Well, it finally happened that I got this part going for some miracle. Believe me, I'm developing this as I go along so things are moving very slowly. That and I have Organic chemistry to worry about. I'm sorry to say that my promise didn't come to pass. Excuses seem to be very common when updating a story. I'm sure all of you are sick of my excuses because I'm already sick of them. I guess that's what I get for taking over 20 units in college. (and believe me, spare yourselves some grief for those of you not in college)

Oh yeah, the reason I'm uploading all these updates/stories (3) (how'd that happen? Yup, amazing isn't it?) is simply to give appreciation to all the readers. As I said, I don't update very often, but your comments help me to continue. In any case, this'll be like feeding the lions to prolong their hunger before attacking the feeder. Needless to say, I won't be updating for the rest of the fall semester, or at least that's the way it looks like anyway.

Now that I'm done ranting, I hope this chapter gets the old apprehension going again because I put a lot of work into this one. And as similar to the last chapter, or whichever chapter I did it in I'll be making replies to comments. Seems easier to me and more manageable than trying to log on the computer everyday.

Oh, and for purposes of mystery and all that, I will not name Tech's parents. Naming people isn't my strong point and I'll simply ruin the whole thing. Anyway, enjoy.

Loonatics Unleashed © Warner Bros.


That past memory...

It started on a bright and sunny day, as is usual with the desert climate. The arid, hot air swept across the great expanse and seemed to intensify the heat of the sun. Surrounding tufts of dry brush and cacti inhabiting the wasteland gave a very picturesque yet gloomy landscape. Traveling along the outcropped dirt roads, the Coyotes were making their way back home from the Acme Tech Institute. Tech's parents were insistent on visiting the world famous technical institute upon learning of Tech's dreams for attending it. Both were positively beaming with joy and happiness for their son's hopes and ambition.

They had altogether decided to visit the institute to observe what Tech's future school would be like. It was one of those sentimental trips with no real logical reasoning behind them. In any case, Tech was too excited to mind, but would have agreed with them anyway for he knew how to be considerate, especially when his parents have done so much for him.

"I really can't believe that my little Tech will be leaving for Acme Tech," his mother cried. "It's as if it was just yesterday that you went to elementary school."

"Well, I am 14 after all, mom."

"I know, I know. I just wish I could spend more time with you dear. You've always been my pride and joy... I couldn't have wished for a better son."

"Nor could I," his father slightly interjected.

"And I couldn't have wished for better parents."

As usual, that last statement brought a tear jerking moment for his mother. His father knew the sentiment well, but was more restrained in his emotions as is customary for the male populace. Tech knew how to be a good son. He knew how to say all the right words and was ever vigilant in the slight changes of his parents emotions. However, his use of this knowledge came in no form of manipulation, but simply in wanting to see his parents genuinely happy. Although, it wasn't always this way. His observational skill wasn't simply a God-given natural ability, but was more along the lines of being forced upon him as a curse. Being a constant outcast from friendships and social cliques, Tech grew more and more in the ways of observing other people and their subtle, instinctive gestures.

He had to.

Making friends wasn't the easiest for him and whether he wanted to or not, he had to learn the concepts of rejection over and over again. Rather than discovering the answer that comes with emotional hardship or public humiliation, observing how people reacted was much less painful. Though this gave him some relief, this very skill made him even more receptive to his parent's needs.

Tech never mentioned his relations in school, but simply relied on his parent/teacher conferences to convey an outward appearance of success. He did not want to worry his parents or make them apprehensive of their only son. Ever since he started school, he had been unconsciously aware of the problems his parents faced financially. It always drove him into guilt whenever he would over hear his parent's "late-night" discussions about money problems.

Tech's dad worked for a landscaping and construction business as one of the chief architects. The pay was hefty, but relied terribly on commissions. Needless to say, his dad literally hanged from paycheck to paycheck. It always surprised Tech to hear his parents go through the family album, recalling past scientific geniuses inherent in their bloodline and with his dad being in the job he was in. More than a few times, Tech would ask what happened to his dad. Good-naturedly, he would always reply that it must have skipped a few generations. As for his mom, she was a simple and kind-hearted house wife. She would always tend to the needs of her men and showed unconditional devotion towards both of them. Though not bringing a supplementary income, her angelic attitude more than compensated.

Regardless of the situation, Tech knew he would never want to make them unhappy in the slightest. Any such event would create insurmountable guilt and frustration for himself if he had been the cause. That was why he was exceedingly persistent in trying to gain a full-ride scholarship to attend Acme Tech. The hard work he did would soon pay off and drove his determination to finally free his parents from a financial burden.

"You know son, I expect you to graduate high school next year, even though you're only a sophomore." his dad motioned.

"Really?" Tech jerked at the unexpected comment.

"Yup," his dad began jokingly. "You should have already gotten into college when you were 13 with those IQ points of yours."

Tech laughed as he launched a counter-argument of his own. "Oh yeah, well maybe if the family genius didn't pass you, maybe you would have graduated earlier than me."

"Oooh, you're a real smart-aleck, aren't you Tech?"

"I learn from the best dad."

Both were smiling ear to ear as his mom calmed them both down. "Now, now you two. I'm sure you'll both have plenty of time to argue once we get home," she said as she smiled with them. His mother peered over to her husband as she quietly shifted her bright eyes. Tech's father noticed that suggestive glance as he began to think if this was the best time. Both of them had constantly talked with each other in secret about Tech's readiness to go through the tradition.

But, he needed not a second thought as he remembered who exactly he was thinking about. It always warmed his heart seeing his boy with such an ardent heart of a scholar. Education had always been the family's main concern. It was a very pressing issue for him, especially due to his constrained income. But he was almost in disbelieve that his own son managed to go so far on his own. He knew the family spirit would always burn within Tech and never doubted the education none could deny his own little searcher of knowledge.

"Tech...?"

"Yes dad?"

"There's something your mother and I would like to show you when we get home."

"Okay. What is it?"

"I'll show you when we arrive."

"Alright!" Tech smiled as he cheerfully hummed and looked out onto the landscape.

Tech's father inwardly cried as he watched his son from the rear-view mirror. The young coyote reminded so much of all that was good in the world. Unrestrained innocence and the future generation. He couldn't believe how blessed they were for having such a child. Both he and his wife knew Tech to be destined for great things. But they also knew that just one of those things could ruin him. Therefore, they could not wait any longer, for now was the time.

The family soon arrived home as their aching bones and muscles shifted from the confined space of their vehicle. Five hundred miles of almost non-stop driving took its toll for the worn out Coyotes as they unpacked their few belongings into their relatively untouched home. As Tech went inside, his parents motioned him to follow them. They shifted quietly through the living room and headed for the den. Their house was impeccably pristine thanks to the handy work of Tech's mother. Truly, each piece of furniture was cleaned with care, while dusts' invasion lessened the integrity during the time of the family's departure. Tech followed in awe and silence as he wondered what occasion had his parents slightly apprehensive.

It was even more puzzling for the young canine that his parents led him into the den. That was his dad's private work area that not even his mom would be allowed access, unless for the purpose of tidying up. Ever since he could remember, Tech was never allowed into this area. Even on good days when his parents were at their happiest, their guard never let up. Tech wondered sometimes if his parents were tormenting him on purpose. A room that was never allowed to be entered and treated as a rule, for a kid, was outrageous. How could they have not known the curiosity that would writhe and struggle to be satisfied, especially with his personality? But now was finally the time. The moment must have been very important to be allowed entrance. The whole experience was suspenseful as each second passed with long steady strides. His father unsheathed the key within his pocket as Tech looked back at his mother, her eyes with a sense of wisdom.

Click.

The door unlocked as the forbidden room made itself known to the long anxious youngster. The door slowly hinged from obstructing his view as Tech was met with a sudden surprise. The long awaited event proved to be somewhat of a disappointment. It was a rather plain area with glossy wooden floors. The desk was stationed off to the side with several chairs and a sofa adorning the center. There also was a very gorgeous fireplace embedded into the wall near an odd looking plant. Besides the basic furniture necessities, a large drawing table latched onto Tech's wandering eyes. The angled table looked terribly unkempt with clusters of paper threatening to over take the table itself. A lamp was clamped onto the side along with several sketches that Tech figured to be some of his dad's designs. With a mental sigh, Tech looked around for other curious things. Though he knew his dad's room must have been very secretive, he shouldn't have expected some prodigiously, glorified den. Perhaps it was just childish hope overriding logical reasoning, but such feelings were very hard to come by, as he knew very well.

K-k-klump!

The sound caught him unawares as Tech searched for the noise. To his amazement, Tech found his dad with mom and a flashlight in hand overturning a hidden trap door. His curiosity was heightened at its peak as he eagerly followed his parents down below ground using the secretly placed stairs. Gradually moving down, Tech peered into the dingy darkness using the artificial light as a bearing. Though the sunlight shining through the den's window gave its strong presence, even they could not seem to illuminate a slight path. It was as if there was some mysterious force preventing light from entering. Tech followed in a slightly frightened manner with his parents giving no notice. The trek was only for a few meters, but the awkward sounds of fresh footsteps echoing through the tunnel's walls made lost the sense of time.

"Come here Tech. This is what me and your mom brought you here for."

Tech looked towards the sound of his father's voice as he suddenly noticed a fire-red light emanating between his parents. The glow was radiant, but gentle and soft. The mere sight left a warm feeling within Tech as if he knew what caused the unexplainable feeling. Approaching closer, Tech spotted the source of the strange light. Sitting etched into the wall was a small, black stone. It had a brilliant luster and shone with an outer light. And that was the peculiar thing about it. Besides the light shown from the flashlight, another came from the stone, visible around the infrared spectra.

Tech continued to stare wide-eyed at the other curiosities besides the dark gem. Ornate carvings and intricate designs seemed to extend from where the stone situated. They were beautiful symbols, cultural remnants that elegantly lined the stone wall as a painting in itself and a reminder of the past. Tech marveled at this closely guarded secret and consumed all that he saw, lest this was the only time he would be allowed down into this sanctuary.

"Dad? Mom?... What is this place?"

"This, son, is where the spirit resides... the Coyote spirit," his dad explained solemnly. "Every Coyote born comes here to have their spirit tested."

Tech gawked at the explanation his dad made. Having been raised for so long under the impression of practical and logical reasoning, this new revelation blew his mind away. Never in all his life would he expect his family to be somewhat taken by the supernatural. But he could see that his dad was very deliberate in his words. Even though a whirlwind of confusion stormed in his mind, Tech remained considerate as he listened to his father.

"I know this must be very surprising for you Tech, but there is truth and relevance to this tradition. Though education has been the main value of this family, each and every one of us Coyotes cannot live on science alone. There needs to be heart, compassion, and the inner spirit that allows us to pursue knowledge without losing ourselves to its darker sides. It is the very reason why our family has kept its honor and integrity. Believe it or not, there are some things that logic and science cannot answer. They cannot answer what we ought to do, but only what we can do. Never forget this, Tech. I have seen a strong and remarkable spirit within you. Not only are you wise beyond your years, but you have the humility that is rare among many people. It is my sincere hope that you find your inner fire at the passing of this test. Because, we know..." his father deftly paused as he gazed at him. Tech suddenly felt very uneasy as the stoic eyes of his father was piecing through the mask that he had created. He tried to remain firm, but soon began to quiver slightly at the knowing eyes of both his parents.

"We know, Tech. You have been hiding your true feelings for a very long time. Did you think we wouldn't notice?"

"N-notice what, father...?" Tech spoke evasively.

"It's alright Tech. You don't have to conceal yourself from us any longer. You have been our only pride and joy since the day you were born, son. We've always been proud of you no matter how small or great your accomplishments were. Nothing you could do would make us love you any less. That's why we could see how much you've been suffering."

Tech froze at those last words, while he listened. His eyes were full with fear and disbelief, but his dad knew those eyes and comforted Tech with a smile.

"You may be able to hide your feelings, but there's nothing you can do to hide your spirit."

"... H-how?... How did you guys know...?"

"Tech," his mother came and hugged him with unending tenderness. "We're your parents. We know you inside and out even if you believe you've done all you can to hide it from us."

"Your mother is right, Tech. But I tell you to reaffirm that there is no reason we could have not known. The clear indicator of your heart, ironically, was your strength: your humility."

"W-what?"

"Yes. Your humility Tech. This family has always raised bright and innovative Coyotes, for it is a blessing... and yet, a curse. Because of the family genius, we Coyotes have always had problems with arrogance and egoism. It is a constant struggle, a generational curse that always needs to be kept watched. That's what revealed your feelings. You have already proven to have the family genius, but what you lack is the family curse. You see... no one, not even the oldest creature living can behave the way you do if they haven't suffered. Your teachers always remind and inform us of your extraordinary maturity. You always respect them and other people, but respect wasn't all that you portrayed. You were complacent to those who wronged you, considerate to those who envy you, and humble to those beneath you. Such compassion only comes from those who have endured painful hardships, suffering, yet remain without bitterness and resentment. That compassion is what you hold within."

Tech was in a storm of his own as all his secrets were revealed in one fell swoop. His eyes poured a relentless wave of relief and joy long after his father ended. Much of the restrained emotions were let out all at once. The event was overwhelming for Tech both in a relieving yet elusive way. He was finally able to unburden many worries that haunted him, but still felt guilty for allowing his parents to find out about his problems. It's not that he didn't listen to what his father said, but that he can never let go of the fact that his pains should never be the concerns of others. Though this shred of guilt remained, Tech felt joyful.

"Aww, shh shh shhhh... there, there..." his mom cooed, embracing him in another heart-felt hug. Tech felt much better when hugging his mom. The feeling was always a happy kind. She had an irresistible aura that made the darkest face shine. He would never grow old enough to never long for a hug from her. His father smiled and slightly wept as he formed a new composure.

"I'm very happy to see that you can share your feelings with us, but it is time." Once Tech and his mom were at full attention, his dad continued. "Now Tech, can you see that black gem in the center. It's a very rare opal that has been in our family for many generations."

"An opal? But they don't form in the desert, do they?"

"That's correct. Opal doesn't form in the desert. However, it was brought here long ago and has remained here since anyone can remember. It is known as the Desert's Fire."

"The Desert's Fire...?"

"Yes... It symbolizes the spirit within each of us. The inner fire that drives our courage and determination. The Desert's Fire remains dormant as a dark stone devoid of any feeling or color. It only reveals its true nature to a person who has fully comprehended their own spirit. And now it is your time, son, to see if you have fully grasped yours." His father stood off to the side and motioned Tech to approach the center of the cave, facing the delicate opal.

"Now look closely Tech. Look into the the darkness and search for that light. Only you can see the light of your spirit. If you find it, you will know."

Tech heeded his father's words and focused his eyes onto the gem. He peered into the black void and searched for that glimmer of his spirit. He concentrated with all his might, yet nothing came. He stood there for what seemed like hours and still there was no sign of anything except the dark opal and the strange fire-red glow surrounding the edges. Tech was not sure of exactly what to look for if not this light. However, as he continued to look, he started to grow cold. The strange sensation traveled from his head and down through his spine. The experience was ethereal, but in a frightening way. Suddenly, but only for a brief instant, something happened. In the eye of Tech's mind, a flash of light etched an image into his memory: the image of a tiny flame. Just as suddenly as it came, it vanished. Tech was bewildered by what he saw and tried to look on for what had happened. Try as he might, nothing came and his father noticed the strain on Tech's face trying to find something that he just lost sight of.

"What did you see?"

"... Nothing..., just a small flame appeared, then disappeared."

"... It seems you are still missing a part of yourself."

"What do you mean?"

"The Desert's Fire shines when you have gained what you lack. That's why we have this ritual. It reveals to the person that something is missing in their spirit. Only when they have finally found what they have been missing, does their spirit become whole."

"So, does that mean I'm still missing part of myself?"

"Yes."

"Then how do I find it?"

"Only your walk through life will give you the answer."

Tech bowed his head with a hint of dismay. Though his parent's acknowledgment was still fresh in his mind, he could not help but feel ashamed in disappointing them somehow. From what his father had said, it sounded as if he would have comprehended his spirit by now. Tech never considered the thought of having a part of himself missing. Now with this little ceremony over, there was another agenda he had to worry about.

"Don't look so defeated Tech," his father interrupted his thoughts, "you'll have plenty of time trying to find it. In the meantime, you have a world-famous technical institute that requires attention." Tech smiled at his dad's attempt at uplifting his mood.

"Thanks dad."

"Don't say thanks yet, you still have to work hard to get there. Once you do, I'm sure you'll have the time of your life. Guess you'll forget all about your mom and me, huh?" Tech's dad slyly added.

"N-no, no," Tech worried as he heard those words come from his father, completely missing the subtle, comedic tone. "I'll always remember you both and for what you've done for me. Without you guys, I'd never been able to get here."

Both his parents were somewhat surprised for Tech's change in tone, but reassured him. "Relax son. We know you'll remember us. But you remember that your drive and determination got you here, while we simply stood on the sidelines. Never forget the spirit you hold in your heart. Your humbleness and compassion are the greatest strengths you could have. And always search for your spirit, your inner fire Tech. We can only be here for you for so long. We know that we are a pillar of support for you, but you must learn to be strong when the time comes that you must rely on yourself."

Tech shed a slight tear as he nodded submissively and took his parent's words to heart. Never in all his life had he took his weakness to be his greatest strength. He would never forget the wisdom his parents bestowed upon him.

. . . . . . . And that was one of the last moments he heard from them.

True to their last words, Tech had to face the cruel reality at an unbearable time. The very next day his father and mother had a car accident that both severely injured them. They were not even in the ambulance for 5 minute before they passed away. Those two days were forever ingrained into Tech's mind as life-changing... but for better... or for worse?

-----

That last recollection penetrated Tech deeply. His heart could have jumped from his chest while his mind and body overflowed with unbridled emotion. He even had to release his book, placing it upright to block all view, and use his hands to cover his mouth. If not held back another second later, Tech would have howled and screamed in utter despair and sadness. His tears were flowing freely now as he struggled to restrain himself. Unfortunately, the thoughts of his parents kept coming back. Tech knew this would happen and had this thought ever since his classmates began teasing him. Being very developed in mind since beginning school, Tech had to face tragic questions such as his parent's death when his innocent youth could never hope to cope with such dramatic and painful thoughts.

However, Tech had no choice but to think of these tragic scenarios because of how much he suffered inside. He knew all too well that his parents were the only ones that cared for him deeply. He had to face the fact that sooner or later, they would be gone. That is why he had to be strong. That is why he had to endure. He can't rely on his parents for comfort forever. He had to go out and learn to accept the fate that was dealt to him. But also to learn that as a person who suffered so much, needed to show compassion to those who suffered as well.

And with that, Tech's anguish began to melt away while he came to. His red eyes may be able to betray his true feelings, but his objective and formal tone of speech relayed a different message of confidence. Taking on his calm, introverted exterior, he patiently waited until the icebreaker exercise concluded.

... That was how it went for the rest of Tech's first semester. He remained constantly attentive and enthusiastic in all his workings. The bright, new future he had at the institute strengthened his resolve to the point of excessive perseverance. The knowledge he had learned from grade schools long past was nothing compared to the constantly expanding fields he was exposed to. That was when Tech became interested in all manners of machinery. His uncanny interests in science, his enthusiasm and appreciation to learn became his solitary lime light. Distractions were nothing as he was considered a piercing arrow to create and achieve all that he set his mind to. Indeed, the professors became extremely impressed with his intuitive abilities and overall creativity.

Sadly as with such attention and admiration, more and more, several of his colleagues began to despise him for his achievements. Though not all were predisposed to make careful watch of any mistakes that might befall the coyote genius, there was a general consensus that made the mention of his name drive feelings of envy. Much so that the few who made it their priority to make Tech's life miserable began to spread rumors. These rumors consisted of faulty accusations along with mentionings of flopped inventions that were blown out of proportion. In fact, this very rumor was what Tech was known for notoriously. Although it's true that many of Tech's inventions required several test runs and adjustments, none of them were comprehensively faulty. Only cries of envy and contempt rang hollow in those rumors, but with such dramatic effect and general acceptance that it started to affect Tech's concentration and confidence.

His constantly bombarded emotional barrier needed high maintenance. This now slanderous rumor cut into the very core of Tech's being. Childhood had always reminded him of painful comments, scoffing peers, and unsavory encounters. However, this had become too personal. He was always teased for his character and for being different. But now, people were mocking his inventions. Tech would never believe the whispered conversations if not with his own ears. It was one thing to attack him personally, but an entirely different matter when it came to his research and creations. In the past, people acknowledged his intelligence and now, instead, they ridicule that very strength and distinguishing characteristic that set him apart. At least before, Tech had a reason to remain strong. However, that one pillar of support was shattered and was left only with his memories.

Tech cried and cried every night thereafter. The burdensome heat that surrounded his being was unrelenting and merciless. The lasting memories of his parents were all that was left. Tech feared for his future, feared for his sanity. For he surely knew that he would go berserk at any moment if his colleagues had the gall to defile the memory of his parents. That looming sense of loneliness, conceived so young, had potential to be brought back with rage and all its fury.

". . . . . . why. . . , do I go on?"

(Flashback end)

-----

Flashing bouts of recollection, a dull aching pain throbbing in the distance, Tech's mind swam out of the void of unconsciousness as he came back to reality with a start. He tried to open his eyes, but only found darkness.

. . . Where am I? . . .

A band had been tied along his whole upper head and blocked his vision. He felt slight ting-lings as he motioned for some feeling back into his arms and legs. The whole scene felt entirely surreal. The bed he was in was so soft and comfortable that it was tempting to just go back to sleep and lie under the warm covers. However, a lot was on his mind and it would be impossible to sleep at such a moment. The memories and flashbacks that he went through while he was asleep deeply troubled him. The whole episode and its occurrence felt like a bad omen. Tech wanted to bury those memories again, but now they were fully awake in his mind and troubled his soul.

Mom. . . Dad. . . why did you have to go. . . . ?

Tech was seized by the irrepressible urge to cry once more. That memory always came back stronger than the last time he recalled it. However, he couldn't remember the last time he cried. Ever since he joined with the team, he had always felt so happy. But now... now the despair was coming back again. But why? The thoughts gave him a moment of distraction, but crying came back as a necessary response. But somehow, Tech suppressed it. Knowing his friends could be around, Tech fought the urge and waited until he got a better grip on his surroundings.

Trying to move was extremely difficult as if muscular atrophy suddenly struck him. But Tech also noticed that he was still extremely weak. Gathering strength into his dominant arm, Tech brought his hand to remove the bandages covering his eye.

Although the room was dimly lit, Tech squinted his eyes in slight pain and irritation from the light. He recounted the last events he remembered and considered nothing that should have damaged his eyesight. But in melancholic preponderance, he then wondered how long he was in bed. A reaction to such low lighting must have meant at least three days of no exposure to sunlight. But what really struck him was the room. The white tiles, sterile smells, and purified walls indicated that he was in the hospital.

What happened to me?. . .

This somewhat frightened him as he began to get a very dry feeling in his mouth and throat. He slowly looked around the room and found him there by the bedside.

Rev was sitting in a chair situated next to his side and was sleeping in an awkward position. His head rested neatly face-down upon his folded arms, which was obstructing Tech's left arm. Tech was instantly filled with tenderness and conviction as he continued to stare at his dear friend. Tech felt the urge to cry again, but didn't want to disturb him so he continued to look around and finally found a glass of water right next to Rev on a stand. He tried gliding his arms under the sheet, but he was thoroughly pinned by Rev. In that case, he used his right arm and tried to reach for the glass, when a sudden stinging pain hit him. The sensation came so abruptly, even if it was minor, that he moaned in pain. Tech tried futilely to restrain it, but it soon woke Rev from his slumber.

"Tech!!!" Rev cried through watery, red eyes.

Even without using his super-speed, Rev's reaction was ungodly and ablaze with genuine concern from distress. He instantly hugged Tech and was in tears while he continued to cry into his chest. So filled with emotion, his young heart could hardly stand the waves of relief that swept him as he once again saw Tech alive and well. "You're-alright,-you're-alright..." he continued to mutter, straining his breath. Tech was overwhelmed from this unexpected reception as he tried to comfort the road runner. Moving both arms over Rev, Tech noticed the mark left on his fur.

His left arm was thoroughly wet and stained with Rev's tears. Rev had cried himself to sleep and penetrated the sheet covers with his tears. Tech was overcome with feeling as tears of happiness filled his heart. He hugged his overwhelmed friend as he still continued to cry.

"It's okay Rev, it's okay," Tech whispered to him while he stroked Rev's back. "What's with all the crying buddy?

"Oh-Tech! I'm-just-so-happy-to-see-you-up-again!"

"Well why wouldn't I be up?"

"B-b-because. . .," Rev stuttered as he fought through the anguish, "because-you-were-unconscious-for-five-days!"


There's some light shed on Tech's past (my version for the purposes of this story anyway) and more questions to be answered. Tech had quite a challenging life to say the least. So now will these memories interfere with his new life as a Loonatic?

Time will tell (very long time I'm afraid) so stay tuned for the next chapter. I suggest waiting until Christmas Break. Even then I might still be struggling with getting chapter six done. Hope everyone enjoyed it and here are the responses to those who commented on chapter 4:

Angelus-alvus- Thanks.

Animefangirl11- Heh, well Tech's past was just something that came from the storyline I thought up. It can be one possibility, but I certainly would wish Tech had an easier time in childhood. Anyway, this chapter should reveal much more than simply a bad childhood, I hope. Thanks for the support.

Black Oracle- Thanks very much for your interest into Tech's past. Although I can't say this is the past I would have imagined Tech to have because it fits more along dramatic lines for the purposes of this story. However, I hope you enjoyed this deeper look into the past from this story's assumption. Thanks again.

dArkliTe-sPirit- Heh, you are very perceptive. Much more is to come with this slight little hint so you are on the right track.

DOMITUPSYK- Oh, I'm very sorry. I guess excuses won't help, but I do have a hefty course load to work with. But, I will try my best to update quicker if time allows. Thanks for the reinforcement though.

evilitachi- Thanks for the encouragement. Seems like there a lot of Tech fans, so yay for Tech fans.

Ippiki Ookami no Kage- Aww, thank you. Oh and sorry for not getting to you. I had summer classes as well, so the conversations I think will have to wait. However, I already have done some research on the other member's abilities with regards to somewhat plausible scientific explanations. As for this chapter, I'm sure this is much more enticing than the previous one, since you love psychology. Very tough subject, getting into people's minds that is, but I hope it proves stimulating and provokes thought. See you around.

Jessi the Fangirl- Yeah, I say poor Tech while I write this too, but it should make him a better person by the end of it.

Mimic12355- Thanks very much. I promise that the ending will turn out well and that the story will be engaging. Well, at least to the best of my abilities.

NightShadow Blitz- Yup, I will keep it up. No worries here.

Ruthchang93- I'm so happy for you as another Tech fan. Hope this story isn't too depressing for you, but it will get better. I promise.

Shark- I try. Glad you liked it.