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Megaman ZX: Prismatic Kingdom

Chapter 39

Summary:

Link, Aeolus, and Ciel go to reclaim the last Divine Beast, Vah Naboris.

Meanwhile, some of the others have an encounter with a familiar face accompanied by the Yiga Clan.

Notes:

I told you that the next one wasn't far behind XD

Thanks again to my wonderful coauthor tigertarus22 for having my back with the production of this story!

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

Chapter Text

“Are you ready, everyone?”

Riju asked, standing beside her Sand Seal, a dark charcoal colored heffer named Patricia. The young chief held her people's heirloom in her hands.

 

The Gerudo girl and Link were accompanied by Aeolus and Ciel, whom were determined to be the best choices to accompany them on this perilous mission. 

Besides, they hadn’t been inside a Divine Beast yet, and Ciel especially expressed a desire to see one up close and personal. 

 

About a quarter mile away from where they stood  was the enormous sand shroud concealing Divine Beast Vah Naboris.

 

Riju received nods of confirmation from her companions.

“Could you give me a bit of room, just for a moment please?" 

She placed the Thunder Helm on her head as the three Megamen took a few steps back.

 

The young Gerudo raised her arms up, reaching towards the heavens.

 

“My name is Riju, descendent of the royal line and leader of my people! With the power of the heirloom passed down in my family, I shall calm the Divine Beast Vah Naboris! Ancestors of the Gerudo! Answer my call and aid me in this task!”

 

As soon as she finished, a greenish blue light began to shine around her body, expanding outwards and forming a large dome of light around the party.

 

“Oh, wow! I can feel their power coursing through me!" 

The girl exclaimed excitedly before reaching up and readjusting the Thunder Helm when it shifted on her head. 

“Let's move out!" 

 

“Right!" 

 

‘Lady Urbosa…please grant us your protection.’

Riju prayed before she and her companions set off towards the Divine Beast on their Sand Seals.

Ciel was riding on Thor’s back while Aeolus opted to fly.

 

“Vah Naboris absorbs energy from the ground through its feet. We'll need to damage them for it to stop moving long enough for you to board it. With the three of you and this barrier, we should have no trouble even when it starts firing lightning." 

 

“I appreciate your support Lady Riju, but my power is also lightning, so I don't think Model H and I can do much in terms of damage.”

The Wind Megaman chimed.

 

"Then the same logic applies to you. If you're struck by Naboris’ attacks, the most you should feel is a slight tingle.”

The scientist mused.

“You could even redirect it.” 

 

“Noted." 

 

"Hey, at least you and the others don't have the Malice in your bodies anymore. Hopefully we can get it out of the others soon. I'm worried about the effects of it infecting someone for too long.”

The Hylian champion said, his expression serious as the group entered the shroud of sand hiding the Divine Beast.

 

“I’m detecting a high energy reading up ahead!”

Model AA warned as the party caught sight of the pink glow of the camelid mech. A large ball of violet light formed between its two humps. 

 

Not even a moment later, an equally large bolt of lightning shot out at them, but it was nullified the instant it made contact with Riju’s barrier.

 

Link notched a bomb arrow as they approached one of the hind legs. Thankfully the areas they needed to hit were glowing a bright violet, making their targets easier to see in low visibility.

‘Never mind the lightning, I’d be more concerned about this thing stepping on us!’ 

He thought as he let the explosive fly towards the back left leg. 

 

It exploded on impact, followed by a golden stream of shots from the Pink Megaman.

Another explosion followed and the light in that foot died.

 

“Dang! Only two good shots each do turn them off? This is probably the easiest one to board!”

Link laughed as he aimed his next arrow, being sure his rented Seal didn’t stray from the protective dome.

 

 “I wouldn't get cocky if I were you!”

Model Z scolded.

“You have a very bad habit of that!”

 

“I strongly agree with the strange voe! We don’t know what Vah Naboris is capable of!”

Riju shouted as she steered Patrica with grace.

“Who said that anyway?!”

 

“One of us will explain later!”

The Red Megaman replied as he fired another arrow at the other leg.

 

It only took the group less than ten minutes to shut off the mechanisms in the construct’s feet.

 

Vah Naboris let out a roar as whatever circuitry in its long legs shorted out, slowly falling to the sands in a kneeling position. The pink lights dimmed.

 

Everyone dismounted from their Sand Seals and the young chief removed the heirloom, turning to the three Megamen as they came up behind her.

 

“Unfortunately, this is all the help I can give you. I have no choice but to leave the rest to you.”

 

“Thanks for everything, Lady Riju.”

Aeolus nodded in thanks.

 

“Yeah, you played a big role in getting us to this point.”

Ciel added.

“Are you sure you don’t want to come aboard?” 

 

Riju shook her head. 

“My people still need a leader to guide them should we fail today. As much as I would like to… I should remain here.” 

 

“Alright. I understand.” 

Ciel said. 

 

“We have to hurry everyone! It looks like that oversized camel is getting back up!”

Model H interjected as the Divine Beast started to rise back up.

 

Without another word, the trio made a mad dash to Naboris.

 

As it rose higher, the young Gerudo could see the bright colors of their armor climbing up a small ramp near its underside.

 

“Good luck you three.”

 

Inside Vah Naboris…

 

“So this is what one of these looks like up close.”

The 200 year old scientist hummed as her cobalt orbs took in the sight around her.

 

“Wait till you see what makes these big guys tick. “

The second blonde chuckled as he activated the travel gate. 

"I think you and Princess Zelda would get along well.” 

 

“Well, well, well…you sure do know how to keep a vai waiting Little Wolf." 

A woman's voice chuckled.

 

“When did you give me that nickname, Urbosa?" 

The Hylian asked.

“I'll admit my memories of you and the other Champions are spotty, but I don't recall you ever calling me that.”

 

"A woman needs to have her secrets, doesn't she? I assume you're here to take back Naboris from Ganon.”

 

“Yeah, I already got the others back. I'm sorry you had to wait so long.”

 

"Don't you worry about that, Link. You saved the best for last. As you already know you'll be needing the map from the Guidance Stone further in. Stay safe kids.”

The late Gerudo Champion’s voice faded out, leaving the three in silence before Ciel broke it.

 

“Well boys, let's get this show started." 

 

Back in Kara Kara Bazaar…

 

"Shit… I guess I really did lose it for a second there.”

Aile grumbled, looking down at her torn shirt in her hands.

 

When she had looked in the mirror earlier she discovered large bruises on her neck from the night before.

 

The memory of that event sent chills down her spine.

 

Her verdant gaze drifted to the Gerudo top beside her on the bed, then over her shoulder.

 

“Guess I'll just have to go without the bodysuit today… as much as I wanted to hide this, someone's bound to see it eventually.”

 

 ‘Personally, I would rather my romantic partner be the only other person to see it, and not somebody that’s definitely going to tease me about it.’

 

The brunette thought to herself with a huff as she fixed the exotic garb around her chest and tied it.

 

Her long hair would cover the majority of the tattoo she had on her back.

The twins had decided on their eighteenth birthday to get matching ink together, settling on a koi fish for the centerpiece.

 

Aile's koi was colored red surrounded by blue wave patterns while Vent's was opposite colors with the fish being their signature blue and the water being red. Both siblings decided to have the artist add cherry blossom petals on the water as a tribute to their mother.

 

Aile decided to throw on the matching sirwal and shoes, without the accessories, before heading downstairs to the lobby where two people she wasn't expecting to see were talking with her brother.

 

“Hey there Commander." 

The White Megaman grinned, waving at her senior the moment she spotted Aile.

 

“Rei? When’d you get here?" 

 

“She tagged along with us after we got Leo back on our side." 

Atlas shrugged, the Latina dressed in the same outfit as Aile, only in her signature orange color.

“We just got back from Hateno sometime last night.”

 

"It might be because I'm not fully awake yet, but…remind me who Leo is again?”

 

“Why, my wonderful little brother of course!”

A familiar voice said from behind the older twin before a slim pair of arms wrapped themselves around Aile’s toned waist.

 

“Heya Birdie!" 

Mari chirped.

"You've certainly grown up a bit since last time I saw you…And not just in height.”

The older woman added that last part with a devilish smirk, making the female Blue Megaman go red in the face.

 

"Marianne, could you stop sexually harassing people for a moment please?”

Rei asked dully.

“I came here to get some answers out of you." 

 

The Revolution Megaman let go of a still blushing Aile and gave the girl an innocent cat-like grin.

 

“What kinda answers you talking about, Blue?" 

 

"I believe you should know what my daughter is referring to.”

Cut the voice of Model LM as he came out of his Chosen One's pocket, activating his projection. 

He did not look happy. 

 

“Did you ever plan on telling me what I was?" 

The teen questioned, her lavender eyes glaring into the bespectacled woman's red.

 

Mari's expression quickly morphed into disbelief as her face went white.

“Rei…I…”

 

The Blindage twins looked over at Atlas, confused about what was going on but the Flame Megaman only shook her head slightly. The Latina gestured for them to follow her outside.

 

“What the hell did we just see?" 

Vent asked as they stood by the oasis.

 

“I'm still not sure, but apparently Rei’s the same as Asuna and Kaworu.”

Atlas sighed.

 

"Wait, so she was the one that they called Beta!?”

Aile exclaimed.

"How'd you find out?”

 

"When me and the boys were taken back to our world, that little devil brat told us that she and her little boyfriend were created from their Biometals’ data, then when me and Aeo took Leo to have Prometheus purify him and Model B, we asked Asuka about it.”

 

"I bet that went over well.”

 

“Yeah. Apparently she was fully aware, and pretty pissed off that we knew. I guess Mari was in on this whole thing. I think Asuka called it Project Genesis or something." 

 

“Yeah, Mari was the one who told Commander Ciel about it and she explained it to me back when we were on our way to Rito Village to rendezvous with the others." 

The younger woman nodded. 

“She said Mari also mentioned a subject called the Beta that was marked as a failure and was supposedly disposed of." 

 

“Well, obviously she wasn't, but I'm surprised that her cousin handled the news as well as he did." 

 

“Shinji wasn't the slightest bit disturbed or surprised that Rei was Lumine’s kid?" 

Vent asked.

 

Atlas shook her head.

"I guess with everything else that's happened, he seemed like nothing bothered him anymore.”

 

"Well, I'm bothered by the purpose this Genesis project served.”

Aile said, crossing her arms.

"I don't understand why anyone would want to mass produce Megamen.”

 

"Me neither. I mean, there’s already the majority of us that were marked as Chosen Ones.”

Atlas agreed.

“The only two possible explanations I can come up with is that whoever sponsored the project wanted either more protectors or living weapons.”

 

“Who knows? But if that sponsor is who I think it is, the reason is leaning towards the latter. In a sense, we Megamen could be classified as such.”

Vent said. 

 

"Albert definitely thought so.”

Atlas said bitterly.

"That bastard…”

 

"Speaking of, has anyone seen Ashe around this morning? It's been a little too quiet and with her I find that suspicious.” 

Chimed Model F.

 

“Now that you mention it, I haven't seen her. But I haven't seen Leo either. They're probably catching up…”

The dual toned haired woman turned and spotted a blotch of gold and silver in the distance. 

 

Said blotches turned out to be a large golden haired wolf carrying a small silver nine tailed fox by the scruff of it's neck.

The Black Megaman's faithful dog Treble was walking alongside them. 

 

The wolf gave the three adults an exasperated look as the trio of canines walked towards them.

 

“Leo…?”

 

The golden lupine nodded and suddenly threw it's head to the side, and the vulpine was sent flying into the water, landing with a small splash.

 

“You mother fucker!" 

Ashe yelled as she resurfaced.

 

The wolf barked and with a small shroud of pink and black mist, the younger Makinami sibling stood with his hands on his hips.

“Takes one to know one, don't it?" 

He smirked teasingly.

 

"Oh, for the last goddamn time, I'm not gay!”

 

“Says the one that turned down every guy in school when they asked her out! Not to mention that your first kiss was to another girl!"

 

"That was ONE time! And I only did it because I was thirteen and curious, so fuck off!”

The silver haired girl yelled as she wrung the water out of her ponytail and noticed her three senior Megamen standing there.

 

Later…

 

“It's okay to explore your sexuality at your age. It's perfectly normal." 

Mari said with her arm wrapped around a still flustered Ashe.

“And there's nothing wrong with playing for both teams." 

 

“How many times do I have to tell you morons that I'm into men!?" 

 

Of course Rei had to jump in with her own teasing.

“You mean like how you're into our handsome looking senpai ~?" 

 

The older teen’s face resembled a tomato at the cyan haired girl's remark.

 

“You know, I remember you two being a lot less obnoxious before you all died… which none of you gave me any explanation for how you came back! Kaworu was fucking decapitated! Even with our auto repair, there's no way it could have fixed that injury.”

 

"Believe me Kitten, I wish I could tell you.”

 

"I wish we…could find this…eighth heroine.”

Pandora said.

Even after receiving the Snow Boots from the strange man hanging outside the walls of Gerudo Town, the Witch didn't want to linger in the Gerudo Highlands any longer than necessary.

 

Even though Crea wasn't seeing any signs of life besides a lynel they narrowly avoided, Pandora couldn't help but feel as if the group of girls were being watched.

 

The green haired woman's sense of unease was validated as five small explosions of orange smoke and red talismans erupted around them, followed by the evil laughter of the Yiga Clan.

 

“An ambush!?" 

Mari exclaimed, reaching for her rapier with one hand while the other pushed the two teens behind her.

 

“Well, this is a surprise." 

The voice of a certain young girl said with a hint of amusement.

 

The five Yiga snapped to attention, parting the way for the speaker. They bowed their heads as she walked past them and stood before the party of four.

 

“Asuna!?" 

 

What caught the older Megamen off guard was the black haired girl's attire, consisting of a familiar red and black bodysuit with an upside down Sheikah tribe emblem peeking out from underneath the teen's signature crimson vest. 

A Yiga Clan uniform.

 

“What the hell are you doing with these guys!?”

 

The youngest Megaman smirked internally at her fellow Megamen's reactions.

 

“How did you sneak up on us? One of the Biometals should have seen you guys coming a mile away!" 

Ashe questioned.

 

The she devil laughed.

“Come now. You all know what kind of tricks I have up my sleeve. If I was able to disable the cybernetic implants of three of the four Elementals, as well as send their Biometals into a forced sleep mode, surely masking my very existence from any sensors would be well within my capabilities, wouldn't it?" 

 

When the child of destruction didn't receive an answer from the silver haired Hunter, she knew she got the point across.

 

“Ru and I were there to speak to Kohga regarding an alliance, but after the fool went and got himself killed by his own ignorance, the two of us took a different approach, although with some nagging from Ghirahim. But long story short, we’re the leaders of the Yiga Clan now. Don't worry, we made sure they understand that you lot are off limits. We could care less about their little grudge with the mistake.”

 

“Who-?" 

 

A flurry of orange diamonds manifested beside the girl with a chiming sound, and before them stood a man with pale gray skin and pure white hair done in a braid that hung over one shoulder. He was clad in a leotard with diamond patterns cut out of the fabric and a faded red cape trailing behind his lanky yet muscular form.

 

“It would be your little Champion that my lady is referring to. I am Ghirahim, but I prefer that you words address me by my full title, Demon Lord Ghiriham.”

The man announced, placing a clawed hand over where his heart would be.

 

“Well, you're just full of yourself, ain't ya diamond boy?" 

Ashe snorted, crossing her arms in front of her.

 

"You insolent little -!”

The demon snarled but he was cut off by Asuna.

 

"Stand down.”

The girl commanded.

 

"Yes, my lady.”

Ghiriham bowed respectively, and with a flurry of black diamonds, an equally familiar sword to the Revolution and White Megamen appeared in Asuna’s hand.

 

"How!?”

 

Asuna sighed before explaining. 

"From what he told me, he's actually a spirit of the sword and is as old as this country’s history, if not a few millennia older. In fact, he even fought against some ancient Hero of the Sky, who was also named Link.” 

 

The four female megamen looked at each other with questioning glances. 

“Okay… that’s cool. So what does this have to do with us?” 

Ashe asked. 

 

“I’m getting there. I guess Ghiriham’s old master cursed the hero and the goddess incarnate at the time into an endless cycle of death and rebirth, where the Spirit of the Hero and the bloodline of Hylia are to be in constant conflict with the embodiment of hatred. The Champion you know is but one of many such Heroes, same for the princess and Calamity Ganon. They’re not the first and definitely won't be the last. You’ve gotten yourselves entangled in it now.”

Asuna explained in a disinterested monotone. 

 

“Is there any way to break this curse?" 

The White Megaman asked. 

 

Asuna smirked. 

“Well… the legends of this world say that if someone makes a wish while in possession of the complete Triforce, the wish comes true. But I guess the same thing happens even if you only have one piece of it.”

She held up her left hand, where three small triangles were shining on the back of it. The topmost triangle glowed the brightest.

"I already know what I want.”

 

"What are you going to wish for? Destruction?”

 

"Sort of. I want to bring about my own Ragnarok.”

 

"But it doesn't have to! You can-”

Ashe started. 

 

Asuna scoffed and rolled her eyes. 

"If this is the part where you tell me that I can decide my own destiny then you couldn't be more wrong! As long as I carry Omega's blood in my veins I can never have that luxury! The only reason I exist is to be a weapon and that's all I ever can be! The only thing I have to look forward to is when this pitiful life ends!” 

 

"C’mon Blackie, there's still a chance of a future for you.”

Mari said, trying to pacify the girl.

 

"WHAT KIND OF CHANCE!? WHAT FUTURE!? MY OWN MOTHER MADE DAMN SURE OF THAT SHE WHEN SHE STERILIZED ME RIGHT AFTER I CAME OUT OF THAT FUCKING TUBE!! IMAGINE NEVER BEING ABLE TO HAVE CHILDREN WITH THE MAN YOU LOVE!”

 

The black haired girl took a deep shaky breath, trying to calm herself down as her ebony strands began to lighten into platinum blonde.

“I still don't understand what Anata finds so fascinating about you Lilin…but I’d appreciate it if you can pass along a message to my uncle. I have no interest in continuing his and Father's rivalry. The one who gave me my name will be the one that erases it from existence.” 

 

Just as the Devil Megaman turned away to leave, her Yiga goons falling in line behind her, Rei called out.

 

“Wait, Suna! Did you know… I’m the same as you and Kaworu?”

 

The ravenette stopped dead in her tracks, turning to look over her shoulder.

“…I did know that there was a child created before me, but the possibility that the failed Beta was you never crossed my mind. I have a feeling Ru knew, but I couldn't get an answer from him.”

 

"Why was I labeled as a failed experiment? Did Kaworu hint at that at all, if he knew?”

 

The younger girl shook her head.

“No… I couldn't get that out of him either. Although from what information I did get, it seemed like you were never supposed to find out.”

 

"Well I did. Your sister was the one who told me.”

 

"Is that so?" 

The she-devil mused, trailing off at the end.

“You know, I'm not sure if I should envy your position or pity you. Had circumstances been different, our roles would more than likely have been reversed… or I also couldn't have existed. It could've been you standing at Kaworu’s side.”

 

"What exactly do you mean by that?”

 

“If the plan to reset our world ever came to pass…the Alpha and his female counterpart would have had the role of being the second coming of Adam and Eve from the Bible, just minus the whole repopulating the Earth schtick. Kinda hard to do if you don't have those necessary parts. Did you ever wonder why Ru was the only boy out of the three of us? Biology was Doctor Soryu and Ikari’s specialty after all. Removing the Y chromosome from me and you wasn't that difficult.”

 

"I didn't even have a choice of my own gender…?”

 

"Nein, don't worry we're in the same boat. But unlike you, except Pandora probably, I'm not locked in a monthly subscription to Satan’s Waterfall since I don't have ovaries. Honestly I'm beginning to wonder if I even have a uterus at this point. I'll have to jump Ru and ask him later…”

 

"Lucky bitch…”

The older Copy Megaman growled.

 

Back in Kara Kara Bazaar, Atlas looked down at her drink as she sat in the bar in confusion.

‘Why do I feel like I'm jealous all of a sudden? It's not like Aeolus is flirting with Dr. Light. So what -’

 

The Flame Megaman didn't have time to continue her train of thought as another problem arised.

 

"Oh Atlas~”

Came the slurred voice of Aile from behind.

The Latina gulped. 

Atlas had the brilliant plan of playing therapist for her young seniors with the aid of alcohol. She thought it would help after the harrowing events the twins went through the night before in the Yiga Clan hideout. 

But the dual toned haired woman quickly realized that she had possibly made the worst decision ever in her twenty three years of life.

 

Turns out both twins were lightweight drinkers, with Vent being a comical drunk. 

 

His older sister on the other hand…was a flirty drunk as Atlas quickly found out.

 

“Aile no,no,no! Stop it! I do not consent to this! What's the French word for stop!?" 

Make that flirty with a side of handsy.

 

Back in the Highlands, Asuna sighed deeply.

"If you want answers, Rei, you may very well find them in our birthplace, the lab where we were created. Take this.”

The Devil Megaman tossed a small object to the cyan haired girl.

 

"A pocket transerver?”

 

"Hai. It's set right to your mother's office where all your reports should be. It's only one way though. But I will say this, don't you dare go inside the last room at the end of corridor C, got it?”

Her eyes flashed bright pink as she gave the warning before she and her band of cohorts vanished from sight.

 

No one spoke for a good moment. 

 

“Well… that was… a lot to take in.” 

Pandora commented. 

 

“You’re telling me…” 

Rei said, falling to her knees in the snow. 

 

Meanwhile, aboard Vah Naboris…

 

“So, as soon as you activate the Main Control Unit, the monster responsible for killing the pilot comes out? “

The Pink Megaman questioned as she and her companions stood in front of the large flower bulb shaped apparatus.

 

They had activated the last terminal not long ago and were ready to take back the Divine Beast of the desert. 

 

“Yes. And each Blight has similar attacks and abilities to whatever Champion it murdered. This one will be no different.”

The Hylian confirmed as he approached the MCU with the Sheikah Slate in hand.

“Urbosa wielded lightning and was a skilled warrior.” 

 

"In other words, this is going to be a quick mother fucker with a shocking personality." 

Ciel surmised. 

“Seems each Blight was designed specifically to combat and overpower the old Champions.” 

 

"I concur, but we’re not them.”

Aeolus nodded, rolling his shoulders in preparation for the upcoming fight.

 

“You two ready?”

The Red Megaman asked as he held the Slate near the pedestal, ready to wake the Scourge of Naboris.

 

With affirmative nods from his companions, Link lowered the tablet.

 

Just like the three previous times, a large plume of malice erupted from the MCU, accompanied by the echoing sound of stone clanking together in the chamber.

 

The three Megamen took offensive stances as bright blue strands flew past them, condensing into a sphere.

 

Long skinny limbs manifested from the sphere, both covered in Sheikah technology. The right hand extended into an energy blade while the left hand became a matching shield. The rest of the body materialized soon after. The Blight was much smaller than its brethren, perhaps half the size. Instead of its red mane flaring out behind its head, it hung down in front of it in two sections, as if it were being worn over its nonexistent shoulders. 

 

The Thunderblight’s war cry left their ears ringing slightly.

 

“Stay on your guard!" 

Urbosa warned.

“This formidable adversary was made by Ganon and brought me to a warrior’s demise one hundred years ago. Do not allow this battle to be your last. Fight for your lives…and its death!”

 

The Scourge of Naboris moved to the right and vanished from sight. The Hero and his companions could barely see the outline of it as it zipped towards them in a zigzag pattern.

 

It reappeared in front of the Hylian in the blink of an eye, swinging it's weapon.

 

Link was almost unable to dodge in time as the tip of the Blight’s blade grazed his chest, leaving a thin line across his crimson kevlar vest.

 

“That thing's fast! Watch yourselves!" 

 

Ciel aimed her buster and fired charged shots at the Thunderblight, hitting the energy shield attached to its arm.

The blonde scientist noticed that with each hit the ring of blue became smaller before it vanished, stunning the malice creation in the process. 

 

Aeolus rushed in and delivered a slashing combo with his dual sabers that sent the abomination falling down into the area underneath the MCU.

 

“Great job!" 

Urbosa praised 

 

The Megamen jumped down after it.

 

The beast regained its composure when their feet hit the floor.

 

It rose up into the air, raising its sword arm and swung down, sending balls of electricity at the trio. Thankfully the projectiles were easy to keep track of. 

 

Thunderblight's shield recharged in the time it took for the MegaMen to take care of the electric orbs,  and it zipped out of sight again. 

 

“Dammit! Where the hell did it go!?" 

 

“Shit! Behind you!" 

 

The Pink Megaman didn't get the chance to react as she felt searing pain erupt in her right side as the Scourge successfully landed a blow, knocking her off balance.

 

“Dr. Light!" 

The Wind Megaman exclaimed as he intercepted an attempted second attack.

 

“Get back you ugly son of a bitch!" 

The green haired man growled.

With his free hand, Aeolus thrust his saber into the solidified Malice, prompting a screech of pain from the monster.

 

He quickly yanked his weapon free and grabbed the fallen scientist, activating his thrusters and wings. He jumped away to put some distance between them and the enemy while Link provided cover fire using Ice Arrows.

 

“You alright?!" 

 

“I'm okay. Just got caught off guard." 

Ciel reassured as her autorepair went to work mending the damaged area.

“In all my years I never thought I'd have to fight something that moves like lightning." 

 

“We'll have to think of a plan to kill it before we end up exhausting our energy." 

 

“Unfortunately I can't use the power Princess Zelda lent me since I used most of it to purify all of you.” 

 

“We'll just have to hang in there long enough for it to recharge." 

 

"My sensors labeled the shield as a weak point of sorts. We've seen that depleting its energy stuns the creature. The only issue is evading it's quick strikes.”

Chimed Model H.

 

"Leave that part to me. My Flurry Rush can do the trick!”

Link grinned, giving his friends a thumbs up before he parried a stray lightning ball.

 

“Hey you! Keep your ugly eye on me!" 

The Hylian yelled, trying to taunt the Thunderblight.

“What the fuck is up with you!? Were you the runt of the litter or something? Your siblings or whatever were easily almost three times your size!" 

 

The Scourge turned its head to the Hero, making a sickly gurgling sound as it did so.

 

“Yeah! I'm talking to you mother fucker! Come and get me!" 

 

"Ggrii!”

 

If Link was aiming to insult the minion of Ganon, he did a good job.

 

“Ohh someone's pissed off! And here I was thinking that none of you abominations could comprehend spoken words! Seems like you do have a pea brain in that tiny head of yours!”

 

‘This fool…’

Before Aeolus could think of a way to scold the Hylian, Link had already executed his Flurry Rush a couple of times. 

 

From what the young heir could recall from previous conversation, the Red Megaman explained that if he could dodge an incoming attack at the last minute, time would seem to slow to a crawl from his perspective, allowing him to unleash a flurry of strikes of his own hence the name Flurry Rush.

 

The Scourge of Naboris let out an angry scream before it transformed into a ball of light and zipped towards the upper level, where it changed back into its hideous form.

 

The Thunderblight raised its blade up. The Megamen below could feel the room come to life with static electricity as the creation of Ganon charged its weapons with lightning, the sword and shield crackling with the element. 

 

Without warning, several metal rods about a yard in length rained down out of nowhere, causing the trio of Chosen Ones to scatter.

 

“Is the damn thing trying to skewer us now!?" 

The eldest Megaman exclaimed once the dust settled.

 

“No, it's not! Look at the poles!" 

 

Turning their eyes to said poles, they could see an electric current sparking to life in each one.

 

Then, one by one, the metal spikes shattered as bolts of lightning struck them, filling the chamber with the unique scent of burning ozone as the air buzzed with the residual electrons.

 

“If I'm fast enough I can use Magnesis to grab one of those and hit it with its own attack." 

Link said as he quickly pulled the Sheikah Slate from his belt.

 

“But what if you're not?" 

The Wind Megaman questioned with a raised eyebrow.

 

"Then I'll be in for one hell of a shock.”

 

“Here it comes again!" 

Model AA warned, directing their attention back to the matter at hand.

 

“Here goes!" 

Link aimed the Rune at the closest rod as each one began sparking, tapping the screen as bolts of lightning began striking the metallic objects.

 

He hurriedly lifted it up, trying to get it close enough to Thunderblight so a bolt would strike it.

Unfortunately he wasn't quick enough and the rod was shattered before he could get it into position.

 

“One more time!" 

He gritted his teeth as another barrage rained down around them, one striking in the ground conveniently next to the Hylian man. He grabbed onto it with Magnesis and began lifting it up just as lightning started coming down.

 

Link moved his body and swung the levitating rod next to the monster, where the last bolt struck both it and the metal, sending the Thunderblight falling down like a limp ragdoll.

 

It hit the wall with a splat and tumbled down the curved barrel wall, leaving a gooey trail of magenta and black behind it.

 

The Megamen immediately jumped it, delivering a series of slashes and plasma shots at the fallen abomination.

 

The Scourge of Naboris rose back up and zipped to the middle of the lower level.

 

“Now what the fuck is it up to!?" 

 

The smallest Blight began to spin at a high rate of speed, and to the Megamen's disbelief four more Thunderblights appeared side by side of the first.

 

“That's a new one…" 

They heard Urbosa mutter.

 

“Good thing with copies is that they're much weaker than the original." 

 

“Aeolus, what's up with your armor? It's glowing!" 

 

Looking at his arm guard, Aeolus saw that his armor was indeed glowing bright green, electricity arcing around it, but he knew it wasn't the I.O.S System.

 

He mentally questioned his Biometal about it, but Model H wasn't sure what was going on either.

 

“We'll look into it later! Here they come!" 

The creator of the Biometals yelled, bringing the emerald duo out of their musing.

 

The Wind Megaman activated his thrusters and charged at the enemy closest to him. His body collided with his target, sending it flying into another. Both dissolved into blue strands.

 

“What the hell just happened?” 

 

“I'm all charged up boys! Let's brighten their world!" 

Ciel yelled as her buster began glowing with golden light.

 

The Thunderblight seemed to realize that this would be the finishing blow and screeched defiantly as it zoomed over to the Pink Megaman, attempting to strike her down.

 

The chamber exploded with purifying light, blinding the party as the death cry of the Scourge of Naboris rang out.

 

The light died down with the noise, leaving no trace of the malice creation of Ganon.

 

“Thank Hylia that's over. Now we can take back the Divine Beast and free Urbosa’s spirit." 

Link sighed, deactivating his link with Model Z, Aeolus and Ciel following suit.

 

The three made their way back up to the Main Control Unit where Link tapped the Sheikah Slate to the terminal once again, turning the inactive unit from orange to blue.

 

“I knew you wouldn't let us down." 

 

The clacking of golden heels made them turn to the right where a Gerudo clad in royal vestments and a blue Champion cloth tied around her waist descended the stairs. 

“Thanks to your valor and skill, my soul is free and Naboris is ours once again. Which means that finally…we can complete what we started years ago. We Gerudo have no tolerance for unfinished business.”

 

"I dunno Urbosa, I think that fight would have gone differently if I didn't have Aeolus and Ciel with me.”

The Hylian Champion gestured to his companions.

"Now that we have all of the Divine Beasts back, all that's left is for me to reclaim the Master Sword and then we can finally put an end to this nightmare.” 

 

“I've waited so long to see you storm Hyrule Castle, but not as much as the moment when I turn Ganon into a pile of ash.”

 

"Well, hopefully you and the other Champions won't be waiting for too much longer. I know where the sword is sleeping, all I need to do is regain the strength I had lost in order to wield it again.”

 

"Well try not to take another hundred years to do it, yeah? Who knows how much longer Zelda can hold that damn thing back. Which reminds me, I wanted to give you a little something." 

The late Gerudo Champion placed her hand over her heart. 

“Please accept this gift, which has come to be known as Urbosa's Fury. It will no doubt be of use to you." 

 

Urbosa extended her left hand to Link as a bright yellow orb of energy materialized. With a snap of her fingers, the orb flew to the Hylian and disappeared into his body with an electric crackle. 

 

As if already knowing what to do, he spun around and snapped his fingers. Lightning was called down from the heavens, crashing around him and the others. 

 

‘I think I might have a little too much fun blasting monsters with this.’ 

 

“Both you and the princess… I know you have suffered much regarding the fate of us Champions. But this is how things had to happen. No one needs to carry the blame, so please, make it clear so she understands that. Tell her to shed any worries and let her know…I couldn't be more proud of her."

 

“I will. You can count on it." 

Link nodded, tears beginning to prick his cerulean eyes as he and the other's bodies began to sparkle with gold light.

 

“You take good care of the princess. And take care of Hyrule too, alright Little Wolf?" 

Urbosa smiled, accenting the last part with a wink before the three Megamen transformed into balls of light, flying straight up and disappearing through the ceiling.

 

Meanwhile in the Gerudo Highlands…

 

After spending almost all day searching, the four had finally found the eighth heroine tucked into the canyon wall, taking a picture of it with Rei's Mini Slate.

 

“What the heck is that!?" 

The White Megaman exclaimed, pointing to a huge dark shape with traces of blue moving in the distance, not far from their current location.

 

It finally settled down next to one of the Sheikah Towers. After the quadrupedal mech knelt down, a huge red targeting laser fired from its head, aiming at the castle like a sniper waiting to pull the trigger.

 

“It looks like a camel Mechaniloid!" 

 

"That would be the Divine Beast Vah Naboris. Looks like Blondie got it back from that Ganon fellow.”

Mari chirped before turning to Pandora and Ashe.

"That's the last one isn't it? What comes next?”

 

“Link needs to…reclaim the Master Sword that sleeps…in the heart of the Korok Forest to the northeast…before storming Hyrule Castle. “

Pandora replied. 

 

"Speaking of, I think I see him. Aeolus and Dr. Light too.” 

Ashe piped, pointing to three familiar figures standing on a nearby cliff.

 

“How the hell did they get out of there and end up here?" 

The White Megaman questioned.

 

“Magic, Blue. This is a fantasy world after all." 

 

“Well I could do with a fantasy world without snow, now let's get out of here." 

 

The girls rendezvoused with the Hero and his party before returning to the inn at the Bazaar, where Ciel had everyone gather outside.

 

“It's come to my attention that the Biometals I created might have some…hidden functions, so to speak. I was wondering if anyone else has noticed any strange occurrences with your Biometal. This could have been at any point during your time together.” 

 

The younger Megamen thought about the question for several moments. 

 

"Sorry Commander. Nothing comes to mind and I've been with Ellie since I was nineteen.”

Mari said with a hint of regret.

 

“The entire time we've had any of the Biometals we haven't noticed anything." 

Vent nodded in agreement before he inhaled sharply as the motion sent a jolt of pain through his skull.

‘Atlas might have had the best intentions but alcohol isn't a good idea. Thankfully she gave us that hangover medicine when she apologized.’

 

The Flame Megaman had also gotten a long stern lecture from Aeolus when he returned and saw his girlfriend hauling both of the drunken twins upstairs.

 

“Though… the fact that they’re compatible with the species of this world is a little strange.” 

Aile said.

 

“Link and Model Z, Sidon and Model L, then Yunobo and Model F.” 

 

“I honestly chalked it up to elemental alignments. But now that you mention it, I did notice something weird with my armor while I was out hunting monsters earlier today. It seemed like the longer I was out in the desert heat, the hotter my flames got. My arm guards were a little bit darker than usual and the sand under my boots was starting to smoke a little, but I'm not sure if I was just seeing things.”

Atlas said thoughtfully.

 

"Yeah, I still don't know what was going on either.”

F chimed.

"Are you sure you didn’t just program those in and forget about it? You've been dealing with a lot of crap for the last couple of centuries so some things are bound to have slipped your mind.” 

 

Ciel shook her head. 

“I made sure I didn't forget anything about the Biometals’ capabilities. I even went so far as to create backups for that data.”

 

"But if you didn't put that in, could it be that the Biometals are…evolving, for lack of a better word?” 

The older Blue Megaman asked.

 

“That's…honestly a possibility, but I can't say for certain until I have an opportunity to look into it more." 

 

“I assume you'd like us to help you solve this little mystery? Personally, I am curious about what transpired during our fight with that…thing." 

Aeolus inquired. 

 

“Just how many of the Biometals did you make?" 

The Red Megaman asked curiosity.

 

“Twelve in total; there's the four Guardians, X and Zero, Models E and V, then Models AA, LY, and PT and finally CX." 

 

“I'm surprised you even considered bringing Copy back with everything he's done." 

X mused.

 

“Believe me, I am too. But in a way I'm partly responsible for my son's behavior so I saw it as a way to make amends." 

 

The air around them was silent until Link broke it.

 

"If that's something you guys need to do, I don't mind. I need to track down more Shrines before I can try to pull the Master Sword out again. I think it'll do you some good to go home and spend time with your families.”

He narrowed his eyes at Ashe and Mari.

"Especially you two.”

 

Ashe rubbed the back of her neck sheepishly.

"Yeah, I imagine my mom and dad have been going gray wondering where the hell I've been for the past few months.”

 

"Heh, Misato’s going to kick your ass.”

Leo snickered.

 

The silver haired girl snapped her head towards him.

"If anyone's going to get their asses kicked, it's gonna be you guys! You're the ones who pretended to be dead for two years.”

 

"She's got a point, Cub. I know I'm really going to get it from Eiji when I get back.”

The Revolution Megaman comedically crumpled.

“I might be getting slapped with divorce papers as soon as I see him…”

 

“Well, had you spent more time with your spouse and children… “

Model E started to comment before he was slammed by a wave of anger from his Chosen One, making the Cyber Elf inside tremble.

 

‘I did what I had to do to protect my family.’

Mari said through the mental link.

 

Model E fell silent at that.

 

“We should go…and inform my brother and the others…of this development." 

Pandora said, getting everyone's attention.

 

“Yeah, I still need to purify Asuka, Shinji and Rei." 

The Pink Megaman nodded in agreement.

“Not to mention Mari.” 

 

“Wait, didn't you already get the Malice out of Rei while she was here?" 

 

“She was here? I haven't seen her at all." 

 

"I saw Rei earlier. She's had a habit of wandering off since we were little.”

The younger Makinami sibling shrugged nonchalantly.

 

“I would agree with you if we hadn't ran into Asuna  in the Highlands." 

The older Venator sibling chimed.

 

"What!?”

Everyone, sans Mari and Pandora, chorused.

 

"Yeah, guess she and Snowball are the bosses of the banana ninjas now after Blondie and the twins sacked their base.”

 

"She also said that we didn't have to worry about getting jumped by Yiga but she's letting them continue their hunt for Link, who she referred to as the “mistake".”

 

"What the heck did I do to get labeled a mistake!?”

 

"Who knows what goes on in that head of hers? I hate to say it, but that kid's a little psycho.”

Atlas muttered.

 

"That sword of hers is a real piece of work too. Turns out the damn thing has the spirit of a literal demon man who's older than this frickin country and even fought against the first Hero.”

Ashe groaned.

 

"You're kidding right? That edgy black blade is actually a person…?”

The Flame Megaman questioned visibly disturbed by the new information. 

 

Her boyfriend was equally horrified by the revelation. 

“I actually had another man inside of me when I was stabbed? I feel violated…" 

Aeolus whimpered.

 

"There there Aeo.”

The Latina said, trying to calm her lover down.

"It's not like you were stabbed in the ass.”

 

"Anyway! Moving on from whatever kinky shit those two are into, Asuna gave Rei a pocket transerver leading to answers about her creation before she left.”

Ashe interjected.

"There's a bunch of other stuff she said I'm personally still trying to unpack, like what she referred to as Lilin, god knows what the hell that means.”

 

"Well, back when we were being held in Legion's laboratory, she called us purebreds. Possibly because the four of us were full human or Reploid. Perhaps Lilin is her word for it.”

Aeolus said. 

 

“Hard telling. Maybe." 

 

“Well, we probably should head to Hateno. Have you figured out what the limit is for how many people you can warp with at one time?" 

Ciel asked the younger blonde.

 

“Four, and that's including myself." 

Link replied.

“I'd have to make a few trips." 

 

“I have this one." 

Aile chimed, holding up the Mini Slate.

“It can take at least two other people." 

 

“We'll make do with what we got." 

 

After a few warps, everyone was gathered in front of Link's house waiting for the Reaper crew.

 

“That's odd. I figured we'd see at least one of them as soon as we arrived." 

Link commented as he returned the Sheikah Slate to his belt.

 

“Four Eyed Old Haaag!" 

An angry voice screamed from above before a red blur slammed into Mari and sent her to the ground.

 

“Gagk! H-hiya Princess…" 

The Revolution Megaman wheezed as she readjusted her glasses with a shaky hand.

Asuka glared down at her from her place standing on the older girl's stomach.

 

“You verdamn blabbermouth! I don't care if it was your boss! You know damn well none of us were to speak a word about PG but of course, you never fucking listen!”

The half German teen yelled, grabbing the front of Mari’s pink vest and shook the bespectacled woman.

 

“That's enough Asuka!" 

Leo yelled as he marched over to the two and grabbed the Prototype Megaman by the collar of her shirt and lifted her off his sister. Just like a normal cat, the teen curled up in a ball once she was lifted up.

“I get that my idiot of an older sister probably deserves it, but beating the shit out of her won't fix anything.”

 

“What the hell is going on out here!?" 

The voice of the Grim Reaper exclaimed from inside the house.

A moment later the front door swung open revealing the blue haired man.

 

“Hello…brother." 

Pandora said, waving at Prometheus.

 

"Hey big bro!”

Ashe grinned.

"Where's our little brother at?”

 

"He's out here somewhere with that little rascal dog of yours. That little thief thought Prea was a chew toy and I had to chase her around this entire property to get my Biometal back!”

 

"Well, her name is Bandit.”

The silver haired teen smirked.

 

"You won't be grinning when you're the one chasing after her.”

 

At that moment a tiny charcoal colored shape rounded the corner of the house and shot towards the elder Venator sibling. 

 

“There's my girl! Hey Bandit!" 

Ashe giggled, picking up the little puppy once she reached her.

 

“Ashe! Thank goodness you're back!" 

A familiar Biometal exclamation in relief from the pup's mouth.

"Help me out! I don't wanna be covered in doggy teeth marks!”

 

"Heya Axl.”

Ashe said as she gently pulled her Biometal out of Bandit's mouth.

Immediately the little retriever began licking the girl's face.

 

“Bandit! Where are you!?" 

The voice of the younger Copy Megaman called from behind the house.

 

Grey stopped dead in his tracks when he spotted his sister standing there.

 

His mind raced with newfound memories, the visage of her replaced by that of a newborn baby from seventeen years ago.

How would she react? 

The thought had repeated itself in his head since he learned of his crimes. 

 

‘She’ll hate me, why wouldn't she? I'm the reason why she was chosen to be a Megaman. I'm the reason she doesn't have a single memory of her birth parents.’

 

The Reploid boy dreaded when the time would come to tell her. 

 

Thankfully he was spared from his thoughts as someone suddenly fell into a sneezing fit. 

 

“Has anyone *sneeze* been around a cat *sneeze* recently?" 

Aile asked, covering her nose with her hand as her eyes began getting red and puffy.

 

"That's probably me Commander Blindage.”

The elder Shikinami sister said blankly.

"Didn't think any of you would be allergic.”

 

“Yeah… we found out when one of our clients had a cat. I had to take over the rest of the deliveries for that day while Giro took her to get meds. Speaking of… did you happen to bring any?” 

Vent said. 

 

Aile sniffed. 

“No… it’s still in my room on the Grand Nuage.” 

 

“Just as well we’re going back, then.” 

Ciel said. 

 

Later… 

 

“So the gist is that your Biometals are mutating and you wanna go back and figure out why? “

Asuka surmised once the larger party congregated inside Link’s house and explained the reason behind their arrival. 

 

The smaller group of Megamen were starstruck when they were introduced to the woman responsible for creating most of the Biometals.

 

“I also came here to get the Malice out of you children before we go back home.”

 

"Wait, you can do that Dr Light?” 

Asked the Rogue Megaman. 

 

"I can, thanks to Princess Zelda. And you can just call me Ciel, I'm not really a fan of formalities.” 

 

“A-alright Miss Ciel. “

Shinji nodded with a light blush on his face. 

 

“Besides, I don’t want to get you confused with my father.” 

Model PM commented. 

 

"Wait, wasn't Wündergurl with you guys?”

The Prototype Megaman questioned. 

 

"She was but we figured she came back here.” 

Ashe replied. 

"I'm guessing she didn't though.” 

 

"No, I haven't seen Rei at all. Any idea what happened?” 

Shinji asked worriedly. 

 

“Well… Asuna might’ve given her a way to get the answers she's been wanting.” 

Ashe said. 

 

“You saw Suna!? Was she alright!?" 

The redhead teen exclaimed.

 

“Still Maverick and one of the new top bananas of the Yiga Clan. But I guess you can say she’s alright." 

 

Asuka sighed.

"That damn brat…I thought I taught her better than to get mixed up with bad crowds.”

 

“She also mentioned some…unsettling things. We were hoping…you could clarify…since you know your sister…best.”

The White Witch added.

 

“If someone like you thinks it's unsettling then Suna probably said some pretty fucked up stuff.”

 

“You mean like how your own mom made it so that Asuna couldn't have kids when she's older? And something about bringing about her own Ragnarok?”

 

Asuka paused, thinking. 

“I already know about that first thing. They sterilized Kaworu too." 

The redhead nodded grimly.

 

“You’d think they’d let them breed if they wanted more super soldiers. But noooo. That’s much too complicated for their twisted scientist brains to handle.” 

Asuka groused. 

“I kid, but it’s still pretty twisted. As for that second thing… it does ring a bell.” 

 

“Yeah, me too.” 

Shinji said. 

“It’s something from Norse mythology right?” 

 

“Norse?” 

Link asked. 

 

“The ancient Norse were a people that lived in the northern reaches of a continent called Europe back in our world. They haven’t existed for millennia, but they left behind enough of their culture for us to piece together their myths.” 

Ciel explained. 

“The term Ragnarok refers to a mythological event wherein all the Norse gods die, to be replaced by a new pantheon. I knew a colleague that liked using terms from Norse myth for his concepts and creations.” 

 

Link nodded his understanding, though he was still a little confused. 

“So… if we apply that to us…?” 

 

“No way Suna wants to kill us all! That’s totally her messed up biometal talking!” 

Asuka protested. 

 

“That’s assuming we’re the gods in that scenario.” 

Prometheus said. 

“Did she say anything else, or are we all ready to go home for a bit?” 

 

The senior MegaMen looked at each other debatingly, before Mari spoke up. 

 

“She did tell us her new sword was actually sentient, and not in an A.I. sort of way.” 

 

“Great… just what we need.” 

Asuka groaned sarcastically. 

 

“Asuna also wanted us to tell her uncle, which I'm guessing she meant Zero, that she wasn't interested in continuing whatever he and Omega had going on. Something about the one that gave her her name being the only one who'd erase it." 

 

The Prototype Megaman's face turned ashen.

 

“Suka…?" 

 

The redhead teen's expression quickly reverted back to her usual face.

"Nevermind, just forget it. Could've been the Model W messing with her head.”

 

Ashe hopped up from the stair step she was using as a seat. 

“Couldn’t agree more. I dunno about all of you, but I’m ready to head back and enjoy some modern comforts. No offense Link, but the amenities here leave a lot to be desired.” 

 

“Here here.” 

Atlas agreed. 

 

Link shrugged. 

“None taken. You guys want me to come with you? I’ll admit, I’m curious to see your world.” 

 

“I don’t see why not, if only for a little while.” 

Aile said, standing as far away from Asuka as possible. 

 

“You’re needed here more than we are.” 

Ciel said. 

“I’m sorry, Link, but I really don’t think you should come.”

 

The hylian looked disappointed but he could see the Pink Megaman’s logic. 

 

“So we’re all in agreement?” 

Aeolus asked. 

 

There was a chorus of affirmations from everyone in the room. 

 

“Then let’s get going.” 

 

A few trips with the Sheikah teleportation technology later, everyone was gathered at the Great Plateau transerver with Link at the control console. 

 

“Just do it how I showed you.” 

Zero reassured, using his projection form to teach Link how to operate the machine. 

 

Once the setup for the transport was finished, Zero retracted his projection and floated over to the twins. 

 

“Alright.” 

Though a little nervous, Link waved goodbye to everyone as they teleported back to their world. 

The hylian breathed a sigh of relief once it was done. 

 

He was sad Model Z wasn't still there with him. Without the others, he felt… alone. But Link had stood his ground when he suggested Z return with the other Megamen, since he had no intention of keeping the red Biometal once he defeated Ganon. It just didn't feel right.

 

“What now?” 

Link asked himself.

 

“I could try tackling a couple Shrines while I wait. I’m sure someone will contact me on those Mini Slates when they get back.” 

 

Part of him hoped they’d contact him soon. 

 

Meanwhile… 

 

“Mmh, it's good to be home." 

The younger Blue Megaman said with contentment as everyone stepped down off the transerver, breathing in the familiar scents of Area A. 

 

“Yeah. I feel like I've been on a long vacation out of town." 

Ashe agreed.

 

“That's an understatement. I gotta get home to make sure Tango’s alright. An unsupervised kitten running around for a month is asking for trouble." 

 

"Your cat's name is Tango too?”

Model PM asked as he recalled his robotic pet feline from an age long past.

 

“Yeah. Kinda a weird coincidence. And the Wündertwins have a dog named Rush after the original Megaman's dog while Leo's is named after his Biometal’s.”

 

“Wait. X, is that true?" 

Vent asked.

 

“Yes. I agree that the names are a strange similarity. All we're missing is a little bluebird named Beat. I think he was my sister Roll’s pet if memory serves." 

The blue Biometal agreed.

 

“Not to mention that this Treble is able to merge with Bass just like the one I knew." 

Protoman added. 

 

"I still have no clue how he can do that.”

Leo shrugged, scratching the back of his head.

“I had the feeling that he wasn't quite normal when Mari brought him home almost two years ago.”

 

"Now that you say that, Rush had times that made us wonder what kind of programming the factory uploaded into him. He didn't growl at us or anything the first time we came home still linked to X.”

Vent mused.

 

"He could probably tell it was us by scent.”

His sister chimed.

 

“True." 

 

Just as they emerged from the forest into a clearing, they were met with several black military vehicles waiting for them. 

Personnel wearing tactical gear had their guns pointed at the Megamen.

 

“What the -" 

 

“All of you get on your knees and hands behind your head!”

The person in the front, bearing a captain’s badge ordered.

 

"What's going on!?”

Vent yelled as he and the others were corralled like cattle by the soldiers.

 

Treble snarled at the armed guards.

 

"By order of Master Mikhail of the Sage Trinity, you Megamen are under arrest for crimes against the State!”

 

“What!?” 

Several of the men and women under arrest protested, but the Captain would’t have it. 

 

“Get on your knees! Or we will shoot! Trust me when I say getting hit by an anti repair round isn't pleasant!" 

The captain warned.

 

The Megamen quieted down and complied, kneeling down on the grass.

 

“Get those MES on them immediately and seize their Biometals! Get a muzzle on that wolf while you're at it!" 

 

Before anyone had time to react, they were held down by two guards each while a third took something out of their pockets. A black circular band with a small red section was secured around each Megaman's neck, clicking into place.

The black metal felt cold and tight.

 

Two other guards managed to slip a muzzle on Treble after the wolf hybrid gave one a nasty bite. 

 

The MegaMen heard angry protests from their Biometals as they were removed from their respective Chosen Ones, their cries going unheard by the regular humanoids. 

 

It was almost comical watching military personnel fight to get the rowdy Biometals into a small transport container.

Model F even bashed his metal shell into his captors’ nose before he was thrown in with the others.

 

“What the hell are these things?!" 

Asuka yelled as she tried pulling the foreign object off her neck.

 

“Maverick Elimination System Chokers, MES for short.” 

A cold but familiar female voice said.

 

The soldiers snapped to attention and saluted the newcomer as she approached. 

 

“Major Katsuragi." 

The captain said as a woman wearing a red military jacket and matching hat stepped forward. Dark sunglasses covered her eyes.

 

The others witnessed the color drain from the newer Megamen's faces.

 

“M-misato…?”

Ashe said in disbelief.

 

"Are the Biometals confiscated and the MES chokers in place?”

Misato asked, ignoring the girl's remark.

 

"Yes, ma’am.”

The captain said as he pulled a small device out of his vest. It resembled a forehead thermometer. 

An orange holographic menu appeared as it was powered on.

He scrolled through it before pressing a small button on the curved handle.

 

The red section of the collars lit up in a pale rhombus shape before fading.

 

He then handed it to the Major.

"The Detonation command is set to your issued passcode.”

 

“Detonation!? What the fuck are these things, bombs?!" 

Atlas exclaimed as she tried to pull hers off. She couldn't even get her fingers underneath it.

 

“As a matter of fact, they are." 

Misato replied coldly.

“Because of the actions of you and your allies, the general population has been in an uproar regarding the views of you Megamen. Especially after that little rampage four of you went on recently.” 

Atlas and Aeolus looked at each other nervously. 

“As of this moment on… you are all hereby known as enemies of humanity- Maverick.”

 

“There are still three unaccounted for ma’am. Rei Ikari, Asuna Langley Shikinami, and Kaworu Nagisa." 

The captain said.

“We secured the Ice and Shadow Megamen earlier this morning. They are already in containment." 

 

“Where's my son!?" 

The Flame Megaman roared as she attempted to get up, only for the soldier behind her to slam the butt of his rifle into the back of her head.

 

“You'll have your reunion… before your execution."

 The older woman's words made their blood run cold.

"Get them to the facility as soon as possible.”

 

She turned on her heel and started walking to one of the transport vehicles.

 

The Megamen were roughly pulled to their feet and pushed towards the vans.

The captain gently picked up Bandit off the ground, much to the alarm of the Venator siblings.

 

"Matte! Dōshite kon’na kotoni naru no! Okāsan! Okāsan! Onegai!”

[Wait! What's happening!? Mom! Mom! Please!]

Ashe pleaded to the retreating woman's back as she and the others were split up and shoved into the back of the vehicle.

 

The silver haired girl couldn't help but let tears fall at the betrayal of the woman who raised her.

 

Just before the door shut, she watched Misato slightly turn her head in Ashe’s direction.

 

It might have been a trick of the light, but it looked like a lone tear ran halfway down Misato's face.

 

Notes:

Aile's allergic to cats? Who would've thought?

The plot thickens! What awaits our heroes besides the firing squad? Has Master Mikiel also betrayed them? Find out in the next instalment of Prismatic Kingdom; You can (not) Redo!