The Business of War
Orchestrated By C.M. Rich (Magnetman)
Dr. Cossack War Journals 3
By Winterman, Jade, Neolan, Sean, Zymeth, Snipe, Hunter, Saturn Ballard, Naop, Anime Master, Mahajarah, Jet, Zapper, Draconis, Megaman N, Glider, Demon Roy, Regulus,
War Journal of Frostman, previously Draconis
I've never been too keen on watching the news, and keeping up with current events unless they had anything to do with me. Out of boredom one day, I decided to watch the news. I was introduced to this 'Shutdown Code' idiocy. It didn't really affect me, I'm not a mere robot, I'm a reploid. Someone flung me back in time two hundred years, but I appreciated it at first. Sure, those I considered friends aren't around in this era, at least I think so, but after being used by a madman who's influence survived the test of time, I couldn't care less.
--------------------
I was fed up with those who were charged to uphold the peace in that era. I killed a city full of innocents, and leveled the city afterwards. After being ripped apart by the one responsible for so much strife in that era, I came to my senses, and thought I'd be able to die in peace. I was dead wrong. I was given a new body, and a new life, and I was actually quite happy, for a while at least. I was killed someone I considered family due to a misunderstanding on her part. That sat fine with me. I wasn't upset with her, I was glad that I could be at peace at the bottom of the sea, where I was left to die. Oh how overjoyed I was when the person who gave me new life brought me back again, and gave me the task of guarding an area he was studying. I new he had went crazy, but I didn't care, I would finally have the chance to die, and stay dead. I thought for sure the red one would be my opponent, and I knew he would kill me. I was cheated again, they sent the blue one. I made the mistake of mentioning something from my past life when he defeated me, and he showed pity. I didn't want pity! I wanted to die, dammit!--------------------
A century later, I was still alive, and hating every moment of it. I met up with an old friend I met in another dimension. He was a moron, but he had his good qualities. I guess it was the way he annoyed me constantly that lifted my spirits a bit. He's like a living punching bag, who for some reason, has respect for me. Of course, he's also quite the fighter, and if left unsupervised, could have rocketed the planet into the sun, or blown it up. I felt responsible for keeping him in check, so I stuck with. Soon, we were confronted by an interdimensional traveller in the body of a familiar phoenix. He mad us an offer to join some sort of team, and my idiot of friend decided to accept it. Seeing as I had to keep an eye on him, I joined as well. I can't say I didn't have a bit of fun, but I opted to just keep the relationship with the rest of the team on a buisness level, and nothing more.--------------------
A year would pass, and eventually, my past would come back to screw me over. It was the usual for me, but the cycle completed itself this time. Start by whipping up some nightmares of me killing everyone I've come to know in that era, and then a madman taunting me from the grave. Throw in confronting the person who threw into the sea, and me trying to assure that she was not at fault. Stir in some meddling do-gooders, and season with a pinch of me isolating myself, and then eventually being brought back after some more tormenting by said madman, and you have a very sour me. For some extra kick, have the madman infect me with his virus, and use me as a pawn in his schemes. Watch as I kill some innocents for the first time in a century, and then eventually regain my senses just in time to want to kill myself. But I couldn't, it would be too easy. Then, after some more crap happens, someone or thing flings me back a couple of centuries.--------------------
When I first arrived in this century, I realized my dash system had mysteriously vanished. But, when I realized what century I was in, I was genuinely happy. I've read some the historical texts, and despite this century having it's own set of maniacal loonies who want to rule, or destroy the world, I felt I could relax, and let the plethora of crime fighting teams handle it. Not too long after I arrived, and had finally become accustomed to living in this era, I was forced into becoming a hulking igloo of a robot. I was downgraded by that big fisted dillhole! I would have been fine with that, but then he dumped the task of eliminating Evil Energy on the eight beings he converted, me included! Fate has shat on me again! I was one of eight tasked with eliminating the very substance that was used to turn me into some madman's pawn!
--------------------
Like a fool, I thought it would eventually turn out ok, and I'd be able to live in peace eventually. I should really shoot myself for being so damned stupid. Since I've been downgraded, I'm not immune to this 'Shutdown Code'. Don't I want to rest in peace? Yes, but not at the cost of giving my freedom. I will not be used as a pawn ever again. That's why I sided with Mikhail Cossack, like the rest of the team I'm on. He seems to have the right idea about this. Plus, his citadel is on top of a snow capped mountain, and I'm rather fond of the cold. I'd be content if I knew why I've suddenly becom a positive thinker since being reformatted.--------------------
Well, I would be thinking that, but with the chaos plaguing this world now, and it's greatest hero, whom I had the utmost respect for, apparently dead, it's like my previous life all over again. I'd like to kill the person that flung me back to this era. I'd also like to kill the person that implanted the concept that 'Big people are usually slow, both on the field, and in the mind' because that's probably what's going through the mind of the small female human standing a few feet behind me.--------------------
"Miss Kalinka, is there something you want."--------------------
She jumps, suprised that I knew it was her without having to turn around.--------------------
"Well? Is there?"--------------------
"I'm sorry if I disturbed you, Frostman. It's getting late, and I just thought you'd like to have a roof over your head as you rest."--------------------
I guess after being reformatted, I still have my honed skills. I can make anyone feel uncomfortable. Oddly, I feel a twinge of remorse for startling the little human.--------------------
"I apologize if I startled you. Thank you for the offer, but I prefer the bitter cold of the night. Besides, with this hulking body, I'd take up much needed space which would be better used to tend to the others."--------------------
"That's very considerate of you. if only this world had more people like you."--------------------
I grimace with disgust, mostly at myself. I would not wish that upon this world, even now, when it's under siege.--------------------
"Kid, that would only make things worse."--------------------
"How so?"--------------------
I'd rather not say. I just reburied my past a fem moments ago, and I'd like it to stay that way. But then again, who am I to fight against what will inevitably happen.--------------------
"Let's just say I'm not too proud of myself, and that you would better off not knowing what plagues me."--------------------
She speaks again, but the words are drowned out as I lament about the things I've done. Eventually, she takes the hint, and re-enters the citadel, leaving me and my thoughts in peace.--------------------
WHERE DOES YOUR LOYALTY LIE?
“He’s right. Let’s do this.”
--------------------
Saturn remembered saying those exact words not many days ago; he seconded Mars’s motion to fight against the psychopathic General Cutman and the telepathic Mesmerman, along with their reprogrammed Scissor Army.--------------------
However, he was now starting to wonder if the team had chosen the best way to go about it.--------------------
The Cosmic Crusaders were staying in Cossack’s Citadel, each with their own bedroom as provided by the good doctor and Kalinka. Dr. Cossack and his daughter were nice, but…--------------------
“Something jus’— doesn’t feel… solid… ‘r right,” he thought out loud one night, in his bedroom in the Citadel. “I wonder’f there’s another way— ‘sthere a bette’ way we can fight the SA ‘n’ win?”--------------------
He suddenly rose to his feet. «I gotta go find Neptune,» he thought silently. He opened the door to his room and closing it behind him.--------------------
Whenever Saturn has a serious problem, he looks to Neptune for advice. Not only is Neptune the most down-to-earth and mature of the other Stardroids, but he is also, biologically speaking, the oldest, and one of Saturn’s closest friends on the team besides Uranus. So now Saturn was in front of a door marked with Neptune's name in Russian on the outside.--------------------
“Neptune,” he said quietly, knocking on the door three times. He waited a few seconds.--------------------
“Neptune,” he repeated more loudly this time, knocking another three times before waiting. Just as he was about to knock again, Neptune opened the door.--------------------
“Saturn…” Neptune said groggily, rubbing his left eye. “You got any idea what time it is…?”--------------------
“Couldn’t sleep,” Saturn explained. “Listen… I been thinkin’ o’ something… can you help me out?”--------------------
Apparently a little annoyed, Neptune nevertheless let Saturn into his room and closed the door behind him. Saturn took the opportunity to look at the fishing and oceanic themes that Neptune had created in decorating his room; a number of rods and harpoons decorated the back wall, the walls were greenish blue with wavelike designs, and on the bureau in front of the mirror was a rolled-up chart map.--------------------
“So,” Neptune asked flatly, rubbing his right eye now, “what’s going on.”--------------------
“I… I dunno why,” Saturn began slowly, gathering his thoughts as he went on, “but it’s just I just— we had to fight, but… is this the best way?”--------------------
“Like…?” Neptune allowed Saturn to continue.--------------------
“Well…” Saturn said, pausing to yawn and gather more thoughts at the same time, “I just… maybe we’re too… far away fr’m the action ‘nd we need more people ‘nd… well, ‘nd according t’ th’ Comrades, Dr. Cossack’s supposed t’ be kinda lazy. D’YOU think ‘e’s gonna be th’ best help?”--------------------
“You going somewhere wi’ this?” asked Neptune, yawning immediately thereafter.--------------------
“Just a thought…”I’m… consi’ring finding a large’ force t’… go with… y’know.”--------------------
“On yer own? Hones’ly, I think we needjou here. How sure’re you about goin’ through with this?”--------------------
“Not tha’ much. You… can ya promise t’ keep this a secret unless I actually DO decide t’ leave?”--------------------
Neptune looked unsure about doing so. “All right,” he answered, after a pause that was in reality no longer than four seconds, but seemed like an eternity to Saturn. “Now, can ya ge’ outta my room ‘n’ go t’ sleep?”--------------------
The following night. Just outside Cossack’s Citadel. Saturn was practicing his aim with his Saturn Rings by slicing a few boulders and tree stumps, the thoughts of leaving for another side in the war arising as he did so.
--------------------
“What is it… I think the bigges’ problem’s we nee’ bigger forces,” Saturn thought out loud as he threw another ring. “But I gotta dodge the Shutdown Code’s important too.”--------------------
Another ring was thrown, and then:--------------------
“Wily… I don’t expect HE'D follow th’ Shutdown Code. I hea’ he’s against Genera’ Cutman too. An’ he’s got a lot o’ those mino’ robots and Flashman, Quickman, those guys…. But I’d be po’traying the team to join him…”--------------------
He threw two rings at once, and then continued:--------------------
“But what ‘f I try to stab ol’ Wily in the back right afte’ th’ SA’s outta the pic?”--------------------
He paused.--------------------
“Sounds like a plan.”--------------------
That being said, Saturn headed back into his bedroom in the Citadel, grabbed the backpack which he used to stow his armor in, did so with his armor and put a set of his human clothes on (hoping it’d make it harder to identify him back in America.)--------------------
Then, he began to plan a trip from Russia to the United States to find Wily Tower.--------------------
Second entry: Slash Against the World
"Kalinka, what is this doing in the middle of the rug?"
--------------------
Slashman was awakened by Dr. Cossack's comment, and immidietally looked up at the Russian doctor.--------------------
"'Morning." said the grogy Robot Master as he did a catlike stretch.--------------------
"Don't give me that!" bellowed a clearly frusterated Cossack. "Why are you here?"--------------------
Slashman got up immidietally. "Dr. Cossack, I wish to join you in your struggle against the Scissor Army."--------------------
"Join me?" asked Cossack. "But what about the government? They have much more supplies than I do."--------------------
Slashman shook his head. "That's what lured my other team mates, Turboman, Junkman, Cloudman, and Burstgirl, to their side. As for me, I'm not a big fan of having my freedom taken away."--------------------
Cossack nodded. "I'm gald we see eye to eye, but what I'm really concerned about is my lack of resources. Are you willing to accept that you might not be in any condition to fight as the war drags on?"--------------------
"I've nowhere else to turn to." said Slash as he lowered his eyes. "Besides, I think you need me. Being an animal-like Robot Master, my senses are very fine-tuned. I'm great at scrounging around for spare parts. Plus, I'm an expert at close combat."--------------------
Dr. Cossack considered this, and finally replied, "It's true, we need a man who can find spare parts easily. I think you'll fit right in with our forces."--------------------
Slashman nodded, and began thinking to himself again. If we ever butt heads, Shadowstrike, he thought, I'll just have to open your eyes and show you that the Shutdown Code means nothing but trouble. Hopefully, we'll never come to that. However, I've just got one warning for you, General Cutman. You'd better sleep with one eye open, because if I ever find you, you're going to have to answer to my claws...--------------------
After barging in on AquaMan, SearchMan and Dr. Cossack’s meeting, Naop was polite enough as to apologize, but also bold enough to ask if he could stay and listen to this plan. He too had worried about Cossack’s forces not being prepared, so this was indeed something he HAD to hear.--------------------
It discouraged him, that even Cossack’s own robots were mostly doubting this rebellion. One of them was MIA, and he didn’t know if the rest was really going to be supportive of their cause. Cossack certainly wasn’t so sure about it.--------------------
DrillMan was more than motivated to fight, but his reasons were personal, vengeful. Naop’s experience told him that revenge was never the best reason to fight. It could blind your judgement. But still, if DrillMan was there, the rest of Cossack’s Comrades would follow him to the battle field, they just had to focus all of their efforts and solidarity towards the right causes.--------------------
Seeing other people from so many different Robot Master teams was heartening at first, but when Naop noticed that many of them were only coming because of the “refugee” aspect of this faction, it was a disappointment. He was going to have a long talk with them…--------------------
After hearing Search and Aqua’s plan, Naop himself spoke up, managing to reach an agreement with both Deep Impacters and the doc himself. He would make himself useful in the way he was most familiar with. He immediately called Kalinka, and asked her if she could see to it that everyone was gathered at the Citadel’s entrance lobby by noon.--------------------
During his time fighting alongside the Maverick Hunters, Naop gradually became more familiar with the art of war. From a rookie hunter, he became the leader of his squad, and eventually, the Commander of the South American branch. He never expected any of that to happen, though. But for some reason, his mind was always set on the reasons he fought for, always trying to be loyal to his ideals. And so, he became a leader among the ranks of military organization from the future, and then, the leader of the Technological Tyrants.--------------------
Now he had decided to show Cossack his support, to become his right-hand man, if necessary, so he wouldn’t feel alone in this war. Most people saw him as a crazy scientist, a generous one at that. He started wondering if he was the only one taking him seriously.--------------------
Also, he needed to beat some sense into the doubtful minds that plagued the citadel. And for that, he was going to need support from the other leaders. Search and Aqua seemed the first obvious option, along with DrillMan, since he wasn’t only a leader, he was the leader of the citadel’s local team. The guys in charge, basically. And Naop didn’t want to step on anyone’s toes, but the good doctor needed as much help he could get. For that reason, he would try to get Drill and the CC, on his good side. Hence, they were the first team to be notified of the meeting at the lobby, and Naop had personally asked the much troubled Drill Man, to address the refuges along him.--------------------
Noon came upon the citadel, and a small group consisting of Dr. Cossack, DrillMan, DustMan, SearchMan, AquaMan, and AstroMan, was already waiting atop the large double staircase that intertwined above the lobby. All of the other team members (those who had decided to stay) and refugees were listening. And while it was hard to take a robot such as AstroMan seriously, they soon learned that Naop was nothing like the original model.--------------------
“Dear friends and comrades…” Naop started. “My name is Naop, and I am the leader of the Robot Master team known as the Technological Tyrants. Perhaps not many of you have heard of us, but that is beside the point. We are gathered here as equals, as robots that fight for their rights, in a way or another. And I have decided to have a chat with you, since I can’t help to feel depressed by the undeniable mood of resignation that predominantly fills the air. I have also gathered you to talk about the upcoming WAR.” He pounded his fist on the stair’s banister, getting the attention of the few people that were still murmuring on.--------------------
“And just who is this guy to tell us anything about the war? You’ll surely ask… well, for one, I fought a war, long ago, in a different timeline. And also, because there few people here that have actually decided to sit down and discuss it, since the rest is too busy making up their mind. A third reason could be that I know how this works, and I know that if we don’t have this talk, the war will claim more of our loved ones than it already has.” He made a pause to look at DrillMan from the edge of the screen that displayed his eyes.--------------------
“The first thing to clarify here is your reason to join us.” He continued. “Are you here seeking shelter from the Shutdown Code? Or perhaps because you want to fight for justice, without giving up your freedom? Those would be the perfect reasons to be here. But here comes the dilemma... we’re about to go face the three greatest armies this Earth has ever seen. For one reason or another, we’re nobody’s ally. We are on our own. And since I’m worried enough about going to the battlefield with a bunch of people I’ve never met, I’m more worried about the fact that most people will never save my life if it comes down to it, they will most likely fight for their own survival. And that’s not how it works in war. Not if you want survive. Not with the odds we’re up against. So decide now… which one are you? Are you the refugee looking for shelter? Or are you the fighter that is willing to die for a greater cause?” He then made another pause, in order to let his words echo in the minds of his audience. “Whatever your choice, do not despair. Not all hope is lost for us. You will see in just a minute…--------------------
If you want protection from the Shutdown Code, but you want nothing to do with the war, you should already be with Dr. Light. But I understand if you tell me you don’t believe his side to be a safe one. He could get arrested, and what would happen to the people following him?But have in mind that we’re not the safe side either. We have a good location, and this fortress has a good defensive system, perhaps one of the best. But our enemy is strong, and if they want it so, they can take over this place.
--------------------
Only if we gather enough strength and resources, while taking advantage of the fact that the enemy is underestimating us, we can guarantee your safety. For that, we need as much fighters we can get. True justice fighters, that are willing to become soldiers and give their lives for the right cause. Fighters such as the people of Deep Impact, who have added their supplies and their base to ours, giving us an advantageous hideout near Megalopolis, and who are willing to fight for the robotic cause. Or fighters such as the Cossack Comrades, who have stayed here, where they belong, and are now supporting the man who created them. Also, I know there are plenty of you down there who are here for the right reasons. Just don’t let our apparent disadvantage get you down.--------------------
We have the Cosmic Gladiator supporting us, with whatever spare parts they managed to gather. We have an expert technician, Sean (DustMan). And we have intelligent leaders, who are going to give their all in this war, and try to organize things and plan strategies according to our needs. Hunter (SearchMan) and Neolan (AquaMan) from Deep Impact, have already thought of some very achievable ideas that could greatly improve our current situation. They are true strategists.--------------------
Drill Man and his team can’t afford to lose anyone else, the war has already taken a toll on their loved ones. You can count on them, they will fight until the very end. The same goes for my team.--------------------
You can count on all of us to keep things organized here at the citadel, or over at Hunter’s base. And you can bet, that if we all put our minds to it, we can make a difference. Believe me, I have seen it happen… minorities can be powerful, with the right approach. Just be honest to us and decide if you will be fighting. More importantly, be honest to yourselves.”--------------------
War Journal of Frostman: Second Entry
Fan-freaking-tastic! Now I can't stop thinking about my past! Great, just great! My mind was already in a state of constant turmoil, now I'm reliving the moment I crushed that human's head! Ah, the sweet sound of a skull crushing, and brain matter oozing onto the pavement. No! I mustn't think like that. I have to stay sane. I really hope Duo pays me a visit so I bash his face in for signing me up for another trip through hell! No! Calm down. Get ahold of yourself. If you don't, then the virus will find an opening, and the process will repeat. I am in control, not the virus. I refuse to succumb. But, it's so tempting. It's like a siren song of pure...blissful...rage. I can almost taste the destruction I can cause with this tank of a body. I can hear the delightful screams of people as I crash through buildings, and crush then like roaches. No! Stop tormenting me! My mind is not your plaything. It's not a toy for you to control!
--------------------
"GET OUT OF MY HEAD!"--------------------
Slience at last. I feel eyes watching me. Some out of concer, some think my mind snapped, and some have their own problems and pay little to no mind, probably reasoning that it's just tension. It doesn't bother me...not much anyway. I've always dealt with my problems by myself, and rarely accepted help. Not even from the man who's treated me like a brother, or son in my previous life. I like it that way. If I don't associate with anyone on more than a civil level, then my mind won't snap when they're gone.--------------------
Only two pairs of eyes remain. One pair belonging to the man who opened his door for those of us who may be considered rebels, or outlaws, and his child, who would probably do the same had she been in her father's position. Accepting his offer was the only reasonable thing to do. I couldn't go with those who sided with Wily, because I'd probably crush that old man beneath my foot, and who knows what effect that would have on the future. Although, I could care less about that accursed place. Still, I don't like the man, and being in his presence would drive me to leveling everything in my sights. Dr. Light is out of the question, too. He's chosen not to fight, and just sit idly by whilst the world collapses. I'd rather die fighting. That accursed Scissor Army is the reason I chose to fight. Joining up with that police force seemed like a good idea, but I was never any good at taking orders, and the people pulling the string behind the scenes seem like a bunch of elitist jerks. Peace keepers? Ha! more like control freaks.--------------------
"Frostman, are you alright?"--------------------
Yeah, I just have traces of Evil Energy tormenting me, and slowly driving me insane.--------------------
"I'm fine, Dr. Cossack."--------------------
"You didn't sound fine."--------------------
Oh, here we go! Someone shows concern, and wants to meddle in life.--------------------
"If something is troubling you, then you should speak your mind."--------------------
Yeah, I don't think so.--------------------
"You wouldn't believe me if I told you what was troubling me. Please, just leave me alone."--------------------
He sighs, but doesn't question me further. Him and his daughter leave me out in the cold snow, and for the first time in the past few months, my mind is at peace, if only temporairly. It seems people in this time period know how to respect a persons privacy.--------------------
"I guess I better show my support."--------------------
I'm greeted by a mass of Robot Masters as I enter the citadel for the first time since being here. I notice a few of teammates, but pay them no mind. Hell, I'm willing to fight, it's one of the few things that gives my life meaning. Astro Chan? No, it must be Astroman of the Tyrants. I guess I could listen to his speech, and any others in the very least. I've already decided to fight, but I want to hear what some of the others who have sided with Cossack think.--------------------
The techno blaring in the ice bar didn't bother maha much.Maha stared into the open sky, blankly. He pondered many things, curious. The battle ahead would be tough. He had also just gotten a message recently from Neolan, his comrade in the Deep Impact. He was curious to his current location.
...
Maha took a sip of his Screwdriver as he stared into the sky through the window in the bar. "What a beautiful thing." Maha commented, in russian.
A man nearby would laugh.
"What, the sky? It's been there for how long, and you say it's beautiful? You're hammered bud."
Maha didn't react strongly.
"Oh, really?"
Maha slowly looked at the man, who backed up slightly.
"You take it for granted.
The man's face went blank.
"Take What, The sky? It's always going to be there."
"...What did you just say?" Maha inquired, with a lazy look upon his face.
"I said, It's always going to be there."
...
"Wrong." Maha Insisted
The man looked at maha flustered.
".. What the hell are you babbling about? It's the goddamn..."
"You're wrong." Maha insisted again.
"What the hell do you know, you fucking retard." The man agrily cursed.
Maha's face went sour.
"When the scissor army comes, what will you do.."
The music in the bar stopped, and everyone looked at maha.
"When The SA comes, and kills what you know, mains you, rips you to shreds, Will the sky be there?"
" I... Uh..."
"No, No It's not going to be there. When what happened to Los Angelis happens here, Will the sky be there?"
"Now wait just a minute, there." The bartender hastily interjected.
Maha ignored him, going on with his point. "When you die, and all hope seems lost, You're going to look to the sky, and you're going to see nothing but black? Do you know why?" Maha loudly said, walking towards the man.
The man, scared, dropped the Schapps he was drinking, and ran against a wall, pressing his back against it, like a cornered animal does to avoid capture as long as possible.
"Becuase Hope is temporary, but suffering is forever." Maha Commented.
"Despair, pain. These are constants in life. Hope and joy may come once in a while, but you can always expect suffering to exist. So do yourself a favor and look at the sky, Becuase it may be the last thing you see in the next few months."
Maha glugged down the screwdriver, and threw down a few coins of gaia gold for payment, as he exited the bar. No one bothered to stop him.
--------------------
Maha walked to the town square."...This is a feat I cannot perform alone." Maha thought.
...
Maha looked into the sky.
"Well, I guess I could play nice."
Maha got up, and ran a few things through his CPU.
He set a few things straight, stood upright and teleported to the one area he had his mind set on going too.
Dr. Cossack's Fortress
--------------------
War Journal of Jet, AKA Bright Babe: Preparing for Battle (Pre-War Prep)--------------------
Well. Today started as any other day.... on the brink of war that is. I try to remain optimistic and it's tough. But today, something helped improve my outlook on the situation.--------------------
Bear in mind, I wouldn't say I doubted Dr. Cossack. The Comrades have faced hard times before, but they always got through somehow.--------------------
I had my fears though.--------------------
I was scared of the odds. Low resources and a lot of robots for starters. That and the fact we are alone in this. The other three factions are enemies. Well supplied enemies!--------------------
I was mulling over these thoughts when I was told that there was going to be a meeting in the lobby of the Citadel. Naturally, I showed up.--------------------
When I got there, I noticed Naop, TT's Astro Man, along with AM, Dr. Cossack, Sean, Aqua Man and Search Man all at the top of the stairs while the rest of us gathered in the lobby. I wasn't sure what to make of it, but it got my attention.--------------------
After Naop's speech I couldn't help but feel a bit embarrassed over my fears. He made so many good points. I actually felt better after hearing him speak. He was right. We'd only survive this if we stick together. Something else he said grabbed my attention too.--------------------
We need FIGHTERS. I already know I can't be the pacifist anymore. I only have one concern now....--------------------
My weapon.--------------------
Sure, Flash Stopper will have it's uses I'm certain. How can one not make use of the ability to freeze enemies in place? But that's just it. My Flash Stopper alone doesn't do damage. I have to use my buster arm cannon to do damage. And who's to say I'll have Flash Stopper throughout the whole war? If my light bulb gets busted, I'll only have my buster arm until it's fixed. It's not that powerful though. It relies on me using it in combination with Flash Stopper.--------------------
That brings something to mind.--------------------
There are a lot of new recruits here like the Tech Tyrant members and the 2 folks from Deep Impact, as well as the Cosmic Crusaders too.--------------------
I bet I could learn a lot if I were to actually try meeting some of them.--------------------
Truth be told though.... I'm really nervous. I've never really met the other teams yet and I'm pretty shy. I don't want to be seen as a complete idiot... or say anything that gets them upset with me for that matter.--------------------
I don't know what to do here really. I guess I'll just see what happens. In the meantime, I'd better help get the Citadel ready for all these new arrivals! There's a lot of work to do around here...--------------------
Right after the meeting, Naop found himself dragged to Dr. Cossack’s office. Only both of them were there, and for a second, Naop thought that the doc was upset. Perhaps something he said to the refugees? No… his face, the vacant look in his eyes, as if he had just awakened or remembered something. He already knew what the old man was about to ask…--------------------
“Naop…” he started. “Something you said struck me, like a volt of lightning. You have knowledge of the future, don’t you? I had completely forgotten about it! Tell me, I beg you, what will be the outcome of this war?”--------------------
Naop lowered his head, ashamed. “I have no idea whatsoever, doc.” He showed a sad smile at him.--------------------
“What?! You surely must have heard of this war! It’s too important to be overlooked.” He was angry now, alright. For a moment, he had felt the uncertainty beginning to fade away. Even if Naop didn’t have a lot of information, he expected something, anything would be useful.--------------------
“I’m sorry to disappoint you. And it’s not like I didn’t do my own research, I tried to find as much information about the 21st century as I could. But there was no mention of anything this big… for starters, there was no mention of the Robot Master teams.”--------------------
“How could that be???” Cossack stood up from his desk, completely baffled. “You don’t mean to tell me that the future has already changed, do you?”--------------------
“Not at all… I mean to tell you that this only confirms that I did not go into the future of this timeline.” Naop looked at the doctor, as seriously as his display allowed him. “Things over there are still intact, my GroundMan and TenguMan are solid proof.”--------------------
“Well, so much for a decisive advantage!” Both Cossacks stood there, more worried than they were willing to admit in front of the refugees.--------------------
--Terra's Logs-- --Part One----------------------
The alarm clock starts to beep at 6:00AM, like it was supposed to.--------------------
"Where am I..?" Said Terra, looking at his surroundings.--------------------
Kalinka walks in. "Ah, so you're awake!" Said Kalinka happily.--------------------
"Who are YOU? And where am I?" Asked Terra, quite confused.--------------------
"Don't you remember?" Asked Kalinka. "You joined forces to fight with Dr. Cossack!" Reminding Terra.--------------------
"All I can remember is some turbulence and then I passed out." Said Terra, sighing.("I wonder why I can't remember anything after the turbulence...?" Thought Terra.)
--------------------
"I'm going to take a walk..." Said Terra, walking out of the room.--------------------
(Outside the citadel, at the scene of the crash)--------------------
"Woah! What happened here!?" Terra said staring at the crash site.--------------------
Metal runs out of the ship "Terra!" Said Metal hugging Terra.--------------------
"Eh...? Who are you?" Asked Terra.--------------------
"Metal, I'm your support bot! Don't you remember?" Asked Metal.--------------------
"Doesn't ring a bell..." Said Terra.("I guesse I forgot more than just after the turbulence" Thought Terra.)
--------------------
"Come in the ship, I might be able to restore your memory." Said Metal as he brought Terra into the Great Zodiac.--------------------
Entry III: Shades of Friendship
Slashman was out in some meanial scrapyard near the cemetary. After Naop's big speech, he felt motivated to get a jump on things, and start searching for spare parts that Cossack desperetally needed. His senses in-tune, he started digging in every spot to find things that would be suitable for his comrads.
--------------------
Comrads. That word confused him. A lot of the people in this war were his comrads, even if they weren't on his side. He knew people on every side, and was a very easy-going fellow, so he made many friends. And now, they were all going to be divided in this war. He shook his head. His friendships meant nothing now. He just hoped that after all was said and done, he would remain friends with his so-called enemies.--------------------
As he started to dig up a drill heat that would be of use to Drillman, he heard a voice call out to him.--------------------
"Slash. I didn't know you liked to play with scrap so much."--------------------
Slashman turned around, only to see darkness. He smirked.--------------------
"I was wondering when you'd show up." he said the the shadow.--------------------
"Never mind me. What are you doing, playing in garbage?" inquired the mystery robot.--------------------
"Cossack needs supplies, and I'm helping him find them." responded the wolverine as he continued digging.--------------------
"But what about the RPD? They have pleanty of supplies."--------------------
Slashman sighed. "Listen to what I have to say, and listen good. The RPD might not have an itchy trigger finger, but if anyone speak out against them, they're as good as dead. Hell, half of the members of the RPD don't agree with the government! They are putting their lives at risk."--------------------
"So, you decided to escape the whole thing just by going to Cossack?"--------------------
"Have you been talking to Avi?"--------------------
"I'm just asking."--------------------
"Despite what you might have heard, I'm no coward. I'm willing to fight the General with all I've got, and I intend to win. And I'd rather fight with one claw than fight without my freedom."--------------------
The mystery figure nodded, but said nothing.--------------------
"Listen, I don't want to come to blows with the RPD. I have a lot of friends there. I wouldn't be fighting if it didn't mean a brighter future for my friends. I just hope that when this is all done, we remain friends." continued Slashman.--------------------
The mystery figure nodded again, but this time spoke up. "I agree with you on all accounts. Which is why I won't decide where to go until my time is right."--------------------
"Oh really?" said Slashman. "Well, he're a little something to think about before you get that program installed. As a famous man once said: 'Those who sacrifice liberty for security deserve neither.'"--------------------
With that, Slashman gathered the scrap, and teleported away.--------------------
My name is Shade Man. Slash Man had told me a while ago about the impending crisis. The Scissor Army trying to carry out their dream of a robot utopia, the RPD trying to carry out theirs of a world in which robots serve humans, that sort of thing. I still wasn't clear as to what side I wanted to join; though Slashy Boy strongly encouraged me to join Cossak; so I turned on the news.
--------------------
Unfortunately, I didn't hear anything that I didn't already know. I knew what each side was fighting for, and I knew what each side could provide for its followers. But, despite all that, I just kept watching, hoping that SOMETHING would come up that would help me make up my mind. To my surprise, something did.--------------------
The news Anchorman cut to a series of graphic photos of those who had suffered from the casualties of war. I saw robots without heads, robots with totalled legs, and robots with holes clean through their torsos. Then; and this is when I decided to turn off the TV before I got sick; I saw a robot with its arm torn off and shoved right into its chest cavity. "God damn," I thought, "Whoever did that is one sick SOB."--------------------
Then I realized something. If robots and humans were able to settle their differences and coexist with each other, then I would never have found myself staring at a photo of a robot that was gored with its own arm. This is the kind of violence that the RPD and the Scissor Army encourage; it's their fault that this war is even going on. Dr. Cossak, on the other hand, discourages this kind of shit; he wants robots and humans to live together in harmony. Of course, I could have just as easily joined Dr. Light, who was fighting for the same goal, but I wanted to be on a team with my good friend Slash. Also, I wanted to kick some ass.--------------------
So, to make a long story short, I called up Slash Man, got the address for Dr. Cossak's lab, and eventually made it there.--------------------
5:50 am.
The day after the sky incident.
--------------------
Maha sat there on top of the base.The talk with cossack could have gone worse, but it could have been a hell of a lot better. Then, again, he never DID get along with his "Father" very well.
Father being a loose term, of course. When maha was rebuilt by the russian and german government, cossack was assigned to head the engineering department. Who wouldn't, anyway, cossack being the head robotics scientist in the entire eastern hemisphere.
--------------------
Maha looked up to him even to this day, but looking at him brought back painful memories. Memories of a simpler time, yes, but simple isn't always better.Cossack, although hesitant, accepted maha's help. Cossack also tried to apologize to him, but maha didn't care anymore about the past. The future had more concern to him than something that couldn't be changed.
--------------------
Maha stood up, and sighed."If I fight in my plain form, I'll be ruined. The government will freeze my accounts, they'll hunt me down. They'll attempt to plant the shutdown code in me, and when they'll inevitibly fail, They'll decomision me."
Maha looked into the horizon, and then was surrounded in a gleam of light.
"For the moment, I'll just have to be something else."
Grenade man, or Maha, Stood proud, his blue tinted armor gleaming in the morning sun.
"I am grenade man!"
Grenade stared at the base of the war camp.
People were beggining to stir.
He wondered how his Deep Impact buddies would think of him joining them in the battle.
He stared at his side. Only the plasma pistol and his Purple-tinted "Scanner" glasses remained. Grenade drew the pistol and spun it around his hand. He reached towards where his sword would be and instead, drew what seemed to be a Millitary baton, acring with elecricity every now and then.
He sheathed the baton, and the pistol, and Chuckled.
"This is going to be one hell of a day!" Laughed Grenade enthusiastically.
--------------------
Blizzardman stood at the gate of Armored Assassin HQ. "Nothing here..." he muttered to himself. "The world has lost its mind if madness is the potential to shape history." He imagined all the major world powers. "General Cutman... Wily... even the Robot Police Department is insane. Forcing robots to strap a proverbial bomb to their chest. Dr. Light is far too kind in dealing with these forces. He'll never get anything done..."
--------------------
Blizzardman's light blue eyes widened. "Cossack..."--------------------
Zymeth stared out the window of his personal quarters at the frozen tundra,
plotting as per usual. Suddenly, the light snowfall turned heavy; extremely
heavy.
"I don't mind the cold," Zymeth got up to close the window. "But
I'd rather not get buried by it."
He slammed the window shut. "Bloody weather..." Zymeth stopped dead
in his thought, his hands still resting on the window. He started chuckling
to himself as he left the room.
--------------------
Meanwhile, Cossack was monitoring the surveillance videos, which was somewhat futile due to the thick sheets of snow blinding the view. Drillman was also monitoring the situation."Lots of snowfall today..." Cossack said quietly.
"That's for sure." Drill agreed.
Zymeth rushed past Drill and Cossack, his cloak billowing behind him.
"What's he up to, now?" Drill thought out loud.
--------------------
Meanwhile, at the rear entrance, the door handle slowly turned and the steel
door gently swung open. Blizzardman's large figure entered with remarkable
silence and he closed the door gently behind him. His large London Fog trench
coat was wet from the snow, and water was dripping in the floor.
"Too easy..." Regulus said softly.
"Hello, Regulus." An amused voice greeted the large robot.
Blizzardman looked up and found Zymeth staring at him with his arms crossed.
"You're predictable at being unpredictable, Regulus." He said.
"I've known you long enough to know that you never knock."
"Comrade Zymeth!" Regulus blurted back, seeing his old friend.
"So you have joined Dr. Cossack?"
"I didn't want to go through the hassle of moving over to General Cutman's
place." Zymeth said sarcastically. "What are you here for?"
"Well, I was going to research the doctor and see what kind of man he
is, but I'm sure he must be a good choice if you work for him." He moved
closer and whispered to his friend. "Plus, no one pays attention to him,
so we're off the radar."
"It's always good to have people think you're incompetent when you're
a force to be reckoned with." Zymeth said.
"Also, my dear comrade," Regulus continued. "Need I remind you
that I am Blizzardman? I cannot allow Blizzardman to be associated with Blue
Fox. It is not good business."
"Fine. I'll play your charade, Blizzardman." Zymeth corrected himself.
--------------------
Just then, Drillman rounded the corner. He turned to Zymeth."Zy, there you are. What on earth are you doing no-HOLY CRAP!" Drill lept back suddenly noticing the large robot wearing a trench coat towering over his friend. "Who's that?" Drill asked, starting to regain his composure.
"Thats just Blizzardman." Zymeth said. "He's here to help Cossack.
The doctor happened to hear his name as he rounded the corner to catch up with Drill. "What's going on here?" He asked. He noticed Blizzardman. "I don't recall you ever being enlisted here."
"I was checking to see if you were the right choice, Dr. Cossack." Regulus said with a polite and business-like manner. "I trust Zymeth's choice. I wish to assist you."
"And what can you offer us that could prove useful?" Drill asked.
"That blizzard that cut down the visibility of your cameras was generated by me." The large Russian stated calmly. "It allowed me to sneak in here undetected.
"Fair enough." Cossack said, a little surprised that such a large robot could be so stealthy. "You've got yourself a position here. I'm glad you're not working against us. That trick was pretty nasty."
"Why thank you." Blizzardman said. "I have plenty more..."
--------------------
Cossack and Drill left the two old friends at the back door. "What's your plan, then, Blizzard?" Zymeth asked."To outsmart those who think they can bend the world as they so desire, of course." Blizzardman said calmly. "It's our job to bend the world. How dare they take our job?"
Zymeth and Regulus walked off, chuckling to themselves.
--------------------
A Web of Strings: Skullman's War Journal
One of the large rooms of the citadel shook with the resonating notes of the vast pipe-organ housed there. Skullman sat there, playing the twisted melody with deft fingers. "All is well..." He tried to convince himself. He looked back on his meeting with General Cutman.
--------------------
The General was a hard man to please, especially with a condition such as the one Zymeth had asked. Then again, he'd expect such from a man with an I.Q. that breached 200. However, he sensed that Cut was actually amused and interested in Zymeth's persona and plans. He knew the General sensed the treachery in him, being one who is quite familiar with the concept. At first they discussed the exchange of information, but Cutman was already in possession of verious means of obtaining that as it was. However, Zymeth's talent for murder was the one thing that struck a deal. They'd definately be in touch, to discuss this matter further.--------------------
A sour note found its way into the distracted Zymeth's tune, which was quicky corrected. His plot wasn't advancing as he had hoped. His new possition as an assassin wasn't the best to take advantage from, at least in the way of manipulating the General's actions. He cursed under his breath. Also, he failed to recall another major player in the SA. Mesmerman. Zymeth knew that Mesmerman could sense every thought in his mind. "Is that why Cutman rejected my offer of data?" He asked himself. He shook his head, not having an answer. It's not as if it mattered anyhow. He could only pray that the psychic robot wouldn't tell Cut of his intended treachery.--------------------
But, the loss was lightened heavily by other breakthroughs. The arrival of Blizzardman, for one, lightened the skeletal robot's mood, both as his friend and a fellow conspirator. The other thing was knowing that if Cossack was defeated, he'd have another stage to run to and start anew. Also, Wily's short temper and low theshold for frustration, as well as the RPD's vast web of red tape and beurocratic nonsense would prove to be quite useful.--------------------
Zymeth opened his eyes for the first time since he began playing. He looked down at the cross laying on the shelf of the organ. "Katrina..." He said, quietly, "I promised you a world where the wicked would be punished and the innocent are free... robotic or human. I won't let him take that world away from us..." The rythem of the keys being played quickened as his eyes narrowed into a glare. "If Cutman wants a war, he'll get his war. His world and my world can't co-exist. He's one of the many vile creatures that needs to die a horrible and agonizing death... He's a monster that needs another monster to kill him. A monster like me... I'll do my best to make them all suffer... Katrina... Though I must admit, he does serve as a wonderful reminder of boundries I cannot lot my world cross..."--------------------
The twisted yet beutiful song continued to resonate throughout a portion of the citadel.
--------------------
------------------- To the Bitter End Prt 1:
Prelude to Devestation
Dive Man felt nothing but hatred as he stood outside in a raging blizzard and took another swig of Russian Maalox from his flask. Hatred for the riled up asswipes in D.C. for passing that damned act. Hatred for Cut Man and his Manson Family for starting this whole goddamn mess in the first place. Hatred for the RPD for pushing for the Robo-Leash-Law when they should be ripping Cut Man a new asshole.
--------------------
Dive Man had stepped outside onto the outer Citadel walls to grab a smoke and to get away from all the damn mouth-breathers that invaded his home. Normally it was good for whatever was ailing him, even it there was a raging blizzard out, like there was now. It wasn't doing him an ounce of good. All he could he think about were all the people being butchered by a psychotic lumberjack with delusions of granduer. Or the Mechs, DM, Ring, or countless other people he used to call his friends who'd turned their backs on Cossack as soon as this all started going down. Right when he needed them more than ever.--------------------
Infuriated, he slammed his fist through a window while screaming as many curses in as many combinations he could think of. How the hell did they all get in this mess?! Why the fuck did the world that let itself go to the seventh circle of Hell in a hand basket?! There was no good friggin' reason for any of this, and it pissed Dive Man off.--------------------
Dive Man couldn’t tell how long he’d been bashing windows, but the wave of anger passed over him as quickly as it came. Brushing some snow aside, Dive Man sat down on the edge of the wall, pulled some smokes out of his green army BTU jacket and lit up, trying to calm himself down. This whole damn war was bringing out the worst in him. But it’s kinda hard not to be cheesed off with his existence and more importantly, his freewill at stake. Thank God Cossack had the sense and the balls to tell RPD where to stick their Shutdown Act. That’s why Dive Man didn't have to think twice about sticking with Pops. Not just because he was Dive’s father, but because as long as Dive Man was here, his freewill was safe.--------------------
As safe as it’s going to get, anyway, Dive Man mused. As happy as he was to have it, his freewill sure as hell wasn’t coming free. It meant they were all but cut off from everyone who either could or should help. They'd also have to fight off Dr. Strangelove, Hannibal Lector, AND the Gestapo all at the same time. There'd been some talk about buddying up with Wily, 'cause he's the kind of person you could count on. Then there was all those damn freaks and geeks of all the colors of the rainbow that Pops took under his wing. The whole lot of 'em were all just mouths to feed. Dive Man hadn't the foggiest how Cossack was going to maintain them all. Supplies were in the toilet, which meant they'd have go scrounging sooner or later. And they'd all be lucky if they scrounged up a shit sandwich 'round these parts. Bottom line, they were all up the creek without a paddle. But in the end, Dive Man knew it still beat the living hell out of having RPD shove a leash up his ass. As long as he had his own individuality, nothing else mattered.--------------------
Besides, it's gonna be humiliating for them when we smoke all their asses. Dive Man thought smugly. Feeling calmer, Dive pulled his jacket tight, Dive Man brushed the snow off his jacket and took another swig of Russian Maalox. If they had a jalapeno’s chance in this frozen hell in pulling through the war, they couldn’t afford to pull any punches. All bets were off, and Dive Man was ready to sacrifice whatever he had left to hold onto his independence. He didn't give a flying rat's ass if he had to sacrifice his comfort, or a better part of his ethics. Whatever it took to stop a bunch frightened, smarmy fleshbags from making him their pet. He just hoped his buddies were on the same page.--------------------
