerful opponents. However, last time Xiza did use something to force him in to it. But, Xiza is dead, what is going on here? Did some Vector or Twilight Mafia thug get control of the control system or something?"

Axl just lunges back as the purple energy coming out of his head and he screams more before he says,"X, Zero, something feels different this time, even worse! It's like, AH!"

Ben and the others see this and Ben says,"What is going on? Is whatever is causing Axl to go berserk going even worse or something? Oh?"

All of a sudden everyone hears a new voice laugh, and it seems to be coming from the dark mass forming above Axl!

This voice then says," Arrogant fools, that have no idea of the true history of the evolution of robots, that was created by me! All you know nothings pigs that worship Light's work, when it was I that brought forth the evolution of this entire society!

All of you thought you could reshape history to exclude what should be remembered by all, and for that you will all suffer! Now ingrates, let me show you just how far you're supposed peace has really come! Muhahaha!"

All of a sudden the purple energy around Axl shatters and goes to all corners of the hall, before in moments it's gone! Axl then collapse on the ground and at once X picks him up as he says,"Axl! Are you all right?"

Axl just moans as he says," My head, my body feels numb."

Zero just throws out a firm," Whatever it is, fight it! This has to be the after effects of Lumine when he hit you before we destroyed him!"

X nods and says,"We always thought something happened, but no matter how many scans we did we could never find anything wrong. Now it seems are fears of it just being too well hidden were justified."

Ben and the others rush over to Atem and Cloud at once says,"Your majesty, are you injured?"

Atem just shrugs and says," I don't feel any pain or any other different thing."

Lacus and her squad runs over and Terra says,"That mass of energy is gone as quickly as it appeared. I fear it might be poison or the sort."

Hiryuumon then sniffs around and says," I don't think so, my nose would smell if anything felt weird like that, and for now everything feels normal, I think."

Ben then looks at Axl with a confused tense glance before he says,"Then, what was the point of all of this? Some rather unfunny practical joke? Hey, wait a second, does anyone hear rumbling or is it just, whoa!"

All of a sudden he sees the wall in front of him begin to crumble and in the last second he uses his magical energy to blast the rubble in the opposite direction to avoid smashing in to the startled group! At once Ben takes out the Star Sword out of its sheath as his friends also ready there weapons before he says,"

So you're the ones behind this stunt? What kind of messed up jerk wants to ruin a perfectly good event? Huh? What the? Is this really just a messed up joke?"

Ben and the others are shocked to see the one who made the wall come down appeared to be a fully functional Guts Man!

Lacus sees this and says," This is up surd, why would a simple robot like that go berserk?"

Ben then says," More importantly, how could such a simple model even have the specs to go berserk with all the prevention systems we now have in place? Sigh, in the end its something to worry about later. Maybe it was because of that dark cloud thing from Axl, but whatever it is it's still just a very old robot that is about to be officially retired! Huh, what the, guh!"

All of a sudden he feels a huge force hit him in the chest before he realizes Guts man punched him when he was not paying attention and slams him through the podium! As Ben slams in to the ground a worried Lacus says,"Oh no, Ben! Are you all right!"

Ben shows that even that surprise attack did not get him too bad as he rebounds at once and rubs the burse on his face as he says,"Well, it seems even for a centuries old robot it packs a punch. Still, that won't happen again. Oh?"

He then hears more footsteps, before he sees Cut Man and Concrete Man emerging out of the shadows!

Cut man then chuckles as he says,"Haha, time to cut it up! Death to all traitors!"

Guts Man then pounds his chest as he says," GUTS!"

X then aims his X buster at them as he says,"They are acted rapid, as if they were infected with the Maverick Virus!"

Zero then gets annoyed as he says," That's impossible. Even though Sigma was brought back by Xehamaru, ever since we defeated him on the moon he lost the ability within him to infect other robots with his virus, unless the Zannacross Empire restored that power!? No, after it was heard that Sigma was converting those like the Geth we made sure all robots related to the Lylat Kingdom would be immune to the Sigma Virus!"

Cloud then says," But we have been able to sense the darkness fueling Sigma, and I don't sense the dark side energy, or at least that kind, any were in the vicinity."

Cut Man then cuts in with a cutting,"All who stand in are way, will be cut to ribbons!"

With this Cut Man throws his Rolling Cutter right at X! However the Maverick Hunter just braces himself and to everyone's shock, the thrown scissor just bounces off his armor!

Cut Man looks in shock as he sees the dented scissors land at his feet as he says,"No way! I just got theses scissors polished!"

James just smirks as he says," I guess theses robots did not get totally upgraded. "

Cut Man just gets mad as he charges at X and says," Damn you, ill rip you apart with my bare hands!"

X just charges his buster as he says," Sorry, but you will have to be repaired later!"

With this he fires a full powered shot, and with ease blows Cut Man up! At once Guts Man charges at him to avenge his blown up comrade before he says," You have guts! But now you're going to pay! Huh!"

He is about to smash X, when all of a sudden he can't move his shoulder, and turns around to see Ben has it in his grip! Ben then grins as he says,"How do you like surprise attacks? Now, time to see if you have enough guts to take me head on!"

Guts Man turns around and says,' you're on! Die punk!"

With this Guts Man lunges and goes to smash Ben, but Ben has his magical energy explode as he surrounds it around his fist and he says," No more games, get lost!" With this Ben and his foe collide, but the victor in strength is quite clear as Ben shatters Guts Man's entire arm, before he follows up with a kick that splits him in half! As Guts Man's head lands on the far distance ground and mumbles guts over and over Hiryuumon smirks as he says," Way to show them whose boss, er, boss!"

Cloud just looks serious as he says," Now, just need to show the rest of them who is boss as well it would seem. "

Cloud said this because he and everyone else sees dozens of crazed former Robot Masters stumble out of the halls and all fixes there sights on are hero's!

Zero sees this and says," Have all the robots on display gone maverick?"

X just readies himself as he says,"Looks that way, but before we can figure out why this is happening we have to stop this threat first!" Cloud then looks tense and says,"

Even if they are all old robots, fighting them all at once will be a problem, especially with all the innocent bystanders here."

Ben then looks annoyed as he says," There has to be some explanation for Axl going nuts and all of these robots following suit! "

All of a sudden Alia runs up to them and she says,"X, everyone! Listen up! I have began detecting odd energy wave lengths coming from outside the museum entrance. I am not sure what to make of it, I never picked up a energy signature like this before. However, all I can tell, is that it's not a organic life form.

"Zero then looks on guard as he says," What, could it be Sigma? Only one way to find out!"

X then goes over to his partner and he says,"Wait Zero, we can't just leave these robots go on with this! Huh?"

He sees two more robot relics, Napalm Man and Grenade Man aim at them as Grenade Man shouts out,"Crush everyone! Hahaha, die!"

With this Napalm Man and Grenade Man both fire there attacks at them! However a force filed appears in front of are heroes, causing the attacks to bounce back and blast in to the robot masters! Lacus then lands in front of them and takes out her Oath-Keeper sword as she says,"Leave these guys to use everyone! Just find out what is the cause of all of this so this can end as fast as possible. "

As more Robot Masters and various other robots charge at them Ben says," I see. Be careful Lacus. All right guys, let's go!"

They are about to move out before a voice says," Wait up guys!" All of a sudden they see Axl is awake, and back on his feet before he breaths hard and says," Wait, I am going with you guys. "

Zero then looks serious as he says," Axl, are you sure your ok, and that you're in control with yourself?"

Axl nods as he says," I think so. I want to find the truth about this, and about myself once and for all!"

Zero then nod as he says," I understand. Well, let's move it!"

With this Squad 7 and the Maverick Hunters dash at full speed to the entrance, and moments later they are outside the museum. At once Ben looks around as he says,"

Well, I don't see anything, maybe it's a trap? Huh? Whoa!"

All of a sudden he sees a flash and at once sees a red swirl coming for him and in a flash he swings his Star Sword before he strikes the object back and sees that it was a doubled Edged Blade that was thrown at him! As the blade returns to its owner everyone hears a voice chuckle before the blades owner says," Ah your skills are sweet! You're the real deal! Too bad though, I was hoping to start off with the edge!"

All of a sudden the figure reveals himself as Dynamo! This shocks X and Zero, who have not seen him for years, and Zero at once takes out his Z Saber as he says,"

Dynamo? You're alive? After the Nightmare Phenomena you vanished from sight, I thought we were lucky and you got crushed or something."

There old foe laughs as he says,"Harsh, after all of this time that's the greeting I get? Well, I guess I did leave on harsh terms. Still, I have been just minding my own business since those days. However, I was enticed out of a permanent vacation to take part in the biggest party in history! Glad you're all here, it's going to be quite a blast!"

Ben has his Star Sword glow with holy energy as he says," So you're the one causing all of this? Why would you do such a thing? You must truly be a maverick!"

Dynamo just gets in to a fighting stance as he says," You misunderstand bud, this is not my plan, I am just the front guy!"

X then aims his X buster and charges it up to full power as he says,"Then who is the mastermind, Sigma? "

Dynamo just laughs out loud and responds with a laid back," Man, for all you guys really know you're so clueless. Nah, it's not the big S plotting this party, he never invited me in on his new group because he thought I was to casual about things! No, but it is someone who knows you guys well, in fact he knows you better then you know your self's!"

Zero then gets annoyed as he says," What the hell do you mean by that?"

Dynamo then eyes Zero as he says," Ready to have your mind blown bud? It won't be so bad after it starts!"

Zero then charges at him as he says," I had enough of your nonsense! Ill end this here!"

With this Dynamo sees Zero is charging at him and his hands glow before he says,"Don't be so tense Zero, less you want to cause a reckless mistake!"

With this the bad guy slams the ground, and with his power causes a geyser of purple energy erupt just underneath Zero! The swordsman braces himself just in time before he is blasted back! Dynamo just laughs madly as he says,"Ah man, you gone way soft Zero! Guess fighting with only half your true strength all this time as made you weak eh mister so called class SA Maverick hunter?! It's a shame you're so intent on holding back, you would be a real killer if you fought for the right cause! Oh?"

All of a sudden he sees a blur before Ben is right on top of him preparing to slash him with his blade! Dynamo blocks just in time and there clash causes a shockwave of power before Ben presses down and says," Fighting for the side of justice is not fighting for a lie, why can't any of you maniacs get that? Oh that's right, because you ARE maniacs! If you won't come to reason then you're going down!"

Ben tries to press through the deadlock and Dynamo unleashes more power before he says,"Maybe you just don't know how to have a good time! But I'll make sure you, guh!"

With this Ben kicks him in the stomach and sends him flying in to the air, and to the robotic mercenaries shock he sees X is right in front of him with his X buster aimed right at his targets head as he says,"

Sorry Dynamo, but if you still have learned nothing after all of this time then I have no choice but to make this are final encounter. Huh?"

He is about to blow through Dynamo when a new voice laughs madly as he says," Well, you think you're so tough, Megaman X? In that case, let's see how tough you really are!"

With this to everyone horror a massive yellow energy beam blasts out of the building to X's left before it collides right in to the surprised X and explodes! A shocked Ben yells out a shocked,"X! What the, whoa!"

All of a sudden he sees a similar blast head right for him! And he is just able to gather enough power to defect the blast with his Star Sword! As the blast goes in to the air and explodes the voice says,"

Well, your rather sharp, not bad kid, this might be good after all!"

As a scourged but still functional X lands on the ground he says,"That was not Dynamo, he has backup?"

Hiryuumon then gets mad and says,"Hey! What dirty freak is low enough to attack by hiding around like that? "

All of a sudden the voice cuts in with a hungry," Who's hiding weaklings?"

The voice's owner then reveals himself, and from the smoke emerges the brown cloaked man! Ben sees this man and says," Who is this guy?"

Cloud looks on guard as he says," I never seen this guy before. Still, I can't sense any energy coming from this guy, he must not be a living creature."

Zero just looks as confused as them as he says,"Neither have we. But, for some reason I feel like I seen this guy before when I know I haven't!"

Dynamo then looks at his backup and smirks as he says,"Smooth moves man, thanks for the save."

His comrade turns to him with a look of disgust as he says,"Quite! I only used you to catch them off guard, mess up again and Ill have no problems shooting through you!"

Dynamo looks insulted as he responds with a annoyed,"Man you really have been waiting for a while."

X then aims right for the new foe's head as he says,"Who are you? Answer me?"

The Man just looks manic as he says," So, your Megaman X, I can see your far less idiotic then your predecessor, even if I see traces of his natively in you!"

X then says," Predecessor? What are you talking about?"

The foe laughs and responds with a amused," Oh, you really are clueless! "

X then gets mad and says,"Enough! If you won't answer my questions then I'll have to subdue you first!"

With that he fires another full powered shot! However his foe just forms a psychotic laugh as he says," Subdue, me! HAHAAHAHAH! Who do you think you're dealing with!? Well, let me show you!"

With this he shocks everyone by having his hand extend out of his brown cloak, and have it turn in to a buster just like how X and Zero do! He then fires another massive yellow blast, that overpowers X's blast with ease and tears apart the ground with ease as it rages to him! Ben then charges at the blast as he says,"This guy is strong, that's for sure. But, Mother Lacus and King Atem, and many others are all in there! You will not pass, Shining Flare Slash!"

With this his power explodes before the energy around his sword surges and with a powerful strike he shatters the blast! This gets its sender to look at Ben and say," Ben Auro, your power is indeed no joke. However, I have all the data I need, there is nothing you can do to either surprise me or defeat me!" Ben just looks serious as he says,"

You would be surprised how many people said that to me. I would tell you to reference them expect most of them are not available to make a comment anymore, due to being dead and all."

This gets a laugh from his new foe as he says," That's good, I like my opponents dealing with death gracefully! Hahah, hope you liked the show everyone, the real games are going to start now! And just to warn you, no matter what you try, you will fail!"

Cloud then has his own magical energy flare up before he says," You sound very sure of yourself, considering you have the entire Lylat Kingdom ready to take you out."

This causes the foe to responds with," HA, numbers don't mean anything when you have all the tools to absolute power! Its time all of you learn just who is in charge!"

All of a sudden Axl realizes the bad guys voice sounds familiar, before his eyes widen in horror as he says,"That voice, it was the same one that I heard in my head before! So it was all because of you!"

This gets X to be shocked before he says," Is that true Axl? So, you're the one causing Axl to act like this? Does this mean you're related to Lumine? "

His responds is," Lumine? Don't make me laugh! That weakling was just a envoy, I am the real deal!" Zero gets annoyed with his opponents arrogance and says," If you're the real deal, just who are you!"

The foe eyeballs Zero, and looks at him with fury as he says," You dying to know, pretty boy? Well, I guess after all this time it would be nice to make people remember my name again! I am the TRUE most powerful robot of all!

My name is, Bass!"

Ben just looks confused as he says," Bass? Name does not ring a bell. "

Hiryuumon looks at Bass, not having any idea what he is as he says,"Does that mean your some type of fish or rampaging mutate musical instrument? Because you don't look like either to me! "

All of a sudden James, who was reading a lot of robot history to get in to the holiday mood, remembers seeing that name as his eyes widen and he says," Wait, Bass, that was the name of a robot that was rumored to cause havoc before the Maverick wars even began!"

Everyone is shocked to hear this as Cloud says," Is this true? Then, how old is this guy? Even most robots don't last that long!"

Bass chuckles before he throws away his cloak as he says,"Oh but I am real, and ill make you all feel the rage I have been building up! Yes, Megaman X, even your improved powers are noting to me, not after all the modifications I have been through as I waited for this moment throughout the centuries! Infact I am let down, after hearing about your so called unlimited potentionl I was expecting more! Don't you dare makie me regret waiting this long!

And Zero, Axl, both of you are going to get your head straighten out by your generous older brother so that you can help him deal judgment on all theses idiots!"

This shocks the two heroes as Zero says,"Brother!? You really are crazy!"

Axl then puts out a bewildered," Your saying you, me, and Zero were all created by the same man?"

Bass laughs as Treble lands on his side and barks at the good guys before the thrusters on his legs let him fly in the air and he says,"Hahahaha! After all this time, all of this nonsense comes to a hault right here! Ready for the end of this world of lies and weakness losers? Better be, because ready or not here it comes!

Hell's Rolling!" With this Bass has energy explode out of his forehead before he hurls several dark energy wheels like his Battle-network counterpart! As are hero's brace for this assault Ben sighs and says," Well, good thing I had my vacation while I could, something tells me this is going to be real messing before it's over. "

As he dodges the attack and the wheel of darkness causts a good chunck of the marble stars to be blown to dust Bass looks manic as he says,"

Yes, YES! Show me your power! Show me, the true fighting sprit of the God of destruction! Ill blast apart your sprits, and show I am suprior! Hahahaha!"

And with this, today's chapter comes to a close!

Sorry, but if you want to see how this fight breaks down you will have to tune in to the next chapter of Tales of the Cosmic Wars! Next time the battle between Ben, X, Zero, Axl, Cloud and Bass and Dynamo explodes, especially when Bass infects and impales Axl, causing him to not only go in to back in to his berserk mode, but to the horror of everyone, reveal just what his true purpose is! And if that's not bad enough, as are hero's are getting bombarded, out of no were the mysterious partner of Kira and Xiza, Albert Yurive appears! However, to the shock of everyone he shows his true desires, and identity to all! If you have not guessed who it is yet, well, then don't read the title unless you want the chapter spoiled lol. Yes, big things are going to be revealed, when the truth about the destiny of the Maverick hunters are at last revealed!

( Or at least, what my version of it is lol.) that are going to change the shape of things for everyone, and especially Zero! So if you don't want to miss out, tune in to

Tales of the Cosmic Wars Chapter 116:Revenge of the Fallen, Doctor Willy's Wrathful Come Back!

Till next time! Ah, for a brief authors note, I gave Bass the powers of his Network version as well to make him more powerful haha. As for any other questions, they will be answered soon. Thanks for all the reviews, like always hope to see more. I may have missed Fourth of July, but happy robot independence day! Lol, till next time!