ZERO'S SABER: Waiting
by: Ellis McDohl
Disclaimer: You know who they belong to! They all belong to Capcom!!
First entry: May 31, 2001
Last entry: June 3, 2001
Author's note:
I must TRULY apologize for the name error!!! (I KNEW there was something wrong with me!!) I was relying on my cousin. And I thought I heard him right... (He was playing the Japanese and I thought we heard "Bricks"...) I'm truly, truly, very sorry... (Also, please forgive my language...) Thank you for pointing it out. No need to apologize to me. I was the one in error and I'm truly sorry... I've corrected it... I think...
I've just checked the other chapters and it looks like I was wrong about the margin... Can't fix it yet... (I'm sad...)
By the way, after this, it may take a while before I post a new one. You see, the last part, called "Final Decisions", is still not finished. I'm trying to work on it but it seems I'm a bit stuck... Somewhere... Dunno where though... And I'm going to have to fix myself for the time being. Please, someone answer me, Dr. Light lived in North America right? Do you know where it is? Anyway, it's taking so long, (Been a while. It was may when I started that and now it's july... Man, it's been months since then. I'll do my best to finish it within this month...)
I brought this out now and I'm glad for that too. And I'm getting nice reviews... and that makes me very happy... But I still have to fix a few things as well... My fingers are pressing the wrong buttons and my head is fuzzy... (Just kidding! I'll blame it on myself. Ehehehe...)
Here it is... This is "Waiting"...
I hope you enjoy...
Ellis McDohl
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I always had vivid dreams, even when I'm awake. They say that dreams are hopes you have when you're asleep. They are basically reflections of a person's life. When they have fear they dream of it. Sometimes, dreams are memories of a past that had long been forgotten, just trying its best to ooze it's way out and make to you remember them.
Many have told me so much more than just that. Someone once told me they are sometimes prophecies, dreams of the future. I don't really know what that meant since I haven't been dreaming so often lately. In fact, I don't even dream of him.
But when I do, it's usually because I have a problem and he's just trying to help me out. I only have to close my eyes and fall asleep...
...And then, I have to wait for my answers to come.
I wait, and I hope, that it wouldn't be in vain...
I don't remember of what happened much that day. It was the last few days of autumn, I think, and the last leaves had fallen. There was still no snow but it was cold. I could feel it but not too much because there was the heater in my office.
My office was big with a few papers and small tools scattered on my desk. I didn't bother cleaning it up for a while since it's not that messy and I still need to check the papers. The papers were about something but I couldn't understand it yet. I'll have to figure it out later when my head clears.
There were other stuff in my room, two plants, two couches and a small coffee table. There were mechanical things there too and a rather large computer to begin with. Behind where I sat were the big windows. It gave me a clear view of what was going on outside the base, it also keeps me from feeling too tied up.
Working was good for me, I think, since being busy keeps me from thinking too much. It's really annoying when I start to think too much. The others have been worried, I know. Although they don't say anything, it's probably because I casually brush them off when they start it up. But I only tell them, I can go on.
I looked down at the papers, these are the results of the tests they've been running on Protoman. It looks fine and it seems he's quite ready to fight. Now that I think about it, it's been two weeks since then. Better start fixing things.
I began to put away my tools, as I did so, I noticed that picture on the desk. It was of me and Zero in the sanctuary. Zero wasn't smiling that time. I was and I had an arm around his neck. We had almost fallen to the ground. Zero was looking down at the ground as if trying to keep us both from falling. Actually, it was his fault. Really it was. He didn't want to get his picture taken but I had stopped him and it was Dr. Cain who had taken this photo.
Zero didn't always smile. But whenever he did, it usually calms me down. I remember him most, that day this photograph was taken. It was spring. The sky was blue and the grass was green... That was the time I started waiting for him.
Waiting for him to tell me things I knew he hid...
Waiting for him to let me become his friend...
I give out a sigh and leaned back on my chair. I feel I was always waiting for him. Perhaps I've been waiting for him too much. Even now, I'm still waiting...
Forever I still wait...
I opened my eyes and turned to see what day it was today. To my surprise, it was my birthday. I looked down at it for quite a long time before deciding I think I need a break. Everyone had wanted me to take a day-off. Maybe they're starting to notice that I'm getting a bit tired.
I stood up, deciding I should get a day-off. Putting back the papers on the table, I straightened up and walked out my office, quite aware that I won't be obeying anybody today and, perhaps, no one will obey me just for today.
The door closed behind me. I could faintly hear one of my tools roll and fall to the floor. I'll just have to fix it up later when I get back.
"Oh, X! What's wrong? Aren't you supposed to be in your office?" Alia asked with her eyebrows raised.
I looked at Alia, smiling faintly. She and I have been getting along quite well since that day. She was undoubtedly a good friend to me now. I told Zero that I liked her (not in a romantic way though.) when she first came. Zero could only smile, a bit wan, but it was enough for me. I felt like he approved of my choice.
I must admit, Alia wasn't very pretty. She only had her own charms that only I saw. She wasn't as pretty as Iris was with her long brown hair and blue eyes and Aluze's gentle movements but she was enough for me.
Alia had short, blond hair and blue eyes. She was also as tall as I was. Or was I a bit smaller? I don't know. She always wore something, dark gray and red but not like the red Roll wears. It was of a lighter shade and not pink.
She wasn't very gentle with her ways either. In fact, when we first met, she always used to scold me. Zero didn't laugh but only looked at us with mild gentleness. I think he understood it more than I did.
He always did. He was grown up and more mature than I was. I still had some traces of childishness but he told me once that it's okay to sit back for a while, just not too much or it will get me killed. I guess I understood.
Alia looked at me queerly as I thought of these things in my head. Then she walked to me and placed her hand on my forehead with her other hand on her own. From this close, I could smell her scent. It was chamomile, sweet and true. She didn't see me blush but I was quite aware though I didn't quite know it.
She then drew away from me and smiled.
"That's good." She remarked. "I thought you were coming down with something."
I smiled, slightly. "What makes you think that?" I asked, a bit amused.
She waved her forefinger in front of my face, smiling. "Hmm... Well, you're so regular with your habits if you suddenly strayed out it's probably because of something." She replied and straightened out. "Is it summer already?" She chukled.
I placed a hand on my forehead, smiling, slightly. "Some idea just got into my head, that's all." I replied. "Have you taken your day out?"
She nodded, smiling. "Of course." She replied as if it was obvious. "Yesterday." Then there was a slight pause and she frowned, prettily. "Or have you forgotten?"
I smiled, slightly again. "Not really..." I said.
Then she suddenly gasped that rather surprised me. "Don't tell me, you're taking your day out today?!" She exclaimed.
"Uh, yeah." I replied. "I'll be... Just as long as Signas lets me..."
Alia gave out a sigh. "Oh, what a pity." She remarked. "If I only knew you were going out today I wouldn't have gone out yesterday." Then she turned to me smiling. "But I'm glad of what you decided."
She murmured something I couldn't understand. I raised my eyebrows and she only shook her head, saying it was nothing. At that time I knew they were up to something. Then she regained herself.
"Go to Signas then." She said. "I'm sure it'll be all right. I just want you to enjoy yourself. But don't get yourself too tired because there's going to be some happening here at the base tonight."
I raised my eyebrows wondering what could it be and I was about to ask but by the time I got my mouth open, she had disappeared. Back to her duties, no doubt. I shook my head to clear it and turned to where I was supposed to go to reach Signas' office.
I've noticed something odd about the base of late. The troops looked quite amused whenever they looked at me. In fact, they were a lot warmer now, it made me feel like they're all playing some kind of joke on me.
I haven't seen Protoman since this morning. I remembered he was talking to Signas but I don't know what they're talking about. It's not my business to know of it, I guess. Rush isn't here, either nor Roll. They're all probably busy about something in Dr. Cain's lab.
For some strange reason, I feel something odd in me. It feels like some weird surprise is coming my way but it's probably just because I'm getting a bit paranoid. Maybe it's because I'm tired...?
Whatever with that. I'll just go to Signas' office and ask if I could have a day-out. When I get it, I'll go to the sanctuary and get some sleep there. At least no one will bother me there and I could keep watch of things.
The long hallway ended with a door and I stood in front of it taking in a deep breath. They're mostly going to react the way Alia did. Or they're going to start laughing at me and I don't think I'd mind but that's how it will be.
I pressed the panel on the wall beside the door. Signas' voice could be heard from it.
"Who is it?" Signas asked.
"Captain X, sir." I replied.
I was vaguely aware of some scuffle and a few voices inside the room from the intercom. There was also a rather loud thud and Roll's scolding voice. Dr. Light and Dr. Cain's laughter and they scuffled along, trying to repress their own voices.
The steel doors began to open and I found Protoman on the floor, flat on his face with Rush standing on his back. Roll stood nearby, scolding them both. Dr. Cain and Dr. Light looked quite calm while they discussed a few plans. Signas was sitting on his chair behind his desk, looking down at the papers.
One of the papers was blown off and it flew to my feet. I bent over, picked it and walked to where Signas was and handed it to him. He only nodded, slightly. Protoman was still on the floor, trying to get up but couldn't because of Rush, who was now jumping on him. Roll was trying to make them stop but they wouldn't. Dr. Light continued to discuss things with Dr. Cain as if peace was there.
I then turned to Signas who was looking down at his papers. Signas had been staying here in our base for quite sometime now. Normally he would be in his own place back in the Repliforce. He was the replacement for General and he has the most precise CPU of all.
I don't really know why he's been staying here. I'd wager it's because of Dr. Light and Dr. Cain. It's not that I don't like him to stay, it's just... well... amusing.
He finally raised his head to look at me, he wasn't smiling but I could see that he was trying to hide the last traces of it. I figured, it's probably because of Protoman, Rush and Roll. I saluted, to show respect and he nodded. I put my hand back to my side.
"What is it, X?" Signas asked. "Is there something wrong?"
"Nothing really." I replied. I felt a bit embarrassed, still I knew I had to get over with it. I shouldn't chicken out. I inhaled and began. "Signas," I called.
"What?" He asked, looking at the papers.
"I'm..." I swallowed and heard a click in my throat.
Dr. Cain was drinking his coffee as Dr. Light continued to speak.
"...I'm taking my day off today." I finished.
Dr. Cain's coffee flew out of his mouth at the suddenness of the statement. It rained down on the plans but Dr. Light, luckily managed to avoid it. Dr. Cain coughed and Roll ran to his side and rubbed her hand on his back. Dr. Light stood up to see if he was okay and Rush rolled down from Protoman back.
"This is rare..." Signas remarked, bowing his head, slightly. I could still see his lips curved up to a small smile. "It's been quite a while since you actually asked for one." Then he looked at me. "Just what do you intend to do?"
I turned my head away from them. This is starting to annoy me. I don't know why they have to ask what I intend to do.
"I'll just go out to the sanctuary and sleep." I replied. "What else am I supposed to do?"
Roll stood up. "What?! You're just going to sleep?!" She exclaimed.
I turned to her frowning. "I'm not getting enough sleep here in the base." I replied. "That's the only place I could sleep without waking up when something blows up." Then I looked down at my foot. "That's the place where I could runaway to." Then I raised my head to look at her. "That's exactly why it's called a 'sanctuary'." I said. "It's a place of refuge."
This was followed by a short silence. Dr. Light stood up with shinning eyes, Dr. Cain nodded slightly and when I saw them this way, I knew that something was coming up. Looks like I'm not going to get my sleep.
"This is a good opportunity for you to show Roll and Protoman around the city." Dr. Light said, smiling rather eagerly. Then he turned to Dr. Cain. "What do you think?"
Dr. Cain, nodded, eagerly as well. "Yes. There's nothing like old friends catching up with what time has taken." He said and turned to Roll and Protoman. "It's time to go out and shop." He remarked.
Roll was looking at with a bewildered face but she then it seems as if some sort of realization has come to her and she nodded, smiling with as much enthusiasm as they had. Protoman began to stand up and looked at them. Roll ran to my side, happily.
"Then we should go, now!" She declared and turned to Protoman. "That's enough dilly-dallying, Protoman. Rush, let's go."
Protoman stood up with a small smile playing in his lips. Dr. Light handed Roll a gold-colored card which she took, smiling. I turned to Signas.
"Signas, what about my day-off?!" I asked, rather hopelessly. I don't want to get stuck with them for the whole day. I want to go to sleep.
Signas gave out a short laugh. "This is your day-off." He replied.
"But I-!!" I protested.
Roll and Protoman carried me off and Rush trotted right beside us, while I watched the three of them wave their hands to bid us farewell. I don't have any choice, I guess. But I wish they'd let me sleep.
This is getting a little too much.
A lot of people were looking at us while Roll hovered about the mall to take a good look at all the dresses. This feels makes me feel a little awkward since everyone knows me. I wanted to cover my face. This is starting to make me feel stupid.
The attendant there, smiled, warmly as Roll looked and picked out the clothes she wanted. She was always wearing bright red clothes. It was her favorite color. Protoman, Rush and I followed her as she walked.
I looked at the wall clock on the wall. It said ten o' clock but I'm getting a little too tired of this. I shifted, uneasily on the bench. Protoman sat beside me and Rush beside his foot. Roll was changed and modeled in front of us, asking whether it fits her or not. I looked up at her, smiling and once again the clothes she wore were still red-
Red... The color of blood...
I looked down at my palms and to my horror, there was a small puddle of blood in it. I then realized whose blood it seemed to be. I gave out a short scream-I can't say it was a shout nor an exclamation-and I fell back along with the bench, knocking down everything on and behind it.
Now, I'm very much aware of where I was. I was still sitting on the bench but it had tumbled over. Protoman was lying on the ground beside me and Rush underneath him. A dress rack had fallen over above me. Roll and the attendant were looking down at us, worriedly. Some of the people who were there looked at us. Protoman stood up and I followed his example. Then we both helped put up the rack and the bench.
Thank goodness nothing was broken. I looked down at my hand and found a little red cap. I must've been dreaming.
"Are you guys okay?" Roll asked.
Protoman rubbed his head. "I know I am." He replied then he turned to me. "What's the big idea, screaming and throwing your feet up and making us both fall on the floor anyway?"
I handed the red cap to Roll who took it.
"I only asked you if this cap was alright." She said. "Then I placed it in your hands to make you see it better."
"But then you suddenly, outright screamed and threw your feet up and you fell." The attendant finished. Then she smiled. "But don't worry. You didn't break anything."
I gave out a heavy sigh. I really must've been dreaming. I tied my fists on my chest.
"Are you done yet?" I asked, frowning. "Because if you are, we're going back to the base and I'm going to start-"
She didn't let me finish. "Don't be such a worrywart!" She interrupted, cheerfully. "We'll go visit the cake shop and eat when I'm done with this." Then there was a slight pause. "Do you like this dress?" She asked.
I sat back on the bench. "I don't know things about girls' clothing." I only replied. I didn't see her reaction. That was because I still waiting...
...waiting until I finally fell asleep.
It was the sanctuary. The tree was there and the cliff that looked out to the city. Here in my dream it was spring. The wind gently blew across the place, making the leaves and the grass, dance, gracefully. I turned for a bit to see the base standing there with the clear blue sky above it. It was wonderful. I haven't seen it like this for a long time.
I know, because in the real world, it was autumn.
I turned back once again to the tree and wasn't surprised to find him standing there. He was looking out to the city, with his watchful blue eyes. Waiting to see what will happen to it. Waiting... to make sure that nothing will happen.
He seemed to have noticed me and he turned without smiling. I smiled at him because I was glad he was there. It's been a few weeks since I last met him but here he was again. And I was glad of it.
"Zero..." I said, smiling.
He smiled, slightly. "Oh, it's you." He remarked.
I laughed. "Still as casual as ever, I see." I remarked.
He nodded. The wind blew again and made his long, blond hair dance with it. I've always wondered how did he maintain his long hair. He smiled at me from where he stood. I didn't come near him yet. Not yet.
"X," He began. "I have to go now..."
This struck me. "What do you mean?" I asked, feeling as if something was going to be taken away from me. "Where are you going?"
Zero smiled. "Don't worry." He said. "We'll see each other soon."
"Zero, no I-!!" I began to run to him.
But the wind blew harder, making the leaves fly towards me. I had to shield my face with my arms. When I put them back down, Zero was gone. The wind blew, gently this time, and I could hear it saying "Trust me..."
I bent my head down. And waited once more...
We walked along the street and stopped by shops a couple of times. Protoman, Rush and I followed her. I didn't think I even need to show them around. It even looks like they know the place better than I did.
That's all for the best. At least I know they won't get lost. Roll was about to stop and go into another shop but Rush began to beg and Protoman began to complain of hunger. She turned to me and smiled.
"What about you, X?" She asked, smiling. "Are you hungry?"
X frowned. "No..." I replied but my body didn't lie and my stomach growled. I blushed in embarrassment. "Well, maybe a little..." I said.
The three of them laughed at me. But I must admit, I was a little hungry. Rush scratched behind his ear. I looked down at him, wondering if he ever gets tired of walking around with Roll while she shops.
"I wonder where is the best place to eat cake?" Roll said, looking around.
"Well, I just want to eat." Protoman said. "And I'm getting a bit tired too." He turned to me unexpectedly. "Do you know any good place?"
Roll shook her head, smiling. "I don't think he knows things like that." She said. "After all, the only world he's ever been to is where his partner is."
This was one of the reasons why I didn't want to be with them today. I only want to be alone. Part of what she said was true and part of it is false. Zero knew more of the city than you'd think. He taught me what I knew but I wandered around more than he did.
I used the word 'wandered' but it was mostly 'losing my way'. He would always find me with a small frown on his face and telling me to stop wandering around with my head in the clouds. Then I would follow him out to a cake shop and we'd buy some sweets.
Protoman turned to Roll, briskly and she clapped both her hands on her mouth as if she wanted to call back the words she had said. I turned my back to them and started walking away. They'll be able to get themselves back on their own anyway. I'll just go and eat and then go back to the base.
They ran after me. As I walked, they talked to me.
"X, I'm..." Roll began.
"It's always been the same, Roll." I interrupted, not looking at her. "That's what you always say anyway. You can't help your nature."
She stopped and frowned and stood in way to keep me from walking. I stopped with her in front of me. This was her nature. She doesn't even realize how much she changed. None of them noticed how much they changed.
"Why can't you just loosen up?" She asked suddenly, almost shouting at my face.
I shook my head, wearily. "The only time I can loosen up is when I'm asleep." I replied. "I want to get a real day-off! But-!" Managed to stop myself in time, shook my head at them and continued to walk.
Roll was about to say something but Protoman seemed to have stopped her.
"Calm down, Roll." He said. "You should know that X hasn't been getting enough rest lately because of us. That's why he's so grumpy."
I heard someone sigh. It must've been Roll but I'm not sure. And I wasn't sure whether they were still following me. I just kept walking on and I stopped in front of the cake shop we used to go to.
I looked up and read the shop curtain which read: "Winter Moon Cake Shop". It was more then just the memories that drew me here. This place was one of the best and they sell my favorite cake in there. Besides that I was a regular customer and they gave me a discount.
I turned the knob and heard the bell ring.
"Welcome, X!" The woman behind the counter greeted, smiling.
"Good afternoon, Mrs. Fuyutsuki." I greeted back, smiling a little.
Mrs. Fuyutsuki is the owner of this shop. Her real name is Sonomi Fuyutsuki. She's been working here since she got married. This was her husband's family business but since she lost her husband and her their only child in an accident, she took over.
She was a sweet lady with long, hair black hair, tied behind her. Despite her loss, she was always smiling and her gentle, brown eyes, shinning, but there were traces of sadness in them that could never be wiped out.
"You haven't been coming here lately." She remarked, smiling as she walked out from behind the counter to where I was now standing.
I walked with her to a table. "Well, I've been so busy lately, I didn't have much time to go out." I replied. "But I do miss the cakes you bake, madam."
She laughed, slightly. "Ah! You were always so nice, X." She said. Then she looked over my shoulder. "Are they your friends?"
I stopped and turned to find them both standing behind me. I gave out a sigh and turned back to her.
"That guy there is my brother. The girl is Roll and the dog is Rush." I replied. Then to them. "This is Mrs. Fuyutsuki. She owns the shop."
Roll and Protoman bowed and she bowed back.
"Nice to meet you, madam." Protoman said.
"Mine is the pleasure." She replied. Then they all straightened up. "Ah, this is good. If X is with you then I will give you a discount." Then she looked at us smiling. "Pick whatever you want."
Roll smiled, eagerly. "Oh, thank you!!" She said and looked down at the menu standing on the table to see what she wanted to eat. "I'd like a slice of this Chocolate cake." She said and pointed to a delicious looking cake with lots of chocolate icing.
Protoman smiled down at the menu. "I'll have two slices of this mocha cake." He replied.
Rush was sleeping near my foot and didn't seem to want to eat anymore. Roll turned Protoman frowning.
"You're going to eat too much and then get very fat." She said.
"Well, I'm just hungry." Protoman replied.
Mrs. Fuyutsuki smiled at us and she turned to me. "What about you?" She asked. "Still the usual?"
"Yes, please." I replied. "And three slices." I added.
"Ah, your appetite is getting bigger." She remarked, looking pleased. "What about drinks?"
"I'll have iced tea." Roll replied.
"Same here." Protoman said.
"I'll have hiyasame." I replied.
Mrs. Fuyutsuki smiled. "Please wait for a bit. I'll go get it."
"Thank you." Roll said.
And we watched her leave. Roll then turned to me, smiling.
"I didn't know were a regular customer here, X." She remarked. "This is good."
Protoman was about to open his mouth to say something but then Mrs. Fuyutsuki came and served us what we ordered. Protoman ate while Roll scolded him. I looked down at the sweet smelling cake, smiling a little. This was going to taste good. I knew it quite well and I ate it all up, thinking how long since I've last been here.
Mrs. Fuyutsuki stood there, smiling as she looked at us.
"This is so good!" Protoman said with a satisfied smile on his face. Then he turned to her. "Madam, your cakes here are so delicious! I should come here, often too."
She smiled at us. "Ah, then I'm glad." She said. "That's exactly what X said when he first came here with Zero."
I flinched but no one seemed to notice. I looked down at the cake and continued to eat.
"Zero took X here?" Roll asked with her eyebrows raised.
She nodded. "Yes. Very often." She replied. "Zero saved me from a maverick once and I told him to come here because he had a discount. Ever since then, he eats here until one time he came with X." She said and smiled at me.
"You should've seen them that day." She continued, smiling with a reminiscent sparkle in her eyes. "Zero was a good child although he didn't speak as often as X once did. It's only sad that he had to leave us so soon..."
I turned and found a tear roll down from her eyes. Zero always told me how nice she was to him. Zero didn't always wear a smile when we came here but she was always so gentle with us and so nice, he must've seen something with her. I realized, they both had tragic lives. Losing almost everything and still trying to live on for others.
I looked up at her, smiling. But I didn't feel at all happy. There was a weight somewhere that couldn't seem to be lifted and she and I shared it now because we both know what it felt like to lose and win at the same time.
"Zero... always told me that you had a nice smile." I began. It was true.
They all looked at me as I spoke.
"...You were always smiling despite the fact that you are sad." I said and I looked down at my empty plate. "That's why you shouldn't cry like that... He always liked you smiling..."
Mrs. Fuyutsuki wiped her tears with her hand.
"You are so sweet." She said, smiling. "But don't worry." Then there was a slight pause. "Are you going to take out a cake as usual?" She asked.
I rose. "Yes. I'll take a whole cake. Dr. Light might like it and I'm sure Dr. Cain does." I replied.
She smiled again as she walked toward the counter. I followed her.
"How is the dear old gentleman?" She asked.
I rolled my eyes around. "Well, he's alright." I replied. "He and Dr. Light are getting along and having a merry time out of it."
She gave out a short laugh. "Then that is good." She said and turned to the reploid at the counter. "Caterpillar cake, please and it's take out."
The reploid nodded and hurried off to fix things. Roll, Protoman and Rush followed us. Roll fumbled into her purse to look for Dr. Light's card to pay for what we ate but I handed Mrs. Fuyutsuki my own. She took it and slid it into the slot. It was paid for. Roll stood there, as if struck and the reploid handed me the cake.
"Here's your caterpillar cake, sir." The reploid said, smiling.
"What?!" Someone exclaimed from behind me.
We turned and saw Roll's shocked face. She walked toward me and I knew what was coming next. The look on her face told me she was going to start scolding me, as usual but I don't know why she would.
"You're going to feed Dr. Light and Dr. Cain caterpillars?!" She exclaimed at my face.
For some reason, this struck me as funny. This was starting to get to me. I never thought she'd say this like it is. Mrs. Fuyutsyki and I started laughing. We were both trying to repress our laughter, really we tried, but it just kindda seeps in and we burst out laughing.
Protoman placed his hand on Roll's head. "Roll you should know better than that." He remarked.
Mrs. Fuyutsuki stopped but she was still smiling. "I'm sorry for laughing." She said. "It's called that way because it's just like a caterpillar. It has segments and each segment has a different flavor." She explained.
"Oh, I see." Roll said and turned to me. "You should've told us that earlier!"
I raised my head, smiling. "Well,... I can't because I was laughing too hard." I replied.
It was true, I was and there were tears in my eyes. Everything was repeating itself. This was I said the time Zero told me what I just ate. And he laughed at me. That was the first time I saw and heard him laugh. It felt good.
There was also sadness in those tears. I remembered my dream where he was leaving me. I don't know where he would go but I still have to wait. It was always the same. I played the waiting game. Always waiting for everything...
I took the cake. "Thanks a lot, madam." I said and started to walk away.
"Please visit more often." She said.
Roll raised her hand as she walked. "We will."
The door closed behind us, leaving another memory of Zero behind me.
The ground was hard and brown and the last leaves had fallen. Our sanctuary was dreary now as it was when autumn comes. Soon, it will be winter and it will cover the ground white with snow. Another year will pass. Another season has gone, still I wait.
I stand there on the cliff and looked down at the city and out to the setting sun. The cold wind blew past my cheek, giving me a little chill. The city hadn't changed and the sunset hasn't either. People will continue with their lives as if nothing had ever happened.
The sky was gold and red, just like that day during spring a long time ago. That was the last time I saw him. If I hadn't been so careless...
"Zero, I don't know what I'm waiting for..." I said, aloud. "I'm still waiting but I don't know what it is exactly..." I looked down at my foot.
I know he won't answer. How could he? I was alone here and I know he was dead. I said I'd live but I still can't get over it all. Why is that? That's because I'm waiting.
Always waiting for something that doesn't seem to come. I take one last look at the sunset, realizing I don't feel sleepy anymore. I turned to the base and begin to walk and still wait for my answers to come.
And wait for the day to end. My day-off was over and it's time to work.
I walk to my office and stop in front of the door. I wasn't sleepy anymore but I knew I was tired, I'll just take a look at how much work there is for me and go to the charging area to get a rest. The door opened before me and there was nothing else on the table but the open little brown box with Zero's blue jewel.
I walked to it, realizing that I didn't leave it there when I left. I walked to it and carefully laid the jewel in my palm. It was a bit heavier than mine. This was where Zero's memory chip is placed. I took the saber out and pressed a small button on it. A small chip fell into my palm where the Jewel was.
Then something, I don't know what, told me to put the memory chip back into the jewel. I don't know why but I obey this part of me that told me this. I placed the memory chip on top of the jewel and it sank in-just like a small pebble sinks down into the sea-and disappeared into it. The jewel rippled and settled back to it's normal shape. Once again it was solid, that blue jewel, I held it in my hands, feeling how smooth it was.
The dying light from the sun entered my room and it shone through the jewel, making a blue shadow across the room. I smiled at it, then I remembered those times we spent together. We were both waiting, him and I. Waiting for each other to say something but couldn't.
I'll take you with me too. I told the jewel and placed the saber back to it's place by my side and held the jewel in my hand.
I walked out the room, without realizing, I didn't even put the box back where it should've been in, in the first place.
Dr. Light and Dr. Cain were standing in the hall, chatting as if waiting for someone. Here they were, the persons I needed to talk to. I wanted to show them something else Zero left behind for me to take.
"Uh, Dr. Light..." I began.
They both turned with shinning eyes full of amusement. Despite the fact that Dr. Cain's bushy eyebrows covered his eyes, I could still sense some sort of amusement coming from him. Just like those times when they were up to something.
"Ah, X you've come!" He exclaimed, eagerly and walked to greet me.
"Did you have a grand time during your day-off?" Dr. Cain asked.
"Well, it made me consider a lot of things." I replied, rather sadly.
Dr. Light took my free-hand and Dr. Cain walked in front of me as if they wanted to lead me somewhere.
"Let's go, let's go." Dr. Cain said, eagerly. "We can't have him wait any longer." And he turned, smiling.
I gaped, because they seemed to both know I was waiting for something. I turned to Dr. Light who was smiling as he gently but firmly held my hand. My feet began to move on it's own and it followed their lead, right into the charging area.
It was dark as it always was because this is where we sleep. Alia was the first person who greeted me. But there were others there, all were smiling and clapping their hands as a welcome. Dr. Light let go of my hand and they both stepped aside to let her pass. She walked toward me, smiling and placed a bouquet into my arms.
"Happy birthday, X." She said and kissed my cheek.
Then she took my hand and led me to a capsule. I stared, dumb-founded when I saw what was inside the capsule. It took a long time before I was able to recover-some, if not all-my senses. And when I did, I turned to them with my mouth still open.
Dr. Light nodded and Dr. Cain cleared his throat. I turned back to the capsule, looking at Zero's face. He wasn't breathing. Not yet, not until he's complete. I knew that there will be a slot on his helmet.
"It's hard work, X." Dr. Cain said. "We managed to rebuild his body..."
"But his memory chip is missing." Dr. Light finished.
"We're still trying to locate it." Signas said.
He said, something else but I don't remember or I wasn't able to listen. I walked toward the open capsule, still looking up. It was just as I remembered him. Everything was there except for his memory chip which holds his personality. Then I remembered my dream he said, we'll meet soon.
I looked down at the blue jewel in my palm, it seemed to be shining now. I marveled at it and then shook my confused head to clear it. I saw his helmet, where an empty slot was. There in that empty slot was where this jewel supposed to go.
"X?" Signas called.
"It's okay..." I said. "He'll be fine." And opened my palm.
They all saw it. "Where did you get that?" Signas asked.
I smiled but they didn't see. "Zero must've given it to me before his body was destroyed." I replied. "I woke up with this in my hand along with Zero's saber which contained his memory chip."
Then I looked down at Zero and planted the jewel on that empty slot on his helmet. I heard a click and the jewel let out a bright light. Then I heard Zero take in a deep breath as if he had been underwater for too long and had just surfaced to breathed in the air.
Then he began to breath normally, but it looks like he was exhausted. He continued to sleep. Everyone clapped their hands then I turned to them, smiling and I yawned. I was getting sleepy again.
Roll grabbed my hand, smiling. "Come on, let's party!!" She said.
My hand slid from hers, in a few moments, I'll be sleeping but I don't want to sleep on the floor. I pulled out a chair and sat on it.
"You go ahead..." I replied, drowsily. "I'll just stay here... and wait for him to wake up."
I didn't hear them anymore, because I fell asleep, slumped on the desk near the capsule where Zero lay, sleeping. No more dreams now but I still hope.
Dreams are the hopes you have when you're sleep. They say that sometimes, dreams are prophecies of a future waiting to unfold. I didn't dream anymore because the answers are right here in front of me. I didn't need to close my eyes.
...But I still wait...
I wait, and I know, that it wouldn't be in vain.
*************************************************************
Further note:
I have this weird error that I've been noticing. It's about the spelling of stuff. I'm not good at spelling, I admit, but this little thing is so bothersome, I don't know what to do with it. One of them is about "loss" and "lose". Really weird... They're scattered all over and I don't know where they are to correct them.
Anyway, I'll try my best to locate all those little weird things scattered all over... Please wait for a while before I post the last. I'm trying my hand on it...
I don't know when X's birthdate is, so I just made it up. If there is an error about his birthdate, well, I won't be able to change it that one because X's birthday being in autumn is a part of it all. That's why I must apologize if there is a mistake and I won't be able to correct that one. I hope you understand.
I hope to post the last part soon and then I'll try my hand on other stuff.
Bye for now.
Ellis McDohl
by: Ellis McDohl
Disclaimer: You know who they belong to! They all belong to Capcom!!
First entry: May 31, 2001
Last entry: June 3, 2001
Author's note:
I must TRULY apologize for the name error!!! (I KNEW there was something wrong with me!!) I was relying on my cousin. And I thought I heard him right... (He was playing the Japanese and I thought we heard "Bricks"...) I'm truly, truly, very sorry... (Also, please forgive my language...) Thank you for pointing it out. No need to apologize to me. I was the one in error and I'm truly sorry... I've corrected it... I think...
I've just checked the other chapters and it looks like I was wrong about the margin... Can't fix it yet... (I'm sad...)
By the way, after this, it may take a while before I post a new one. You see, the last part, called "Final Decisions", is still not finished. I'm trying to work on it but it seems I'm a bit stuck... Somewhere... Dunno where though... And I'm going to have to fix myself for the time being. Please, someone answer me, Dr. Light lived in North America right? Do you know where it is? Anyway, it's taking so long, (Been a while. It was may when I started that and now it's july... Man, it's been months since then. I'll do my best to finish it within this month...)
I brought this out now and I'm glad for that too. And I'm getting nice reviews... and that makes me very happy... But I still have to fix a few things as well... My fingers are pressing the wrong buttons and my head is fuzzy... (Just kidding! I'll blame it on myself. Ehehehe...)
Here it is... This is "Waiting"...
I hope you enjoy...
Ellis McDohl
******************************************************************
I always had vivid dreams, even when I'm awake. They say that dreams are hopes you have when you're asleep. They are basically reflections of a person's life. When they have fear they dream of it. Sometimes, dreams are memories of a past that had long been forgotten, just trying its best to ooze it's way out and make to you remember them.
Many have told me so much more than just that. Someone once told me they are sometimes prophecies, dreams of the future. I don't really know what that meant since I haven't been dreaming so often lately. In fact, I don't even dream of him.
But when I do, it's usually because I have a problem and he's just trying to help me out. I only have to close my eyes and fall asleep...
...And then, I have to wait for my answers to come.
I wait, and I hope, that it wouldn't be in vain...
I don't remember of what happened much that day. It was the last few days of autumn, I think, and the last leaves had fallen. There was still no snow but it was cold. I could feel it but not too much because there was the heater in my office.
My office was big with a few papers and small tools scattered on my desk. I didn't bother cleaning it up for a while since it's not that messy and I still need to check the papers. The papers were about something but I couldn't understand it yet. I'll have to figure it out later when my head clears.
There were other stuff in my room, two plants, two couches and a small coffee table. There were mechanical things there too and a rather large computer to begin with. Behind where I sat were the big windows. It gave me a clear view of what was going on outside the base, it also keeps me from feeling too tied up.
Working was good for me, I think, since being busy keeps me from thinking too much. It's really annoying when I start to think too much. The others have been worried, I know. Although they don't say anything, it's probably because I casually brush them off when they start it up. But I only tell them, I can go on.
I looked down at the papers, these are the results of the tests they've been running on Protoman. It looks fine and it seems he's quite ready to fight. Now that I think about it, it's been two weeks since then. Better start fixing things.
I began to put away my tools, as I did so, I noticed that picture on the desk. It was of me and Zero in the sanctuary. Zero wasn't smiling that time. I was and I had an arm around his neck. We had almost fallen to the ground. Zero was looking down at the ground as if trying to keep us both from falling. Actually, it was his fault. Really it was. He didn't want to get his picture taken but I had stopped him and it was Dr. Cain who had taken this photo.
Zero didn't always smile. But whenever he did, it usually calms me down. I remember him most, that day this photograph was taken. It was spring. The sky was blue and the grass was green... That was the time I started waiting for him.
Waiting for him to tell me things I knew he hid...
Waiting for him to let me become his friend...
I give out a sigh and leaned back on my chair. I feel I was always waiting for him. Perhaps I've been waiting for him too much. Even now, I'm still waiting...
Forever I still wait...
I opened my eyes and turned to see what day it was today. To my surprise, it was my birthday. I looked down at it for quite a long time before deciding I think I need a break. Everyone had wanted me to take a day-off. Maybe they're starting to notice that I'm getting a bit tired.
I stood up, deciding I should get a day-off. Putting back the papers on the table, I straightened up and walked out my office, quite aware that I won't be obeying anybody today and, perhaps, no one will obey me just for today.
The door closed behind me. I could faintly hear one of my tools roll and fall to the floor. I'll just have to fix it up later when I get back.
"Oh, X! What's wrong? Aren't you supposed to be in your office?" Alia asked with her eyebrows raised.
I looked at Alia, smiling faintly. She and I have been getting along quite well since that day. She was undoubtedly a good friend to me now. I told Zero that I liked her (not in a romantic way though.) when she first came. Zero could only smile, a bit wan, but it was enough for me. I felt like he approved of my choice.
I must admit, Alia wasn't very pretty. She only had her own charms that only I saw. She wasn't as pretty as Iris was with her long brown hair and blue eyes and Aluze's gentle movements but she was enough for me.
Alia had short, blond hair and blue eyes. She was also as tall as I was. Or was I a bit smaller? I don't know. She always wore something, dark gray and red but not like the red Roll wears. It was of a lighter shade and not pink.
She wasn't very gentle with her ways either. In fact, when we first met, she always used to scold me. Zero didn't laugh but only looked at us with mild gentleness. I think he understood it more than I did.
He always did. He was grown up and more mature than I was. I still had some traces of childishness but he told me once that it's okay to sit back for a while, just not too much or it will get me killed. I guess I understood.
Alia looked at me queerly as I thought of these things in my head. Then she walked to me and placed her hand on my forehead with her other hand on her own. From this close, I could smell her scent. It was chamomile, sweet and true. She didn't see me blush but I was quite aware though I didn't quite know it.
She then drew away from me and smiled.
"That's good." She remarked. "I thought you were coming down with something."
I smiled, slightly. "What makes you think that?" I asked, a bit amused.
She waved her forefinger in front of my face, smiling. "Hmm... Well, you're so regular with your habits if you suddenly strayed out it's probably because of something." She replied and straightened out. "Is it summer already?" She chukled.
I placed a hand on my forehead, smiling, slightly. "Some idea just got into my head, that's all." I replied. "Have you taken your day out?"
She nodded, smiling. "Of course." She replied as if it was obvious. "Yesterday." Then there was a slight pause and she frowned, prettily. "Or have you forgotten?"
I smiled, slightly again. "Not really..." I said.
Then she suddenly gasped that rather surprised me. "Don't tell me, you're taking your day out today?!" She exclaimed.
"Uh, yeah." I replied. "I'll be... Just as long as Signas lets me..."
Alia gave out a sigh. "Oh, what a pity." She remarked. "If I only knew you were going out today I wouldn't have gone out yesterday." Then she turned to me smiling. "But I'm glad of what you decided."
She murmured something I couldn't understand. I raised my eyebrows and she only shook her head, saying it was nothing. At that time I knew they were up to something. Then she regained herself.
"Go to Signas then." She said. "I'm sure it'll be all right. I just want you to enjoy yourself. But don't get yourself too tired because there's going to be some happening here at the base tonight."
I raised my eyebrows wondering what could it be and I was about to ask but by the time I got my mouth open, she had disappeared. Back to her duties, no doubt. I shook my head to clear it and turned to where I was supposed to go to reach Signas' office.
I've noticed something odd about the base of late. The troops looked quite amused whenever they looked at me. In fact, they were a lot warmer now, it made me feel like they're all playing some kind of joke on me.
I haven't seen Protoman since this morning. I remembered he was talking to Signas but I don't know what they're talking about. It's not my business to know of it, I guess. Rush isn't here, either nor Roll. They're all probably busy about something in Dr. Cain's lab.
For some strange reason, I feel something odd in me. It feels like some weird surprise is coming my way but it's probably just because I'm getting a bit paranoid. Maybe it's because I'm tired...?
Whatever with that. I'll just go to Signas' office and ask if I could have a day-out. When I get it, I'll go to the sanctuary and get some sleep there. At least no one will bother me there and I could keep watch of things.
The long hallway ended with a door and I stood in front of it taking in a deep breath. They're mostly going to react the way Alia did. Or they're going to start laughing at me and I don't think I'd mind but that's how it will be.
I pressed the panel on the wall beside the door. Signas' voice could be heard from it.
"Who is it?" Signas asked.
"Captain X, sir." I replied.
I was vaguely aware of some scuffle and a few voices inside the room from the intercom. There was also a rather loud thud and Roll's scolding voice. Dr. Light and Dr. Cain's laughter and they scuffled along, trying to repress their own voices.
The steel doors began to open and I found Protoman on the floor, flat on his face with Rush standing on his back. Roll stood nearby, scolding them both. Dr. Cain and Dr. Light looked quite calm while they discussed a few plans. Signas was sitting on his chair behind his desk, looking down at the papers.
One of the papers was blown off and it flew to my feet. I bent over, picked it and walked to where Signas was and handed it to him. He only nodded, slightly. Protoman was still on the floor, trying to get up but couldn't because of Rush, who was now jumping on him. Roll was trying to make them stop but they wouldn't. Dr. Light continued to discuss things with Dr. Cain as if peace was there.
I then turned to Signas who was looking down at his papers. Signas had been staying here in our base for quite sometime now. Normally he would be in his own place back in the Repliforce. He was the replacement for General and he has the most precise CPU of all.
I don't really know why he's been staying here. I'd wager it's because of Dr. Light and Dr. Cain. It's not that I don't like him to stay, it's just... well... amusing.
He finally raised his head to look at me, he wasn't smiling but I could see that he was trying to hide the last traces of it. I figured, it's probably because of Protoman, Rush and Roll. I saluted, to show respect and he nodded. I put my hand back to my side.
"What is it, X?" Signas asked. "Is there something wrong?"
"Nothing really." I replied. I felt a bit embarrassed, still I knew I had to get over with it. I shouldn't chicken out. I inhaled and began. "Signas," I called.
"What?" He asked, looking at the papers.
"I'm..." I swallowed and heard a click in my throat.
Dr. Cain was drinking his coffee as Dr. Light continued to speak.
"...I'm taking my day off today." I finished.
Dr. Cain's coffee flew out of his mouth at the suddenness of the statement. It rained down on the plans but Dr. Light, luckily managed to avoid it. Dr. Cain coughed and Roll ran to his side and rubbed her hand on his back. Dr. Light stood up to see if he was okay and Rush rolled down from Protoman back.
"This is rare..." Signas remarked, bowing his head, slightly. I could still see his lips curved up to a small smile. "It's been quite a while since you actually asked for one." Then he looked at me. "Just what do you intend to do?"
I turned my head away from them. This is starting to annoy me. I don't know why they have to ask what I intend to do.
"I'll just go out to the sanctuary and sleep." I replied. "What else am I supposed to do?"
Roll stood up. "What?! You're just going to sleep?!" She exclaimed.
I turned to her frowning. "I'm not getting enough sleep here in the base." I replied. "That's the only place I could sleep without waking up when something blows up." Then I looked down at my foot. "That's the place where I could runaway to." Then I raised my head to look at her. "That's exactly why it's called a 'sanctuary'." I said. "It's a place of refuge."
This was followed by a short silence. Dr. Light stood up with shinning eyes, Dr. Cain nodded slightly and when I saw them this way, I knew that something was coming up. Looks like I'm not going to get my sleep.
"This is a good opportunity for you to show Roll and Protoman around the city." Dr. Light said, smiling rather eagerly. Then he turned to Dr. Cain. "What do you think?"
Dr. Cain, nodded, eagerly as well. "Yes. There's nothing like old friends catching up with what time has taken." He said and turned to Roll and Protoman. "It's time to go out and shop." He remarked.
Roll was looking at with a bewildered face but she then it seems as if some sort of realization has come to her and she nodded, smiling with as much enthusiasm as they had. Protoman began to stand up and looked at them. Roll ran to my side, happily.
"Then we should go, now!" She declared and turned to Protoman. "That's enough dilly-dallying, Protoman. Rush, let's go."
Protoman stood up with a small smile playing in his lips. Dr. Light handed Roll a gold-colored card which she took, smiling. I turned to Signas.
"Signas, what about my day-off?!" I asked, rather hopelessly. I don't want to get stuck with them for the whole day. I want to go to sleep.
Signas gave out a short laugh. "This is your day-off." He replied.
"But I-!!" I protested.
Roll and Protoman carried me off and Rush trotted right beside us, while I watched the three of them wave their hands to bid us farewell. I don't have any choice, I guess. But I wish they'd let me sleep.
This is getting a little too much.
A lot of people were looking at us while Roll hovered about the mall to take a good look at all the dresses. This feels makes me feel a little awkward since everyone knows me. I wanted to cover my face. This is starting to make me feel stupid.
The attendant there, smiled, warmly as Roll looked and picked out the clothes she wanted. She was always wearing bright red clothes. It was her favorite color. Protoman, Rush and I followed her as she walked.
I looked at the wall clock on the wall. It said ten o' clock but I'm getting a little too tired of this. I shifted, uneasily on the bench. Protoman sat beside me and Rush beside his foot. Roll was changed and modeled in front of us, asking whether it fits her or not. I looked up at her, smiling and once again the clothes she wore were still red-
Red... The color of blood...
I looked down at my palms and to my horror, there was a small puddle of blood in it. I then realized whose blood it seemed to be. I gave out a short scream-I can't say it was a shout nor an exclamation-and I fell back along with the bench, knocking down everything on and behind it.
Now, I'm very much aware of where I was. I was still sitting on the bench but it had tumbled over. Protoman was lying on the ground beside me and Rush underneath him. A dress rack had fallen over above me. Roll and the attendant were looking down at us, worriedly. Some of the people who were there looked at us. Protoman stood up and I followed his example. Then we both helped put up the rack and the bench.
Thank goodness nothing was broken. I looked down at my hand and found a little red cap. I must've been dreaming.
"Are you guys okay?" Roll asked.
Protoman rubbed his head. "I know I am." He replied then he turned to me. "What's the big idea, screaming and throwing your feet up and making us both fall on the floor anyway?"
I handed the red cap to Roll who took it.
"I only asked you if this cap was alright." She said. "Then I placed it in your hands to make you see it better."
"But then you suddenly, outright screamed and threw your feet up and you fell." The attendant finished. Then she smiled. "But don't worry. You didn't break anything."
I gave out a heavy sigh. I really must've been dreaming. I tied my fists on my chest.
"Are you done yet?" I asked, frowning. "Because if you are, we're going back to the base and I'm going to start-"
She didn't let me finish. "Don't be such a worrywart!" She interrupted, cheerfully. "We'll go visit the cake shop and eat when I'm done with this." Then there was a slight pause. "Do you like this dress?" She asked.
I sat back on the bench. "I don't know things about girls' clothing." I only replied. I didn't see her reaction. That was because I still waiting...
...waiting until I finally fell asleep.
It was the sanctuary. The tree was there and the cliff that looked out to the city. Here in my dream it was spring. The wind gently blew across the place, making the leaves and the grass, dance, gracefully. I turned for a bit to see the base standing there with the clear blue sky above it. It was wonderful. I haven't seen it like this for a long time.
I know, because in the real world, it was autumn.
I turned back once again to the tree and wasn't surprised to find him standing there. He was looking out to the city, with his watchful blue eyes. Waiting to see what will happen to it. Waiting... to make sure that nothing will happen.
He seemed to have noticed me and he turned without smiling. I smiled at him because I was glad he was there. It's been a few weeks since I last met him but here he was again. And I was glad of it.
"Zero..." I said, smiling.
He smiled, slightly. "Oh, it's you." He remarked.
I laughed. "Still as casual as ever, I see." I remarked.
He nodded. The wind blew again and made his long, blond hair dance with it. I've always wondered how did he maintain his long hair. He smiled at me from where he stood. I didn't come near him yet. Not yet.
"X," He began. "I have to go now..."
This struck me. "What do you mean?" I asked, feeling as if something was going to be taken away from me. "Where are you going?"
Zero smiled. "Don't worry." He said. "We'll see each other soon."
"Zero, no I-!!" I began to run to him.
But the wind blew harder, making the leaves fly towards me. I had to shield my face with my arms. When I put them back down, Zero was gone. The wind blew, gently this time, and I could hear it saying "Trust me..."
I bent my head down. And waited once more...
We walked along the street and stopped by shops a couple of times. Protoman, Rush and I followed her. I didn't think I even need to show them around. It even looks like they know the place better than I did.
That's all for the best. At least I know they won't get lost. Roll was about to stop and go into another shop but Rush began to beg and Protoman began to complain of hunger. She turned to me and smiled.
"What about you, X?" She asked, smiling. "Are you hungry?"
X frowned. "No..." I replied but my body didn't lie and my stomach growled. I blushed in embarrassment. "Well, maybe a little..." I said.
The three of them laughed at me. But I must admit, I was a little hungry. Rush scratched behind his ear. I looked down at him, wondering if he ever gets tired of walking around with Roll while she shops.
"I wonder where is the best place to eat cake?" Roll said, looking around.
"Well, I just want to eat." Protoman said. "And I'm getting a bit tired too." He turned to me unexpectedly. "Do you know any good place?"
Roll shook her head, smiling. "I don't think he knows things like that." She said. "After all, the only world he's ever been to is where his partner is."
This was one of the reasons why I didn't want to be with them today. I only want to be alone. Part of what she said was true and part of it is false. Zero knew more of the city than you'd think. He taught me what I knew but I wandered around more than he did.
I used the word 'wandered' but it was mostly 'losing my way'. He would always find me with a small frown on his face and telling me to stop wandering around with my head in the clouds. Then I would follow him out to a cake shop and we'd buy some sweets.
Protoman turned to Roll, briskly and she clapped both her hands on her mouth as if she wanted to call back the words she had said. I turned my back to them and started walking away. They'll be able to get themselves back on their own anyway. I'll just go and eat and then go back to the base.
They ran after me. As I walked, they talked to me.
"X, I'm..." Roll began.
"It's always been the same, Roll." I interrupted, not looking at her. "That's what you always say anyway. You can't help your nature."
She stopped and frowned and stood in way to keep me from walking. I stopped with her in front of me. This was her nature. She doesn't even realize how much she changed. None of them noticed how much they changed.
"Why can't you just loosen up?" She asked suddenly, almost shouting at my face.
I shook my head, wearily. "The only time I can loosen up is when I'm asleep." I replied. "I want to get a real day-off! But-!" Managed to stop myself in time, shook my head at them and continued to walk.
Roll was about to say something but Protoman seemed to have stopped her.
"Calm down, Roll." He said. "You should know that X hasn't been getting enough rest lately because of us. That's why he's so grumpy."
I heard someone sigh. It must've been Roll but I'm not sure. And I wasn't sure whether they were still following me. I just kept walking on and I stopped in front of the cake shop we used to go to.
I looked up and read the shop curtain which read: "Winter Moon Cake Shop". It was more then just the memories that drew me here. This place was one of the best and they sell my favorite cake in there. Besides that I was a regular customer and they gave me a discount.
I turned the knob and heard the bell ring.
"Welcome, X!" The woman behind the counter greeted, smiling.
"Good afternoon, Mrs. Fuyutsuki." I greeted back, smiling a little.
Mrs. Fuyutsuki is the owner of this shop. Her real name is Sonomi Fuyutsuki. She's been working here since she got married. This was her husband's family business but since she lost her husband and her their only child in an accident, she took over.
She was a sweet lady with long, hair black hair, tied behind her. Despite her loss, she was always smiling and her gentle, brown eyes, shinning, but there were traces of sadness in them that could never be wiped out.
"You haven't been coming here lately." She remarked, smiling as she walked out from behind the counter to where I was now standing.
I walked with her to a table. "Well, I've been so busy lately, I didn't have much time to go out." I replied. "But I do miss the cakes you bake, madam."
She laughed, slightly. "Ah! You were always so nice, X." She said. Then she looked over my shoulder. "Are they your friends?"
I stopped and turned to find them both standing behind me. I gave out a sigh and turned back to her.
"That guy there is my brother. The girl is Roll and the dog is Rush." I replied. Then to them. "This is Mrs. Fuyutsuki. She owns the shop."
Roll and Protoman bowed and she bowed back.
"Nice to meet you, madam." Protoman said.
"Mine is the pleasure." She replied. Then they all straightened up. "Ah, this is good. If X is with you then I will give you a discount." Then she looked at us smiling. "Pick whatever you want."
Roll smiled, eagerly. "Oh, thank you!!" She said and looked down at the menu standing on the table to see what she wanted to eat. "I'd like a slice of this Chocolate cake." She said and pointed to a delicious looking cake with lots of chocolate icing.
Protoman smiled down at the menu. "I'll have two slices of this mocha cake." He replied.
Rush was sleeping near my foot and didn't seem to want to eat anymore. Roll turned Protoman frowning.
"You're going to eat too much and then get very fat." She said.
"Well, I'm just hungry." Protoman replied.
Mrs. Fuyutsuki smiled at us and she turned to me. "What about you?" She asked. "Still the usual?"
"Yes, please." I replied. "And three slices." I added.
"Ah, your appetite is getting bigger." She remarked, looking pleased. "What about drinks?"
"I'll have iced tea." Roll replied.
"Same here." Protoman said.
"I'll have hiyasame." I replied.
Mrs. Fuyutsuki smiled. "Please wait for a bit. I'll go get it."
"Thank you." Roll said.
And we watched her leave. Roll then turned to me, smiling.
"I didn't know were a regular customer here, X." She remarked. "This is good."
Protoman was about to open his mouth to say something but then Mrs. Fuyutsuki came and served us what we ordered. Protoman ate while Roll scolded him. I looked down at the sweet smelling cake, smiling a little. This was going to taste good. I knew it quite well and I ate it all up, thinking how long since I've last been here.
Mrs. Fuyutsuki stood there, smiling as she looked at us.
"This is so good!" Protoman said with a satisfied smile on his face. Then he turned to her. "Madam, your cakes here are so delicious! I should come here, often too."
She smiled at us. "Ah, then I'm glad." She said. "That's exactly what X said when he first came here with Zero."
I flinched but no one seemed to notice. I looked down at the cake and continued to eat.
"Zero took X here?" Roll asked with her eyebrows raised.
She nodded. "Yes. Very often." She replied. "Zero saved me from a maverick once and I told him to come here because he had a discount. Ever since then, he eats here until one time he came with X." She said and smiled at me.
"You should've seen them that day." She continued, smiling with a reminiscent sparkle in her eyes. "Zero was a good child although he didn't speak as often as X once did. It's only sad that he had to leave us so soon..."
I turned and found a tear roll down from her eyes. Zero always told me how nice she was to him. Zero didn't always wear a smile when we came here but she was always so gentle with us and so nice, he must've seen something with her. I realized, they both had tragic lives. Losing almost everything and still trying to live on for others.
I looked up at her, smiling. But I didn't feel at all happy. There was a weight somewhere that couldn't seem to be lifted and she and I shared it now because we both know what it felt like to lose and win at the same time.
"Zero... always told me that you had a nice smile." I began. It was true.
They all looked at me as I spoke.
"...You were always smiling despite the fact that you are sad." I said and I looked down at my empty plate. "That's why you shouldn't cry like that... He always liked you smiling..."
Mrs. Fuyutsuki wiped her tears with her hand.
"You are so sweet." She said, smiling. "But don't worry." Then there was a slight pause. "Are you going to take out a cake as usual?" She asked.
I rose. "Yes. I'll take a whole cake. Dr. Light might like it and I'm sure Dr. Cain does." I replied.
She smiled again as she walked toward the counter. I followed her.
"How is the dear old gentleman?" She asked.
I rolled my eyes around. "Well, he's alright." I replied. "He and Dr. Light are getting along and having a merry time out of it."
She gave out a short laugh. "Then that is good." She said and turned to the reploid at the counter. "Caterpillar cake, please and it's take out."
The reploid nodded and hurried off to fix things. Roll, Protoman and Rush followed us. Roll fumbled into her purse to look for Dr. Light's card to pay for what we ate but I handed Mrs. Fuyutsuki my own. She took it and slid it into the slot. It was paid for. Roll stood there, as if struck and the reploid handed me the cake.
"Here's your caterpillar cake, sir." The reploid said, smiling.
"What?!" Someone exclaimed from behind me.
We turned and saw Roll's shocked face. She walked toward me and I knew what was coming next. The look on her face told me she was going to start scolding me, as usual but I don't know why she would.
"You're going to feed Dr. Light and Dr. Cain caterpillars?!" She exclaimed at my face.
For some reason, this struck me as funny. This was starting to get to me. I never thought she'd say this like it is. Mrs. Fuyutsyki and I started laughing. We were both trying to repress our laughter, really we tried, but it just kindda seeps in and we burst out laughing.
Protoman placed his hand on Roll's head. "Roll you should know better than that." He remarked.
Mrs. Fuyutsuki stopped but she was still smiling. "I'm sorry for laughing." She said. "It's called that way because it's just like a caterpillar. It has segments and each segment has a different flavor." She explained.
"Oh, I see." Roll said and turned to me. "You should've told us that earlier!"
I raised my head, smiling. "Well,... I can't because I was laughing too hard." I replied.
It was true, I was and there were tears in my eyes. Everything was repeating itself. This was I said the time Zero told me what I just ate. And he laughed at me. That was the first time I saw and heard him laugh. It felt good.
There was also sadness in those tears. I remembered my dream where he was leaving me. I don't know where he would go but I still have to wait. It was always the same. I played the waiting game. Always waiting for everything...
I took the cake. "Thanks a lot, madam." I said and started to walk away.
"Please visit more often." She said.
Roll raised her hand as she walked. "We will."
The door closed behind us, leaving another memory of Zero behind me.
The ground was hard and brown and the last leaves had fallen. Our sanctuary was dreary now as it was when autumn comes. Soon, it will be winter and it will cover the ground white with snow. Another year will pass. Another season has gone, still I wait.
I stand there on the cliff and looked down at the city and out to the setting sun. The cold wind blew past my cheek, giving me a little chill. The city hadn't changed and the sunset hasn't either. People will continue with their lives as if nothing had ever happened.
The sky was gold and red, just like that day during spring a long time ago. That was the last time I saw him. If I hadn't been so careless...
"Zero, I don't know what I'm waiting for..." I said, aloud. "I'm still waiting but I don't know what it is exactly..." I looked down at my foot.
I know he won't answer. How could he? I was alone here and I know he was dead. I said I'd live but I still can't get over it all. Why is that? That's because I'm waiting.
Always waiting for something that doesn't seem to come. I take one last look at the sunset, realizing I don't feel sleepy anymore. I turned to the base and begin to walk and still wait for my answers to come.
And wait for the day to end. My day-off was over and it's time to work.
I walk to my office and stop in front of the door. I wasn't sleepy anymore but I knew I was tired, I'll just take a look at how much work there is for me and go to the charging area to get a rest. The door opened before me and there was nothing else on the table but the open little brown box with Zero's blue jewel.
I walked to it, realizing that I didn't leave it there when I left. I walked to it and carefully laid the jewel in my palm. It was a bit heavier than mine. This was where Zero's memory chip is placed. I took the saber out and pressed a small button on it. A small chip fell into my palm where the Jewel was.
Then something, I don't know what, told me to put the memory chip back into the jewel. I don't know why but I obey this part of me that told me this. I placed the memory chip on top of the jewel and it sank in-just like a small pebble sinks down into the sea-and disappeared into it. The jewel rippled and settled back to it's normal shape. Once again it was solid, that blue jewel, I held it in my hands, feeling how smooth it was.
The dying light from the sun entered my room and it shone through the jewel, making a blue shadow across the room. I smiled at it, then I remembered those times we spent together. We were both waiting, him and I. Waiting for each other to say something but couldn't.
I'll take you with me too. I told the jewel and placed the saber back to it's place by my side and held the jewel in my hand.
I walked out the room, without realizing, I didn't even put the box back where it should've been in, in the first place.
Dr. Light and Dr. Cain were standing in the hall, chatting as if waiting for someone. Here they were, the persons I needed to talk to. I wanted to show them something else Zero left behind for me to take.
"Uh, Dr. Light..." I began.
They both turned with shinning eyes full of amusement. Despite the fact that Dr. Cain's bushy eyebrows covered his eyes, I could still sense some sort of amusement coming from him. Just like those times when they were up to something.
"Ah, X you've come!" He exclaimed, eagerly and walked to greet me.
"Did you have a grand time during your day-off?" Dr. Cain asked.
"Well, it made me consider a lot of things." I replied, rather sadly.
Dr. Light took my free-hand and Dr. Cain walked in front of me as if they wanted to lead me somewhere.
"Let's go, let's go." Dr. Cain said, eagerly. "We can't have him wait any longer." And he turned, smiling.
I gaped, because they seemed to both know I was waiting for something. I turned to Dr. Light who was smiling as he gently but firmly held my hand. My feet began to move on it's own and it followed their lead, right into the charging area.
It was dark as it always was because this is where we sleep. Alia was the first person who greeted me. But there were others there, all were smiling and clapping their hands as a welcome. Dr. Light let go of my hand and they both stepped aside to let her pass. She walked toward me, smiling and placed a bouquet into my arms.
"Happy birthday, X." She said and kissed my cheek.
Then she took my hand and led me to a capsule. I stared, dumb-founded when I saw what was inside the capsule. It took a long time before I was able to recover-some, if not all-my senses. And when I did, I turned to them with my mouth still open.
Dr. Light nodded and Dr. Cain cleared his throat. I turned back to the capsule, looking at Zero's face. He wasn't breathing. Not yet, not until he's complete. I knew that there will be a slot on his helmet.
"It's hard work, X." Dr. Cain said. "We managed to rebuild his body..."
"But his memory chip is missing." Dr. Light finished.
"We're still trying to locate it." Signas said.
He said, something else but I don't remember or I wasn't able to listen. I walked toward the open capsule, still looking up. It was just as I remembered him. Everything was there except for his memory chip which holds his personality. Then I remembered my dream he said, we'll meet soon.
I looked down at the blue jewel in my palm, it seemed to be shining now. I marveled at it and then shook my confused head to clear it. I saw his helmet, where an empty slot was. There in that empty slot was where this jewel supposed to go.
"X?" Signas called.
"It's okay..." I said. "He'll be fine." And opened my palm.
They all saw it. "Where did you get that?" Signas asked.
I smiled but they didn't see. "Zero must've given it to me before his body was destroyed." I replied. "I woke up with this in my hand along with Zero's saber which contained his memory chip."
Then I looked down at Zero and planted the jewel on that empty slot on his helmet. I heard a click and the jewel let out a bright light. Then I heard Zero take in a deep breath as if he had been underwater for too long and had just surfaced to breathed in the air.
Then he began to breath normally, but it looks like he was exhausted. He continued to sleep. Everyone clapped their hands then I turned to them, smiling and I yawned. I was getting sleepy again.
Roll grabbed my hand, smiling. "Come on, let's party!!" She said.
My hand slid from hers, in a few moments, I'll be sleeping but I don't want to sleep on the floor. I pulled out a chair and sat on it.
"You go ahead..." I replied, drowsily. "I'll just stay here... and wait for him to wake up."
I didn't hear them anymore, because I fell asleep, slumped on the desk near the capsule where Zero lay, sleeping. No more dreams now but I still hope.
Dreams are the hopes you have when you're sleep. They say that sometimes, dreams are prophecies of a future waiting to unfold. I didn't dream anymore because the answers are right here in front of me. I didn't need to close my eyes.
...But I still wait...
I wait, and I know, that it wouldn't be in vain.
*************************************************************
Further note:
I have this weird error that I've been noticing. It's about the spelling of stuff. I'm not good at spelling, I admit, but this little thing is so bothersome, I don't know what to do with it. One of them is about "loss" and "lose". Really weird... They're scattered all over and I don't know where they are to correct them.
Anyway, I'll try my best to locate all those little weird things scattered all over... Please wait for a while before I post the last. I'm trying my hand on it...
I don't know when X's birthdate is, so I just made it up. If there is an error about his birthdate, well, I won't be able to change it that one because X's birthday being in autumn is a part of it all. That's why I must apologize if there is a mistake and I won't be able to correct that one. I hope you understand.
I hope to post the last part soon and then I'll try my hand on other stuff.
Bye for now.
Ellis McDohl