In the words of The Masked Gentleman: "One, two, three, four, did you miss me? Ladies and gentlemen, welcome!" See if you can figure out what game series that's from.
How are you Reader? What's up? Hope you're doing fine and dandy. Another update has arrived for Blue! On another note, I think Nintendo stole e3 this year. With all the huge announcements that were made during spotlight (along with a few others outside of spotlight), I was quite impressed. Now I have to buy a Switch, but I do wonder about Smash...
What else… ah, been having fun playing Fire Emblem Heroes and Fire Emblem Echoes: Shadows of Valentia. Having played a bit of the original Fire Emblem Gaiden, I never thought Intelligent Systems would remake it. The soundtrack for SoV is beautiful, I recommend! Next, I'm a bit salty that Mega Man Legacy Collection 2 not coming to Switch/3DS. I was hoping to snag Mega Man 7, which I would have bought if I had the New 3DS, but I have the old one. MM7 is so interesting because of its dark ending.
Finally, this is wishful thinking but I hope a new Mega Man game is announced later this year. I was bit disappointed to see nothing new for our Blue Bomber at e3. It's his 30th anniversary, Capcom!
Well, enough about that. I present you the first half of Day Five, let's do this.
Chapter 9
Day Five – Morning to Midday
When the sun shined on Lucina's face, she didn't open her eyes. She was awake but ill, and not in a physical sense. The princess got her rest, but refused to leave the bed. Light tremors sparked throughout her body, over what she heard last night.
"He told Robin he's going to crush her! Mega Man's going to cause havoc at the tournament! That's what he's planning! He's tricking Lucina into trusting him and when the tournament happens he will turn heel and attack her! We have to warn her!"
The words replayed in her head over and over, Lucina began to sweat. She could not believe it and couldn't decipher who said those words. All she recalled that the voice was masculine, for she was too busy listening to the words themselves. To think that this could be what Robin wanted to tell her. His expression did not help either. She remembered his sweating face when he wished to speak with her. The warning she heard, contradicted everything.
Everything she knew of the Blue Bomber.
He was kind and loyal, a peaceful warrior. She saw him as such. Even if he wasn't organic, she felt Mega Man was a genuine being. These past few days she spent with him portrayed that. He was so far, a good partner, Lucina appreciated that. She had started to feel optimistic for the upcoming tournament.
Now, she felt everything had crashed down with the new information bestowed upon her. She didn't see him as a traitor, nor someone with malicious intent. Not with how he treated her so far, with such kindness – which made her grow fondness for Mega Man.
The Princess of Ylisse felt lost, alone, helpless... unsure of what to do. Until she recalled a memory, consisting of helpful advice from her mother.
Out of all times for advice, Lucina suddenly appreciated its arrival. Her mother was a calm and collected woman, loving and giving of guidance. Lucina admired that greatly of her, even more so when it involved trouble in the family.
The memory consisted of her crying over a simple blunder she made as a child. Afraid to explain it to her parents, she tried to conceal it. However, her anxiety grew worse... she confessed to her mother after suspicions were made.
She did not mean to do it, Lucina was training with her sword. But her strength managed to destroy a piece of Ylissean memorabilia...
...she lied about it being destroyed by her hands, that it was already broken.
Even though her mother saw right through her charade.
When she asked why she lied, Lucina explained the truth. She was afraid of what the reaction would be, to confront over what she did. She secluded herself just to avoid the consequences. Though, they would actually be minor, and that hiding would make things worse.
Lucina cried as she admitted the truth. The mother knelt to her level, brushing a hand to her hair.
"It's all right," she assured. "We can always replace it."
"But – but – "
The young Lucina felt a finger shut her lips. Her mother said, "Now that wasn't so hard to explain, was it? Lucina, you must be honest. Not just for me, but for yourself. Do not hide, do not lie, simply state the truth. Communication is key."
"Mommy..."
"If you lie just to protect yourself, if you hide what bothers you, it will only make things worse. Don't isolate yourself, Lucina. I want my daughter to be able to express herself, even of her mistakes. Don't mask them, otherwise you feel lost. If it ever comes a point where you do feel astray, then speak."
The young Lucina sniffed as her mother wiped her watery eyes. She hugged her mother, feeling relieved that she was understood, and no longer feeling pain.
"Thank you, Mommy."
Lucina opened her eyes, she blinked. How could she forget that advice? To resolve the conflict she was in, the solution was communication. She needed to confront Mega Man over what she had heard. Hopefully it was just mindless gossip, or at least she began to think of it that way.
But if there was any truth it, then drawing Falchion would no longer be a choice.
.
"And then, well... she bid me goodnight. I went offline after that, and I felt pretty good. I say we're really doing well as a team so far. We complement each other well, she seems to like me... and I like working with her too."
"Wonderful to hear that my son. I'm glad to hear you are faring so well in the Smash realm," said Dr. Light to Mega Man. He was happy to receive a call from his son regarding progress on his work. "I look forward to seeing how you do in the tournament. You and Princess Lucina will be a formidable match."
"Thanks Dr. Light," Mega Man replied, a slight smile crept up his face from the compliment. "I'll be sure to do my best out there."
"Of course you will!" called out the helper robot, Auto from the call. "I expect nothing but the best from you, kid! Look at you go, attracting a nice lady by your side! Show off those guns, Mega Man!"
In an instant, Mega Man's face turned bright red from those playful words. Of course, Auto would flaunt his feats and tease him about it. The robot was such a huge admirer of him, he would do it at every chance he got. "It's not like that, Auto!" he cried. "We're just friends! At least, we're starting to become friends!"
"Only because of where you stand now. This calls for a physical upgrade, if you get one then you'll have a chance of sweeping a princess off her feet. So, when do you want one so you can truly become Mega Man?"
"Auto, enough!" Roll chided in the background. "Have you no shame in embarrassing Rock?! We're supposed to be giving him encouragement!"
"I'm just teasing, Roll! He's fine the way he is! Geez, lighten up a bit, will you?"
"Why don't you help me clean the attic instead?"
"But I already cleaned most of the house yesterday! Why do I have to do more chores?"
"Because I need help!"
Dr. Light sighed as the two robots behind him began to argue. Then he said, "Well I must leave, I have some business to attend. Do you need anything else, Rock?"
"No. I'm – " Mega Man paused himself when remembered something from a few days earlier. His behavior during the Mii fighter match. While it didn't seem that big of an issue now, it still was a bit concerning.
"Rock, is something wrong?" Dr. Light inquired, noticing his sudden silence.
"Ah! Oh... I have a question for you, Dr. Light."
"Go ahead my son."
"Is it er... natural to be initially concerned with someone's prowess because of what they are?"
"What do you mean?"
"Well, how should I explain..."
"Does this involve your partner?"
Mega Man mumbled a slight 'yes' as a reply, with Dr. Light asking another question. "Is it because of her association with how similar she is to Prince Marth?"
Mega Man answered feebly, "Maybe..."
"There's nothing wrong with it, they're related. Some fighters will just have similar brawl tactics."
"Yeah, but..."
"I'm afraid I'm not understanding, Rock. Speak clearly."
Mega Man sighed, he decided to explain the stigma with Smashers and the clone status. Feeling shameful with each word he spoke, and Dr. Light listened to his tone of voice.
"I felt... terrible," the android admitted. "I started to... judge her after what Wario told me. So when we were in that Mii fighter match, I wasn't giving it my all, because I thought we wouldn't have a chance. I was too wrapped up in doubts... and I was proven wrong. I should never let the words of others cloud my judgment and ability. What's worse when she asked me what was wrong, I lied that I was afraid. Like I actually was. It hasn't been brought up since we moved on, but I still feel guilty about it."
When he concluded his speech, there was silence. Mega Man deducted that he would receive lecture by his father at this rate.
Instead he heard Dr. Light ask, "Does the clone status still bother you?"
"Not really," Mega Man answered. "I view Lucina a lot differently."
"Then put it to rest, there's no need to wallow in that anymore. If it is truly an issue, then speak to her about it. I'm sure she'll understand. As for your initial reaction, I deduce that it something... well, natural in terms of human nature. People tend to initially judge others, there's no escaping it. As long as you didn't allow it to completely impair you from building a relationship with Lucina, then it's fine."
"But it almost did, it was bad. I felt so irrational."
"Perhaps you're feeling overwhelmed. This is your first time in such a tournament, you do not know Lucina well, yet. It was in the beginning where this occurred after all. I will warn you my son, do be careful in letting yourself be swayed by the words of others. I know it sometimes gets the best of you, especially when trying to do things for the greater good."
"Like what?"
"Do you want to recall that time... with Albert?"
Light's tone was dark, Mega Man tried to remember which specific moment he was talking about. For there was so many he shared with his arch nemesis. From sabotaging Dr. Light with the Gamma Project, to reviving an ancient threat to the world, the man had many memorable feats; and they weren't good.
Thinking about them made the android slightly irritated, the last he wanted to think about was Dr. Wily. Yet, he continued ruminate for the sake of what Dr. Light asked.
Then a faint memory came to him... it began to clear when Mega Man looked into it. It showed him in a crumbling lab, having defeated those who opposed him. Upon his vision he saw Wily on the floor, the weight of his destroyed machine crushing him. Mega Man approached the mad scientist silently, with a dark expression on his face. When Dr. Wily saw blue boots in front of him, he begged for forgiveness.
"Forgive me, Mega Man! I didn't mean to cause so much trouble, I won't do it again!"
The android's eyes narrowed. Of course, another petty attempt of trying to escape from his crimes. He heard of such sentiments many times from Wily, so much he wanted to laugh.
"Apologizing isn't enough to cover the damage you have cost," Mega Man said sternly, looking down at him. "To me, to Dr. Light, to Roll, and to my city. I refused to be swayed by hollow words, you have betrayed my trust long enough. You're nothing but a criminal."
"Please, let me leave quietly. I give up, okay? It won't ever happen again."
As Wily nervously waited for an answer, he was stunned to find the Mega Buster aimed at his face. He gasped and looked at Mega Man with horrified eyes.
"No. I don't trust you," Mega Man began in a dark tone. "I'm going to do what I should've done long ago."
"You... you wouldn't dare!"
"If it is for the sake of peace, then I will."
Dr. Wily began laughed nervously, saying words that the Blue Bomber could never truly forget. "You forget, Mega Man... about the laws of Asimov. Robots can't harm humans."
Mega Man froze, his Mega Buster still toward Wily's face... but hesitant to pull the trigger. The android thought about those laws, having him put human lives above his own. It reigned this world.
And the laws extended to even those who committed crime.
But were they even applicable toward a madman who had caused so much terror to the world? He couldn't answer that.
He battled with himself over it... consumed with an overwhelming agony that tortured him. Over what was right, and what was wrong. He even debated on whether pulling the trigger, until he felt anger seeping over him over everything Wily had done. Mega Man's resistance toward it had built up into frustration... and after this, he was tired of it.
For no matter what he would do to ensure everlasting peace, Dr. Wily would always return with chaos.
It was enough. He was at his limit, this would be the last time Wily would commit crime, the last time the world would suffer. Mega Man decided to almost do the unthinkable.
"I am... more... than... a robot," he snapped, eyes radiating with fury as he charged his weapon. "Die... Wily!"
"Rock? Rock!"
The Blue Bomber was snapped out of his memory. He gasped as he returned to reality thanks to Dr. Light. Now he remembered, he grimaced recalling something terrible. He answered grimly, "Yes, Dr. Light?"
"Are you all right? You were silent."
"I'm... fine. Just... I figured out what you were talking about. I understand."
There was a quick silence for a few moments before Dr. Light responded with a quick, "Ah." Mega Man decided to end the call.
"I'm... I'm going to look for Lucina," he said, his voice now in a calmer tone. "We only have two more days left, so I better get back to work."
"Very well. I will leave you be. If you have any concerns, my son, don't hesitate to consult with me."
Mega Man nodded. "I will. Thanks Dr. Light."
"Take care, Rock."
One click and the call cut off, Mega Man rose up from his seat. He called out Rush so he can find his partner and start the new day. Anything to move on from that awful reminiscence.
As he opened the door, he found neatly folded piece of paper on his doorstep. He picked it up to unfold it. "What's this?"
Dear Rock,
I wish to speak with you before we begin our fifth day of preparation. There are some important matters I need to discuss. Meet me in the mansion gardens as soon as you receive this message.
Yours Truly,
Lucina
Reading its contents, the Blue Bomber was puzzled. He wondered what his partner wanted to talk about, he hoped they weren't serious. Even so, the only way to find out was to comply with Lucina's wish. He took hold of the note and left the hall, heading towards the gardens.
When he left, a hidden figure emerged from the shadows of the hall. He smirked as he held a note of his own.
.
"Zelda, did you leave the message?"
When she heard Robin inquire that, Zelda nodded. She and a small group of Smashers stood outside the food court. "Yes, right at Mega Man's doorstep. I hoped I managed to replicate Lucina's handwriting. He should be meeting us at the courtyard anytime soon. We must prepare ourselves."
"And get this interrogation going," Dark Pit added. "Now we'll find out what Mega Man's motives truly are, one way or another."
"Then we should head to the courtyard," Link advised. "Hidden until Marth makes the call."
"Marth should be there already, right?" Peach inquired.
"He should be," said Robin. "We told him to head out and wait."
"Then we have no time to waste," added Samus. "Also, remember that we mustn't intimidate him. Let us be straightforward, I don't want Mega Man to think wrong of us because of this."
"Well one way or another, he's going to feel unpleasant," Mario reminded. "We can't make any guarantees here."
"You're talking as if he is actually innocent," Dark Pit muttered. "What if he isn't?"
"Then we have no choice but to stop and report it," Link said grimly. "I hope we don't get to that extreme. It would throw away everything we knew about Mega Man."
"And probably be banned from this realm," Mario stated. "I don't think that's ever happened before."
"Are we going to keep talking and not move?" Zelda asked impatiently.
"Ah, right," Robin recalled. "Everyone, let's go."
As the tactician led his group out toward the courtyard, Robin held faith that this would work. After endless debate last night – the final plan was a simple surprise interrogation, but in private. At least, without Lucina's knowledge. They thought that if the Ylissean princess was there, it would have caused havoc, as well as the possibility of Mega Man hurting her. So, they sought to settle this with little drama as possible.
Even though that probably wasn't going to be the case. They faked a letter written by Lucina, done by Princess Zelda.
The letter told Mega Man to meet her in the courtyard. From there he would find Marth. Robin decided him being the first person the Blue Bomber would meet, would not have him suspect anything. The tactician would thank the Hero King's relation to Lucina that made this possible.
Marth would interrogate Mega Man vaguely. When the android was off guard, Robin and the others would come at the prince's call, beginning the full questioning. If the android showed any restraint or would make a move on offense, taking out their own weapons wouldn't be an issue.
Yes, Robin was imagining how the scenario would go. Whether good or bad, he did not know. He was willing to put his tactics to the test.
After all, that was the role of a tactician.
I pray to the Gods that is all gets cleared up, he thought to himself. Mega Man, please, prove us wrong.
.
In the gardens, Lucina patiently sat on a bench. She observed the various plant life around. It was a beautiful sight, she thought, impressed by the different species of flowers in vibrant colors. It was nice to see that the mansion held something like this, as flowers were a rarity from her own time.
Seeing how lively it was, Lucina deduced that the garden was under good care. A light smile crept upon her face from thinking that. And thought that, perhaps she would like to have a garden of her own one day. That dream sounded pleasant, different than all other thoughts she had before. Usually they were grim, bleak as her life experiences. Will there be a time where she can just dream than linger in fear and worry?
Suddenly, rattling was heard. Lucina moved her eyes toward the bushes. A gloved hand pushed through, and out came her ally.
The Princess of Ylisse's calm demeanor was now a stern one. She had waited for Mega Man to arrive, and he did, listening to her orders.
"Morning," greeted the Blue Bomber softly. He smiled. "You wanted to talk, Princess?"
Lucina felt slight guilty over seeing that genuine smile, it wouldn't last long. Even so she had to get it over with. She needed to know, what was the truth, and what was not.
She felt this was the best choice, to speak with Mega Man her own way. He was, her partner after all. She wanted to get the answers from him, than anyone else. If anything he said was about her, then she would prefer to hear it from him, no one else.
Perhaps it was a misunderstanding of what she heard last night. To put those rumors to rest... and to know the truth once and for all...
"Yes," she answered. "I have a couple of things I wish to discuss with you."
Mega Man nodded. "All right." He sat next to his partner, looking at her intently with care. "What's up?"
Lucina ruminated on how to start. When she figured it out, she took a deep breath to begin. "Have you... ever thought wrong of me?"
Mega Man blinked, puzzled on what he heard. "What? Think wrong... of you?"
"Answer my question, Rock. It is all I ask at the moment."
Mega Man scratched his helmet, pondering on what to say. He then recalled his earlier conversation with Dr. Light, sinking feeling hit his chest. Should he tell her about that? What good would come out of bringing something from the past? How would Lucina feel? Would she... not like him for it?
No, at the time it was reasonable to feel doubts. Well, at least he was told it was fine. Perhaps he could just vaguely mention it...
"I guess if you really want to know," he began. "Well... I did have some doubts in the beginning. It was over how we would go as a team, because of your... um, clone status."
Lucina's face was slightly crestfallen, leading Mega Man to explain. "Ah! Well, it didn't bother me... that much, well now it doesn't. I've come to accept that of you, I... think despite that, you're your own unique person."
"Oh."
"It did cloud my judgment of you quite a bit... but that was my own fault. It's a flaw I have, to think irrationally. Know this though, I don't see you as just a clone nor do I think ill of you. After everything we've been through so far... I've come to respect you, Princess."
The Princess could see a tint of red coming from the android's cheeks, from complimenting her. He finally added, "I really do, Lucina. A lot."
"Rock..." Lucina felt swayed by such kindness. However, she remembered of the task in hand, and refused to be distracted. She held down her serious face.
"So, that's all I have as an answer. Anything else?"
"Yes, thank you for the compliment. I appreciate it, but... something still concerns me."
"Oh? And what would that be, Princess?"
Lucina's eyes darkened, Mega Man believed this would not be good news. He was correct when he heard her say, "I heard some terrible things last night regarding you."
Mega Man pointed to himself in disbelief. "Of me?"
"Yes, that you... are trying to destroy me," Lucina explained, the android's mouth became agape as his eyes froze. "That you do not like me... that you told Robin you wish to harm me, and that this is all in act. At the tournament you will show your true colors."
Mega Man stood silent, trying to process what he had heard. Someone was speaking about him so viciously? Over things he wouldn't dare to even think of doing? He was in total disbelief, stunned that he was brought into such a negative light in such a dirty way. Was someone out trying to sabotage his team and his participation in the tournament? He couldn't fathom who would do such thing...
Before he could react properly, the Parallel Falchion aimed at his face. He looked up at Lucina in distress for pulling out her weapon so fast. "Princess?!"
"I do not know... if it is true," Lucina began, as she gripped her sword. "But if it is... then I will not hesitate to draw this blade. I will not allow myself to be fooled by honeyed words, so... Mega Man. What are your true intentions for this tournament?"
"Lucina..."
"Speak your word. And I'll be the final judge of your say, whether you speak truths or not."
Mega Man could not form a proper response. Lucina noticed the change, and thought of letting her guard down, but refused. Not when there was potential danger. Having lived through war, letting guard down was the worst one could do. It was where one was at its weakest, where one could easily be sabotaged. Which was what happened to her father in her timeline.
She didn't want to fall into the same trap that Chrom did.
Seeing what was bestowed upon him, Mega Man silently rose up. He looked down, then back up toward his partner. Just when he thought things were going well. Now he wasn't trusted, and if that didn't exist then how could their partnership blossom? Had Lucina realized that? Then again, he knew of what happened to Chrom, so he understood why Lucina was so vigilant. Not to mention, she only knew of him for a few days. Trust wouldn't be so strong.
But if there was any way to salvage their friendship, he would do whatever it would take. He went to do one thing.
But before he would, he asked softly to the princess: "Do you trust me?"
This surprised Lucina. Before she could react, the android added, "It's fine if you don't. I understand why you feel so hostile. There is still a lot we don't know about each other, and it's certainly not going to take an entire week."
As Lucina stood silent, Mega Man continued, "I don't know where you heard that from, but I would appreciate if you can tell me who said such nonsense. That is not why I joined this tournament, I would never hurt a human being. That is not in my programming, and if you don't believe me... then perhaps this will assuage your fears."
Lucina lightly gasped as Mega Man de armored himself. His armor dissipated, leaving a young man in a casual attire, with brown hair, blue eyes, and blue boots.
The princess was stunned, for she had never seen Mega Man without his armor. No, this wasn't even Mega Man...
This was Rock Light, a helper robot.
She then heard him lightly chuckle. "This is who is underneath Mega Man. Do I look like someone who would hurt you?"
Lucina was stunned by such display, her hand gently brought Parallel Falchion down. Now she regretted being hostile toward her own ally. He was being truthful, at least, she saw him as genuine.
Rock smiled sadly. "Heh, we're alike. We don't like to be fooled, we try to stay vigilant of others. I understand how you feel right now. If you... need some time alone, then I will leave you be. And if you wish to speak to me again, then I'll be around. Unless, you don't want that... and you're not convinced. If you're not... then you are free to cut ties with me and we could drop out from the tournament. The last thing I want for you Lucina, is to feel unsafe around me."
He finally added, "I enjoyed my time with you. I've grown to like you, Princess. You've become someone who I look up to, someone who I would like to spend time with more. Never would I ever want to harm you. But... I understand if you don't feel comfortable. So, I leave the decision to you, Princess."
He went with the next course to take was to walk away, but before he could, a hand grabbed his arm. Lucina had stopped him from leaving. Rock looked at her and asked, "Yes?"
He did not expect a full embrace, Rock saw himself in Lucina's arms, leaving him stunned. "Huh?"
He felt a slight tear drop onto his shoulder, his blue eyes saw the Princess lightly crying. When he asked if she was all right, Lucina nodded.
"Forgive... me," she wept softly. "I didn't mean to behave like that. I... I simply - "
Rock returned the embrace. "No, don't apologize. I understand, you don't know me well enough to have complete trust. You were only trying to protect yourself, I can see why you would be wary of me. I would have done the same thing. Do... you know who said those things?"
"No, I'm afraid not."
"Then I'll report this to Master Hand. These sorts of rumors shouldn't spreading around. Until then, just know they're not true."
"I know, I know. I... believe you, Rock."
"And I do too, not that I didn't trust you initially. How about this? No more judgments, no more miscommunication. We will have trust in each other and communicate openly. Okay? We're a team, Princess. I want you to know you can always talk to me on anything, just like I will to you. I want to continue our partnership, and perhaps if time allows it, then we can be... close friends."
Close friends. Lucina sensed optimism quelling the rest of her feelings. She smiled lightly on hearing what her ally said. "I... would like that greatly."
"Then it's settled." Rock released himself from the embrace, and Lucina wiped her watery eyes as she sniffed. The android smiled at the new commitment they have made. "Let us continue to strive for the best, Lucina. And we'll do it, together."
The princess nodded, mirroring back a smile. "Yes, together."
She then looked around the garden once more, complimenting on how rich and lovely it was. "This garden... is beautiful."
"Hmm? You like flowers?" Rock inquired.
"Yes. However, I barely ever saw them in my world. They were a rarity, seeing this diverse garden makes me feel so... pleasant."
"I see..." An idea appeared in Rock's mind as he trailed off with his sentence. He thought it would be best to utilize it in the near future. He hid it in the back of his mind for now, and went to change the topic.
"Now that everything seems to be settled, shall we begin our fifth day of training, Princess?"
"Oh! Yes, of course."
"Then let us be on our way." Rock, who transformed back into Mega Man, extended his hand out. "Come, Princess."
It was such a kind gesture, like a knight serving their master. Lucina gracefully took his hand. "I would be honored, Sir Knight."
She giggled when she saw Mega Man smirk at her playful teasing, and the Blue Bomber took her out of the garden. To her surprise, she didn't expect to find Rush in his jet form.
The dog barked as Mega Man brought the princess to the jet. "Ladies first."
Lucina was quite puzzled on the ride. "You're having your dog ride us to our destination?"
"Well, it's pretty far," Mega Man said. "If you recall we're going out into the forest. That is where I would like to train."
"Ah, right. There's also an event there we can try out, correct?"
The android nodded. "Yep, I wanna check that out too. So, come on. Rush doesn't bite."
"If you say so," Lucina said, jumping onto the jet. Not long did Mega Man jump in the front, he commanded his dog to fly off. Rush complied, and the two were soaring through the skies.
The Princess of Ylisse was amazed by how high they were in the heavens. "Wow! This... this view is amazing!"
"It gets better!" Mega Man called out as the wind blew toward them. "Now hang on tight, okay? Faster Rush!"
"Then I'll hang on to you!"
The android felt Lucina grab onto him for support, and Mega Man felt flustered from her body pressing on his. Regardless, he was glad she was enjoying the view.
Even more when she laughed on the way.
He waited in the courtyard, standing idly. Marth was curious as to when Mega Man would arrive. The Hero King was typically patient, but he did not speak for the other Smashers who settled in the bushes, hidden. For them, impatience started to settle in after waiting for half an hour.
"Where the hell is Mega Man?" Dark Pit whispered in annoyance toward Zelda. "He got the letter, right?"
"Yes, I'm sure of it. I left it right at his door step," Zelda assured tiredly, for the fifth time.
"Maybe he is running late," Mario assumed.
"Wait, I hear footsteps," Link whispered, peering out into the courtyard. "Someone's coming!"
"Lord Marth! Get into position!" Robin quickly called out toward the Hero King. The Altean prince nodded and had his back toward the entrance, making sure it was the first thing the person would see when they entered the courtyard. The footsteps stopped as the figure now stood, facing toward Marth. When Marth detected the presence, he turned, meeting the visitor.
To his expectancy, Mega Man stood. He had a devious smirk, and his armor appeared much darker in color. Marth noticed the small changes, and tilted his head.
"Hello, Prince Marth," Mega Man greeted rather eerily. "Do you know where's Lucina? I received this letter, telling me to meet her here."
"Ah," Marth replied timidly. "Well... before you can speak with her, there are a few matters I would like to discuss with you."
"Enlighten me."
"First off, do you enjoy being in Lucina's company? It seems you two are doing well as a team so far."
"Oh of course. Your descendant is a sweetheart, I like her very much."
"And how do you feel about her relation to me? Particularly in battle style."
Mega Man shrugged. "It doesn't bother me, why do you ask?"
"Just... curious. There's been some controversy surrounding you lately," Marth explained with caution. "Word has it that you've been... secretly vandalizing the mansion and assaulting others. And, you have some motives that we don't know about... especially regarding Lucina."
The Hero King's eyes narrowed as he said that. He added, "I sincerely hope they aren't true, but I would like you to clear them up for me. At least tell me, are you aware of any of this information? Because I believe... I saw such vandalism."
Mega Man said nothing, Marth went to wait for an answer. Instead, he received a laugh. A dark, but heartful laugh. It sounded slightly sinister enough to catch Marth off guard. The Hero King's face was swept with concern as Mega Man laughed.
When the android finished, he wiped a small tear. "Ah, you must be seeing such things. I would never do that, destruction is not in my nature unless called for. I'm a peaceful warrior, and I loathe violence. It saddens me that you have such a jaded view. What would Lucina think?"
Before Marth could respond, Mega Man stopped him. "You don't need to explain, I understand. I'm not easily approachable, I suppose. Especially with what I am, a robot. Compared to those who are organic, I am not guaranteed the same freedoms. You must see me as an inferior."
"Mega Man, that's... that's not true," Marth refuted.
The Hero King's words were not enough to stop Mega Man from talking poorly of himself. "If you are trying to frame me over crime with little evidence, then go ahead. Not that we robots have any way to protect ourselves from the law, when they dictate our purpose. However..."
The Blue Bomber pulled out his Mega Buster, his eyes turning red and with a smirk. "...let's see if you can try before I eliminate you."
Stunned from what he said, Marth stood frozen in horror... enough for Mega Man to lash out charge shot toward the Hero King. However, to his dismay, Link jumped in front of Marth to block the shot with his Hylian shield.
"What?!" Mega Man cried in disbelief. He growled upon the appearance of the other Smashers coming out of the bushes, weapons in their hands.
"I knew it!" Dark Pit cried, pointing his bow at the rogue. "You were lying about what you said just now, were you?!"
Mega Man smirked, much to their shock. "You people are so easy to trick."
A few of the Smashers gasped at that cold answer. Marth and Mario being the most unsettled by what they witnessed, slowly the view they had on the Blue Bomber was fading. If it continued then all would be lost.
"Mega Man, why are you doing this?" Mario asked in disbelief. "What do you plan to do?!"
"That will be revealed soon enough," Mega Man answered darkly. "It's only a matter of time before it comes to full circle. Master will be pleased."
"M – Master?!" Peach cried nervously, wondering whom Mega Man was speaking of.
"So you were the one who committed those assaults!" Dark Pit yelled out. "I knew they weren't illusions! You're working with Crazy Hand over something, are you?!"
"Like I said, everything will be revealed soon enough," Mega Man sneered. "Until then enjoy these little shows of chaos performed by yours truly. Time to pen the next chapter, starting with eliminating my worthless clone of a partner!"
"Traitor!" Marth yelled, swiftly unsheathing Falchion. "We trusted you, Mega Man!"
"Yeah? Well you're an idiot for putting such faith in me, Hero King."
"So, it has come to this," Mario said, clenching his fists. "I never thought I would ever see my friend in such light, I can't believe this. If this is truly who you are Mega Man, then you do not belong here in the Smash realm. Such treason is punishable by a permanent ban, I will tell Master Hand of such conduct. Consider yourself a traitor."
"Then a traitor I am. Go ahead, I could care less. All of you are pathetic, as this stupid realm! Master Hand was foolish to invite me, and more foolish to allow me near the likes of a stupid clone! If I'm going down, then I'll take her with me!"
"No!" Robin protested, angrily charging a thunder tome. "I won't allow you to bring any harm to Lucina! Arcthunder!"
The ball of thunder rushed toward the Blue Bomber, he swiftly avoided by jumping. Mega Man snickered, just what he wanted. A fight. As he flew in the air, his Mega Buster shot down plasma.
Link held up his Hylian shield to protect others from the shots, while Zelda casted out Din's Fire. Greninja unleashed out Water Shuriken as Mario ran through the blasts. The plumber never expected to fight a good friend, but it had to be done. Next to him dashed Marth, with his Falchion gripped tightly. The Hero King felt such a betrayal that fighting was now their only option.
Indeed, their view on Mega Man had changed. No longer did they see him as a kind warrior with justice and peaceful goals. He was a traitor, willing to bring chaos onto this world. Perhaps everything about him was a façade, and how clever he was to manage tricking others into thinking he was a good being.
Seeing the two running toward him, Mega Man whipped out metal blades. He figured Metal Man's weapon would be enough to deter the two, as it always managed to stop others during battle. There was a reason it was deemed overpowered with its fast range and easy accessibility. He dodged both Din's Fire and Water Shuriken so he can throw his blades out.
He was correct when Mario barely avoided them using his yellow cape. The plumber shoved Marth away, only to slip from his cape and the two rolled onto the floor. Meanwhile, Dark Pit used his Electroshock arm to block the blades away. He yelled, "You'll pay for this!"
"But we're just getting started, clone!" Mega Man cried deviously, shooting while deflecting attacks in the air. "Come on, is that what all of you got?!"
"None of our attacks are working!" Peach cried. "He's too fast!"
The pink princess noticed that the others were exhausting themselves while engaging in this combat against Mega Man. However, the refusal to give up was apparent. "No, we're not done yet!" Robin cried, panting. "Traitor!"
Mega Man yawned, mocking his opponents. "You guys bore me, time for something new." This time, he tossed Hyper bomb toward them, leading the others to flee their positions.
Smoke rose out, the android grinned when he saw the Smashers coughing. Have fun, he thought to himself. "Time to find Lucina," he declared loudly. "See if you can find her before I can! But first... have some fun with some friends!"
The android disappeared out of sight.
.
The forest was quiet and peaceful as it should be, and Mega Man hopped out of the jet. He took Lucina by the hand and gently set her down. The princess quietly thanked him while he nodded.
"Well, we're here," Mega Man announced proudly. "Did you enjoy the ride, Princess?"
"I did... it was, quite fun. I've never been in a ride like that before."
"Heh, well glad you liked it. Maybe we should have Rush as our main transportation from now on."
Rush happily barked while Lucina chuckled. "I certainly would not mind."
"Mm. Well, let's find the event. It should be here somewhere..."
The three began to wander through the trees, and Lucina wondered what event Mega Man spoke of. She went to inquire, "May I ask, what this event will entail?"
"Oh, I didn't tell you?" Mega Man asked. Lucina shook her head in response and the Blue Bomber apologized. "Oh, sorry. I thought I did. Well, it's an event based off a Smash Run mission. To see how many enemies we can kill depending on the time limit."
He added, "Of course this will be a team effort, so more kills are expected. It's like the Mii Fighter one, but with enemies."
"I see, and who is hosting it?"
"Dunno, but we'll see soon enough. However, this event is interesting, because we are not staying at one place. We have to look for the enemy through a course, which is in this forest. We're also being given items to help us."
"How convenient."
"Yeah, now if only we could find it..." Mega Man muttered. "Come on, I know the coordinates... I wonder how far we are."
He began to tinker with his helmet. Lucina speculated he got the information from that, she stood next to him and observed.
"Huh," Mega Man mumbled. "It's not that far. Maybe in a three mile radius..."
"Are we close?" Lucina inquired.
"Yeah, we're getting there," Mega Man replied. "Let's keep moving."
As the duo pressed on with Rush sniffing, a hard melody played in the distance. Rush's ears perked up as he picked up the sound.
"What is that?" Lucina asked, also moving her head about.
"Sounds like a trumpet..." Mega Man said, trying to detect the type of instrument used. "...wait a minute, I know that melody."
"What is it?"
"All I know is that it's from Link and Zelda's universe. In fact, this forest is said to be based off a location in Hyrule called the Sacred Grove. Someone must reside here."
"I wonder who would roam this forest," Lucina added.
"Link and Zelda probably know. Maybe if they're at the event, we'll ask them. For now, let's keep going, Princess. You too, Rush."
The three continued forward. The deeper they went in the forest, the more Lucina grew unsettled. The trees were huge enough to disallow sunlight to protrude through, so it appeared dark within. The setting itself reminded her of a time when she first returned to the past, saving her father and aunt from risen who threatened them. More in particular, Lissa. Of course, the difference was that forest was in flames. Here it was more... serene.
Too serene.
The trumpet melody was heard again, only it was closer. Lucina covered her ears slightly, which Mega Man noticed.
"You all right?"
"I'm fine. I find the sound so obnoxious."
"It is a bit unpleasant, but don't worry. We're almost there, hang on, okay?"
The princess nodded, but then froze when she saw a figure in the trees. She yelped and backed slightly.
"What's wrong?" Mega Man asked with concern.
"I, I saw something..."
"Where?"
"Over there." Lucina pointed at the specific area, but Mega Man squinted his eyes. "I don't see anyone."
"I swear I saw someone," Lucina proclaimed. Mega Man halted her.
"Relax, I believe you. Maybe we could see if someone is watching us."
"Are you sure?"
"Yeah, how about this? Rush and I will look around, you stay here, okay?"
"But – "
Before the Princess of Ylisse could retort, Mega Man took off with Rush at his side into the trees. "We'll be right back! Come on, Rush!"
Lucina groaned, not wanting to stay put. Of course Mega Man had to dash off, she sighed as she stood. The moment's peace to herself would not last, when she heard the sound once more. This time it was loud enough to hurt her ears. She covered them in distress. "Ugh!"
"Heehee..."
When laughter was heard, Lucina spun around. "Who's there?"
"Heehee... haha..."
A figure flew through the trees, and Lucina unsheathed her sword as defense. "Show yourself!"
The princess felt something tap her shoulder. When she turned around, she screamed.
A creature in a red cloak and straw hat laughed, hanging upside down from a tree branch. He held a trumpet, with a colorful mask covering his face. Lucina was startled by such creature she jumped back. "Who are you?!"
"You've met with a terrible fate, haven't you?"
"What?"
"Run. Run... they're coming..."
The creature blasted his trumpet at the princess' face, leading her to flee off. However, underneath his mask he stared at the direction she went, with worry.
"Find anything, Rush?" Mega Man inquired as he patrolled the area. The robotic dog shook his head, and Mega Man sighed.
"Well, that's it then. If there's no one around then we should head back, let's go boy."
The android walked back, with news that no one was nearby. Hopefully this would ease his partner's fears.
As he returned to the spot, he stumbled upon a cloaked figure standing with their back turned on him. Mega Man was puzzled to find this, particularly on the pattern of the cloak. It had the same design as the one Robin wore.
Before he could progress further, he recognized Lucina was nowhere in sight. Concerned, he approached the figure. "Princess?"
The figure turned, its face unrecognizable as the hood covered it. Suspicious, Mega Man asked, "Robin? Is that you?"
The figure smirked underneath its hood, charging a hidden tome beneath its robes. Once Mega Man saw it, the figure blasted out heavy dark magic. The Blue Bomber swiftly avoided the mass lightning and skidded down the grass.
His eyes widened when he realized the type of tome it was. Goetia?!
As one of his arms transformed into the Mega Buster, the figure laughed. It was feminine.
"So, you're the real Mega Man."
.
Lucina panted as she ran away from the area, horrified by who she just met. Whoever it was, it was quite frightening. She had stopped running to catch her breath, and glanced around her new location.
Upon her view she saw a sign displaying an event at the end of a path. Her face lit up as it read about the enemy event. She had found it. However, Mega Man was not with her. Lucina had to go back to find her partner and bring him here. Yet, she was still unnerved by what occurred back there... regardless, she had to return. Mega Man was back there and looking for her.
She was wrong when she saw the Blue Bomber come out of the bushes, and she smiled at his appearance.
"Rock!" she greeted. "I found it!"
The android said nothing, and Lucina's smile dimmed in response. "Is something the matter?"
"No," Mega Man replied, fixing his scarf. He glanced at the princess with a devilish smile. "Not at all."
He held out his gloved hand toward the princess. "Shall we go in and participate in the event? They're waiting for us."
Lucina sensed a sort of unease coming from her partner. What was interesting was the scarf he now wore, which he didn't have before. Where did he get it?
However, she decided to push her doubts. This was testing her trust to her partner. After what was recently established between them, she had to keep her faith in him. For the sake of their team.
She smiled as she took his hand, expressing confidence. "Let's go."
.
The smoke began to clear in the courtyard. Robin desperately decided to make everyone follow after Mega Man. "Come on! Lucina is in danger! We have to find her!"
"Right!" Zelda called out. "We have no time - !"
"Watch out!" Peach cried, Zelda jumped away from a small opening. Instantly, the Smashers saw small portals opening from the surface of the courtyard floor, surrounding themselves to the middle.
"What's happening?!" shouted Link, trying to decipher what was occurring. Once the portals were at an appropriate size, a disgusting odor came through, the smell of rotten flesh. Rotten hands and heads began to rise from the portals, and came out undead beings.
"What... what the hell is this?!" Dark Pit called out in disbelief. The other Smashers observed in disturbance.
"Zombies?!" Peach proclaimed, trying to think of what they are.
Samus was about to respond, saw Robin a frozen state, his pupils shrunk in denial. As he knew what these monsters were. He never thought he would see these things again, he quivered as he tried to speak. When the bounty hunter asked if he knew anything, he turned to her, gulping.
"Risen."