Return of Metal
Chapter 7
"Metal's Origins"
By MEGAMANX411

Dr. Wily paced around his lab, muttering to himself in a low tone. His grey hair was even more crazy today than it was in previous days, and his lab coat was filthy. His hands were covered with oil and cuts, and a strong sense of fatigue washed over him. Because today, he had worked virtually non-stop on some projects that he considered "masterpieces." The first of which was Zero. He couldn't believe how close he was to being finished. All he really needed was to run a quick diagnostic, then start him up. The initial programming was in place, and his CPU was ready to go. On the other hand, Wily's other project wasn't quite done yet.

Wily's lab was almost as ragged as he was. It was evident that he hadn't cleaned it in some time. The walls had a faint green glow to them due to the dim lights that remained, but besides that, visibility was relatively poor. Computer screens emanated a faded glow as they displayed immense and ridiculous equations and statistics. All around there were pipes, cords, computers...and two capsules. In one of them laid Zero, Dr. Wily's fabled work of art. In the other was another project that Wily had gotten started on. He was more proud of Zero, obviously, considering that the red monstrousity was his own masterpiece. This machine, however...was special in a different light. Somehow, just a litle earlier, Dr. Wily had managed to sneak a look at some blueprints that his rival Dr. Light had made.

They were astounding. They rivaled his own creation! The designs for that machine...were incredible. So, to get even with his foe, Dr. Wily decided to do a little copying. He created his own adaptation of Dr. Light's work. So, that was how he started constructing Metal. He thought it was fitting, after all. He couldn't wait to see Dr. Light's face when he saw that his precious creation had been copied over, and that Dr. Wily managed to create another powerful machine besides. It was all too perfect. Still, Dr. Wily was suffering from one thing--his old age. He couldn't deny the fact that he was feeling the effects of becoming eldery, and he knew he would have to finish his projects quickly, while he could still do it. He wanted to be there when his greatest day would come. All thanks to a little scheme he devised earlier...

Approximately one year ago...

Dr. Light shuffled around his lab. He was feeling the effects of his age. He wanted to make one more robot, one that he would be able to leave the future to. There was Mega Man for this age, but he wanted to make sure that the future had a champion as well---that's where Mega Man X came in. He would be Dr. Light's greatest creation...a robot built with a "soul," with the ability to think and feel. Dr. Light sighed lightly as he overlooked his blueprints one more time. He couldn't believe he had successfully planned it out.

Unfortunately for him, he was being watched. A familar dark-armored robot wearing a grimace peered through the window. He knew his orders. Bass, one of Wily's best robots, was sent out on a little reconaissance mission. He wasn't supposed to fight Mega Man, much to his dismay. He found this line of work so boring. He wanted a challenge. But since he did have to obey Dr. Wily to an extent, he eventually gave in. Besides, he kind of wanted to see Dr. Light's new creation--a new Mega Man to fight against? A challenge like that made a familar smirk appear on his face. He couldn't wait. When Dr. Light was out of sight, Bass quickly copied over the blueprints and bolted back to Dr. Wily's. He too wanted to see what this would lead to.

The capsule labeled "Metal" wasn't quite as glorious as the other. It was just a spare that Wily needed for the time being. It was still fit for operation, however, so Wily paid little attention to it. He still had to finish his current project, anyway. After Zero was fully complete, then he would be able to finish Metal. And that would be his ultimate day of triumph. Zero, the more prized creation, looked like he was merely sleeping. His crimson armor looked like it was a brilliant flame, and it was properly accentuated by his dazzling golden hair. Bass had commented numerous times that he looked "girly" but Wily paid little attention to him. After all, Bass was going to be obsolete, so why did he care?

Metal, on the other hand, was looking far darker. His black armor looked reminiscent of an eerie midnight, and his black hair matched perfectly. He didn't have armor coverings for everything yet, and the wiring was not fully complete either. He still lacked some special components, but for the most part, he still resembled the final product. Bass had more compliments for that robot, saying he looked "cool" and "kick-ass," but again, Wily paid little attention. He was too busy. Dr. Wily shot a glance over at the computer screen that was connected to Zero's capsule. A broad grin came across Wily's face.

"Looks like it's time for you to wake up, my masterpiece..." Dr. Wily muttered, coughing afterward.

Dr. Wily pressed some buttons on the keyboard, and instantly, things stirred to life. Lights came on, sounds buzzed, and the capsule opened. There was a loud hiss as the capsule cover moved away, revealing Dr. Wily's creation--Zero. He looked like he was still sleeping. Dr. Wily sighed lightly as he looked at his creation. He took a glance at the computer screen. It read: "FIVE MINUTES TO AWAKENING."

"Five minutes, eh? Then I'll go see how my other project is coming along," Dr. Wily muttered, making his way to the other capsule.

Dr. Wily's fingers blazed across the computer's keyboard, inputting login information at an intense rate. His eyes shone with curiousity, and he couldn't wait to see how things were coming along. The fruits of his labor were within reach. He started to boot-up his other creation, and decided to take a look at his diagnostics. The computer screen displayed all of his information and statistics:

Name: "Metal"

Designation: Metal Omicron.

Unit Identification: X-01.

Design Schematics ID: Omicron.

Central Processing Unit: Online.

System Memory: Incomplete.

All Sensors: Functioning At 75 Percent Capacity.

Body Armor: Functioning at 50 Percent Capacity.

Legs (Stability System/Boosters): Functioning at 60 Percent Capacity.

Arms (Weapon Systems): Offline, Non-functional.

Energy Core: Critical Malfunction Detected, System Failure Imminent.

Warning! This model is not fully completed, and may not function as desired. Its core processors are unstable, and it suffers from critical system errors. If activated, repair measures must be taken. Basic survival is possible, but fighting capabilitieswill not up to maximum.

"Bah! Not finished yet...I will have to make some adjustments before I can properly activate him..." Dr. Wily concluded, rubbing his chin.

One projet was finished, the other was on the way. Dr. Wily was a bit disappointed that one project still wasn't yet complete. It seemed as though the grand day of triumph still was a little ways off. He couldn't comprehend why Bass liked Metal better though. He wasn't complete, and Zero was far more powerful for the time being. He supposed it was because Bass though Metal looked "cooler" or something to that effect. Nevertheless, Zero was activated, and soon, he would be fully animated. Dr. Wily could hardly wait to start issuing orders to his new creation. He was then struck by a brilliant idea. A sadistic smirk emerged on his face as he brought his finger to a communication device he kept handy.

"Bass, come here immediately. I have something for you," Dr. Wily barked, becoming more and more anxious.

Within moments, Dr. Wily could hear the sound of boots hitting the floor. The corridor was a bit too shadowy to see in, but soon enough, Bass emerged from the darkness. Dr. Wily had to admit that he was proud back when he created Bass. He had discovered an element that he referred as "Bassnium" and proceeded to built the robot that would ultimately destroy Mega Man. Unfortunately for him, that was not the case. Bass had fought against Mega Man several times, but had never successfully killed his foes. Dr. Wily was more angered at the fact that Bass had given him a lot of attitude though, and had defied him despite his programming.

Oh well...at least now I'll get good use out of him, thought Dr. Wily.

"What the hell do you want?" Bass snapped, narrowing his eyes on his creator.

Dr. Wily smiled once again. Bass suddenly got an odd feeling. He couldn't help but feel like something was wrong. He preferred to keep his arrogant attitude, however.

"You see, Bass, I brought you here for the special unveiling of Zero," Dr. Wily announced.

"Zero? That's what you're calling him? That's a pretty weak name..." Bass muttered.

"Aha, but you see, he's already been activated. In a few short moments, he'll be awakened. You can interact with your new brother...and I have something else in mind as well..." Dr. Wily whispered, reaching for a device in his pocket.

Dr. Wily pulled out some kind of remote device, and pressed a single green button on it. Instantly, doors closed. Reinforced frames went over them. Dr. Wily knew that Bass could never harm him, and he would have a hell of a time trying to break those doors, so he would be fine. He didn't think Zero would harm him either...after all, he did include that in his programming, and he was his creator after all. Unfortunately for Dr. Wily though, he hadn't counted on how much free will was involved. Slowly, a figure rose from the capsule. A hand clenched the side of the resting bed, and Zero stood up on his own.

Dr. Wily marveled. Bass scoffed. There stood Zero, the newest of Dr. Wily's creations...his red armor surely looked fantastic. He was taller than Dr. Wily's other models, and appeared to have an older frame as well. He appeared like an older teenager, judging by his face. His elegant blonde hair gracefully flowed down. However, his eyes resonated with a malice that was all too familiar for Dr. Wily's robots. Zero looked at his hands. He then looked at the walls. He looked back at the capsule he was in. Then he looked over at Bass and Dr. Wily. Finally, Zero closed his eyes and decided to check for some information.

Systems: Normal, Functional.

Query: Can I Harm Humans?

Response: Yes.

Zero reopened his eyes and returned his gaze to Dr. Wily and Bass. He instantly recognized Dr. Wily as his creator and Bass as one of the doctor's previous creations. He had been created with knowledge about all of Dr. Wily's creations and exploits, and Dr. Wily wanted to install some extra things in him as well. One of which was his basic purpose: to destroy all his enemies, or get them to join his side. To do the second part of that, Dr. Wily had created a special program he liked to call the "Zero Virus." It was perfect. He was the most vicious warrior to begin with, complete with a full A.I., as well as a special program that could spread like a virus. It would quite literally override a robot's systems and brainwash them. However, that advanced artificial intelligence would prove to be Dr. Wily's undoing.

"Ah, Zero...my masterpiece. What is your mission?" Dr. Wily asked.

"To destroy my enemies," Zero replied bluntly.

Heh...seems like he's just another robot that can only follow orders, Bass thought.

Zero began to walk over towards Dr. Wily and Bass. A grin appeared on his face. He had no immediate weapons equipped, but his fists were dangerous enough. He had more crushing power in his fists than any robot previously created, and had far more power. He was a deadly opponent. Dr. Wily still smiled, but Bass was becoming a little more worried. He just knew Dr. Wily was going to pull something.

"Zero, fight Bass. I want to test your abilities," Dr. Wily ordered, pointing to Bass.

"I should've known you'd do this, you old bastard!" Bass shouted.

Zero didn't say a word. He just crept closer to them. Dr. Wily began to get more pale. He realized that he probably should've taken more countermeasures. That's when he realized he still had his restraining device. He fished it out of his pocket, just in case. If Zero so much as thought of harming him, he was ready to give him quite a shock. Zero walked up close to Bass and Dr. Wily. He stood facing Dr. Wily, staring him square in the eye.

"Why should I follow you? You're dead," Zero announced casually.

Dr. Wily didn't have time to scream, despite how much terror he felt. With a quick thrust of his arm, Zero dig his fist into Dr. Wily's abdomen. Dr. Wily looked at Zero in horror, and tried to use the restraining device. It didn't work. At least, it didn't stop Zero anyway. Zero still felt the shock, but it was not enough to even be considered a minor threat. The effects of the shock transferred over to Dr. Wily...it was bound to happen, seeing as how Zero's fist was dug into Dr. Wily's body. Blood poured out of the wound, and the evil smile remained plastered to Zero's face. With another quick motion, Zero threw Dr. Wily aside, and walked over towards Bass.

Bass mouth hung open. He couldn't believe it...this new creation actually killed Dr. Wily! He admitted that he could care less if the old fart kicked the bucket, but the fact that he actually DID it was horrifying. Bass then got a look at Zero's eyes. They were as red as his armor. Much more like a demon than anything else. Bass felt fear course through his body. He readied his buster and pointed it at Zero.

"Don't get any closer freak!" Bass shouted, trying to get Zero to back off.

Before Bass could fire, Zero appeared right next to him. Bass gulped loudly. Zero smiled once again. With a loud rip, Zero tore off Bass' buster arm. Synthetic blood and circuitry flew everywhere, and Bass clutched his wounded arm, screaming loudly. Zero then grabbed Bass' skull, and pulled it close to his face. He didn't say a word. He just looked at him for a moment. Still, Bass felt uneasy being probed by those horrific demon eyes. His arm still throbbed with pain. With another graceful motion, Zero ripped Bass in half. His legs fell over, and his torso went sailing another direction. It landed on another capsule. Bass, with the last bit of his energy, pressed on a button on that capsule. There was a hiss, and some lights came on. Bass grinned back at Zero...he was defiant right until his end.

"You...bastard...you'll pay...this guy...will do it for me..." Bass heaved, releasing someone who he hoped would avenge his death.

With that, another robot appeared. However, Metal didn't get himself out the capsule. He was still in a state of sleep-like conciousness. He wasn't complete, and certainly not fit to do battle yet...and with Zero? That was ludicrous. Metal's weapon systems weren't even functional yet, and he still suffered from some other errors. He needed to complete himself, quickly. Zero scanned this new robot. He didn't appear to be any threat. Metal slowly opened his eyes. There he stood. Zero. The red robot stared at Metal as if he weren't even worth the effort. And with that, he simply left. Metal didn't say anything. He felt really weak, as if he were ill. Zero easily ripped the door apart, and headed out on his own. As for Metal...well, he had to complete himself. He looked around the lab. He saw a bloody heap by his capsule. There were robotic parts and circuitry; it must've been another robot. He saw a human corpse nearby as well. That must've been Dr. Wily. Metal looked around the lab. He slowly picked himself up. He ran a diagnostic check.

"Seems like I need some more parts to be fully functional..." Metal announced, looking around.

Only some of the critical parts he needed were available in that room. Metal quickly grabbed whatever he needed, and fastened them to his body. That would help for the time being, anyway. He needed to finish the rest if he wanted to be fit for battle...but why? Why did he want to fight? That's what his basic programming told him, anyway. But Metal felt another strange sensation. Thought processes going against his programming...free will? Of course, seeing as he was just created, Metal wasn't fully aware of himself yet. He was still learning. One thing stayed in his mind though...those red eyes. Who was that robot? Yes, it was Zero. That much he knew. How did he know? He was created with the knowledge of his sibling. Wasn't he supposed to fight alongside him? That's what it seemed like. Yet Zero was complete and free, whilehe was broken...andalone. No one else was around. Only blood and broken parts were left in this room.

Metal felt envious of the red robot. Why should he be the complete one? Why wasn't he given as much attention? Why didn't Dr. Wily make him stronger, make him better? Why was Zero favored? Metal then began to experience his first emotions...unfortunately, they were anger and jealousy. He wanted to exact vengeance on Zero one day...no matter what he had to do. He swore he would get stronger. He would become the "masterpiece." That word resonated in Metal's mind. He remembered something from when he was being checked on by Wily.

"Well, well...take a look at you...you won't be as good as Zero, but it'll be nice to see the look on Light's face when you're activated. You probably won't last long, after all, Zero is really your better half. But I suppose you'll have your uses..." Dr. Wily muttered.

Metal clenched his teeth. More anger came to him. Why couldn't he have been built stronger? Slowly but surely, Metal made his way outside. He didn't care where Zero went for the moment. For now, he wanted to get stronger. And so he began his quest for vengeance.

That was several years ago. In the present, Metal had already tried killing Zero...twice, actually. But he now had another enemy, and his name was Sigma. And he made a new vow...that he would defeat Sigma, and save a girl. He hoped that much would serve as his atonement.