In memory of
Ken Spears
Interlude; Countdown to The Crisis, Part 1.
November 20X4.
Two days before Thanksgiving.
Silence... Nothing but pure, still silence.
It has been one month since the fall of Skull Fortress and the capture of the world's most wanted criminal: Dr. Albert W. Wily.
The world he once sought to conquer has been at peace ever since Wily's capture, and its citizens no longer live in fear of another destructive attack.
Now, the mad scientist remains in a solitary jail cell at a facility so secure and secretive, he has no idea exactly where he is. And none of the guards are ever allowed to let slip their location either.
Dr. Wily has been a model prisoner during his incarceration. He has not attempted escape, nor has he become violent or unruly. In fact, ever since he was jailed, he has not even seen any other prisoners. So he has not been in any fights either.
All the mad doctor has been doing here is thinking, and a lot of it.
A low 'boop-boop' noise is heard, followed by a single flashing light above the door of Wily's cell. The sound breaks the silence, and signifies that it is 'Lights Out' time.
Dr. Wily gets his marker, entirely made of flexible rubber to prevent him from using it as a weapon, and stands from his flat bed, approaching the wall and making another mark alongside the other ones, signifying another day gone.
As Wily quickly counts the marks he has made on that wall, he surmises that with the amount of time that has passed, it has been one month since he was captured by Mega Man.
Dr. Wily would not dare say it out loud, in case whoever runs this prison is listening in, but he thinks it... One month down... Eight to go.
In Eight months time, Zero will take his first steps and Dr. Wily he expects (or hopes) that his ultimate robot will come and free him, so that he can rekindle the war and finally snuff out Mega Man for good.
All Dr. Wily has to do is withstand another eight months here, alone in this cell, enduring the silence.
As the boop-boop sound ends, the lights go out in Dr. Wily's cell and the long corridor leading to it, leaving only a few very dim lights on inside, just enough to see without hindering sleep.
Wily walks back to his flat bed and lies down on it, staring at the ceiling and hearing nothing but his own breathing.
He dreads that silence, because he knows what is coming next. If only there was some white noise in here, it would not be so silent in here. But, there is no noise to drown out the silence.
As more time goes by, the silence remains still, and after a while it is so silent that his ears begin to ring, almost like a case of Tinnitus, but more intense.
The ringing only worsens after several second, making the silence loud.
This is the hardest part of being locked away here, wherever here is. Trying to sleep but being completely submerged in silence and near total darkness.
If there is a simulation of what purgatory must feel like, this must be it.
As the ringing in Dr. Wily's ears worsens, his face winces. It is painful now. The sound of his own breathing intensifying helps break that deafening silence, but not much. The ringing in Wily's ears now sounds more like a low level humming.
This sensory overload combined with the thought of being locked up in here, having to endure another eight months of it begins to weigh on Dr. Wily, and he suddenly begins slapping the sides of his head, almost growling as he does it.
He then suddenly sits straight up and shouts aloud, "STOP IT!"
After hearing his own voice and panting heavily, that ringing eases down. Wily then rubs his ears with his hands until that forsaken ringing finally goes away.
It will be back. It comes back every night. It might even come back later. But, for now, it's gone.
Dr. Wily slumps back down in his less than comfortable bed, breathing through his mouth. Though the silence no longer gets to him, he is still simmering with anger.
While he is stuck here, Wily knows that his old friend Thomas Light is probably resting comfortably in a nice soft bed, enjoying all the creature comforts one can indulge.
But, the ire deep in Albert Wily's calloused heart (assuming he has one) burns hottest for Mega Man. In Albert's mind, Mega Man is the one most responsible for al this, even more than Thomas Light.
It gets under Albert's skin that Mega Man has surely been living the best life a robot can live. So happy, while Wily is miserable here.
Mega Man has his dear friends, including that Cossack girl, and his family at home... with ProtoMan as his brother... Wily even wonders if they took Bass in as well. But, Wily quickly turns his thoughts away from Bass... the less he thinks of Bass, the better.
No matter what part Bass played in his downfall, Dr. Wily's anger remains focused more on Mega Man. He is the one who ended the war. He is the one who recieves all the love and public adoration Albert himself always wanted.
Mega Man is a hero; Albert Wily is a loser... and that gets angers Wily more than anything.
As the saying goes, the Defender is living rent-free in Dr. Wily's head.
Dr. Wily stares at the ceiling of his cell again and in a gravely tone, he angrily curses at Mega Man... "I hate you."
The next day.
New York City.
One month ago, these streets were filled with humans and robots, jubilantly celebrating the capture of Dr. Wily. Just one month later, it is business as usual here in the city, but peace has finally reigned supreme.
But, you cannot convince some of the motorists of Manhattan to have the most peaceful exchanges during Thanksgiving week traffic.
"Watch where ya' walkin'!" a driver can be heard shouting at a pedestrian as they walk across the street, paying little regard to traffic.
On the busy sidewalk across the way, the exchange is overheard by a particular human-looking robot who walks among the humans... a robot with bushy brown hair, wearing all blue clothing and who was once the Defender of the Human Race.
He was known by many as Mega Man. Now, he chooses to go by his real name: Rock Light.
As Rock makes his way down the street, passing many of the citizens along his way, he finds it interesting that so many of them don't seem to recognize him without the blue and cyan armor, oblivious to the fact that they were just in the presence of Mega Man himself.
If Rock were still in full Mega Man form, even if he had just the helmet on, he would have been surrounded here in the middle of the street by the grateful people.
Every now and then, someone will recognize his face or his voice, and then comes the praise and adoration. But, for the most part, Rock blends in along with everybody else. Roll and Dr. Light get recognized far more often than Rock now.
But, Rock does not mind the reduced fame and visibility. He wanted to live a normal, peaceful life after the war was over, and now he can. And he is enjoying this new, peaceful life.
And unlike Dr. Wily, whose thoughts dwell on Mega Man every day, Rock has barely even thought about Wily ever since he was captured.
In the meantime, Rock is making his way to a florist to pick up some flowers for a very special girl named Kalinka Cossack. There was no particular reason or occasion Rock was getting her flowers other than he wanted her to have them, because he loves her.
Besides, he likes that mushy and tingly feeling inside when he gifts something to her. If she is happy, he is happy too.
After Rock reaches the florist shop, a place loaded with flowers and gifts, the scent of the multitude of flowers hit his aroma sensors almost instantly. Also, he notices someone behind the counter as he approaches. Rock thought the young man looked familiar, but upon closer examination, Rock recognizes him.
He looks much different from the last time they met, but Rock knows this is Castor, Officer Lynn Wersching's brother.
Last time they met, Castor was sickly-looking with greyish skin, thanks to years of drug abuse. His hair was grown out and half bleached as well, with his natural red hair blending in with dyed blonde ends. Today, Castor's hair is fully dyed blond and cut short, the color is back in his face and he looks healthy. Even his teeth, which were half-missing two years ago, have been repaired.
The fact that Castor is even alive, let alone healthy and sober, is a miracle. And it would never have happened were it not for Mega Man's coincidentally encountering him nearly two years ago.
Rock approaches the counter and Castor, not recognizing him at first, asks, "What can I do you for, pal?"
Rock answers, "I'd like a small bouquet. Mostly white roses and a few blue ones, please."
"Okay..." Castor replies, pausing for a moment before looking at Rock again, recognizing his voice.
Rock smiles, "You look a lot different since the last time we met, too."
"Mega Man?!" Castor asks.
"Used to be," Rock answers, "I'm retired from the hero business now."
"Aw, man!" Castor says, reaching over the counter to give Rock handshake which resembles more of a high five than a proper handshake.
As Rock reciprocates, Castor asks. "How've you been, man?"
"I can't complain. You look a lot better since last time."
"Yeah. It wasn't fun goin' to rehab, but, I'm okay now. I got patched up in the hospital, too. I messed myself up pretty bad. Said I was pretty close to checkin' out. If it weren't for you and sis... you know... I'd be in the dirt."
Rock says, "I'm glad I was able to help. Your sister was really worried about you long she found you."
"She's the only one who never gave up on me." Castor adds, "Hey, guess what! She's gettin' a promotion soon. Sergeant, or something big like that."
"That's great! Tell her I said congrats," Rock says. "I'm glad to see you're doing good too. I wasn't expecting to see you working in a florist."
Castor shrugs his shoulders with that crooked grin of his. "It's a livin'. I wanted to work at the video game store down the street here. I know more about games then flowers. But, they said they aren't hirin' now."
Rock suggests, "Well, maybe if a certain retired Defender of the Human Race put the good word in for you, they might change their mind."
"You'd do that?"
"Sure."
Castor smiles, "Thanks, man."
Then, a short balding man who is the manager of the florist comes to the counter, asking Castor, "Is there a reason for the delay, Mr. Wersching?"
"Sorry, sir. This is an old friend of mine here," Castor says, folding his arms and looking proud with that grin again.
"Yes, sir. We haven't seen each other in a while," Rock says.
Once the manager hears Rock's voice and studies his face, he realizes just who is in his presence. "You! You're Muh-muh-muh... Mega Man?!"
Castor grins, "Told ya' I had some good friends."
The manager babbles, "I didn't recognize you without all the stuff on you! Thank you! Thank you for everything you've done for us, and for the city! You know what? Castor, whatever Mega Man wants, it's on me."
Rock insists, "You don't have to do that, sir."
"No, I insist. I owe you. We all owe you. After putting that creep Wily away, you can have anything you want," The manager says. "Castor, give him want he wanted, plus extra."
"You got it, boss. Be right back," Castor says as he heads out.
As Castor heads over to prepare Rock's bouquet for Kalinka, the humble Rock tries to pay for it anyway.
"Really, sir, you don't have to do this. I'll gladly pay," Rock insists.
"Nah, nah, nah! This is the least we can do. Hey... why are you retired? Why don't you come back?"
"There are no more battles to fight. Hopefully, there never will be again," Rock answers.
"Ah, come on," The manager says, "Even with Wily gone, there's still a little more butt left to kick ion this world."
"Those backsides can be kicked just fine without my help. My family and I only fought the bad guys who were too strong for anyone else to handle."
"Okay, I understand. But, we miss you already," the man says. "You're a New Yorker, you know. You've been there for us. We'll all be there for you, no matter what."
Rock smiles, "Thank you, sir. But, I was just doing my job."
Rock cannot help but feel humbled by the portly flower shop manager's comments. His time as Mega Man must have really meant something to people. But, it does not sway Rock's plans for the future. He is retired from the Defender business, hopefully for good. He just doesn't want to fight anymore.
Shortly thereafter, on his way out of the florist with his gift for Kalinka in hand, Rock spots a newspaper kiosk, both sporting physical newspaper copies and digital downloads of the publications. One headline catches his attention, mentioning an unexplained case of vigilantism on the west coast.
The headline itself reads, "VIGILANTE RETURNS. Rogue robot could be responsible for violent capture of criminals."
Rock has a feeling that this is the work of Bass and Treble, who had previously played vigilante in the final months of the war. Even though they are targeting evildoers instead of innocent humans or robots, Rock feels uncomfortable with the idea of justice being carried out the way Bass prefers.
And the idea of Bass being on the loose is cause for concern anyway, because as long as even one unrehabilitated Wily robot is out there, there is always a chance Wily could get free again, even if it would be extremely difficult to pull off.
Even though Bass stepped aside during the final battle at Skull Fortress, thus allowing Rock and his siblings to face Dr. Wily, Rock does not fully trust Bass like Roll seems to. After all, it is difficult for Rock to trust someone who repeatedly tried to violently kill him.
For now, Rock cannot let those thoughts get in the way. So, he continues walking with his flowery gift to visit Kalinka.
At a College Campus elsewhere in the city.
After a walking a good distance here, Rock arrives to the campus arena, where the ice skating rink is located. Kalinka said she would be here practicing her skating routines today, and Rock figured this would likely be the best place to find her.
Kalinka has been doing well since enrolling here. It would have been a bit late in the semester for her to start, but because of who she was and her time already spent studying in Russia, she was able to begin courses here after the semester had already begun, rather than waiting for the next one to start later on.
The arena is pretty much empty tonight, aside from Kalinka and some staff members and robot security guard elsewhere in the building. As he enters, Rock can already hear the sound of the song Ave Maria playing on the loudspeakers, and when he looks out to the center of the arena, he spots Kalinka skating on the ice rink.
Rock takes a seat in one of the seats on the arena's lower concourse close by the rink and watches Kalinka, who is oblivious to the fact that Rock is here.
Kalinka skates to the beautiful music and seems to have no problem performing several of the moves and techniques she previously had trouble with a month ago. She is dressed in a light blue and white skating dress, and her blond hair pulled into a short ponytail. Normally, one would not practice looking like they are ready for a performance, but Kalinka knew Rock would be here tonight and wanted to look her best.
It is certainly working, because Rock is just as captivated with her now as he was the first time he met her nearly two years ago. He still feels amazed that he can finally spend time with her all the time now instead of having to do so briefly and via video calls.
Like that first day after the end of the war, it feels almost too good to be real. But, it is real.
As the music reaches crescendo and Kalinka performs her last move, holing her arms upward for the imaginary audience, she quickly learns that there is one audience member here and applauding her.
She looks over her shoulder and sees Rock standing and clapping his hands. She happily waves to him and skates to the far end of the rink where he is now.
"I'm not an expert on figure skating, but that was incredible," Rock compliments.
"Thank you so much," Kalinka says as she reaches Rock, almost blushing as she gives him a kiss on the cheek as she reaches the rink wall.
After the kiss, Kalinka asks, "How do I look in this dress?"
"You look great! Of course, you always look great. So, you don't need to worry about that. Oh! I almost forgot. I have something for you..."
Rock picks up the flowers her picked up for Kalinka and offers them to her. "Here. I wanted you to have these."
Kalinka accepts them and smiles. "Thank you, so much, Angel! Thank you!"
"I figured the last ones needed swapping out by now. And I wanted you to have them," Rock says, barely able to keep his those happy jitters inside. He still gets them when he is in Kalinka's presence.
"If you keep skating that good, I'll have to get you a gold medal instead of flowers."
Kalinka blushes, "Oh, you are just being nice."
"No, I mean it," Rock insists. "I'm just glad I could finally watch you perform."
"Now that I know you were here, it feels just as special as a performance on the world's biggest stage," Kalinka says. "Although, I kind of wish sometimes you could be out here with me."
"That can be arranged," Rock grins, stepping over the rink wall and onto the ice.
"Be careful. You don't have skates," Kalinka pleas, putting Rock's flowers down for now.
"Don't worry. I've got enough stabilizing dampeners built into my feet I can tread well on just about any surface," Rock says.
Rock offers his hand to Kalinka and she takes it as the two lovebirds begin travelling around the rink, with Kalinka skating next to Rock, who walks on the ice as easily as he would any another surface.
Rock asks, "How's your dad doing?"
"He is well, though he says he misses me. I just wish he was here, not stuck at home working on whatever his big project is. He still does not tell me much about it," Kalinka answers. "I try asking about it, but it is a big secret because government is involved."
"I kind of know the feeling," Rock says, referring to Dr. Light's own big project which he says will take robotics to the next stage.
"Say, uh, with tomorrow being Thanksgiving, and since your family is back home, my father and I wanted to invite you over to our place for dinner. If you don't mind, of course."
"Really? I would love to! I can't think of anyone else I'd rather spend my first American holiday with."
"Great! I'll tell them to leave a seat open." Rock then says.
Kalinka suggests, "You mentioned in the past a large parade here every year, by the department store. Maybe we could do that tomorrow too."
"Sure! I've actually been a part of one of those after I became Mega Man. It'll be nice to actually watch one instead," Rock replies. Then, he smiles to Kalinka, "Watching it with you makes it even better."
Rock then adds, "It's really great to see you happy again. You seemed pretty down those last few weeks at your old college."
"It was more difficult than I wanted, yes. The students there didn't make it any easier. But, I already like it better here," Kalinka says. "But, it is even better to see you happy, Rock. I don't think I have ever seen you look so happy."
"That's because I'm with you a lot more," Rock says to a blushing Kalinka. "And with the war over, I feel so much better," he adds, looking relieved.
"The weight of the world is finally off us all. I don't have to worry about anybody else being hurt or dying. Better yet, I don't have to live in armor anymore. I just wish I could have stopped it all earlier."
"But, what matters is you did stop it. Now, we can look forward to the future. You made it a good one," Kalinka encourages.
"Yes. We all did," Rock smiles.
As the pair continues moving around the rink, Rock lets go of Kalinka's hand for the moment and presses the yellow keys on his left forearm, which is still equipped with his plasma buster in case he would ever need it again.
"This place could use a little music. It's kind of awkward with all the silence," Rock says.
"I didn't know you could do that," Kalinka says.
"Oh, yeah. Remember that time when Wily had a mind control signal imbedded in music?"
"Yes," Kalinka nods. "Something about people going to Mount Shasta."
"Yeah. Well, as a countermeasure, I had something installed just in case he tried that again. It cuts off the feed of the audio equipment with something else."
Rock adds, "I hope you don't mind the song I just picked. It's not quite as vintage as the songs you and my dad like. If Proto was here, he'd probably call me a big dork. And Roll would probably take control of the system herself and play a heavy metal song instead."
"I trust your taste in music," Kalinka says.
"Thanks. You might be the only one," Rock replies, almost sheepishly. After pressing another key on his forearm pad, he says, "Here goes..."
Shortly thereafter, a song plays on the arena loudspeaker that has a persistent beat with a mix of different instruments and has a catchy melody that is easy to dance to. It is from the late 1970's of the 20th century.
In other words: Disco music. The same kind the VickBot 9000 dances to on tour.
Kalinka listens to the music for a moment and then sways to the beat. "It sounds good to me."
"Are you only saying that because you're my girlfriend?" Rock asks.
"No, I like the sound. I could even skate to something like this... You know, since we are here, Rock, maybe you could practice with me!"
Rock shrugs nervously, "I don't know. I've never really skated before."
Kalinka innocently urges, "Pleeeeease?"
Rock completely caves, "Well, okay. But, only because you want to. Just remember, I don't have skates. So, prepare to be very un-impressed."
"It won't be bad, as long as you can skate on those feet of yours."
"Oh, I can. Watch," Rock says, no longer walking and gliding on the ice beside Kalinka.
As the music plays, Kalinka and Rock continue skating around the rink, arm in arm, until they begin to move further apart, soon holding hands as they glide along.
"Here try this," Kalinka says, then taking a figure skating pose where she leans her body forward and kicks one of her legs behind her and skating on the other foot.
Rock tilts his head for a second, then attempts something similar himself, though looking more ridged, not quite getting one leg all the way back and holding his free hand outward like he was a flying super hero.
Kalinka cannot help but snicker at her boyfriend's clumsy poses.
"Be honest. I look like I've fried a few circuits, don't I?" Rock jokes, holding that pose as he slides along the ice.
Rock then lets Kalinka's hand go and repositions himself into another pose: holding both of his arms over his head with clinched fists and one leg up, almost like a jumping pose. (Look familiar?)
"How 'bout this? What do you think?"
Kalinka remarks, "Well... your form could use some work."
"This could be harder than fighting Robot Masters," Rock jokes.
"You will learn," Kalinka encourages.
"I am a fast learner. I've got that going for me," Rock replies.
"Okay. See if you can learn this," Kalinka says confidently.
Kalinka gets some momentum for herself on the ice before pulling off a spinning move, at first posing with one leg outward before adjusting her stance vertically and twisting her leg over the over, and spinning faster.
Soon, Kalinka slows her spin down before stopping herself and turning to Rock.
"Don't you ever get dizzy doing that?" Rock asks.
"I did early on. Not much anymore," Kalinka answers, slightly out of breath. "Okay. Your turn now!"
Rock quickly presses the keys on his left forearm, trying to see if he had any of Top Man's spinning power to pull off a spin for himself. But, as it turns out, he never copied Toppy's power during the previous four years.
Rock shrugs, "I don't think I can pull that off. Not with feet like mine."
"You can skip that one, darling," Kalinka says, rejoining Rock as they continue to drift on the ice until they stop at the center of the rink, holding each other close and looking into each other's eyes.
"You know, I've never danced with someone before, either. I hope I'm a better dancer than I am a ice skater."
"There is only one way to find out," Kalinka says, her voice getting softer now.
"You might need to wait until New Year's Day. I need time to learn," Rock says.
"You will learn, darling."
Rock once again replies, "I am a fast learner."
The couple find themselves looking deeply into one another's eyes again, getting those feelings again which are only accentuated by the music playing in the area.
They soon give into those feelings and share a kiss right here on the ice rink.
This love they share and the happiness they feel is what they both wanted so badly for so long. Now, they can have it all the time and never have to worry about the threat of Dr. Wily looming around the corner.
The next evening. Thanksgiving.
Dr. Light's lab.
Morris the butler places cooked turkey on the center of the Light family's dinner table, then stands straight and announces, "Dinner is served."
"Thank you, Morris. And you too, Doris," Dr. Light compliments.
The Light family, their little robots and their guest, Kalinka sit around the dinner table. Dr. Light sits at the head of the table, Rock and Kalinka next to each other, Roll sitting beside Peekaboo and ProtoMan. Rush and Tango sit on the floor, awaiting their treats, with Tango sitting on the floor near Proto and Rush sitting near Rock and Kalinka.
Beat is perched nearby, and he looks happy to see Kalinka again.
"Thank you for inviting me to dinner, Dr. Light," Kalinka says.
"You're welcome, dear," Thomas responds, "You're always welcome to our home."
ProtoMan chimes in, "It's good to see you again, 'Linka. I wasn't able to catch you when you got here. When you were flying in a few weeks ago, I was heading out."
"It's okay, Proto. I am glad to see you again," Kalinka responds.
Rock asks his brothers, "So, what's like dealing with the Robot Masters again?"
Proto scoffs, "Some days, I'd have already ripped my hair out if I didn't have a helmet. Too bad they couldn't have had a few extra IQ chips installed when they were reprogrammed."
"I hope their personalities are more acceptable than they were in the old days."
"They are a lot easier to get along with, at least. They don't seem to carry a grudge with us after all the times we beat up on 'em. And hey, ElecMan is behaving like a gentleman now. Can you believe it?"
"It's about time," Roll says, recalling ElecMan's earlier letcherous personality. "Say, you haven't caught up with Toppy yet, have you?"
"Only once so far. Why? Are you interested in a reunion?"
"Ha! Nope!" Roll quickly deflects. "He never gave me back my ID card at Light University anyway. And to think I ever liked him."
Kalinka asks, "Roll, have you met anyone special yet."
That is a hard question for Roll to answer, given her feelings for Bass. She replies, "Not really... I mean, I thought I had. Maybe I will after all... It's complicated."
Kalinka assures, "Don't worry. You will find someone, I promise."
Roll feels better after Kalinka's encouragement, smiling. "Thanks, Kalinka."
Rock asks Proto, "Have you been able to work with Soprano yet?"
Proto's demeanor changed a bit when asked about his dear friend Soprano, seeming to soften when he talks about her.
"Not yet. Brain Bot hasn't paired me up with the excavation team yet. I wish he would hurry up. I'm dying to see her again."
Dr. Light says, "I'm certain you will get the chance soon. And it will be under much better circumstances than any time before, now that there is peace."
"Yeah... It's nice to celebrate a holiday during peacetime. This is my first one not having to worry about the emergency signal going off," Rock says.
"Mine too," Roll adds.
"And it will be the first of many," Dr. Light encourages.
"I've got to admit, though, I kind of miss the thrill of battle," Proto says.
Roll smiles, "It wasn't always fun. But, I miss being a robo hero too."
"It's only been a month since this all ended, guys. You're already feeling nostalgic?" Rock asks.
"Well, it's not like I'm gonna start blasting the Robot Masters at work... not yet, at least," Proto remarks.
"You know, bro, when you finally get that armor switch upgrade, us three should go on patrol one more time."
"Yeah! That would be great, Mega... I mean, Rock," Roll says, before correcting herself.
Even Rush stands at attention and it seems like all eyes are on Rock now.
He sighs, "I'd rather not."
"Why not? It's not like we're dodging Gamma or the Mad Grinder out there anymore. We'd just go back on duty for a little while. Even if it's little things like getting cats out of trees."
Tango looks up and quizzically says, Rreeow?
"I had to live with all that armor over my body for three years. And I did it so that when it was over, I would never have to wear all again unless the world needed Mega Man again. And I hope that day never comes," Rock explains, referring to 'Mega Man' like he were someone else other than Rock himself.
"I'm sorry, guys. But, I think I'll sit out on this idea. I'm enjoying retirement."
"Okay, then," Proto says, "But, remember, the offer's on the table if you change your mind."
Rock adds, "You two don't need me anyway. You're a good team even without me. I hear you've become quite the celebrity now yourself, Proto,"
"It comes with the territory of punching out the world's most wanted man," Proto boasts with pride. "But, you know what everyone always asks me?"
Roll interjects, "Let me guess... 'What was it like to punch Dr. Wily?'"
"Yeah, that's one of 'em. But, here's what they ask: 'Where did Mega Man go?' I'm telling you, Rock, they already miss you."
Rock shrugs, "Every now and then, I'll run into somebody who says the same things. It even happened yesterday. They miss Mega Man; the blue armor, the adventures, Plasma Power, all of that... but, I don't miss it."
"Neither do I," Dr. Light adds, "And I certainly don't miss my children risking their lives."
Proto scoffs, "Dealing with GutsMan and Cut Man is still a risk in and of itself."
Roll asks, "Don't you miss being the Defender of the Human Race eve
"No, not really," Rock admits. "I'm glad I was able to help everyone I did. But, when I think about the Defender days... a lot of the bad times come to mind. But, I can still help others without a ton of blue armor on me."
Roll says, "Don't be ashamed of being a hero. There were some pretty bad moments... After losing Doc, I would know more than anyone... but, there was a lot of good things that came out of it too."
Rock thinks about what his sister said, and she does have a point. As much as Rock views has days as Mega Man as a difficult time, there were good parts too. If he were not Mega Man, a certain young human lady might not be sitting beside him right now.
Rock looks over to Kalinka, and seeing her and remembering what he has, makes him smile again.
"Yeah, sis, you're right about that," he says, holding Kalinka's right hand with his left.
Later that night.
Rock flies Kalinka back to her apartment in Manhattan, using Transport Item #2 tonight instead of Rush.
As the couple travels through the sky above New York, they both remember the first time they traveled in the night sky like this almost two years ago. Just like that night, it is cold and the bustle of the city down below is faint. Kalinka holds on to Rock by keeping her arms wrapped around him from behind, just like she did that night.
But, unlike that night, they both have all the time in the world to be together now. Even with all the time they spent together today, Rock and Kalinka haven't had enough of each other, and it looks like they won't any time soon.
As they near Kalinka's posh apartment complex, Rock announces, "We're here."
Rock couldn't hide the disappointment in his voice, because the night is over and for now, they must part for a few hours until they can be together again tomorrow.
Sounding just as sad about the situation, Kalinka replies, "Okay."
Rock lands Transport Item #2 out front of the apartment complex and Kalinka steps off, followed by Rock himself.
"Thank you so much for today. It was so much fun," Kalinka says.
"Thank you for spending it with me. Dr. Light's offer to come over on Christmas still stands. That is, if you're not going home to visit your dad that week."
"I will let you know soon. If I stay here, I would love to come over."
After a beat of silence, Rock speaks first, "Then... I guess this is goodnight."
"Yeah... I guess so..." Kalinka says. Then, she has an idea... "You could come in, if you have time."
Rock does not respond at first, actually thinking about joining Kalinka inside so they can be together a little longer. But, he soon responds, "I... would like to, but I'm due back home. If I'm gone long enough, they might start looking for me," he jokes.
"I understand," Kalinka says, "Let me know when you are ready to take more skating lessons."
"I still have to learn how to dance with you."
"You have two months before Valentine's Day. That should be enough time," Kalinka replies, a bit coy.
Rock asks, "Is that a date, then?"
Kalinka shrugs, "I would like that very much."
"Then, it's a date. I can't think of anyone else I would rather be with that day."
"I cannot either," Kalinka smiles.
A beat passes before Rock says, "I love you."
"I love you too," Kalinka says, softly.
Rock then replies, "I love you more."
Kalinka cannot help but chuckle. "I love you more... and if we keep doing this, we will be out here all night."
"That's true," Rock laughs. He then offers, "Then, how 'bout we call it a tie."
"Okay. A tie it is."
Kalinka takes one step closer to Rock, and they both share another kiss. After the couple look longingly into the other's eyes again, they share one more kiss, this one lasting longer than the last one, or several others they shared today.
As Rock flies home, he does not feel as happy as he was much of the day. His heart already yearns for Kalinka, even after it has been only a few minutes since they departed. At least tomorrow, they can be together again.
He cannot imagine life without her now. In fact, he wouldn't mind being with her forever,, if only that were possible.
Then, something in the distance catches Rock's attention and he flies closer to it. It is not a suspicious robot or a citizen in danger, but rather a simple video billboard advertisement.
The billboard in question is for a jewelry store, and the focal point of the advertisement features various couples, with one party fitting a ring on the finger of their significant other.
Rock stares at that billboard for a long time, thinking to himself. In his few short years alive, Rock already knows much about human traditions and practices, including love and relationships. He has seen how humans propose to their significant other, asking their hand in marriage. He has even been present for a few such moments, because the human couples in question wanted the honor of Mega Man himself to be a witness to it.
He wishes he could make the same kind of proposal to Kalinka Cossack, because he loves her like no other.
Soon, the billboard screen changes to another advertisement, and Rock hangs his head down, looking a bit melancholy.
Marriage is something that is only for humans, it seems. There have not been any kind of marriages between robots anywhere in the world, and certainly none between a robot and a human.
Rock thinks back to the remarks made by Congressman Wade Kramer in the weeks before the Election, (which Kramer lost,) where he likened the idea of a human being in love with a robot to that of romancing a toaster, of all things.
Rock wants to be with Kalinka forever, even if there would be certain 'incompatibilities' in a human/robot relationship; even when they grow old together, he would not age like a human would.
But, his dream is something that may not even be possible yet. If ever.
But, in eight months time, he will have much more important things to worry about when The Crisis begins.
Meanwhile, in Russia.
Cossack Citadel.
While his daughter is enjoying her time in America and feeling happier than she ever has, her father, Dr. Mikhail Cossack feels utterly miserable.
In the weeks since Kalinka left, Dr. Cossack has been constructing and programming Ra-Moon, and his feeling of dread about the project has not changed one bit.
Cossack is currently in his study on a video call with Russian President Zhukov and Zhukov's Chief of Staff, Malenko, the man who drafted Dr. Cossack into this project.
Cossack can barely stomach the sight of Malenko's face on his monitor, not after his threat to take the Citadel away and tarnish the Cossack family legacy. Mikhail avoids looking at him and instead focuses on President Zhukov whenever possible.
Zhukov asks in his native Russian, "Dr. Cossack. Do you have anything to report on Ra-Moon?"
"Progress is being made, Mr. President. But, this is unlike any project I have ever done. I would not expect Ra-Moon to be complete any time before the Summer."
"Why will Ra-Moon take so long, Doctor? You have had robots in service within three months of their construction."
"Sir, this is a free-thinking artificial construct, and one that has the capability to construct multiple robots on its own. The more advanced the project, the more time it takes, even with unlimited resources."
Malenko probes, "You would not be stalling progress to hinder this project, would you, Dr. Cossack?"
Cossack nearly felt ill at the thought of having to respond to Malenko, but he toughs it out anyway.
"No, Mr. Malenko. This is the most complex Artificial Construct I have ever developed. It could take three months alone to finish it, and that is not including all of Ra-Moon's more intricate capabilities. It is every bit as advanced as Mega Man, if not more."
A smug grin appears on Malenko's face. "Yes, you would know all about Mega Man, Dr. Cossack... As would your lovely daughter."
Malenko's provoking remark got the ire of Dr. Cossack, who has to bite his tongue and resist the urge to lash out at him for having the audacity.
Malenko could have just left it alone, but he decided to twist the knife a little more...
"I must credit Kalinka on her... shall I say, diplomatic skills. I am quite certain with enough time, she could even persuade Mega Man to become a citizen of Mother Russia. Would that not be splendid, Mr. President?"
Zhukov has a hearty laugh, "Yes, it would. Russia would become envy of the world for sure then."
Dr. Cossack is not amused, and the only thing stopping him from unleashing an angry retort the Malenko's provocation is the threats that he had already made. Cossack does not want any kind of blowback impacting his daughter. Maybe this is why Malenko is egging him on, to try and get Cossack in trouble.
Despite this all, Cossack keeps his mouth shut, but his blood still boils.
President Zhukov states, "In all seriousness, gentlemen, I understand the complexity of Ra-Moon, Dr. Cossack. And I will continue to allocate whatever resources you need to complete Ra-Moon. But, it is imperative Ra-Moon be completed by August. That is the site of the, eh... what is the exposition again?"
Cossack answers, "The World Science Expo... in America."
"Yes... New York City, correct? I am certain Kalinka will be in town that week. I think she would like to be in attendance for her father's greatest creation. Don't you, Doctor?"
"Whether or not my daughter chooses to attend the expo should be of no concern," Mikhail replies with a hint of sternness to his voice.
President Zhukov speaks again, "It will be her choice, of course, Mr. Malenko. Dr. Cossack, can you guarantee Ra-Moon's completion by August of next year?"
Dr. Cossack paused for a moment, considering the gravity of the situation and whether or not he can find a way to rein Ra-Moon's A.I. in some way without his overlords finding out.
"I'm confident it can be done by August, Mr. President," he soon answers.
"Excellent! This is why you were chosen for the job! We will be watching your progress with great interest, Dr. Cossack."
"I'm sure you will," Cossack says.
"I hope to have another progress report before Holiday Leave, Doctor. Good day to you," President Zhukov says, smiling and nodding.
Malenko gets one more jab in before disconnecting, "Do give our regards to Kalinka and her boyfriend, Dr. Cossack."
As the screen goes black and the call is ended, Dr. Cossack curses at Malenko in Russian. (And it will not be repeated here.)
Afterwards, Dr. Cossack reaches under his desk and grabs his bottle of Vodka and a glass, pouring out the contents of the bottle into the glass, then taking a drink, trying to drown away his fears and his guilt.
"Eight months," he says to himself. "Eight months until Doomsday."
'Doomsday' is certainly one word to describe The Crisis that is on the horizon.
Dr. Cossack's fears of Ra-Moon are justified. But, he will try to stop it from being the harbinger of the Doomsday he fears. But, he is not aware of what else is about to happen, or what else - and who else - is coming in eight months time when The Crisis begins.
Skull Fortress.
Buried deep under the former hideout of Dr. Wily lies the capsule containing the Mad Doctor's ultimate creation. A robot so advanced, the he should not even be classified as one.
Zero.
The countdown to Zero's awakening continues, just over eight months remaining, slightly later than Dr. Wily expected, but not by much.
When Zero emerges from this capsule and takes his first steps, he will be a part of The Crisis, like Ra-Moon and William Cochran's new robot virus, which is also still in development.
What is not yet known is what impact Zero will have in The Crisis or what role he will play. But, the world will soon find out.
And so will Rock Light...
The end is beginning.
Author's notes:
First off, I'm sorry for the delay, everyone. I would have had this chapter out sooner, but when I had the time to write I didn't use it.
I wanted to have a chapter or two where we finally get to see Rock Light being happy and and living in a peaceful time. This is basically what I've been waiting to get to for a long time.
As we saw in this chapter, Castor made a return appearance after a lengthy absence. I wanted to give the character the happy aftermath that he deserved. And we will see appearances of other original characters here and there during the remaining interlude chapters as well and see where they are now.
As noted at the top, the other half of Ruby-Spears, Ken Spears, passed away recently. As I said when Joe Ruby passed, thank you, Mr. Spears for all the memories and most of all, thanks for your version of Mega Man. Had it not been for that cartoon, this story would have never existed. Rest in peace, Mr. Spears.
In case you were wondering what the "Look Familiar?" in the prose of the Rock/Kalinka skating scene meant, that pose he was making is meant to resemble the one Mega Man makes whenever he jumps in the games. You know what it looks like. There is even one of those Pop dolls using the same pose.
(And if you want an idea of what kind of song they were skating to, look up the song "More Than a Woman" by either The Bee Gees or Tavares.)
Please remember to leave a review or a comment. And if you see any typos or continuity errors so bad that Scorpion couldn't make 'em GET OVER HERE, please send me a DM.