The Blade of the Void

by DestrinBriar

The stage is finally set with bad blood and unforgivable actions. How will this turn out? I certainly don't know!

73. Chapter 73

Rock stumbled to her feet, knowing that she was in terrible shape. Her core was damaged and her arm was missing. Without a local power source she had to use her own to activate the trans server. Reaching out with her left arm she tried to lift Mathilda up, to pull her to the improvised operating table that they had used before. "Come on...Help me here... Don't give up" She begged of the girl. A moment later a larger set of hands carefully took the older woman from the small hand that was clumsily trying to move her.

"Don't worry Rock, I got her." Roll Assured her as she placed her carefully on the table and inspected the woman's injuries. She gasped as she realized the extent of them. It appeared that two ribs had punctured her lungs and her chest was fast filling with fluid. Then she turned to look at Rock and noticed that shot she absorbed had actually pierced clear to her core. Even with this damage, it seemed Rock was still staying in her body with how she was struggling to move. "Get back into the computer Rock, I have her!" Roll demanded angrily.

"I can't... " Rock replied weakly, her voice breaking momentarily, sounding far too synthesized.. "It seems I took more damage than I thought..."

Roll panicked as she saw Rock's eyes lose some of their light. Rock would be fully shut down within minutes if not sooner, and with the temporary nature of her brain, Roll didn't know if her brother would survive such a thing. With desperation Roll picked up Rock who fought weakly against the assistance. Roll said in a despairing cry, "We need to get you into your capsule now! Other wise... you might die!"

"No...time..." Was the low response of Rock,"Worry about Mathilda. I know you can save her."

"What? We'd need a water mage, and we just don't have the capabilities to help her in her condition!"

"That's a lie." Rock replied,"I know just what you're doing in that shielded room. You didn't say what you were doing, but I saw what you were bringing in there... And the amount of power needed for the 'tests'... You have most the parts needed for a reploid body put together there."

"What about it?"

"Zero said...A human...Can be modified..." Rock said weakly. "Do it. Save her, please."

Roll immediately objected as she shook her brother gently,"But Rock,those are your only chance at life, how could I do that? You can't leave me!"

"It's ok Roll...I've had a good run, right? I saved the world, I had a good sister and father. I had two awesome younger brothers, a rival. I've had everything anyone could ask really... Now I have to go keep Blues company. I'm sure he's getting lonely, wherever we go...So please... please use my new parts to repair her. She can't... She can't die. please." " Rock said weakly with a smile.

"I don't think you're going anywhere brother." Charity appeared in a flash of light, and suddenly, a glow seemed to infuse Rock. She turned to look at Roll,"Hurry, prepare for surgery. Cattleya, Montmorency and Zero are on the way. The headmaster's seals alerted him the moment someone's life was in danger and he sent for them to be of help. he doesn't now the specifics but at least we can be thankful he put those spying wards down here."

"But, what about Rock? He is your brother too!" Roll demanded.

"You heard him. He's willing to make that sacrifice. I'm holding him stable, and that's enough for now. I'll hold him until you can get him back into the computer, but you can't do this with a human life. Get to work Roll. They'll be here any moment." Charity said as she gave a stern look at her elder sister. Roll finally answered with a curt nod and rushed to the sealed room to get the parts needed. Once she had what she believed she would need, she gathered the materials for surgery and prayed that the water mages would hurry. She didn't look forward to her first unassisted open chest surgery on a scale such as this without something to fall back on.

With a flash of red light Zero suddenly appeared and looked at the scene. He gasped as he saw Rock's condition, then noted that Rock's body was being slowly repaired by Charity. He then turned his gaze to Roll and asked,"What's going on?"

"The only thing I can think of Zero." Roll said with a frown,"I'm going o try and use Rock's new generation parts to patch Mathilda's body up. It's... It's insane, but it's the only thing we can do. She's dying." As she said that both Cattleya and Montmorency ran into the room

Cattleya looked around the room, and gasped as she noticed Rock's small body laying down with Charity standing vigil over it, and Mathilda already being prepared for surgery. She looked at Roll and asked,"What are we doing? What's going on? Is rock alright?"

"We're about to do something insanely stupid, we got attacked by some pretty powerful reploids at the palace, and does it look like Rock is alright? At most charity is just holding him in a form of stasis for now. I"ll deal with rock as soon as you two get over here and help me!" Roll answered waspishly.

"What do you need me to do?" Montmorency asked as she looked at the woman,"Even healing magic won't save her..."

"You're supposedly good with water magic, so help me keep this girl alive while I repair her. You don't need to heal her just keep her stable." Roll said as made her first incision removing the skin so she could see exactly what needed to be done. As her chest came into view she realized it was even more dire than she thought. "Zero get over here, I need your steady hands for this because I don't have four of my own. Her heart has been damaged. Her right lung is useless and and one of her kidneys and part of her liver have all received heavy damage. The massive shock to her system has almost totally fried her, even if she didn't take the buster shot's full power, a human's body was never meant to deal with this type of trauma. Montmorency, Cattleya do not let up with your healing magic until I tell you to, understood?"

"Right." Zero replied crisply as he moved to assist Roll.

"Yes," and "Understood" came from the two water mages who started feeding their power directly to the injured woman.

***Break***

Leviathan spent a few minutes jumping from wall to wall in the castle in case any additional troops had escaped Zero's virus, but when she noticed no sign of anything she made for the throne room. In it, seated on her throne, her hands held in her lap pensively sat the princess.

"What has happened?" Henrietta asked her immediately. "None of my knights have any idea what happened other than you were attacked. Nor where my Knight Commander has gone."

"It was a surgical strike by the enemy. Whoever made those things, they're definitely someone who either was from Neo Arcadia or was familiar with their technology." Leviathan replied as she looked the princess directly in the eyes. "Their first targets when they attacked were the synthetics among us. And the Semi-synthetic."

"What?" Henrietta asked, confused at the statements.

"Reploids. It seemed like, as the people who could deal with them more easily, we were the targets. And Mathilda since she is partially synthetic was probably lumped into that same category. From a strategic view it makes sense. And this was a very precise strike. Nothing the likes of your nobles would probably be able to accomplish."

"Mathilda? Is she unharmed?" Henrietta demanded, suddenly concerned for both her cousin, and Albion's future.

"Probably not. she took most of a buster shot to the chest. For a human to walk away from that unscathed, without any protective armor is impossible... Even talking about survival is almost impossible, even if there were some humans who managed to survive being damaged in the more out of control maverick attacks. She was teleported out of here by a hidden trans server that apparently the enemy doesn't know about. And neither did Axl. So we have the possibility of another reploid spy running around who isn't a familiar. Or there is another void mage we don't know about. And while Rock and Mathilda were the only casualties, that's not going to help everyone once word gets around. It's all just happening at a bad time." Leviathan stated.

"The little girl as well?" Henrietta asked softly, then her eyes turned steely for a moment, as she spoke again,"I see. Is there anything else you can tell me? We won't be able to ignore this strike. Not this time. It was on the grounds of the Royal palace... This will eventually lead to another war."

"On those details, no. This is all the information I have at this moment. The battle was quick and brutal. They attacked us without warning. Apparently the echoing buzz in Rock's ear and the cause of their disgruntlement was the shared thoughts of those drones being intercepted and broadcasted by the beacon in the castle. We killed a few of them, and it looked like the void mages picked up some fancy new tricks. We seemed to have them on the run for a moment before they regrouped, then Zero jumped in and killed their command unit and took control of the surviving Pantheon like soldiers. Then he teleported back to the academy to assist in repairing that girl although it is likely an impossible feat, that's Zero's style. Not to give up when things are impossible. But better that than Zero running off to Gallia on his own when we know nothing about who is there. Axl then brought the walking scrap metal back to the academy. They're no longer a threat and he wanted to know just how advanced they were so that we'll know what to expect should they attack again, or should we need to mount a counter offense." Leviathan stated honestly.

"Ah... Was anyone else injured? I am sorry this had happened like this, I never imagined asking you to the castle would put you all in harms way."

"They would have attacked us regardless. And honestly, it probably would have been far uglier if it had been elsewhere. At least we had Rock's warning on their initial volley." Leviathan stated in a somewhat reassuring manner.

"I am glad for that at least. Where are the others?" Henrietta asked.

Leviathan shrugged then replied,"I had them take the dragons and head back to the academy. We have a small fortified below ground base and a much stronger trans server and detection system there. It would be almost impossible for them to catch by surprise there like they did here. Now that we know that they're out there, how they are working and most importantly, who they are targeting."

"I see. Are you going back as well?" Henrietta asked Leviathan.

"I am." Leviathan said with a nod.

"Then can you tell Zero to please consider the matters brought to his attention and just what changes they may cause, how many people they might help?"

Leviathan's left eyebrow arched as she looked at the queen before asking,"What matters?"

"I'm sorry but they are to be known only between myself and my knight commander," Henrietta apologized.

"Whatever. I think I know what's going on but I'll deliver your message. Good luck on that, but just realize he's my game. So you don't stand a chance at getting him. And don't worry, I'll encrypt the trans server before I leave. There won't be any uninvited guests coming around through that anymore." Leviathan replied with a smirk as she too activated the trans server and made her way back to the academy.

***Break***

It had been a grueling nine hours of surgery. Tabitha, Colbert and even Old Osmand had to come in and relieve the current water mages throughout the procedure. But little by little progress was made. For Roll this was all guess work. She had no idea if Mathilda would ever wake up again. But she had no choice. This was what her brother had wanted, and once started it wasn't like she could stop halfway. She didn't know why, but for some reason that stupid brat wanted this woman to live, enough to give his own life. Why did he always have to do that? Why couldn't things ever work out for her brother? While he wasn't going to die, and Charity just stood a silent vigil over her old bodies prone form, without X's help Rock would have likely died. As the surgery had progressed, every now and then Zero would stop or correct her, when she went to make a change. While she was the expert on humans, it appeared that Zero was far more versed in the repair of reploids than he had ever let on. He almost appeared to be a different person, more serious and focused. His talking patterns were odd and he seemed to process what was going on much faster than she assumed he would. They had already replaced her heart, lungs as well as most of her internal organs. They had even had to replace some parts of the woman's brains that had hemorrhaged. That was where Zero had stepped in and taken the lead as if he understood this part of the procedure fully. By the time they were finished, Roll felt exhausted, body and mind, but her patient was stable. As she looked down at the green haired woman who now lay there without a scar, thanks to the amazing water magic employed, she wondered just what else technology and magic could do together. Her attention was suddenly drawn to Zero who picked the woman up and placed her body in the capsule, and then returned her old body to her capsule, initializing Rock back into the main frame. From there he went to one of the larger consoles and started initializing programs that hadn't been used since her father had last adjusted X's battle forms. Her suspicions rose to the surface and suddenly she glared at Zero's back and accused,"It's you, isn't it?"

"What are you talking about?" Was the calm reply as 'Zero' continued his work.

"You're Wily. The Wily in Zero's head. There is no way you'd be familiar with that program if you weren't. Even I don't know how to use that program." Roll commented mildly.

"Does it really matter at this point?" he asked as he turned to look at her,"I'm kind of busy at the moment. Zero asked for my help. He was lost. He has had to repair his body on some occasions so he knew enough to help you with some of that, but the only one who knew the human brain well enough to do something like what you did... Were myself and Thomas. That woman, she intrigues me. She is a good person who is willing to stand by her beliefs. Even if they'll kill her. So I decided to give it a shot and see if it was possible. I have to say though, this was very interesting. Interesting indeed. And with how we blended in Zero's DNA structure into her own, she should repair at a far faster rate. She won't be immortal but she'll be the next best thing."

"You're done with the operation. What are you doing then? The surgery is over. Give the body back to Zero now. You're not welcome here" Roll said, feeling her anger at the man who was the cause of all the problems in her life.

"Don't be simple. I know that none of Thomas' creations were stupid. Naive perhaps, but never stupid. I wonder what caused you such enmity? Was it your evolution as a reploid, the condition of your brother, our past dealings, or a culmination of all three? Oh well, it matters not. If you must know, I'm building her a battle form. She's not really a reploid, but she's not human. Who knows what she really should be called. But that was one of the things that Zero insisted you add in. But neither of you know anything of the programing involved in a matter to energy conversion armor system. So here I am, awake for a bit to set up the sleeping beauty with enough power to keep this from happening to her again. Mainly because it seems to be a trend for her and a rather unsettling one at that. Not as bad as Zero, but still not a very good way for things to go." Wily said as he continued his work. He stopped typing for a moment then tapped his chin thoughtfully. "She seems to be a personal type of person. Like when she put herself into a golem's body. I'm thinking, she should have claws. Like slash man. And honestly, I have to say green really is her color. And I always did like the horned design Zero's helmet had. Although a buster is also a pretty needed thing. I really don't like how Zero's integral buster was eventually removed through his evolution. An integral buster is really useful in my opinion. But that's besides the point. She doesn't have the experience or capabilities of Zero to overwhelm everyone in close range, so she should have another option. What do you think?"

"I don't care, just finish what you're doing and then go back to wherever it is you came from." Roll replied testily.

"You act like I'm your enemy, even though I've saved Zero and this girl. I even saved that niece of yours. And oddly enough, while you were standing around like a fool, I even replaced Rock who is my enemy back where he belonged, safely. But still I'm your enemy. Oh well, I suppose myself and Thomas really did create souls in steel. You feel love and hatred...just like any human. And just like humans... You can't see from any perspective but your own." Wily said as he continued with his work. there was a silence that hung oppressively in the air for thirty minutes as he continued to work. Finally he stopped and said,"It is finished. Well as finished as I can make it. You'll need raw materials, but from what I saw, those fake Mega Men from upstairs have the type of materials you'll need. She'll need to use a capsule to obtain the armor once it is finished, but then that's why I placed her there. Make sure you run a diagnostic on her before you move her out, who knows if we ended up missing anything. Better to triple check than to have to redo the work all over again. I learned that with... A good number of my creations. Anyhow, I'll be leaving now. Tell Zero he did a good job. I think he could use that type of encouragement," Wily said as he smiled at Roll. Zero's eyes blanked before turning a bright blue again. Suddenly, he asked in a puzzled tone,"Huh, it's over? Did he do it?"

Roll looked at Zero and replied,"Yes, it's over. We did it. Mathilda is stabilized and your 'father' even decided to give her a combat armor."

"That's a good idea. Now she can take care of herself. But how is she going to use it if she doesn't have an internal energy storage?" Zero asked curiously.

"You were there, you insisted we put it in her, in case of emergencies. You also had us install a mini fusion reactor just like ours as well. We made her as close to a reploid without fully remaking her.." Roll reminded him.

"Huh... Nope. Wasn't me. I think that was Wily. Maybe? Everything is kinda fuzzy at the moment." Zero admitted as he shook his head.

"Just how much of the surgery were you there for Zero?" Roll asked curiously.

"I think about three hours? After that I saw us hitting some walls, and... I didn't know what else to do. Wily knows way more about this type of thing than me. And since I failed to protect Mathilda again... I wanted to at least give her a chance."

"I see... I don't like Wily, but i suppose i can appreciate what he has done." Roll admitted grudgingly.

"I don't know if you can or should forgive him, but I really don't think he's that bad. I just think he might be... Unbalanced? Insane? Egotistical? But at the core he still seems to be a good...ish person." Zero commented.

"Are you trying to insult him or compliment him? I can't really tell." Roll asked honestly as she looked at Zero. "He did say we should get the materials needed from the 'fake mega men' upstairs for her armor. Then to triple check her systems before removing her from the tube."

"I guess. I hate doing that type of stuff... But at least destroying these mavericks will actually help someone..." Zero said in a subdued tone. While he had no problem fighting or killing, destroying someone or something that couldn't defend itself seemed to be a bit... wrong.

***Break***

It was some weeks later in the heart of the Gallian captial that Copy X looked out of the window of one of the towers that he and his brother had been given use of. Without turning he asked, "Hey, Zero, did you hear? Things are going badly..."

"Yeah, I know. I expected it. Especially with everything that has happened, it's not really surprising." Copy Zero replied in a calm voice, no evidence of any alarm in his posture.

"But why would Tristian remove all it's diplomats from this country? And why then was our dear sister poisoned during dinner?" he asked.

"My bet, they're about to make a move. They don't know about us so they couldn't make any plans to kill us." Copy Zero replied with some calm,"Although i don't know why you're so upset. You only met her three times."

"How can you say that? She was our sister! She had such a bright smile, and was so full of life. She was a child Zero!" Copy X said as he turned around angrily.

"I suppose you're right... But something about her just felt forced. It was probably just me though. I'm sorry," Copy Zero said sounding sincerely contrite.

"Do you think that the country of Tristian would really attack us? Our country is far larger than ours."

"They have a wild card though. I don't know who it is, but according to the records we have they have weapons similar to ours, and have accounted for over a hundred thousand deaths." Copy Zero replied grimly. "Who knows if we can stop them?"

"We have to. We can't let any more of our people die. You've read the histories, the wars. It has to come to an end! The wars must stop."

"I suppose you're right, but can we ever really stop them?" Copy Zero asked curiously.

"We have to. One way or another my sons." Joseph said as he entered the room.

"How do you suggest we do something like that, old man?" Copy Zero asked scornfully.

"We will try with the olive branch. I will send a messenger to the Queen of Tristian. I do not know what it will do, she has shown in the past that she is quite greedy... But if I must i will go myself and sue for peace." Joseph said gently.

"But what about you? If they really do wish you start a war with us, what about you father? They could kill you if you go by yourself." Copy X demanded, immediately seeing the danger their father would be walking blindly into.

"If that is the way things must be, then I expect you two to do what I would do. Find a way to peace. Our country Gallia is beautiful, safe and prosperous. You must keep it thus. That is my command as your king and father."

"Like we'd need to be told something so common sense," Copy Zero replied, feeling some kinship with the man before him, but somehow an echo seemed to warn him, telling him of half-truths and lies. He couldn't shake it, nor did he know if he wanted to. "So what are we doing with our Pantheon forces?"

"They're going to be placed at areas of the border to tighten security. IF an armed force does move to this country we'll know within hours." Joseph replied and then shrugged,"That's all we can do for now."

"Couldn't that be seen as a threat by the other countries?" Copy X asked,"Haven't there been wars based on misinterpreted threats?"

"That is true, but we can't do nothing. The suspicions and the offensive war in Albion that Tristian waged, it can not be ruled out that something similar won't happen here. I do not like the idea but sometimes the best choice still isn't a good choice," Joseph said sadly. "I have things I must attend to. I will be visiting your sisters grave before dinner if you two would like to come."

"We'll be there father." Copy X answered for both of them while Copy Zero just stared out the window at a group of pantheons, a look of concentration on his face. With that, Joseph left and Copy X looked at Zero and asked him,"What is with you, normally you at least say good bye to him. He has lost a beloved daughter and you act as if everything is normal."

"I still don't trust him," Zero replied as he moved one arm. then he directed Copy X's eyes to the platoon of Pantheons that had just been finished. As Zero moved his arm the pantheons moved theirs as well. "I'm not sure why, but it seems like I can control those things. Can you?"

Copy X just looked at Zero then sighed,"Talking to you is so exhausting at times."

"That may be. But can you control those things?" Copy Zero asked,"Just reach out with your mind and see if you can."

Copy X stared at his counterpart then did as he was told. When he tried to get the pantheons to do anything he was met with no reaction. "No. How are you doing that anyhow?"

"I don't know. It's kind of confusing. It's like i get an echo from them, and some information. I also have the ability to control their movements although I seem to be fighting with that cheap knock off of you out there for control." Copy Zero said as he relaxed his control.

"Unusual. Perhaps this is just one of your talents?"

"But what purpose could it serve?" Copy Zero asked,"And just what is the limit of it?"

"That, I do not know..." Copy X replied honestly, but was troubled with Zero's preoccupation and new found power.

***Break***

Mathilda's eyes opened slowly and as she rose to consciousness she could tell from the soft bed and the comforting sounds of nature that she was somewhere pleasant. Her eyes focused and she moved to situp until she suddenly found herself embraced by someone. As her vision cleared she realized the person holding her was Zero. "...This might not be a bad afterlife..." She murmured dreamily as the sunlight poured in through the open window and she wrapped her arms around him.

Zero hurriedly put her at arms length and said,"You idiot, this isn't the afterlife! Can't you learn to dodge?"

"What?" Mathilda asked, her mind still hazy. She felt as though she was waking for the first time in a very long time, yet her limbs didn't feel weak or stiff. She felt surprisingly good as she flexed her arms and legs lightly. She then shook her head and objected,"But I was sure that I was dying."

"You were. Pretty much your entire body was shot!" Zero replied angrily.

"Then how am I here?" Mathilda asked, looking at herself, confused. Peeking beneath her shirt she noticed not a scar.

"Well...You might be mad, or not." Zero replied as he looked away. Mathilda said nothing so he continued,"We kinda took your back surgery a step farther. The majority of your internal organs and a part of your brain have been replaced by reploid parts. We had to place some regulators through-out your body, but using the same DNA technology that myself, Roll and X used, your body thinks that is what is normal. As you get stronger you'll become more and more like us."

"Are you saying that... I'm a reploid now?" she asked in disbelief.

"No. But you're not human either. You're somewhere in between. We couldn't save you any other way," Zero replied waiting for the other shoe to drop.

Mathilda looked at his face and saw the visible fear and concern. "Ah... You think that I would be angry because I am no longer human?" she asked with a gentle smile. Zero nodded slightly. "My most loved family member is an elf, and the majority of those I would call my friends are reploids. Why would I be upset by that?"

"Ah... I guess i see your point. Back home a lot of people got really angry when experiments to mix the two happened. That's kinda one of the reasons they asked me to seal myself away. Myself and X were the only ones who had DNA that could conceivably be used to create modified humans with how adaptable it was." Zero murmured, some regret in his voice.

Suddenly Mathilda remembered Rock's condition before she had lost consciousness,"What about Rock, is she alright?"

"Fine. A little stir crazy now that Roll's old body is totalled, but we got him back into his computer system." Zero replied a smile on his face,"He's been demanding to see you as soon as you woke up and could walk."

"I see. I think i'd like that. If it were not for his actions, I would be dead right now." Mathilda spoke with a smile,"I guess he really is that hero that he always said he was."

"I never had a doubt. It runs in that family." Zero replied with a smirk.

"So what now?" Mathilda asked seriously.

"I'm going to Gallia and am going to blow up the capital. Or at least the king and whatever armies he has made." Zero replied seriously.

"That's not a good idea. You can't just go alone."

"The longer we wait the more entrenched he's going to get, and the more danger he will pose to you all. My inaction last time is what caused this. If I had just followed through after Leviathan we would have been fine. But because I didn't things have gotten to a whole new level of dangerous." Zero argued.

"It is funny... You once tried to kill me. And now, for the second time you wish to attack a country by yourself for my safety." Mathilda giggled. "I must say, you are quite the charmer. Waiting at my bed for me to wake up, and such a nice way to wake up as well. I know the others are after you, and it makes you uncomfortable, so I will not say much more. I would like to say thank you... I really mean it. I was nothing more than a disgraced noble, a dishonorable thief who cared about nothing but keeping one person safe. I'm not going to push myself the way the other girls have... But, my bedroom door will always be open for you should you require it, even if a more formal arrangement is out of the question. You have my council, my love... and my respect...Just stop blaming yourself. You did everything possible. It was those things that hurt me. And whoever sent them. Instead of being angry at yourself... Be angry at them. Hate them instead of yourself. They took my life, you gave me a gift. I don't know why but I feel better than I have in... perhaps ever. All I have ever seen you stand for is life. So don't you dare hold that against yourself."

Zero gently released her and walked towards the door, stopping just before exiting. "I am angry at them, and I do hate them. But I can't deny that I could have stopped it. And I'll tell you what I've told all of them. There are far more deserving people of your love than me." With that he left the room to inform Roll that her patient was finally awake." What he had not expected was Mathilda to bound out of her bed and chase after him.

"Oh, you're not leaving me in that bed any longer. I wasn't kidding when I said I felt like i could run back to back marathons. If we're going to go see Roll let's go see Roll," Mathilda paused as she unconsciously blurred into her battle armor, and stood with a smile on her face,"but... I've always wondered, just how fast I could run if I was a little like you, especially after being stuck in a chair for so long. So I guess... You'll have to catch me first!"

"You really shouldn't!" Zero shouted as Mathilda disappeared in a trail of after images. "Huh. Do I rub off on everyone I'm around? Or is it just that I'm not half as crazy as I think I am." With a laugh he gave chase on what would turn out to be an amusing game of tag that would get both of them scolded by Roll as she checked Mathilda over much later once Zero finally caught her.

***Break***

"Hmm. it would appear that the strike didn't even kill one of them." Joseph complained as he looked at the map that contained the troop formations in his pavilion. There was one King that had been painted red that stood there, defiantly. While the piece didn't have eyes, Joseph could still feel that unnerving glare. That glare that told him he wasn't afraid of him. As both an action rooted in anger and fear he slammed his fist down on to the piece crashing it. "A whole platoon lost. But at least I have learned that if anything, that damned reploid is even stronger than before. I must be careful. But if I can build the power of my 'sons' enough, then he will have no way to defeat them. They will have the moral high ground, and the psychological trauma of fighting an X that is just like his X was... That should be enough to tip the scales. And aside from that, Some helpful information was uncovered. The lead reploid even alerted me to a trans server that was inactive at the castle. A curious development, but now it is encrypted. If I am able to break that encryption, I will be able to move my troops directly into Tristian territory and destroy their royal family in one fel swoop." Joseph mused, then laughed at the unexpected stroke of luck. "No, not what I had wanted at all, but in a way this could be a great blessing. I've learned the limits of these fools when it comes to tracking and security. They know nothing about keeping a combat reploid out. And with this new information, I can have the platoons that are securing the borders search for more of these. If there is already some form of trans server set up here, It would be a shame not to use it."

***Break**

With people in the unit attacked, and the threat of further attacks on the kingdom looming in the future, the complaints of the Koga as they were run ragged and put into obtuse and often times confusing situations was less than one would expect. Although even with that, there had been an upsurge in membership, including Mathilda who was being personally trained by Zero in how to use her new capabilities. As Zero was working with her on how to keep her aim with her buster accurate and compensate for the recoil involved, one of the newest recruits from the first year complained on time too many, to one who had thought would be the most open to his issues. It was Malicorn of all people. As he listened to the young man complain about how harsh all the training was and how unsuited for people like himself, he stopped and turned to yell at him. "Shut up! Don't you know anything? You didn't go to war, you don't know what it's like. It's scary, it's not fun. We're doing this now, because we have to. If we can prepare ourselves we might not die. If we don't die then those who would harm our our commoners and the other nobles will not get through. It is our duty as Koga to become stronger to become better. I don't care if Zero says that you made the cut, shut up and keep working. People could have died today. Mathilda nearly did. The power of those things, the power of Zero are beyond anything we can do and you complain and want to give up? Just why the hell did you join? Don't you want to protect something? Or show the world you're not a failure? Or is this a game to you?" His shrill voice carried as he glared at the sufficiently cowed cadet.

Zero came jogging up with a smile on his face. "We have a problem gentlemen?" He asked.

"No, sir." was the mumbled response of the troublemaker.

"We do!" Malicorne insisted." I'm in worse shape than anyone. But I'm still trying. I'm still pushing myself. I've fainted, I've dealt with broken bones. But I've got something to fight for. If you can't figure out what you are fighting for, if you can't figure out who that is, then you aren't needed!"

"And what is your reason?" Zero asked curiously.

"When we invaded Albion... On one of the few ships we encountered during our departure I... I saw a young man like me. His insecurities showed on his face. I could almost call him a kindred spirit. But in the end, he chose to take action. Just like I did. I hated it. I don't ever want to do it again. But then, if we can't put a stop to it, if we make people see things like this because we can't stop it then what is our purpose, what do we accomplish? Just because I had to kill him, doesn't mean I enjoyed it. I hate it. But that's not the question. I did it because I had to, and because the people were relying on me. How many people could have died. the airship I was on was filled with people. All those people were relying on me and I had to do it! So don't complain when you've never had to fight for your life."

"Malicorne. Stop." Zero said as he gently placed his hand on his soldier. "You've made your point."

"What?" was the confused response of the still slightly pudgy young man.

"You made your point. And again you manage to surprise me. I expect you to be the first to fall out... You lap the academy an extra time. You deal with broken bones like a trooper. You fight your hardest. I trust you. " Zero said as he looked at him. "But don't get angry at him. He's new he hasn't seen what you've seen. He's shaking just from you yelling at him. And don't ever call yourself weak. You might not look it, but you have steel in you. And I respect you for that. Now, both of you get back to work.

"Sir." Was the reply from both young men, although Malicorne's sir was said with far more awe. The commander had never spoken like that to him personally. It was enough that he would redouble his efforts. He swore to that as he ran even harder.

***Break***

It was later that evening that Cattleya poured a cup of tea for Roll and Mathilda, who had taken to spending more time in the lab, even if she was far more mobile than she once was. Cattelya couldn't help but smile. "So, what did you wish to come down here for today?"

"Hmm? What would I need to come down here for? I mean, I'm just visiting a friend right? What about you?" Mathilda replied back with her own question.

"I'm learning the basics of medicine and the 'theory' of surgical procedures from Roll. She said that there was much work to be done before she'd allow any type of procedure to be done without extreme duress without water magic supporting it. She talked of banks for bloods and a number of unfamiliar things. It all sounds like a lot of work, and most of it I don't understand. But I can hardly gainsay the results of her expertise."

"It humbles you doesn't it? To think that as a noble, you know so much compared to the commoners, yet in compassion to beings so much our senior... We know nothing." Mathilda asked dryly.

"I never claimed to know very much." Cattelya replied with a small smile. "I was dying. My family did everything they could to make me comfortable before my life's end. I was certainly not strong enough to carry a child, I could not marry... I couldn't even use magic without paying for it. My mother and father cared only for my comfort and safety... They only had me learn what I wished to learn... And mostly, I just wanted to be with my animals before now. It's funny, I loved them so much more than other people because they didn't pity me, or look down on me as the 'weak' daughter of the heavy wind who would never live to be a true 'adult'. To them, I was an important person." Cattelya seemed to gaze into the air before her, caught up in her own memories.

"Ah... I did not know it was that serious." Mathilda replied uneasily, unsure what to say to that.

With a blush and a shake of her head, Cattelya said,"Oh, it wasn't too serious. I was just,"

"Actually, it was that serious. I do not know how long you would have survived had Zero not acted as he did." Roll interrupted in a sharp tone,"Just because you're better now doesn't mean you should down play how sick you were. By all rights you should be dead. But that's your magic for you." Roll interrupted after she had taken a sip of tea.

"Ah... I guess you're right. But anyhow, what Roll was able to figure out, the magic that was being used could have kept me alive for a fairly long period of time, but that it would have been a gamble. And it would not have been able to improve my quality of life all that much. Nobody could predict such a thing. But you, you were dying entirely. Even all the water magic in the world would likely have been unable to help you. Without the parts that had been made for Rock's new body you would surely have perished..."

Mathilda dropped her glass of tea which shattered on the floor as she looked at the girl in front of her, her mind momentarily frozen as she rolled the implications of what was just said around in her mind. It couldn't be true, she made it sound like they had used parts that would have given Rock a body...To save someone like her? Suddenly a massive swelling of anger and anguish welled up in her. Tears could be felt rolling down her face,"What did you say? That can't be true! Why would you do such a thing?" She demanded angrily.

"Ah...I am sorry. Did... You not know?" Cattelya asked, as she stood up slowly and took a step back.

"Of course I didn't know! If I knew do you think I would have allowed such a thing to happen? How could they do this to him? He's been stuck inside of that giant... machine, and his little sister's body. He finally had a chance at freedom after so long, now that it was proven that he truly was a hero. Now that it was completely undeniable that he was a good person!"

With a gentle voice, Rock replied from his main console,"You're a friend, I couldn't let you die. You stay down here, listening to me ramble. Do you know how lonely it is? How mind crushingly lonely I get? Even with Roll who is gone a good bit off the time, you still talk to me. I'm not a curiosity. I'm not some oddity. To you I'm another person. Someone I can chat with. Someone who listens to what I have to say and doesn't judge me. One who understood my pain when I talked about how I had to fight my own brothers, or how much of a handicap it was being limited in mobility! You tease me like a normal person and treat me like a normal person. I couldn't ever let you die. you're like a big sister to me! When things were at their worst before Charity saved me... I was going to die,or you were going to die. I knew that! I chose your life over mine and I'd make the same choice again right now! I'd never let my older sister die!" Rock said angrily.

"So just what am I?" Roll demanded jokingly, trying to diffuse the argument between the two. While both sides were emotional and yelling, she could tell that both were only angry out of concern for the other person. She also knew if she calmed them down, or deflected their anger to her, that they could talk about it more rationally. Or at least with less screaming. She had noticed that when people were screaming, they tended to say things they didn't really mean. Or things just didn't get taken the right way.

You could almost hear the grin in Rock's voice as he replied,"My beautiful little sister who had a growth spurt. But then, isn't it natural that girls get them before boys? I thought that was the case anyhow. And you know... You know that I'd make the same sacrifice for you."

Roll laughed harshly at that and then in an act that was unusual for her slammed her palm hard onto the table."You know, this reminds me so much of what Dr. Light said to you before he sealed you up. He said he created us as his children. He gave you everything that he could, the power and the sense of justice... All the things that he could program were there. But that burning in your heart, that needs to protect and help others beyond all else including your own safety, that was you and you alone. He loved you Rock, and everyone should love you. You never compromise your ideals,or your feelings. That burning in your heart that tells you to protect and love people... you listened to it even when you yourself were the target. You're too good for this world..."

Mathilda nodded before she spoke, a smile on her face, and a gentle caring tone coming from her that was at odds with her normal voice. "I agree. But... I would be glad to have a cute little brother... Who may have growth spurt at some point. I mean, nothing is impossible. I'm proof of that, aren't I? Although...I must apologize again, if it were not for me, you would be nearly ready to have a body of your own... I'm sorry.

"Apologize again for us saving your life and i'll punch you in the face when I get my own body. I know those parts and I know you can take it." Rock said darkly. "I demanded she use those parts because I love you. you're like a family member. If you had a family member, like a sister or a cousin... Would you give your life for them?" Rock demanded angrily.

"I... See. You are a thoughtful one aren't you. And a little too well informed." Mathilda said stiffly as she looked away.

"I'm not thoughtful! You're someone important to me. This burning in my chest tells me that I'm going to protect you. I'm going to do what I can. It's not much, I'm useless. but i was able to save the life of someone that I love. that makes my life worth living!"

"Why do you talk about love? I mean, I'm so much older than you. I mean, you're like a kid, no offense is intended...But that is how I see it, and there is someone else... And how do you have a burning in your chest when you don't... Have a chest?"

Rock chuckled awkwardly, then as he was about to speak, he chuckled again. It took a few minutes for him to regain his composure even as a computer program."I don't think the translation is getting across as well as i hoped... Love is the very center of my life Mathilda. Roll, Dr. light, Zero, you. My brothers who had been reprogrammed. I love you all, and I love humanity. I do what I can, but I can only do so much. But that is the basis of my life. Dr. Light helped me realize that. I don't fight because i want to, I don't fight because I need to. I fight because I love the people who would be harmed if I do not fight. For me, that is my catalyst that made me into the warrior Megaman. I would have been happy if i never had to take up a buster to combat my brothers. But I did, and for the right reasons. Fighting for power, or control is meaningless and evil. Taking up your arms to protect those you love, that's the only reason that anyone should ever do so. Zero is the same but he just can't see it. And if he could, he'd never be able to say it."

"To have a little brother like you..." Mathilda said as she walked up to the screen rock was inhabiting and placed her arms gently around it, something even Roll had not done. "As your elder sister... I could not be more proud of you than I am right now. nor can i possibly think of a better little brother. I will have to strive my hardest through all this... Just so i can measure up to the one I have to be a role model for. Although I'm pretty far behind you..."

***break***

Axl stood in front of the pope, after having explained the entire situation. The room was deathly quiet as the young man sat there considering his familiar's report . Finally the silence was broken as the pope spoke in quiet voice,"this is terrible. news if it's true."

"It is. Have I ever lied to you?"

"Well, that's debatable." The pope replied with a smile.

"I've never lied to you. I've done my best not to mention things that didn't need mentioning, and to keep us from poking a hornets nest that could end civilization... But things have taken a step for the worse. things have gotten amazingly bad in an amazingly short period of time." Axl stated in a serious voice, one that the pope almost never heard.

"Are things really that bad my young friend?"

"I'm going to cut to the chase. If things keep going this way we're fucked. At the moment, they're using central command bu they had strength and numbers. if Zero hadn't taken the command unit then used his virus we would have lost more than what e did. as it were, we almost lost two. one of which is no longer human, the other doesn't have a body. The damage that was done was severe, but what actions we take is for you to decide. Whoever is in Gallia now is going to go after the other void mages and their Reploids. That includes you. Our best bet is trying to ally with as many people as possible. including the elves.

"Our enemies? How can you even imagine that."

"As things are going we're leading to another war. And this war seems to be leading up to the scale of the ones we had back home. Unless you want the world destroyed you'll do what I say. You SAW what my world looks like through that tiny portal you have here. you've seen the death, the destruction, you've even seen some of what Zero and Omega are capable of. That would be the fate of this beautiful planet. And it could all fall down to being your fault. are you alright with that? Are you really okay with knowing in your heart that because you oppose peace with the elves, that the entire world could be turned into a waste land like my home? Answer me, damn it! Are you ready to see this world the Founder gave to you fall to a lifeless husk all because you couldn't put aside your hatred? Didn't your Founder preach about forgiveness and all that other good stuff? Well now is one of those times that if you don't start practicing what you preach a lot of people are gong to die."

"I... Suppose you are right." the pope then looked at Axl. "Axl, are you alright?"

"What does that have to do with anything?" Axl asked, giving neither an affirmation or denial about his current state.

The Pope looked at him, his face creased with concern. He spoke quietly to his familiar,"Ever sense you got here, you have changed."

"Well yeah, I've gotten more powerful." Axl replied in an all too smug tone.

"No. I mean, your heart which was so bright and full... It seems so heavy now. Is the duty that i place upon you so much? Will you not tell me what is wrong as your master?"

"I..." Axl couldn't say anything as he looked at the pope. He grimaced as if in pain for a moment then without warning Axl's form shifted into a brown haired girl. When the pope said nothing she spoke in a clear voice."Sir... You have to stop."

The pope looked at Axl confused for a moment. He'd never met this girl before. He'd also asked Axl if he wouldn't mind refraining from doing such a thing around him, but sometimes his willful familiar did what he wanted, but that was half the problem in his opinion. As he considered the girl before him he asked,"I have to stop what?"

"The orders sir... You really have to stop them."

"Why? he serves me as my familiar. It is a holy duty, one that is a great honor to both of us," The pope replied,

"Yes, but when you order him to do something that he would not do and it goes against his moral code, something happens." The girl said, although she didn't say anything else. It was if she was prompting him to ask.

The pope finally gave in and asked" And what is it that happens when I give him an order that goes against his own moral code?"

"His 'soul' gets damaged. Every time he goes against your wishes or perceived wishes his soul becomes more and more unstable. Your familiar is dying to try and save the world and you're so concerned about such petty matters." The girl replied, her voice almost scornful, but at the same time there was an amount of pity to them as well.

"What? Why wouldn't he tell me these things?" St. Aegis demanded,"Something serious like this, why wouldn't he tell me himself?"

"Axl is not the type to put himself into that type of situation. He likes to think he's independent, and he is one of the people who does what they can regardless of what happens to him. That bad habit rubbed off on him from both X and Zero."

"I see. Are those two really as strong as he says?" THe pope asked the girl. "I would like an honest answer."

"In all honesty, I can not say. Neither Axl nor X nor Zero have seen the true depths of their own powers. They only reach as far as they need to. They pull on the strength that they must to protect those things they find precious. And sometimes, the strength to shatter that which is precious tot hem when the world is on the line." A thin trail of tears could be seen running down the girl's face as she spoke.

"...I, don't understand of what you speak, but I believe you are telling the truth. So then, what exactly am I doing to him? Just what is happening to my familiar?" the pope asked sincerely.

"You're destroying him. And not in a way that we reploids can be repaired. His very programing. His very soul is being corrupted. Warped."

"Corrupted? As in evil?" The pope asked aghast that he could be causing evil to seep into Axl's soul.

"No, you misunderstand the meanings of the words as we use them. To us, corruption is the state that our minds, our hearts can not function regularly anymore. When it gets to a certain point... Our minds become... I suppose the better word for people like you who don't understand how we really work is... You're unraveling his mind like a scarf. At first you won't notice the fraying on the ends of it, and it will still function until it gets to a point here it will do nothing for you when you use it. That all you will be able to do is try and grasp at the individual strings... Except even those strings will eventually fade away. Those strings will never be able to be made into the whole again. That's what happens when a reploid's mind is corrupted in such a way. It will simply mean that you will have killed off a great hero just so you could have your own way, when all he wishes is to see the world survive and prosper. That is his wish, that and to see his brothers happy again. He's willing to sacrifice his soul for such a thing... It would be a shame if that is what was required for such a fate to happen though. I know that both of his brothers would mourn his loss. And neither of them forgive themselves easily. And one of them... Might act dangerously, and rashly. I'm sure you know who he is. He value's Axl's life far more than yours. And even Axl will not be able to stop Zero if he chooses to kill you. They might be fairly even in overall power but only X had the type of power to protect like that. Both Axl and Zero are more blunt, and honest with their power."

"I... I had no idea." The pope said, horror clearly showing on his face,"He didn't tell me. Why would he not tell me these things? Whenever i gave him an order he followed without question except in a few instances... But he was always his own person and would disagree with me. I didn't know, I promise you that. And why would Zero come here to kill me? Why would he not simply tell me what is going on?"

"Zero... Is Zero. He handles things quickly, and demands deference. He would probably give you the ultimatum to release Axl. You, without the knowledge you have now would have refused. He then would have likely acted at that moment. With very predictable and final results." The girl explained sadly.

"You make it sound as if you have dealt with him before." The pope said, some suspicion clear in his voice.

"It is... a situation I am familiar with. Through the pride of my brother and our organization, and Zero's stubbornness, a great many people including myself were killed. But had both sides decided to talk rather than simply act... Who knows what might have happened. I was one who was precious to him then, but I lost my mind and decided that I had to fight him. To avenge my brother I fought with him until he defeated me. My own programing was almost entirely lost were it not for... No this doesn't matter. You need to fix this." Iris spoke in a low voice as she shook her head.

"What do you expect of me? Axl is my familiar so he is my responsibility. As the inheritor of the holy void, and being entrusted with one of the blessed familiars it is my duty to protect him as much as it is for him to protect me." St. Aegis said as he looked into the girls eyes, no shadow of guile or deception evident in his features.

"Then please, Stop issuing orders to him. Ask things of him, ask his opinions, he'll gladly give them... But you must stop the orders or something that is irrevocable will happen."

"And what is that?"

"Either Axl will die, or you will."

"You keep going back to that? Will Zero really come all the way to the capital of Romalia and go through my troops to destroy me?"

"If it came to it, yes. But he is not the only danger to you. You are aware there are other beings that share a body with Axl, such as myself. We are not effected by your runes. And should Axl be unable to control them, they will take advantage of a moment of weakness in your presence... And in that moment that they take their forms they could end you as easily as Zero killed those ants. Zero is not the only one you need to worry about if you would do more harm to Axl. There are others. That is why I wished to speak in the voice of reason. I know that this voice often gets ignored, but just like back then I have to try." Iris said seriously.

The pope's expression stiffened as he stared back into the girl's face. "I see...Thank you for being honest with me, even if it is not news I would have wished to hear. While I do not feel that it is right to deal with spirits such as yourself, I do feel a debt of gratitude to you. I will try and do as you ask."

"I hope so. Because... Axl really doesn't like hurting other people unless it's absolutely necessary. He talks a lot but he's really a good deal of bluster. And I do not wish for Zero to suffer any more blood and death than he has to. He's seen enough. He has seen too much."

"I see..." The pope said, his head lowered in thought as his familiar, who now appeared to be highly agitated took on his own form again.

***Break***

Zero was looking over the reports for the day in the small office in the underground stronghold that was his. He heard a knock on the door and he replied,"Come in"

Reynold walked into the room with a purpose, his head held high, and his chest puffed out. He stood waiting before Zero's desk, waiting to be acknowledged.

"What is it? You obviously have something you want to say." Zero said as he looked up at the young man then back at hte paper work. God he hated paper work.

Reynold looked at Zero then said," I want to talk to you about the attack on us at the castle. Any fool with even a basic understanding of tactics can see who they were directing their actions towards. They obviously were after the reploids living among us. They even got one of you. They are truly such a dangerous opponent. If they were to do such a thing again, us humans would have near no chance of stopping them from doing what they want. It would all fall to you, the doctor, Leviathan and the former thief. If the enemy could could eliminate any of them, then killing humans would require little to no effort. Especially since these enemies appear not to be real people. If they have no fear no conscious... That makes them especially terrible. They will not act with humanity compassion or nobility. They will act as true monsters."

"There isn't much we can do Reynold. I've been instructed to wait and I'm doing it since I've been out voted by both Axl and Leviathan on this."

"What about the queen? Surely she has made mention that we must take action as well. What have the dispatches from her said in that regard?" Reynold pressed further.

"The queen is a smart girl and all but she's too trusting and Naive." Zero said in a critical fashion.

"Well we can prepare. I have ... I've seen you practicing with Mathilda. I've seen her power. And I have seen the power of those monsters Gallia has created... I'm willing to die for my county if it means i can gain the power to defend it. "

Zero cocked his head as he looked at the young man and said quite simply,"If you're going where I think you're going... And I'm pretty certain I know where you're going, you are insane."

"Good. You understand then. Insane or not, that doesn't matter. They have taken liberties with power in Gallia. They've created inhuman monsters. "

"So you're saying that reploids are inhuman monsters?" Zero asked

"Of course I'm not, I'm saying these," He motioned at the remaining pantheons who were standing still against the wall," Are monsters. They don't think, they don't speak, they don't eat, they don't do anything but kill. What is that but monstrous? We can not stoop to their levels, we should not stoop to those levels! But it was proven that we can become stronger, while retaining our senses, our moral judgements. Mathilda was the first, and as you put it, if you ever go maverick and could cause harm to Tristian, I could... have a chance of at least slowing you down while others helped to get people safely out of the area.

"You would die trying to slow me down even with the upgrade. Although the chances of survival from such an operation would be slim as well. They would also open you up to all sorts of complications. Forget about this absurdity." Zero said coldly.

"That's fine. I don't mind dying for my country. When things are this dark, when our royal palace can be infiltrated, when our towns can be burned. When people are arbitrarily killed for no reason, what can I do? I can do nothing! Nothing at all and I do not accept that. I'll do whatever it takes including give my life to protect the people here."

"How can you be nonchalant about the thought of your own death?" Zero asked seriously

"The little girl, Rock, died. I know, I heard about the wound to her arm and chest she received when she was saving Mathilda. I had met the little scamp on more than one occasion. She was a bright and beautiful little girl. Her personality was... Different, but she always wanted to help. Sure she was troublesome and liked to play pranks every once in a while but we were all children once! She was always doing things for other people. Such a bright future was snuffed out, such a good heart removed from this world!" Reynold's fist slammed into the wall with a thud. "I will not forgive them! To aim for a child like that. I will give up my life to stop them. Because I know they will not stop there! I will protect the people of this kingdom, my fellow knights, I will avenge Rock and most of all, I will protect Katie. I don't care what I have to do to be able to do that! I don't care what risks I have to take! If I have to risk death to have the power to save them then so be it!"

"You are aware that if we do this I'll be able to read your mind to an extent with my capabilities. If you're doing this just for power... I'll kill you on the spot." Zero replied lazily as he placed his hand on his saber, as if to emphasize the point.

Reynold's jaw was set resolutely as he spoke in response,"I have no problems with that. I know it won't happen. Your power. This power. It's to protect. You said yourself. That's the power I want. That is the only power I want is to have to protect. Right now, what has my power as a noble given me? Has it given me anything but the ability to watch on the sidelines as people die? What good is my noble title if i can't protect those below me? I am a noble Zero! And in being a noble I need the power to protect all those who serve me. Because I Serve them. They are my body, while I am their sword and shield. That is how nobility works. And if a shield is useless, it should either be tempered or cast off. If I do not live through the procedure, that is fine. If i do, then I'll be able to protect those who need it. But if I die there are hundreds of nobles who can take my place. As an individual I am unimportant. I am Koga, and it is my job to take the risks so that others may live."

Zero looked at the young man then shook his head. He wondered just what made these crazy kids think this way. Was it his fault? Because he'd honestly hadn't heard half of these ideas and radical thoughts from these nobles until he'd made himself more known. Zero sighed, it probably was his fault. Damn it. Being a role model sucked. "I don't think turning people into reploids is going to be a fashion craze around here. But honestly, the only reason we performed on Mathilda was because she was already heavily damaged and was doing to die." Zero replied, remembering how close to death she had actually come. "I do not see it becoming a recreational surgery. Unless there is a reason I do not believe that we'll be performing such a thing again."

"I see. So all I have to do is be in danger of dying?" Reynold asked as he slipped his wand into his hand. he started chanting and Zero could see the power of wind and water forming around him. But it was in a pattern that he had seen only once before. The magic was forming around Reynold and to Zero's sight it was easy to see where it was directed to. The power was going to converge on the caster, maiming or possibly killing him. As soon as Zero realized this his saber was out and the wand that Reynold was using was shattered, his spell completely demolished. He held Reynold up by the collar of his shirt and demanded in a voice filled with fury,"Do you want to die, you fool?"

"I already told you I'm willing to die for this country and the people I wish to protect. That is not an empty boast. If I'm dying you'd be able to make me more like you. If that's what it takes I don't care. After everything I've seen, I am willing to risk it. My pride and duty as a noble requires it." Reynolds said, looking defiantly into his commander's eyes.

"Fine, if you're willing to go that far I'll think about it. Maybe talk to Roll about it. But don't get your hopes up. We need base materials, and a better understanding before we can try and replicate what we did. It wasn't easy and most of what we did was guess work." Zero admitted candidly. "Oh and Reynold. If you ever attempt to do that again I'll break both your arms and not allow them to be healed. I'll make sure you can't hold a wand until I'm sure you won't try something that stupid again." Zero's cold threat held no hint of it being a bluff. Both knew he would follow through with his threat were he pressed to.

"Yes sir. Sorry sir." Reynold replied but his tone held no hint of apology.

"Now get the hell out of here. I have to finish these damned reports." Zero replied angrily, still ready to punch the young man for his near suicidal action. After Reynold was gone he had to wonder, with a laugh, if this was how Signas felt half the time.

***Break***

Zero walked down the steps to the lab. It was already late at night and although he had finished with his paperwork and the training schedule for the next two weeks hours ago, he had been unable to get Reynold's actions out of his mind. He walked down the stairs deliberately. He heard the voices of Roll and Mathilda talking lightly as he entered the lab. Both turned when they heard him enter the room.

"Zero? What are you doing here so late?" Roll asked curiously, since normally he had shown a preference to staying either in his summoner's room or staying to the top of the towers with Charity.

"I could ask the same of you two. Not that I'm going to." Zero replied, unsure how to broach the subject.

"You're obviously thinking about something. What is it?" Roll asked, "Is something wrong?"

"Roll, what would you say if I told you that I had one of the members of my knights who wishes to become more like Mathilda ... Or more accurately like you and myself when we have the capabilities?" Zero asked cautiously.

"It would be out of the question. We only did what we did because she was going to die. It was an emergency with no real other option. I wouldn't do it just because someone wanted power. It would be too easily abused." Roll replied, somewhat angry that someone would wish to be converted like that before they even finished a new body for Rock.

"I think so too... But the person who asked, he's one of my more reliable members. He...Was upset." Zero said awkwardly. "He though that Rock was killed, and that he was powerless to stop them. I can see where he is coming from. But what disturbed me the most, is that Reynold was willing to cause himself excessive harm tonight to make a reason for us to attempt it."

"What? Why would he do that? And what did you do to stop him?" Roll demanded.

"I broke his wand and told him I'd break his arms if he tried it again. I also said I might talk to you about it." Zero replied seriously. "Since the beginning he's been one of the few that seems to understand what I've been getting at entirely... But the anger he had shown was uncharacteristic. I don't know, I think that the nobles here think it's alright for them to be killed, but that the innocents shouldn't be brought into the fight."

"Well... I do know the boy, and he was watching as we were practicing." Mathilda replied,"He looked more troubled than anything... I don't think that this is necessarily a bad thing to consider, but you would need to be careful who you gave such abilities to. I mean, objectively, as a former thief and disgraced noble you should have let me die than to make me into... What I have become."

Without warning Zero smacked Mathilda upside her head. Roll just stared at his reaction, and asked "How exactly is it that you can do that and be upset when someone says something like that, but you get upset when other people get angry at you for saying basically the same thing? Or actually following through with it?"

"Because I'm Zero? And I can dodge?" Zero answered seriously,"Or was that a rhetorical question? Am I in trouble now?"

Mathilda laughed at Zero's response as she rubbed her head. "I said objectively. You really are rash sometimes Zero. But it is true that you are Zero. But that means, that if you say things like that that if you can't dodge it then it's perfectly fine?"

"Well, no. I didn't say that." Zero defended.

"It's what I heard." Rock replied,"So... Roll, make sure you keep your broom on hand. Especially when he starts getting moody."

Zero looked at the grin Roll had on her face as she looked at him and backed away slowly as he made a break for the door, Mathilda's laughter echoing behind him.

As Zero left, Mathilda looked at the blond girl who had just 'intimidated' Zero so easily and wondered aloud,"So if you like him so much, why chase him away?"

"It's not really chasing him away." Roll replied easily, a small smile still on her face. "He isn't comfortable with those things, and we were having an uncomfortable conversation for him. We gave him something to think about, and then a reason to go think about it. He's troubled now, but rather than have him brood on something that we aren't even the position to do now, he'll at least think about something constructive."

"You're...Manipulative, aren't you?" Mathilda asked in a deadpan tone.

"Only a bit. I mean, she could try being upfront but that's just gonna really chase him away. He was about as scared when we brought it up now as he was when I chased him with a broom after their wonderful makeover they gave me. Different cultures view different things as funny. You could almost call the threat of the broom a close joke between them." Rock said seriously, sounding much older than his voice.

"Oh? So she really didn't hit him that hard with it?" Mathilda asked curiously,"It was all just a joke?"

"Oh, no. She did. Knocked him about 5 feet back. Totally floored him. I actually have the video of it. Saved it under five different files in case any get corrupted." Rock replied with a chuckle as his monitor suddenly changed and a repeated loop of Zero getting floored with a broom was shown.

Mathilda cocked her head as she watched it, and then was suddenly overcome with laughter as it started playing frame by frame,"...You have a good arm, I guess. I have to give you that. But that look of utter shock and disbelief on his face is...unbelievable."

"Well I was Rock's back up when he used to save the world. I did have some skills." Roll replied modestly.

"I bet. Defeating the villains of the world with a cleaning instrument. I bet they never showed their faces again after such a defeat. The shame must have been horrible." Mathilda replied still laughing at the frozen frame of Zero's face blank with confusion.

"That is true. She was far more feared than even I. Even Zero said that while the broom hurt his pride was even more injured." Rock said seriously.

"It wasn't that bad!" Roll objected, but just blushed as both Mathilda and Rock laughed harder.

***Break***

Louise sat in her room, looking out the window. She hoped Zero would return tonight. HE had not been to her room since the attack at the palace. And while she knew that it had been a terrible event and it required all of his attention, she missed her familiar's gentle encouragement. Her eldest sister would probably call her a disgrace, hinging all of her worth on what her familiar thought of her, but then, that didn't matter to Louise. Suddenly a double knock on the door was heard, and a moment later Zero let himself into the room. With a bright smile she turned to greet him. "Ah, Zero! You're back!"

"I didn't really leave," Zero replied as he sat down, his back against the wall.

"But you haven't been here. I've missed you."

"Sorry."

"But even without you here, I've still gotten stronger!" Louise said proudly as she puffed up her chest. "I've been working hard too!"

"I'm glad." Zero replied as he looked at her kindly, then turned to look at the floor.

"Is something wrong, Zero?" Louise asked curiously.

"Am I a hypocrite?" he asked suddenly.

"What do you mean? Why would you ask that so suddenly?"

"I want to know, do you think I'm a hypocrite Louise." Zero asked her.

Louise turned her head up in thought then nodded,"Definitely. The biggest I've ever seen."

"Thanks." Zero replied dryly.

Louise thought for a moment more then started speaking slowly, as if choosing her words carefully."Well, I'm not going to lie to you. But it's not like it's a bad thing either. At least, not entirely. You're like the princess. You both shoulder everything, but tell others not to do the same. You both force yourselves to be accountable for the power you possess... But wish for others to live peacefully. While she internalizes her battles, and makes them her own mentally, you do so physically. I think you both need to learn, that not everything is your fault. And that sometimes things happen. You're just not control of a situation and you can only do what you can do. Does that make sense?"

"I guess." Zero replied, feeling embarrassed at the girl's assessment. While she was moody and oftentimes prone to fits of violence he forgot that she was much more intelligent than he gave her credit for.

"But that doesn't matter. I'm glad you came back tonight. I was lonely." Louise said again.

"How can you be lonely, you've made more friends and are more accepted by everyone. Nobody uses the term 'the Zero' as an insult anymore either." Zero replied.

"I became so used to having you close at hand. It was comforting. When I was feeling weak, or useless... You were there. As time has gone on, you've been pulling away from me." Louise spoke, sounding near on tears. "I know that you're dealing with important things, but still... You're my familiar."

"What? This old thing again?" Zero asked, half annoyed that he was being classified down again. Would she ever learn?

"I... Didn't mean it like that Zero." Louise said quickly,"I mean, as my familiar, you're my partner. The one who I am to share my life with. As my familiar, or as your mage, we are meant to have a connection. I... Do not wish to lose that. But I am afraid of it."

Zero sighed as he looked at the ceiling,"I'm not going anywhere Louise. you don't have to worry."

"You might not be physically... But you're still leaving me." Louise accused.

"I told you that I wouldn't abandon you didn't I? That I'd be there as you showed the world just how powerful you are." Zero replied with a charming smile, and was surprised when Louise glared at him.

"That isn't what you said. You said that if you died you'd expect me to do that. You said you had faith in me. You said that I was different, something new. But..." Louise's voice broke as she looked at Zero, openly weeping now.

Zero reluctantly moved closer to her and held her as she wept. "It's alright. I'm not going anywhere. You've heard Axl and Leviathan. But... I'm going to keep fighting. I have to."

"What? Why do you have to?" Louise demanded as she beat on his chest,"It's not your responsibility! You don't always have to bear the weight of battle on your shoulders!"

"I suppose you could say I care too much about all you stupid humans." Zero replied offhandedly. "If I didn't fight what would happen? You'd go off and get yourself killed without me here keeping you from doing stupid things. Like in Albion."

"Thank you." Louise mumbled into Zero's chest. "Thank you."

"For what?"

"For believing in me. For not giving up on me. For fighting for me. For saving me. For coming back to me. I've never thanked you properly. But I should have. You're the only person who would have done those things for me. Even with how I treated you"

"Don't worry about it." Was Zero's calm reply. "I just do what I can."

"Will you stay here tonight? Please?" Louise asked "I know I ask too much of you, but I do not wish to be alone tonight. With everything that has been happening and another war looming, one which I might have no place in... I wish to spend some time with you."

Zero looked down at the girl in his arms and then nodded slowly. What could it hurt? "I suppose I can."

"Then the first thing you need to do... Is lose the armor." Louise said mock severely. "Because even with everything happening, I will not let you forget... You're not just a weapon. You are Zero."

Zero rolled his eyes as he shifted into his civilian form. "There, that better 'princess'?" he asked mockingly.

Louise looked at him then nodded,"It is indeed. But I'm not..." her voice died as she suddenly came to a realization.

"That's right. You are actually a princess now. I forgot. Oh well that doesn't seem to fit ya." Zero said with a grin.

"And why's that?" Louise demanded with a scowl.

"A leader can't be so prone to their emotions or actions. You're way to quick to fly off the handle." Zero shot back.

"Don't forget, you're just the same." Louise accused.

"Yes, and it's why I kept objecting to the positions I keep getting pulled into. Seriously."

"That doesn't matter. I'm still Louise and you're still Zero. It is getting late though." Louise said, a blush gracing the fair skin of her face,"We should go to bed now."

"I suppose. You weren't waiting up for me, were you?" Zero asked as he was dragged down on to the bed by Louise.

"Maybe I was. For just a little longer. Even when you don't come back, I still wait." Louise replied as she clamped her arms around Zero's chest.

"You really shouldn't do that. You need your sleep." Zero objected.

"It's fine. If I get to see Zero it' worth it in the end." Louise said as her head was placed on her chest.

"Alright, alright. Enough with the guilt trips. I'll try and make more time with you." Zero finally said, sounding pained,"Just don't neglect your health because of me."

"Alright," Louise murmured, as she was already drifting off to sleep.

"What the hell am I going to do with these girls," Zero wondered aloud after Louise had fallen asleep. He couldn't get them to stop chasing him, but somehow he didn't want to leave either. Was it really impossible to just have a friendship? He didn't have the answer, but as he lay there before he himself drifted off to a fitful sleep, he pondered just that.

***Author's notes***

Oh my, another chapter so soon? Probably because I wrote most of this one before the last one. Also the fact that there was lots of reviews on the last one couldn't hurt. Not too much in the way of questions, which makes me think thinks are finally slipping into place. Until I totally screw with your heads again.

Zero:They'd stop complaining if you would stop using the dartboard to figure out how the story goes

But I get to write, and throw things. I suppose I can just let the fangirls have their way and give them the Zero X ending.

Zero: ... I was wrong. All hail the dart board.

I thought so.

By the way to have a closer understanding of my Dr. Wily(In Zero's head)... Listen to "Look What You've done" By the Megas. Also, purchase their albums. They're worth it. Quick and the blue. Message from Dr. light acoustic. Fucking brilliant. That is all. There is a quote in the story today based on something they said.

Not sure when next chapter is out. Secondly, why do you keep asking about CPR, it was already stated that Leviathan did NOT kiss Zero to get the virus. Their helmets met and the jewels on their foreheads touched. As has been Canonish, those jewels tend to be a sort of focus of power for the brains or something, where lots of information or energy get routed to(like when you're injured, or something. I can't explain it. Capcom can't explain it. I'm just rolling with it.)

On another note... Those Copies don't seem to be too bad. I kinda like them.

Mathilda, hit with the bad luck stick... Now a full on humanoid.