Chapter 7: Moonlight Serenade

Greetings everyone Tardispilot297 here at long last with the latest chapter of 'Cosmicon Rising'. I'd say more but of course I'm sure you've all waited long enough so without further ado.

*Please note once again that I do not own the Medabots franchise in any way.

(Unknown battlefield)

As the battle raged the two armies continued to clash. Neither side is willing to back down. Metal clashing against metal, blaster fire flying overhead, the ground soaked in the liquids of fallen warriors. Yet despite the chaos one figure stands calmly. In the center of the battle they look around and watch as warriors continue annihilating each other.

The figure then looks down, aiming their arm blaster and the one below them. A nearby explosion lights up the frame of the figure revealing it to be…[BEEP BEEP BEEP]

(Ikki's house)

Metabee awoke with a start as the alarm went off. He sat up and looked around. Upon realizing that he was in Ikki's room Metabee seemed to relax. Ever since Rokusho told them the story of what was inside the capsules the Rubber Robo Gang stole he's been having the same weird dream over and over.

Ikki in a groggy state reached over to shut off the alarm. He then sat up and stretched out with a large yawn. "Morning Metabee." Metabee did his best to act normal. "Morning Ikki." Ikki got up and walked over to the bathroom to start getting ready for school.

At first Metabee was tempted to tell Ikki about the dreams but he decided against it. Besides they were just dreams right? It's not like they mean anything. Anyway he got up and went downstairs. There he saw Ikki's parents were up and about. Ikki's dad sat at the table reading the paper while Ikki's mom was cooking breakfast.

Metabee walked over and sat at the table next to Ikki's dad. When he did, Ikki's dad looked up from the paper and saw Metabee. "Ah, Good morning Metabee. Sleep well?" Metabee looked over. "Oh yeah not too bad. Even despite Ikki's constant snoring." Ikki's dad stifled a laugh in response. "Well as long as you had a good night's sleep." Ikki's mom then called from the kitchen. "Honey, would you like bacon or sausage with your eggs?" "Actually nothing for me dear. I need to get to work. And I might be home late." Ikki's dad put the paper down and drank the last of his coffee.

Ikki's mom stepped out of the kitchen. "Oh don't tell me it's going to be another one of 'those'." "Yeah I'm afraid it might be one of those weeks." Ikki's dad walked over to kiss her on the cheek. "I'll make sure to call later ok?" "Alright. Just promise to be careful ok?" Ikki's dad gave her a reassuring smile. "Don't worry. I'll be back before you know it." Ikki's dad then started to walk towards the front door just as Ikki was coming down the stairs. "Oh dad are you on your way to work?" Ikki's dad turned to him. "Yeah and I may be home late. Have a great day at school ok?" "Sure thing dad." Ikki's dad smiled and stepped through the door.

Ikki made his way to the table and sat across from Metabee. Ikki's mom came over with breakfast for Ikki. Once the plate was set down he went ahead and dug right in. "Slow down sweetie. You don't wanna choke." "Sorry mom, it's just you always make the best breakfast." Ikki's mom smiled with pride upon hearing those words. "Aw thank you Ikki. Now remember don't forget to chew before you swallow." "Considering how much he wulfs down that may be difficult." Metabee replied with a snicker.

Ikki looked up across the table at Metabee. "Oh you're just jealous because you can't enjoy food this good." "I wouldn't call vacuuming it with your mouth enjoying it." "Least I HAVE a mouth." "Yeah that's why you never shut up." Ikki started glaring at him. "WHY YOU!" Ikki's mom popped up right between them. One hand grabbing Ikki's ear, the other grabbing Metabee's antenna. "Now Boys what have I said about fighting at the table?" On that last word she gave them both a light pull earning a groan of discomfort from both of them. "Sorry mom, we promise not to do it again." "Yeah we won't honest." Ikki's mom then released them from her death grip returning to her usual self. "Good boys. Now hurry along you two. You don't want to be late for school." She left them recovering from their ordeal.

(School)

After breakfast Ikki and Metabee headed over to school. They soon met up with their friends at the main entrance. Once inside the kids and their medabots split off into two groups. Ever since they allowed medabots to attend school with their partners they've had to expand the campus a bit to accommodate the increase in attendees.

Medabots classes weren't all that different from the classes their partners took. The only differences is the classes were taught by medabots partnered with the faculty and instead of biology and history they had self maintenance and robattle practices.

During the lunch period the medabots would pass the time with an assortment of sports. One such favorite was soccer. In the midst of a game was Metabee, Brass, Sumiladon and Gorem-2 as goalie for one side of the field and Arc-Dash, Peppercat, Krosserdog and Totalizer as goalie for the other side of the field.

The game recommenced with Metabee's team having the ball. Arc-Dash charged towards Metabee in an effort to steal the ball. Metabee responded by passing the ball over to Sumiladon who spun around dodging Krosserdog. Peppercat came running at Sumiladon blocking him from the goal.

Sumiladon then countered by kicking the ball into the air. Brass then leaped up and performed a spinning kick sending the ball towards the goal. Totalizer tried to catch the ball only to fall short and miss. The ball made it into the goal ending the game. Metabee's team gained victory with a score of 2-3.

Krosserdog came over to help Totalizer get up. "Sorry I missed the ball and cost us the game guys." Arc-Dash walked up to Totalizer and put a hand on his shoulder. "Hey it's ok man. There's always another game." Totalizer felt a lot better from hearing that. The two teams then lined up to congratulate each other on a good game.

Metabee then went over to Brass. "Hey Brass you got a minute?" "Sure Metabee what's up?" "I just wanted to say that was a cool move you pulled off this game. You're really incredible sometimes." Brass giggled a little bit at Metabee's praise."Aw thanks Metabee. You weren't too bad out there yourself." Brass gave Metabee a light jab to the shoulder.

Metabee felt nothing but bliss every time he heard her laugh. Then again he felt bliss every time he spent time with her. For the longest time Metabee had been slowly growing feelings for Brass. Ever since he first met her he felt something special about her but didn't know what it was until 2 years ago when they started attending classes together.

Ever since then he's been trying to find the right way to tell her how he feels. Unfortunately every time he tried it felt like his voice would freeze up. The school bell rang signaling the end of lunch period. Brass turned to Metabee. "Well guess I better get to my next class." She started to walk away when Metabee called out to her. "Hey Brass?" She turned toward him. "Yes?" Metabee paused a moment before speaking. "See ya later." "See ya." Brass walked off to her next class. As Metabee cursed himself for once again not being able to tell her his feelings.

(Rubber Robo Gang hideout)

Within the hideout people were hard at work combing the computer files they downloaded from the stock exchange. With Dr. Meda-Evil overseeing everything. Sea slug walked up, handing the doctor a computer pad detailing all the progress made so far.

Upon looking at the screen Meda-Evil grinned evilly. "Excellent. Most excellent." "Yeah but I still don't get it. Why break into the stock exchange only to snatch the transaction records?" Meda-Evil turned to him slightly annoyed. "Building an empire takes time and resources. And these records will help us find the right place to do that." Sea slug then looked over at Kaizen who was busy with a project of his own.

"Ok but what about him? Ever since we got back he's done nothing but surf the net." Meda-Evil was also curious as to why that is. Upon their return he sensed a great deal of tension coming from Cosmicon and his generals. So much so that he ordered Kaizen to scour the net for any information pertaining to a subject he neglected to share with the good doctor.

Not long after Sea slug brought it up Kaizen departed from the computer and proceeded to leave the room. Sea slug leaned over. "Whatcha suppose that's about?" "I'm not quite sure." A few moments later Kaizen came back and walked up to the two of them. "Lord Cosmicon would like to speak with you Doctor." "Of course. I'll be right there." Kaizen walks back out of the room. Meda-Evil turned to Sea slug. "Continue combing through the records. Notify me of the progress later." "Sure thing doc."

With that Meda-Evil followed Kaizen toward what served as Cosmicon's quarters. They entered the room where Cosmicon could be seen overlooking a map on the table with his back to them. Kaizen then stepped forward. "Lord Cosmicon, Dr. Meda-Evil as you requested." "Thank you Kaizen. Now leave us." Kaizen bowed his head and walked out of the room.

Meda-Evil felt like a massive weight had been placed on top of him. Cosmicon turned away from the table. "Tell me something doctor, Is your memory faulty?" Meda-Evil's expression turned from nervous to confused. "I'm sorry?" "Your memory banks. Are they in any way damaged?" "If this is related to Rokusho's interference I can assure you I had no idea he was still-" "Rokusho is only part of it! I'm referring to the fact that you failed to mention your organization encountering a certain medabot who goes by the name of Metabee."

Meda-Evil could feel the glare of Cosmicon's eyes boring into his head. "Wh-wh-what about him?" Cosmicon loomed over him like a death shroud. "Shall I tell you a story doctor?" Meda-Evil nodded nervously. "A long time ago there were two great warriors. One day one of the warriors decided they wanted things to change. That they should share their people's world with a bunch of primitive savages." As he was talking Cosmicon reached out and grasped Meda-Evil's throat.

Lifting him off the ground. "Now the other warrior argued against the idea. Claimed such creatures had no right to be part of their great world. So the first warrior decides the best way to settle this argument would be to seal the other warrior away." At that last word Cosmicon began to squeeze Meda-Evil's throat. "You do know where I'm going with this don't you?" "[Choking] I-I-I can t-t-take a guess." Cosmicon releases the doctor, dropping him to the floor.

Cosmicon turned and walked back to the table. "You see we go back a LONG way this 'Metabee' and I. We have what you may refer to as 'unfinished business'. And this time I'm going to make. Him. Pay!" Though he couldn't see it, Meda-Evil could feel the fury in Cosmicon's eyes.

As the doctor got back up Cosmicon made a gesture with his hand. Stepping out of the shadows Bloodbeetle walked up to Cosmicon who began whispering in his ear. Upon receiving his orders Bloodbeetle nodded and returned to the shadows.

Meda-Evil turned to leave when Cosmicon called him again. "And doctor?"

Meda-Evil froze and slowly turned around. "If I find you've kept anything else from me. I'll allow Metacronus to tear you apart to see what makes you tick. Is that clear?" "V-V-Very clear lord Cosmicon." With that he left the room. Leaving Cosmicon to continue going over the map.

(School)

During their final class of the day Ikki and his friends focused to the best of their abilities on the lesson. Well most of them were. Close to the back Zuru's thoughts were not on the lesson but on the events that transpired the other night.

So many questions swam around in his head. 'Who were those two bots on the bridge?' 'What were they after?' 'What kind of files did they take from the stock exchange?' He had spent most of last night trying to salvage the computer pad he helped retrieve from one of the bots on the bridge.

So far he had turned up nothing. It was like once the download was completed all of the data had been completely erased. He was so focused on his thoughts that he didn't notice that the teacher had been calling his name. "Mr. Zora!" The teacher's shout snapped Zuru out of his thoughts.

He looked up to see the entire class was looking at him. "Perhaps you'd care to repeat the question I just asked?" Zuru stood up. "I'm sorry Mam. My mind was on other things." "Yes well please be sure that it's not a recurring theme." "Yes mam." Zuru sat back down as the teacher continued the lesson.

Ikki looked over at Erika who looked just as worried about Zuru's behavior as he was. She gestured for him to say something. Ikki checked to make sure the teacher wasn't looking before leaning towards Zuru. "Hey Zuru. Zuru." Zuru looked over at Ikki. "Hey you doing ok?" Zuru looked away. "I'm fine." "Really? Because you're usually the most attentive out of all of us in class." Zuru continued to look away. "Come on man. I'm your friend. Talk to me." "Eyes front Mr. Tenryou." Ikki turned around to see the teacher's slightly annoyed expression.

Meanwhile back with the medabots they were all hanging out waiting for their partners. Since medabot classes had a shorter schedule their final class ended 20 minutes ago. Most of them were out in the courtyard talking about all manner of subjects. One of which pertained to the festival happening tonight. For the most part each group was discussing plans for their respective dates each of them made. All except one mech who still hadn't asked a certain femme to be his date.

Metabee just sat there looking over at Brass who was talking to Neutranurse and Peppercat about tonight. He couldn't hear exactly what they were saying but he guessed it was about the festival. Closeby Sumiladon and Arc-Dash had been watching Metabee just sitting there looking at Brass. Until eventually they decided to give their friend a hand and walk over to him. Sumiladon, having known Metabee the longest spoke first. "Hey Metabee." Metabee jumped slightly at his hello but quickly corrected himself. "Oh hey Sumiladon. What's up?" "Well Arc-Dash and I were just talking about what we were gonna do at the festival with Peppercat and Neutranurse. And we thought that it might be cool if you and Brass joined us."

At first Metabee was hopeful about the idea but then immediately thought more realistically. "Appreciate the offer guys but I think it might feel awkward having to hangout with Brass and her date." Arc-Dash spoke up. "Brass doesn't have a date." Metabee turned his head toward him so fast it would've almost spun around like a top. "Wait she doesn't?" "Yeah Peppercat told me herself. I mean a few mechs have asked her but she always politely turned em down." Metabee was in complete disbelief. 'Why would Brass turn every mech that asked her out down?' 'And if that were the case what chance would he have that she wouldn't do the same to him if he asked her?' As these thoughts were processing in Metabee's head Sumiladon and Arc-Dash nodded to each other and each grabbed Metabee's shoulders.

Before Metabee knew it they were making their way towards where their friends were talking. He was just about to protest when Arc-Dash spoke up. "Hey girls. Mind if we cut into the conversation?" All three femmes looked in his direction with Peppercat running right at him and wrapping her arms around his neck in an embrace. "Of course not babe. Or at least I don't mind." It had been no secret that Arc-dash and Peppercat had been dating for almost a year now.

Reluctant to spoil the moment for the two of them Neutranurse spoke up. "So what did you boys want to talk to us about?" Once the moment had passed Arc-Dash and Peppercat returned to their senses and broke apart for him to speak. "Ok so you know that the festivals tonight and that we're all going yeah? So Sumiladon and I were talking and we thought it might be a cool idea to invite Metabee and Brass along. That way we can all go together." Sumiladon walked up to Neutranurse. "That is if it's alright with you." Neutranurse thought for a moment before looking over at Peppercat who was giving her a subtle thumbs up.

Neutranurse then turned back to Sumiladon. "Sure that sounds like a great idea." Peppercat then walked up to Brass swinging an arm around her shoulder. "And I'm Brass here doesn't have any objections. Right Brass?" Having become the center of the conversation Brass became a little embarrassed. Looking down at the ground for a moment before looking back up at Metabee who seemed just as embarrassed but tried his best not to show it. "Well if Metabee"s up for it then I guess I am." At first Metabee was completely surprised by her answer but then quickly tried to act like his usual self by throwing his arms behind his head. "Well yeah I'm up for it. Sounds like fun." He let out a laugh to try and hide the fact that he was internally freaking out.

Arc-Dash came over and slapped Metabee's back. "That settles it then. We're all going to the festival together." They all verbally agreed. A few moments after the bell signaling the end of their partner's final class rang out. Neutranurse turned to everyone. "Ok so we'll all meet up at the festival entrance at around 4:00. Sounds good to everyone?" They all nodded in agreement. "Great see you all then." She then walked off to go find Karin. Peppercat turned to Arc-Dash and gave him one more embrace. "Try not to keep me waiting too long ok babe?" "I'd like to see anybody even try to stop me." The two bots nuzzled for a bit before departing. Peppercat raced off to go find Samantha.

Sumiladon glanced over at Arc-Dash. "You two just can't keep your hands off each other can you?" "What? You saying you wouldn't do the same if it were you and Neutranurse?" Sumiladon soon temporarily lost the capacity for speech in response. "W-Well anyway see you all at the festival tonight." He then ran off to find Koji while Arc-Dash snickered to himself. "Well I'd better be off too. Catch you guys later." He waved off as he went to find Ginkai. Leaving Metabee and Brass all on their own.

The two just stared at each other for a few moments. Both waiting for the other to speak. Until finally Brass broke the silence. "So Erika and Ikki should've been in the same final class today. Would you like to meet up with them together?" "Oh. Uh sure yeah lead the way. [heh heh]" Brass then turned and walked away with Metabee following her.

(City area)

Not long after Ikki, Erika and Zuru were walking home with Metabee, Brass and Gorem-2 close behind. Despite his constant attempts to reassure his friends that nothing was wrong Zuru's body language claimed otherwise. And being the ace school reporter she was Erika wasn't about to let up that easily. "Zuru, obviously somethings been bugging you. If you tell us what it is maybe we can help." "I told you already it's nothing." Zuru's patience was starting to wear thin. Although the same could be said for Erika's patience. That is until she went right ahead and grabbed his shoulders forcing him to face her. "Ok that does it. You're going to tell us exactly what's going on or so help me. I will smash those glasses of yours with my bare fist. Understand!?"

Zuru in complete and total shock looked over at Ikki. "Trust me on this dude. Erika doesn't make threats like that lightly." With that he let out a deep sigh and faced Erika. "Alright I'll tell you, but not today and especially not here." Erika let him go. "Why not?" Zuru looked around. "Because it isn't safe here. We need somewhere else to talk." Ikki thought for a moment and spoke up. "I think I know a place." Zuru and Erika looked over to him. "Where?" "At Henry's old shop. And sure he wouldn't mind if we hung out there." Zuru seemed skeptical. "Are you sure that's a good idea?" Erika spoke up. "Don't worry Henry is an old friend of ours. I think you'll like him" Zuru thought for a moment but eventually nodded in agreement. "Ok then we'll meet there tomorrow after school." "Great I'll text you the address when me and Brass get home." "Speaking of which me and Gorem-2 should be heading home now. Catch you guys later." "Yeah see ya."

Zuru called over to Gorem-2 who had been talking with Metabee and Brass in the background. "Well guys I guess I should get going now. Oh but have fun at the festival tonight ok?" "Thanks man we will." Gorem-2 made his way over to Zuru before turning around and waving goodbye to his friends. Metabee and Brass waved back and proceeded to catch up to Ikki and Erika. "What do you suppose Miss Erika was yelling at Zuru about?" "No idea but I'm sure they'll be able to work things out." "Yes I think so too." Once they were caught up with their partners they noticed that both Ikki and Erika had concerned looks on their faces. "Is everything alright Miss Erika?" "Oh yeah everythings fine Brass. No need to worry." Erika put on a smile hoping it would put Brass at ease. While she wasn't entirely convinced Brass didn't push the subject any further.

Metabee wanted to ask but he knew Ikki well enough to know that if it was important enough he'll be sure to tell him. There was a brief silence until Ikki decided to speak up. "So anyway I heard that the annual festival is tonight. Are you and Brass thinking about going Metabee?" "Uh well uh you see um." "As a matter of fact Ikki Metabee and I will be attending with our friends Sumiladon, Neutranurse, Arc-Dash and Peppercat." "Oh thats cool." Erika chimed in. "Well it sounds like you guys are gonna have a terrific time." "I hope so Miss Erika." Brass may have been excited but Metabee on the other hand was trying his best not to panic.

When Ikki noticed this he decided to have a little fun with Metabee. "You know Brass , they say the best way to enjoy the festival is to do it with someone you really like. Wouldn't you agree Metabee?" Metabee stiffend a little at that question but before he could come up with some kind of answer Erika spoke up. "Well there's our house. Guess Brass will be seeing you and the others later tonight huh Metabee?" "Um, Yeah of course. I can't wait." Ikki snickered a little. "I'm sure you can't. [heh heh]" Metabee shot him a glare just as Ikki looked away whistling to himself. "Well then see you later tonight Metabee." Metabee quickly turned back to Brass clearing his throat before speaking. "Yeah see ya later." With that Erika and Brass went inside the house leaving Metabee to finally have the chance to let out his wrath for Ikki teasing him in front of them.

(Festival)

A few hours later and after having to deal with Ikki's constant immature quips about Metabee going on a date with Brass, Metabee made his way to the festival main entrance. Once there he started looking to see if the others had arrived yet. At first it seemed like he was the first to show up until he spotted everyone waving him over to where they were. Metabee waved back and headed on over to join them. Arc-Dash was the first to greet him. "Hey Metabee you made it. For a moment we were afraid you weren't gonna turn up or something." "Sorry about the wait guys. I had some much deserved pay back to inflict on Ikki." Peppercat popped up next to Arc-Dash. "Well I hope you scorched him good then." Her comment elicited a laugh from everyone.

Sumiladon spoke up next "Well let's not waste anymore time. Shall we?" Neutranurse spoke up next. "Yes let's head inside and enjoy the festival." With that they all walked through the entrance. Inside there were paper lanterns illuminating the streets. Games and food vendors at every corner. And at the center of the festival, a circular area to allow dancing. It was truly a sight to behold. And they all made sure to enjoy every bit of it. Arc-Dash and Metabee participated in a shooting game where it was a close tie between the two of them. Brass and Neutranurse played a game of ring toss. Peppercat took part in a test of strength punching game and nearly broke the machine. Earning a congratulatory hug from Arc-Dash.

Sumiladon of course tried his hand at darts and managed to win a stuffed animal for Neutranurse who thanked him by placing her faceplate to the side of his. The sign of gratitude nearly making him glow red in response. Until finally they all sat down to enjoy the fireworks show overhead. Metabee sat close to Brass and watched her admire the fireworks. He then looked down at her hand and slowly tried to place him on top. When Brass noticed Metabee inching closer and turned metabee immediately pulled back pretending he was swatting a bug away.

Eventually they all made it to the dance circle area where each of them were showing off their best moves. While meanwhile overhead a shadowy figure was watching them. Especially Metabee. Bloodbeetle was tempted to blast him right then and there but he remembered Cosmicon's orders. 'Find him and observe him only. Under no circumstances are you to engage in combat.' Letting out an annoyed sigh Bloodbeetle lowered his blaster and continued to observe.

Back on the dance floor the dj made an announcement. "All right, listen up everyone. Now it's time we let all the couples come out to the floor and show off their stuff." Everyone started cheering and pairing off to start dancing. Metabee on the other hand started to go off to the side until Sumliadon grabbed his shoulder. "Hey where are you going?" "I'm just gonna hang back and watch." "You sure? Because I think you'd be missing out." "Yeah man and besides I don't have a partner." "Well I think I can see someone who can help with that." Sumiladon gestured over to Brass who was standing by herself watching everybody pair off.

Metabee started to feel himself freeze up. "Go on man. Whatcha waiting for?" Sumiladon giving Metabee a light push forward. "Yeah I don't know Sumiladon. I mean she might not even want to dance." "You never know until you try." With that Metabee mustered up all his courage and walked over to Brass. Once he was close enough he cleared his throat to get her attention. She turned to him. Metabee could feel himself start to freeze up but did his best to fight it. "B-Brass?" "Yes?" Metabee slowly reached out his hand to her. "W-W-Would you maybe…" Brass looked at him slightly confused. "W-W-W-Would you like t-t-to da…" A miniature Metabee popped up next to his head "OH JUST SPIT IT OUT!" He then proceeded to kick Metabee in the back of the head. "Brass would you like to dance with me?" Brass giggled a bit before taking his hand. "I'd love to."

*Better When I'm Dancin' begins to play

Metabee and Brass stepped up onto the dance floor and before long they were dancing to the beat of the song. Their movements earned praises from both onlookers and their friends alike. Metabee spun Brass a few times before extending his arm out to swing her to one side pulling her back into a dip. Close up they were both able to look into each other's eyes. Metabee wished that this moment would never end.

Back with Bloodbeetle he uttered out a sound of surprise upon seeing Metabee dancing with Brass. 'It can't be.' His thoughts of astonishment were interrupted by someone striking him from behind. He recovered and faced his attacker realizing it was Rokusho. "You just don't quit do you?" "I assume neither do you." Rokusho blocked Bloodbeetle's incoming blade with his own. The two clashed blades before Bloodbeetle proceeded to kick Rokusho down towards the ground below. Rokusho reacted quickly and grabbed a string of paper lanterns to stop his fall. Bloodbeetle leaped over to him aiming his blaster to shoot him.

Rokusho used his blade to cut the string and swing out of the way of the blasts. Rokusho landed right in the dance circle surprising everyone and stopping the music. Metabee and Brass starred in surprise at their friend. "Rokusho?" Before anyone could say a word Bloodbeetle charged at Rokusho swinging his energy blades at him. Rokusho turned and blocked but was pushed back a few feet. "METABEE! GET EVERYONE OUT OF HERE! NOW!" Metabee and Brass wasted no time helping their friends get everyone out to safety. Leaving Rokusho to face Bloodbeetle alone. And while Rokusho was able to hold his own for now Bloodbeetle was quick to start gaining the advantage.

Back with Metabee and the others they managed to start getting people to the exit. "Ok guys make sure everybody gets out ok." "What are you gonna do?" "I'm going to go help Rokusho fight that creep." Metabee then ran off back to where the fight was. Brass attempting to call out to him. "Metabee wait!" Metabee charged back through the crowds to get back to his friend.

Rokusho continued blocking every attack Bloodbeetle threw at him but eventually he was unable to match his speed and started taking serious damage. One final strike sent Rokusho flying towards the stage. Smashing into the dj equipment. When he tried to get back up he felt Bloodbeetle's foot stomp down on his chest. Bloodbeetle staring down at him. "You don't know how long I've waited for this Rokusho." "I imagine it's been quite awhile." "Defiant to the end." Bloodbeetle raises his blades. "How admirable." Bloodbeetle gets ready to finish him off.

"YO DRACU-BOT!" Bloodbeetle turns just in time to dodge Metabee's machine gun fire. Bloodbeetle flies through the air continuing to dodge Metabee's fire before aiming and blasting at him. Metabee quickly dodge rolls behind cover. Metabee takes a second to catch his breath. "Hello there Kayamou. It's been a long time." Metabee became confused. "What's it been 5-10 thousand years?" Metabee couldn't understand what Bloodbeetle was talking about. "Hey man I think you've got the wrong bot." "Oh come now. Is that anyway to treat old friends?" "I don't know what you're talking about." Metabee peeked out to try to get a beat on Bloodbeetle only to duck again from blaster fire. "Now don't tell me that living in this era has ruined your memory as well as your aim?"

Metabee glanced over at Rokusho who was still lying on the ground. "Well I suppose it doesn't really matter." Metabee looked around to try and find a way to change cover when he spotted Brass peeking out from behind a vendor. She was signaling him that she would go around to flank Bloodbeetle to draw him out so that Metabee could blast him. Metabee nodded in agreement. "After all, I still remember you. And more importantly my master does too." "Yeah? And who's that?" Bloodbeetle's laugh echoed throughout the area. "You really don't remember anything do you Kayamou?" Bloodbeetle took aim at where Metabee was hiding ready to fire. "Well then allow me to refresh your memory." Just as he was about to fire Brass blasted at him forcing him out of cover to dodge and counter. Before he could however he saw Metabee aiming his right arm directly at him. "Refresh this!" Metabee fired and hit Bloodbeetle square in the shoulder sending him flying. He crashed right into a nearby game tent.

Metabee looked over at Rokusho who was being helped up by Brass. "Are you alright?" "I'm fine! Get him!" Rokusho pointed to where Bloodbeetle fell. Metabee ran right over to shift through the rubble. Only to find no trace of Bloodbeetle. Metabee ran back over to Rokusho and Brass. "He's gone." "For now." Rokusho attempted to stand only to have to be caught by Brass. "Hey! Take it easy. You're pretty badly damaged." "I have to go and find him again. Can't let him escape again. [ugh]" Rokusho collapsed again eventually falling unconscious. "Metabee help me with this." Metabee came over to help carry Rokusho. "We need to take him somewhere to get fixed up." Metabee thought for a moment. "I know just the place."

(Rubber Robo Gang hideout)

Bloodbeetle re emerged from the shadows grasping his shoulder before collapsing onto the floor. "[ugh] Damn that hurts!" He looked up to see Cosmicon looking down at him. "I thought I was clear that you were to observe only." "Yeah well tell that to Rokusho." Meda-Evil stepped forward. "Rokusho was there?" "Yeah. And I nearly had his medal in the palm of my hands until Kayamou intervened." Upon hearing that name Cosicon's eyes glowed red. "So he did see you!?" "Yeah but I have two pieces of good news you might like to hear." Cosmicon's eyes returned to their emerald color. "Report then." Bloodbeetle stood up before him. "It would appear that Kayamou has lost his memories." "What?" Kaizen spoke up. "Are you certain of this?" Bloodbeetle turned to him. "The mech didn't even recognize his own name." Cosmicon brought his hand up in thought. "Interesting. Doctor see to it that Bloodbeetle is repaired. I want him in fighting shape." "Yes lord Cosmicon." Cosmicon turned to Aracno-droid. "And I want you to take care of Kayamou for me."

Aracno-droid cracked his metallic knuckles in anticipation. "Don't worry boss. I'll scrap him good for ya." "No." Everyone became shocked at Cosmicon's response. "You can kill Rokusho. But I want Kayamou ALIVE." Metacronus scoffed at Cosmicon's orders. "Oh why the hell not? He's the one who put us all on ice to begin with. That's more than enough reason to scrap him." Cosmicon went over to Metacronus and grasped him by the throat. "Do you really think it's a coincidence that we happened to awaken in the same country, the same city, the same ERA as them? Nothing is a coincidence." Cosmicon released Metacronus who gasped out clutching his neck.

As Meda-Evil was escorting Bloodbeetle out Cosmicon turned to them. "Wait." They both turned toward him. "You said there was a second piece of good news." Bloodbeetle stepped forward. "Oh yes there is. And I think you'll enjoy hearing this the MOST." "Well what is it?" "It turns out it's not just Rokusho and Kayamou who are still around. She's here too." Cosmicon stepped forward with surprise on his face. "That's not possible." "It's true my lord. I saw her myself." Cosmicon turned to address his other generals. "It seems fate continues to smile upon us."

(Nae's repair shop)

Rokusho was laying on the table while Nae was fixing up his armor. Her medabot Honey passed her the different tools she required. Nae stood up and wiped her brow. She then turned to Metabee and Brass. "Ok the physical repairs are done. All he needs now is an overnight recharge and he'll be good as new." "Thank you Miss Nae." "Yeah I knew if anybody could fix him up it's you." Nae rubbed the back of her head with a bashful look on her face. "Well it certainly wasn't easy. It looks as though your friend has been in quite a few battles." "You have no idea." "Well anyway you can come by to check up on him tomorrow to see how he's doing." "You got it." "Thank you again Miss Nae." Metabee and Brass left the shop as Nae waved them off.

Afterwards she looked back over at Rokusho recharging on the table. "Never thought I'd see you again." She sat down right next to him on the table. "Wonder what you've gotten yourself into this time?"

(Erika's house)

Metabee walked Brass back to her house after they left Nae's repair shop. They'd both been quiet for the entire walk over. Finally they walked up to the front door. "Well, Here we are." Brass turned to Metabee. "Thanks for walking me home." "No problem. I'm just sorry your night got ruined." Brass looked at Metabee confused. "What do you mean?" "You know how that creep came down and wrecked everything. You must be really disappointed huh?" "Well I can admit the ending wasn't quite so ideal but I wouldn't say the night was a total loss." "Wait really?" Brass nodded. "After all now I know you can dance." Brass nudged Metabee's arm, earning a laugh from both of them.

Brass then came over and hugged Metabee, surprising him. "I really did have a great time tonight." Metabee relaxed and hugged her back. "Me too." Brass pulled back and looked at Metabee. "Well I'd better go inside. Goodnight Metabee." "Yeah goodnight Brass." Metabee started to walk away when he heard Brass call to him. "Oh. Metabee wait I almost forgot." Metabee turned around. "What did you-" Before he could finish his question Brass came up and lightly touched her faceplate to the side of his. Metabee stood frozen as Brass headed back inside before turning around toward him. "Goodnight Metabee. And thank you for the most wonderful night."

Brass closed the door leaving Metabee standing frozen outside. Once he fully processed what just happened Metabee ran off and leaped into the air. His silhouette clashes with the full moon. This had been without a doubt the best night of Metabee's life.

HOLY CRAP DID THIS TAKE AWHILE! Hope you guys all enjoyed this possibly one of the longest chapters I have ever written. As you can see I've made HUGE improvements from the last time I posted.

Also I'd like to announce that I shall be posting a new chapter every other weekend (either on saturday or sunday depending which is more convenient) Anyway stay tuned for the next exciting chapter: Beetle Vs Spider.

Till then this is Tardispilot297 saying ALLONSY!