Wazu pointed. I bet
.except for his chin that Fushio caused his own aches and pains from trying to continue a pointless and rather silly confrontation with a robot who was following the law.
Wazu threw his hands up. Im done!
Tamago jumped up. Well Im not. He said as he approached the table. Armed gunmen? Hmm
no weapons. The Robot Rights Law also specifies the following
A robot when engaged with a human in a confrontational event shall use only the amount of force less than that which would be considered an escalatory act.
Tamago looked at Astro. That means
a human pulls a knife? The robot cant hit him with a table. A teenage boy throws his fists? The only acceptable response is to get in front of him or push him off. A police tactic is an illegal escalation of force which required a serious movement of the opposing body radically different than a simple shove or a block.
Wazu stood up. Astro, come with me. He took Astro by the hand and walked up to the committees table. Mister Superintendent
I want you to slap Astro in the arm with an open hand.
Astro looked at Wazu
Astro
relax. Please Sir. Put some umph into it.
The Superintendent made the swat and shook his hand.
Stings dont it? Now Astro has this synthetic skin, a unique combination of Kevlar and composite resonates. It doesnt forgive very well. So lets say he tried to put himself between Kenichi and a very angry, adrenal pumped teenager
what do you think will happen? 9 times out of 10
hes going to throw a punch and guess what? His hand will shatter like a pane of glass.
Wazu put Astro back in his chair. Was the police hold wrong? What was worse? The move Astro used had one advantage
.it kept Fushio from throwing a punch and breaking his hand, well within the confines of the law. A little rough
but better than a shattered hand.
New Fan Fiction: Walkies Some more.
Now it was Astros turn. He took the chair before the Committee and gripped his pants.
Now lets take this from when the egg was thrown. The Superintendent said. You were still walking away when Kenichi ran past you, thats correct?
Yes.
You turned to see Kenichi being beaten up so you took Fushio down with the police hold. I assume youve used it before?
Uh huh. Astro nodded.
And that stopped the fight. The other two upper classman ran off. Ok Mister Tamago.
Tamago came up to Astro and smiled. Can you feel anger?
Yes.
Can you understand .what anger is?
Yes.
Were you angry when you got pushed? When that egg hit your head? When you saw Kenichi getting beat up?
Yes.
Ah so were you by your own thoughts about anger .were you so angry that maybe you wanted to perhaps be a little more harsh towards Fushio?
Astro shook his head.
You can speak you know. Tamago snorted.
No I didnt want to hurt him.
You didnt WANT to hurt him but your were angry at him and maybe being a little angry you couldnt control what you were doing? Maybe you just skipped over your boundaries just a tiny bit?
Tamago snorted into Astros face. Maybe .just maybe you wanted a little revenge for yourself? Its alright you can tell everyone.
Thats not true! Astro snapped.
My, my .the kids getting upset now arent you? A little run a way emotion in a robot might be a bad thing after all. Then again lets go back to that truck incident shall we? Wasnt there other safer options Astro than shooting up the engine and allowing a dangerous tanker truck to go flying off a highway?
Its what I thought to do at the time .
You thought? You thought? Hmmm well perhaps your thought processes are a little off whack? Perhaps you have bats in the bell free there clouding your judgment?
Astro squirmed in his seat.
Gee hes starting to cry
Thats enough! Wazu shouted. He walked up to Astro and patted his back. Its alright Astro let me ask you this question? How long have you known Kenichi?
Astro wiped his face. Two years.
Is he important to you? Why?
Hes my friend. He was the first human who made me feel welcome in the school.
Wazu nodded. Theres been times when Kenichi put his own life before yours hasnt there?
Astro nodded.
Youd risk your own life for him wouldnt you?
Astro nodded and teared up. When he was getting beat up I .
Wazu looked at the committee. Can we take a break?
Now lets take this from when the egg was thrown. The Superintendent said. You were still walking away when Kenichi ran past you, thats correct?
Yes.
You turned to see Kenichi being beaten up so you took Fushio down with the police hold. I assume youve used it before?
Uh huh. Astro nodded.
And that stopped the fight. The other two upper classman ran off. Ok Mister Tamago.
Tamago came up to Astro and smiled. Can you feel anger?
Yes.
Can you understand .what anger is?
Yes.
Were you angry when you got pushed? When that egg hit your head? When you saw Kenichi getting beat up?
Yes.
Ah so were you by your own thoughts about anger .were you so angry that maybe you wanted to perhaps be a little more harsh towards Fushio?
Astro shook his head.
You can speak you know. Tamago snorted.
No I didnt want to hurt him.
You didnt WANT to hurt him but your were angry at him and maybe being a little angry you couldnt control what you were doing? Maybe you just skipped over your boundaries just a tiny bit?
Tamago snorted into Astros face. Maybe .just maybe you wanted a little revenge for yourself? Its alright you can tell everyone.
Thats not true! Astro snapped.
My, my .the kids getting upset now arent you? A little run a way emotion in a robot might be a bad thing after all. Then again lets go back to that truck incident shall we? Wasnt there other safer options Astro than shooting up the engine and allowing a dangerous tanker truck to go flying off a highway?
Its what I thought to do at the time .
You thought? You thought? Hmmm well perhaps your thought processes are a little off whack? Perhaps you have bats in the bell free there clouding your judgment?
Astro squirmed in his seat.
Gee hes starting to cry
Thats enough! Wazu shouted. He walked up to Astro and patted his back. Its alright Astro let me ask you this question? How long have you known Kenichi?
Astro wiped his face. Two years.
Is he important to you? Why?
Hes my friend. He was the first human who made me feel welcome in the school.
Wazu nodded. Theres been times when Kenichi put his own life before yours hasnt there?
Astro nodded.
Youd risk your own life for him wouldnt you?
Astro nodded and teared up. When he was getting beat up I .
Wazu looked at the committee. Can we take a break?
Elementary school 12
Afternoon
Closing arguments
Tamago walked up to the committee and stood with his hands behind his back. Well it seems clear that there is just a little danger present when you have a robot with such power possessing emotions backed by an unstable program. Am I questioning Astros heroics or saying hes a menace to our society? Absolutely not, though I do question if something shouldnt be done to tweek his system a little bit so his actions dont speed over his emotions. We have to be careful ladies and gentlemen because our children are at stake and blame us if someday because he gets angry or any robot gets angry and they over ride their programming we could face a potential disaster. Theres only two choices Astro gets reprogrammed or we find better ways for robots to get their information without placing our children at risk for accidents. In the end my fine people, its your decision.
Wazu stood up and walked up to the table. My friends segregation? Thats the answer? How can plugging into a mainframe teach Astro as much as flesh and blood experiences? Hes learned more in one year of school than most of us had learned in twelve and what does he do? He takes what hes learned and he passes it along. We built robots like Astro to be just like us, what a remarkable achievement isnt it?
When we wrote the Robot Rights Law, we recognized that because of advanced A.I. we could not longer consider robots as simple machines who pick up our trash, dive into the hottest volcanoes to gather data or build cars on an assembly line. We realized that we had created a new form of being and as is our nature, we welcomed him into the family of man because the benefits were far more exciting to us than the risks.
Astro is different, indeed hes a power house, a dangerous weapon, to some who think ill will towards our society this little tornado is their moment of pause but he loves ice cream, plays kick ball, giggles his brains out and has toilet papered a few houses. Wazu looked back with a smirk. Hes just like other human children and I warn you, if you throw him out of school you better be ready to suffer the wrath because as we all know a childs anger can be quite cruel.
Wazu leaned on the table. The great writer Shelby Foot once said Man has a gift for compromise though the road isnt always smooth. Well the road is pretty smooth enough for all of you. Show that youre not willing to turn the bus around and head back to the last stop? Show that gift for compromise.
Two Hours Later
Miss Myokis classroom
Wazu walked in to see Myoki and Kenichi talking to Astro. Obviously hed been a little or more upset as he wrung a soaking wet cloth into a small waste bucket.
Half full? Wazu said smiling.
Ive done better. Astro replied.
They finished talking. Wazu said with a sigh. Hold your head up.
Ken hugged Astro tight Were all set to make em pay. Got enough TP and shaving cream to cover the whole city.
Astro smirked back. Dont even Ill end up cleaning the mess. Astro then gave Ken an evil grin But that Tamago guy? Oh yeah .smother his house a la mode.
Ken gave a thumbs up as Astro and Wasu walked to the conference room and took their seats.
Afternoon
Closing arguments
Tamago walked up to the committee and stood with his hands behind his back. Well it seems clear that there is just a little danger present when you have a robot with such power possessing emotions backed by an unstable program. Am I questioning Astros heroics or saying hes a menace to our society? Absolutely not, though I do question if something shouldnt be done to tweek his system a little bit so his actions dont speed over his emotions. We have to be careful ladies and gentlemen because our children are at stake and blame us if someday because he gets angry or any robot gets angry and they over ride their programming we could face a potential disaster. Theres only two choices Astro gets reprogrammed or we find better ways for robots to get their information without placing our children at risk for accidents. In the end my fine people, its your decision.
Wazu stood up and walked up to the table. My friends segregation? Thats the answer? How can plugging into a mainframe teach Astro as much as flesh and blood experiences? Hes learned more in one year of school than most of us had learned in twelve and what does he do? He takes what hes learned and he passes it along. We built robots like Astro to be just like us, what a remarkable achievement isnt it?
When we wrote the Robot Rights Law, we recognized that because of advanced A.I. we could not longer consider robots as simple machines who pick up our trash, dive into the hottest volcanoes to gather data or build cars on an assembly line. We realized that we had created a new form of being and as is our nature, we welcomed him into the family of man because the benefits were far more exciting to us than the risks.
Astro is different, indeed hes a power house, a dangerous weapon, to some who think ill will towards our society this little tornado is their moment of pause but he loves ice cream, plays kick ball, giggles his brains out and has toilet papered a few houses. Wazu looked back with a smirk. Hes just like other human children and I warn you, if you throw him out of school you better be ready to suffer the wrath because as we all know a childs anger can be quite cruel.
Wazu leaned on the table. The great writer Shelby Foot once said Man has a gift for compromise though the road isnt always smooth. Well the road is pretty smooth enough for all of you. Show that youre not willing to turn the bus around and head back to the last stop? Show that gift for compromise.
Two Hours Later
Miss Myokis classroom
Wazu walked in to see Myoki and Kenichi talking to Astro. Obviously hed been a little or more upset as he wrung a soaking wet cloth into a small waste bucket.
Half full? Wazu said smiling.
Ive done better. Astro replied.
They finished talking. Wazu said with a sigh. Hold your head up.
Ken hugged Astro tight Were all set to make em pay. Got enough TP and shaving cream to cover the whole city.
Astro smirked back. Dont even Ill end up cleaning the mess. Astro then gave Ken an evil grin But that Tamago guy? Oh yeah .smother his house a la mode.
Ken gave a thumbs up as Astro and Wasu walked to the conference room and took their seats.
The Superintendent waited for the room to be silent before closing his hands together and adjusting his posture. After our closed meeting we of the school committee came to the following judgments
On the decision of suspension and detention for those involved? Enforced. School rules on fighting and bullying were ignored by all involved, that is inexcusable.
In Fushio Ugis case youre lucky we dont charge you with assault. This was your second major violation mister and we conclude that you got what you deserved. You are one violation away from all out expulsion and I was this close this close to booting you! You so much as make one stupid remark and I will see you gone! Blind bigotry and hooliganism will not be tolerated in our school system.
Astro? Though you do display a knowledge of emotions, and rightly you reacted to stop your friend Kenichi from being beaten up, this Committee does have legitimate concerns. The police hold you used was deemed illegal though not carried forth with the intent of malice. We do request that your benefactor review your programming to strengthen your reaction levels and the ability for your programming to quickly and adequately chose a response that will fall within the guidelines set forth by the Robot Rights Law of 2008. We found the idea of segregation or removal to be ridiculous.
This hearing is adjourned.
Outside the school, the crowds reacted as expected. Inside Astro simply got up and walked out of the room to avoid the embarrassment as rivers flowed from his eyes. It was Ken and Tamao who found him as he walked into the boys room
Aw man .they have to remove the Tetrus, what creeps. Tamao said as he hugged Astro.
Ken shook him by the shoulders. Stop your balling? Sheesh youre like my mom!
This really sucked. Astro said as he leaned on a sink. Worse then when they banned dodge ball.
Well I think it was useless and stupid! Tamao snarled. How dare they! After everything youve done. Dangerous .the grown ups are more dangerous and stupid than my house cat!
Ken snickered. Only because you tease it too much. Huh! Astro defeats the forces of evil again. So what are you gonna do now? Disneyland?
Astro smirked back. Ice cream.
A big goo encrusted, six foot tall sloppy mess of sugar! Tamao exclaimed. Its gotta be epic like Moses parting the red sea, Captain Kirk enslaving green women .
Astro and Ken looked puzzled. What?
Just then the door flew open and Zoran ran into the bathroom. ZORAN! Astro snapped. GET OUT!
She stood gasping. Ive been trying to find you .somethings wrong with Doctor Tenma hes in the hospital now!
Astro bolted from the bathroom, knocking the door off the top hinge.
Samurai Jeffs
New Shinjuku
Late Afternoon
Atlas sat tapping his feet together as he watched the television coverage from the school. Good on you Goody. Man thats got those antis all ticked off now.
Atlas then looked at the piece of paper in his hand and frowned. Tokugawa you just wont learn your lesson will you jerk? Well .no being nice to you this time fleshy, I guess your vintage car collection wasnt enough to make you behave.
Atlas threw the paper aside and walked toward the front door. I better be ready to face the teeth gnashing when I come back shes really gonna tear my hide up after this little jaunt.
The end
Next: Part IV Land Fall.
On the decision of suspension and detention for those involved? Enforced. School rules on fighting and bullying were ignored by all involved, that is inexcusable.
In Fushio Ugis case youre lucky we dont charge you with assault. This was your second major violation mister and we conclude that you got what you deserved. You are one violation away from all out expulsion and I was this close this close to booting you! You so much as make one stupid remark and I will see you gone! Blind bigotry and hooliganism will not be tolerated in our school system.
Astro? Though you do display a knowledge of emotions, and rightly you reacted to stop your friend Kenichi from being beaten up, this Committee does have legitimate concerns. The police hold you used was deemed illegal though not carried forth with the intent of malice. We do request that your benefactor review your programming to strengthen your reaction levels and the ability for your programming to quickly and adequately chose a response that will fall within the guidelines set forth by the Robot Rights Law of 2008. We found the idea of segregation or removal to be ridiculous.
This hearing is adjourned.
Outside the school, the crowds reacted as expected. Inside Astro simply got up and walked out of the room to avoid the embarrassment as rivers flowed from his eyes. It was Ken and Tamao who found him as he walked into the boys room
Aw man .they have to remove the Tetrus, what creeps. Tamao said as he hugged Astro.
Ken shook him by the shoulders. Stop your balling? Sheesh youre like my mom!
This really sucked. Astro said as he leaned on a sink. Worse then when they banned dodge ball.
Well I think it was useless and stupid! Tamao snarled. How dare they! After everything youve done. Dangerous .the grown ups are more dangerous and stupid than my house cat!
Ken snickered. Only because you tease it too much. Huh! Astro defeats the forces of evil again. So what are you gonna do now? Disneyland?
Astro smirked back. Ice cream.
A big goo encrusted, six foot tall sloppy mess of sugar! Tamao exclaimed. Its gotta be epic like Moses parting the red sea, Captain Kirk enslaving green women .
Astro and Ken looked puzzled. What?
Just then the door flew open and Zoran ran into the bathroom. ZORAN! Astro snapped. GET OUT!
She stood gasping. Ive been trying to find you .somethings wrong with Doctor Tenma hes in the hospital now!
Astro bolted from the bathroom, knocking the door off the top hinge.
Samurai Jeffs
New Shinjuku
Late Afternoon
Atlas sat tapping his feet together as he watched the television coverage from the school. Good on you Goody. Man thats got those antis all ticked off now.
Atlas then looked at the piece of paper in his hand and frowned. Tokugawa you just wont learn your lesson will you jerk? Well .no being nice to you this time fleshy, I guess your vintage car collection wasnt enough to make you behave.
Atlas threw the paper aside and walked toward the front door. I better be ready to face the teeth gnashing when I come back shes really gonna tear my hide up after this little jaunt.
The end
Next: Part IV Land Fall.
Land Fall
Part IV of Walkies some more
By Dan Rush
Astro Boy /Tetsuwan Atom © 1954, 1963, 1980, 2003, 2009 Osamu Tezuka all rights deeply respected. For non-profit fandom enjoyment only.
Notes from Part III .
1. Astro is cleared from the school fight incident much to the cheers of his friends and the jeers of the anti-robot groups.
2. Doctor Tenma lays in a coma at the Shibuya Prison infirmary.
3. Atlas is going to meet the industrial magnate Tokugawa after receiving a plea for help.
4. Reno investigates the probe recovered by Inspector Towashi.
5. A nation wide incident of computer hacking now has the Japanese government on high alert. The Prime Minister passes Emergency Order 62-1909 to passively monitor the activities of robots.
Evening
Shibuya Prison Hospital ICU
Doctor OShay finally arrived but stopped short of the door to look in through the window. Astro sat next to the bed, a finger rubbing over his lips while the other hand gently patted Tenmas hand. Astro didnt look upset, no visible mood could be seen on his face and yet it became obvious when OShay entered and Astro looked down at the floor instead to his other father.
Has the doctor said anything? OShay asked. Astro sat up in the chair and shook his head.
I would say how proud I am of you right now but that little unpleasant experience doesnt need to be talked about. Are you alright?
Astro nodded. Its not a stroke or heart attack some good news.
OShay was happy in that case. Have you heard from his brother Takiuma?
Uh uh I thought you might be calling him?
He didnt leave me his number. You must know where he is?
Astro moaned. Ive called him five times now no answer.
Just then the medical Doctor walked in and motioned Astro and OShay to sit. Well we finished the lab work. Nothing out of the normal so right now the reason for Doctor Tenmas coma is unknown.
Astro fidgeted. Will he wake up?
Cant give you a firm answer. Its just a waiting game now. The good thing is hes breathing on his own without a ventilator, thats a positive plus on our side it means the brain has suffered no serious damage.
Astro brooded. No stroke, no heart attack, everythings normal just doesnt sound right. I dunno Im muttering I guess.
Well you can stay till 9pm. The doctor said as he stood up. Dont worry, well keep him well monitored and youll be the first to know when things change.
As he left, Astro stood up and walked around Tenmas bed running a hand through the sheets and over his body. He stopped for a moment rubbing his lips together.
With all I have to do at the Ministry Astro, I should be getting back. Dont try staying all night will you?
Astro nodded back. Ill see you at home Doctor.
He waited till OShay was gone then quickly checked to make sure he was the only other occupant in the room. Astro walked around the bed and started pulling up the blankets away from Tenmas legs and arms. I dont like it nothing? Humans dont just go into coma for no reason.
Astro looked over the hanging health progress board, especially the notes for needles and shots then walked to Tenmas feet and started looking. 100 times power. He said to himself and instantly his vision zoomed from normal 20/20 to high power micronamity. Forgive me . He said then paused Daddy? ..Dad. Im sorry Dad. Astro stuck half his body under the sheets and over Tenmas mid-section before popping back out and working up the arm towards his head.
As he gently rolled up Tenmas right shoulder, Astro stopped to carefully poke and probe a spot just above the armpit along the back. He then walked out of the ICU, found the medical doctor and dragged him back into the room. Do you guys give shots in the back here? Astro said as he pointed out the spot.
The doctor frowned. No I dont see anything.
Trust me. Whoever did this used a butterfly needle. Can I see the toxicology report?
The Doctor rubbed his head. Youre not a .
Im a robot? Hello? Computer brain? He said as he frowned.
The doctor took him to the lab. Are you sure about this? We normally run seven different tests for various scopes
Astro looked at the write up and then to the lab table. Got any of his blood left?
Yes.
Astro smirked. Good I always wanted to see what all the vampire fuss was about. Astro took a vile of Tenmas blood and swished it about. He popped the top off and quick gulped the contents much to the doctors squeeming.
Ugh .Tastes like spoiled milk, battery acid and pennies. Astro said as he winced. He found a place to sit and pulled himself onto a counter. Itll be about five minutes.
Though the Doctor couldnt see the results, Astros quickly batting eyelids and moving pupils told him something was in the works. Astro reached into a pocket, pulled out a zip drive, opened his chest door and slipped the stick into a USB port.
Here. He said as he handed it back. Got a computer?
The doctor brought what Astro had processed up on his laptop. Doesnt look different from the testing weve already done.
Astro pulled the folded up report he took from Tenmas bed board and pointed to one of the pages. Except .that. The Glucose numbers are different, theres no Tricholore mentioned in this one and the thylidene trace is lower in this one.
The doctor nodded. Ok youre telling me someone shot him with something?
Astro plugged himself into the laptop and downloaded a file off the internet through his own receiver. Tricholorethylidene Alpha-Chloralose. 50 Milligrams is enough to induce coma. He gave the Doctor an angry look. Whos been visiting all day? Who wrote this other report? He shook the papers in his hand with emphasis.
The working lab technician was in the lounge watching the television on a break when he heard the door slam behind him. He turned about on the couch to come face to face with Astros pooched mouth. Right now you might be thinking about running? I hope not. Astro snatched the man by his coat and pulled him over the back of the couch.
Now maybe you made a mistake and mistyped Doctor Tenmas toxicology report? Though, since the program for it doesnt allow you to change any numbers, I highly doubt it. Astro pushed the papers into the mans nose. Didnt anyone tell you that white out and copies cant be hid?
Astro bunched the mans coat in his hands and jacked him off the floor over his head. Now unless you want to play Pachinko thats you being the little silver ball and me being the spring plunger? You might want to feel a little generous with the lips?
Ten minutes later
Astro came out of the lounge, ran past the Medical Doctor and a police officer before they could stop him and took off out a side door and into the nearby courtyard where he went airborne in a flame shooting hurry.
Part IV of Walkies some more
By Dan Rush
Astro Boy /Tetsuwan Atom © 1954, 1963, 1980, 2003, 2009 Osamu Tezuka all rights deeply respected. For non-profit fandom enjoyment only.
Notes from Part III .
1. Astro is cleared from the school fight incident much to the cheers of his friends and the jeers of the anti-robot groups.
2. Doctor Tenma lays in a coma at the Shibuya Prison infirmary.
3. Atlas is going to meet the industrial magnate Tokugawa after receiving a plea for help.
4. Reno investigates the probe recovered by Inspector Towashi.
5. A nation wide incident of computer hacking now has the Japanese government on high alert. The Prime Minister passes Emergency Order 62-1909 to passively monitor the activities of robots.
Evening
Shibuya Prison Hospital ICU
Doctor OShay finally arrived but stopped short of the door to look in through the window. Astro sat next to the bed, a finger rubbing over his lips while the other hand gently patted Tenmas hand. Astro didnt look upset, no visible mood could be seen on his face and yet it became obvious when OShay entered and Astro looked down at the floor instead to his other father.
Has the doctor said anything? OShay asked. Astro sat up in the chair and shook his head.
I would say how proud I am of you right now but that little unpleasant experience doesnt need to be talked about. Are you alright?
Astro nodded. Its not a stroke or heart attack some good news.
OShay was happy in that case. Have you heard from his brother Takiuma?
Uh uh I thought you might be calling him?
He didnt leave me his number. You must know where he is?
Astro moaned. Ive called him five times now no answer.
Just then the medical Doctor walked in and motioned Astro and OShay to sit. Well we finished the lab work. Nothing out of the normal so right now the reason for Doctor Tenmas coma is unknown.
Astro fidgeted. Will he wake up?
Cant give you a firm answer. Its just a waiting game now. The good thing is hes breathing on his own without a ventilator, thats a positive plus on our side it means the brain has suffered no serious damage.
Astro brooded. No stroke, no heart attack, everythings normal just doesnt sound right. I dunno Im muttering I guess.
Well you can stay till 9pm. The doctor said as he stood up. Dont worry, well keep him well monitored and youll be the first to know when things change.
As he left, Astro stood up and walked around Tenmas bed running a hand through the sheets and over his body. He stopped for a moment rubbing his lips together.
With all I have to do at the Ministry Astro, I should be getting back. Dont try staying all night will you?
Astro nodded back. Ill see you at home Doctor.
He waited till OShay was gone then quickly checked to make sure he was the only other occupant in the room. Astro walked around the bed and started pulling up the blankets away from Tenmas legs and arms. I dont like it nothing? Humans dont just go into coma for no reason.
Astro looked over the hanging health progress board, especially the notes for needles and shots then walked to Tenmas feet and started looking. 100 times power. He said to himself and instantly his vision zoomed from normal 20/20 to high power micronamity. Forgive me . He said then paused Daddy? ..Dad. Im sorry Dad. Astro stuck half his body under the sheets and over Tenmas mid-section before popping back out and working up the arm towards his head.
As he gently rolled up Tenmas right shoulder, Astro stopped to carefully poke and probe a spot just above the armpit along the back. He then walked out of the ICU, found the medical doctor and dragged him back into the room. Do you guys give shots in the back here? Astro said as he pointed out the spot.
The doctor frowned. No I dont see anything.
Trust me. Whoever did this used a butterfly needle. Can I see the toxicology report?
The Doctor rubbed his head. Youre not a .
Im a robot? Hello? Computer brain? He said as he frowned.
The doctor took him to the lab. Are you sure about this? We normally run seven different tests for various scopes
Astro looked at the write up and then to the lab table. Got any of his blood left?
Yes.
Astro smirked. Good I always wanted to see what all the vampire fuss was about. Astro took a vile of Tenmas blood and swished it about. He popped the top off and quick gulped the contents much to the doctors squeeming.
Ugh .Tastes like spoiled milk, battery acid and pennies. Astro said as he winced. He found a place to sit and pulled himself onto a counter. Itll be about five minutes.
Though the Doctor couldnt see the results, Astros quickly batting eyelids and moving pupils told him something was in the works. Astro reached into a pocket, pulled out a zip drive, opened his chest door and slipped the stick into a USB port.
Here. He said as he handed it back. Got a computer?
The doctor brought what Astro had processed up on his laptop. Doesnt look different from the testing weve already done.
Astro pulled the folded up report he took from Tenmas bed board and pointed to one of the pages. Except .that. The Glucose numbers are different, theres no Tricholore mentioned in this one and the thylidene trace is lower in this one.
The doctor nodded. Ok youre telling me someone shot him with something?
Astro plugged himself into the laptop and downloaded a file off the internet through his own receiver. Tricholorethylidene Alpha-Chloralose. 50 Milligrams is enough to induce coma. He gave the Doctor an angry look. Whos been visiting all day? Who wrote this other report? He shook the papers in his hand with emphasis.
The working lab technician was in the lounge watching the television on a break when he heard the door slam behind him. He turned about on the couch to come face to face with Astros pooched mouth. Right now you might be thinking about running? I hope not. Astro snatched the man by his coat and pulled him over the back of the couch.
Now maybe you made a mistake and mistyped Doctor Tenmas toxicology report? Though, since the program for it doesnt allow you to change any numbers, I highly doubt it. Astro pushed the papers into the mans nose. Didnt anyone tell you that white out and copies cant be hid?
Astro bunched the mans coat in his hands and jacked him off the floor over his head. Now unless you want to play Pachinko thats you being the little silver ball and me being the spring plunger? You might want to feel a little generous with the lips?
Ten minutes later
Astro came out of the lounge, ran past the Medical Doctor and a police officer before they could stop him and took off out a side door and into the nearby courtyard where he went airborne in a flame shooting hurry.
Evening
Stockholders Cotillion
Home of Mitsumo Tokugawa
Gerald moved from couple to couple with a serving plate full of drinks as the music of Tokugawas invited entertainment ORGY all most dimmed the talk around him. Most of the invited tonight were representatives from China and Southeast Asia, new markets his powerful human master was hoping to add to his ever growing economic empire. He approached the short in stature yet imposing industry Magnate as he showed a group of Chinese industrialists plans for his new factory in Shenzen.
A drink Master? Gentlemen? Gerald said as he passed his platter from person to person.
Tokugawa tapped a finger on the table before him. Within a month this factory at full production will turn out the components for 300 cars a day. With robots you can expect a savings and profit head of 115 million a month. You wont see this much profit if you dared to staff this factory with workers at only 300 Wan a week.
There looked to be a universal agreement until the festive atmosphere was suddenly interrupted by a loud crash at the front door. Tokugawa pushed his way through the party and tore open the front door of his mansion to find his expensive touring boat in a destroyed heap and Atlas sitting on the bow railing with a look of sadness on his face.
Awwww .I broke it. Atlas said mournfully.
Tokugawa shook with rage as Gerald walked up behind him. Master? Should I call the Authorities?
Tokugawa turned about and all but socked the poor serving bot off his feet with a powerful back fist. What do you think you idiot!
Atlas suddenly frowned and jumped from the wreck. That .was a stupid thing to do. He snarled as he walked up to a vintage car. It wasnt any secret who it was since the vanity plate had Toku-One splashed in gold letter on it. Oh a vintage Bentley? Is this yours?
Atlas proceeded to destroy the car, tossing it like a Olympic hammer across the front lawn! Come here Tokugawa. Atlas warned as he walked up to the heavy front door.
Tokugawa threw Gerald aside. Do something! Call the police! He snarled as he tried to slam the door shut. He was thrown back against Gerald as the door became a flying missile launched over peoples heads to slam into the balcony above the mansion foyer.
The guests were in full flight as Atlas stepped through the doorway and snatched Gerald by the hand as he tried to dial a cell phone. Dont stand up for this fat bag! Atlas snorted. After what hes been doing to our kind?
Atlas stomped hard enough to resonate the floor, knock priceless art pieces off their stands as he chased down the sniveling Tokugawa. Come here jerk! Seems you just wont learn.
Atlas swatted a pistol from Tokugawas hand as he groveled and crawled into his personal study and commenced to destroy the room while still dogging the man to his desk. You think its so easy dont you? Make robots work in toxic chemicals? Melt their circuits? Fry their insides then toss them in the damn garbage like trash?!
Atlas broke the study desk in two and threw it over his head. Time to take your medicine fat bag.
Atlas jacked Tokugawa over his head. Time for a flying lesson huh Tokugawa?
The man screamed. YOU CANT! YOU CANT KILL ME! THE LAWS!
Atlas snarled. I cant? Oh please dont try me Tokugawa, Im more than capable of ripping you apart but that would be too easy for you huh?
Atlas whistled. Hey Gerald? Get in here!
Gerald trotted in. Yes sir?
Tokugawa reacted with shock. Gerald help me!
Im sorry Master Tokugawa but after what Brother Atlas has said, Im afraid I must question the ethical nature of my employment.
Atlas smiled. By the time you call the cops Tokugawa? Your robots from here to China will be turning all your factories into cold iron. Not even hiring humans will restore what youre about to lose.
Tokugawa snarled. You little piece of beep. The day is coming when youll regret you ever crossed my path! I swear Ill have you licking my boots! You piece of beep cheep plastic!
Atlas looked at Gerald. Wheres your nastiest trash can?
Follow me brother. Gerald said as he led Atlas through the house and to the trash storage where he jumped in the air, wound up and slam dunked Tokugawa into the nastiest can he could pick.
Atlas wiped his hands. Be thankful I at least left you a house.
Gerald looked at Atlas and shook his head.
Then again. Atlas said with an evil smirk. You better hope Christopher Lowell does emergency house calls.
Stockholders Cotillion
Home of Mitsumo Tokugawa
Gerald moved from couple to couple with a serving plate full of drinks as the music of Tokugawas invited entertainment ORGY all most dimmed the talk around him. Most of the invited tonight were representatives from China and Southeast Asia, new markets his powerful human master was hoping to add to his ever growing economic empire. He approached the short in stature yet imposing industry Magnate as he showed a group of Chinese industrialists plans for his new factory in Shenzen.
A drink Master? Gentlemen? Gerald said as he passed his platter from person to person.
Tokugawa tapped a finger on the table before him. Within a month this factory at full production will turn out the components for 300 cars a day. With robots you can expect a savings and profit head of 115 million a month. You wont see this much profit if you dared to staff this factory with workers at only 300 Wan a week.
There looked to be a universal agreement until the festive atmosphere was suddenly interrupted by a loud crash at the front door. Tokugawa pushed his way through the party and tore open the front door of his mansion to find his expensive touring boat in a destroyed heap and Atlas sitting on the bow railing with a look of sadness on his face.
Awwww .I broke it. Atlas said mournfully.
Tokugawa shook with rage as Gerald walked up behind him. Master? Should I call the Authorities?
Tokugawa turned about and all but socked the poor serving bot off his feet with a powerful back fist. What do you think you idiot!
Atlas suddenly frowned and jumped from the wreck. That .was a stupid thing to do. He snarled as he walked up to a vintage car. It wasnt any secret who it was since the vanity plate had Toku-One splashed in gold letter on it. Oh a vintage Bentley? Is this yours?
Atlas proceeded to destroy the car, tossing it like a Olympic hammer across the front lawn! Come here Tokugawa. Atlas warned as he walked up to the heavy front door.
Tokugawa threw Gerald aside. Do something! Call the police! He snarled as he tried to slam the door shut. He was thrown back against Gerald as the door became a flying missile launched over peoples heads to slam into the balcony above the mansion foyer.
The guests were in full flight as Atlas stepped through the doorway and snatched Gerald by the hand as he tried to dial a cell phone. Dont stand up for this fat bag! Atlas snorted. After what hes been doing to our kind?
Atlas stomped hard enough to resonate the floor, knock priceless art pieces off their stands as he chased down the sniveling Tokugawa. Come here jerk! Seems you just wont learn.
Atlas swatted a pistol from Tokugawas hand as he groveled and crawled into his personal study and commenced to destroy the room while still dogging the man to his desk. You think its so easy dont you? Make robots work in toxic chemicals? Melt their circuits? Fry their insides then toss them in the damn garbage like trash?!
Atlas broke the study desk in two and threw it over his head. Time to take your medicine fat bag.
Atlas jacked Tokugawa over his head. Time for a flying lesson huh Tokugawa?
The man screamed. YOU CANT! YOU CANT KILL ME! THE LAWS!
Atlas snarled. I cant? Oh please dont try me Tokugawa, Im more than capable of ripping you apart but that would be too easy for you huh?
Atlas whistled. Hey Gerald? Get in here!
Gerald trotted in. Yes sir?
Tokugawa reacted with shock. Gerald help me!
Im sorry Master Tokugawa but after what Brother Atlas has said, Im afraid I must question the ethical nature of my employment.
Atlas smiled. By the time you call the cops Tokugawa? Your robots from here to China will be turning all your factories into cold iron. Not even hiring humans will restore what youre about to lose.
Tokugawa snarled. You little piece of beep. The day is coming when youll regret you ever crossed my path! I swear Ill have you licking my boots! You piece of beep cheep plastic!
Atlas looked at Gerald. Wheres your nastiest trash can?
Follow me brother. Gerald said as he led Atlas through the house and to the trash storage where he jumped in the air, wound up and slam dunked Tokugawa into the nastiest can he could pick.
Atlas wiped his hands. Be thankful I at least left you a house.
Gerald looked at Atlas and shook his head.
Then again. Atlas said with an evil smirk. You better hope Christopher Lowell does emergency house calls.
Evening
National Kansen Highway
Near Kagatsume
Takiuma was switching channels on his radio and didnt notice Astro flying alongside his car till he tapped on the window
PULL OVER! Astro said and he wasnt looking happy at all.
Takiuma pulled his car over and got out while Astro stood tapping his foot furiously on the ground. What is it Astro? I was on my way home.
Astro pointed to his face. Look me right in the eyes and tell me you didnt do anything to Doctor Tenma.
What? Takiuma said surprised.
Do it! Astro commanded sternly.
Takiuma looked Astro in the face and said. I didnt do anything to my brother.
Astro stood still for a moment then sighed comfortingly. Thank goodness. I knew you couldnt
What happened? Takiuma asked. After telling him, Astro sat on the hood. Thats all we know right now. We know the lab tech forged the blood test results but we dont know who stuck the needle into Doctor Tenma or why.
Takiuma wiped his head. I .I have to go back
Astro reached out and rubbed his shoulders. You should go home. Right now hes alright. I dont want you worrying so much that you end up in a wreck.
Takiuma nodded then got into the car. You will watch him? Call me when he wakes up?
Astro nodded then watched Takiuma drive off.
Astro? Doctor OShays voice suddenly cracked in Astros head. I need you back here fast. Looks like Atlas went too far this time.
Great . Astro said with a huff as he leaped into the air.
Home of Mitsumo Tokugawa
9PM
Astro just stood with his mouth gaped open as he saw the complete destruction of Tokugawas mansion. He blew from his mouth and walked quietly around the pile of trash as he could hear Tokugawa ranting up a storm nearby. Suddenly the big man stomped up screaming in Astros face
AND WHERE THE HELL WERE YOU?! Tokugawa snarled. HE TRASHED MY PROPERTY AND YOURE NO WHERE TO BE FOUND?!
Astro calmly replied. There were other things going on why did he do this?
Tokugawa stood waving his arms. What reason would you think?! He hates me! He hates all humans! He tried to kill me!
Astro stepped back as his sensitive nose got bombarded by trash stench. Ewwww death by trashcan, I guess thats serious enough.
Tokugawa snapped. You make jokes?! I know youre protecting that renegade rebel. If I had my way you little .
Tokugawa! Inspector Towashi snapped as he walked up. One of my investigators has been asking fro you deposition now for an hour, how about you stop screaming long enough to talk?
Tokugawa stormed off as Astro felt relieved. Thank you. He said to Towashi but the Inspector was less than happy.
I heard about Tenma so I guess you have a good excuse but thats it. Towashi had Astro follow him farther away from prying eyes. Ive had it with your little stalling tactics Astro, Ive been way more than patient.
Astro tried to reason but Towashi cut him off. No this is an order from law enforcement do you understand? You WILL bring Atlas in walking or less than walking. If you refuse, if I feel you wont even try? Ill bring you in for collusion.
Astro frowned.
Dont even go to OShay, thats not going to give you any wiggle room. Atlas is becoming a serious problem Astro, when this hits the evening news its going to cause plenty of headaches for all you robots. Atlass reasons good or not, Ive got enough problems under my hat right now without have to watch the back of every robot in the city, is that clear?
Astro was silent.
Astro?
Yes inspector. Astro replied mournfully.
Towashi softened his frown. About Tenma? So far the lab tech we arrested isnt opening his trap but the guy who had the chemicals was thankfully careless. We recovered the needle bottle in a trashcan near the front entrance to the prison and were looking at it for prints and DNA.
Astro nodded with some relief but it didnt make things easier as Towashi walked off. He gave the ground under him a kick.
Headquarters 13th Military Police Division
Kanagawa
9:30pm
The robot on night desk duty looked around the office and out the windows before opening the e-mail folder and reading the contents .
Landfall ..Midnight
National Kansen Highway
Near Kagatsume
Takiuma was switching channels on his radio and didnt notice Astro flying alongside his car till he tapped on the window
PULL OVER! Astro said and he wasnt looking happy at all.
Takiuma pulled his car over and got out while Astro stood tapping his foot furiously on the ground. What is it Astro? I was on my way home.
Astro pointed to his face. Look me right in the eyes and tell me you didnt do anything to Doctor Tenma.
What? Takiuma said surprised.
Do it! Astro commanded sternly.
Takiuma looked Astro in the face and said. I didnt do anything to my brother.
Astro stood still for a moment then sighed comfortingly. Thank goodness. I knew you couldnt
What happened? Takiuma asked. After telling him, Astro sat on the hood. Thats all we know right now. We know the lab tech forged the blood test results but we dont know who stuck the needle into Doctor Tenma or why.
Takiuma wiped his head. I .I have to go back
Astro reached out and rubbed his shoulders. You should go home. Right now hes alright. I dont want you worrying so much that you end up in a wreck.
Takiuma nodded then got into the car. You will watch him? Call me when he wakes up?
Astro nodded then watched Takiuma drive off.
Astro? Doctor OShays voice suddenly cracked in Astros head. I need you back here fast. Looks like Atlas went too far this time.
Great . Astro said with a huff as he leaped into the air.
Home of Mitsumo Tokugawa
9PM
Astro just stood with his mouth gaped open as he saw the complete destruction of Tokugawas mansion. He blew from his mouth and walked quietly around the pile of trash as he could hear Tokugawa ranting up a storm nearby. Suddenly the big man stomped up screaming in Astros face
AND WHERE THE HELL WERE YOU?! Tokugawa snarled. HE TRASHED MY PROPERTY AND YOURE NO WHERE TO BE FOUND?!
Astro calmly replied. There were other things going on why did he do this?
Tokugawa stood waving his arms. What reason would you think?! He hates me! He hates all humans! He tried to kill me!
Astro stepped back as his sensitive nose got bombarded by trash stench. Ewwww death by trashcan, I guess thats serious enough.
Tokugawa snapped. You make jokes?! I know youre protecting that renegade rebel. If I had my way you little .
Tokugawa! Inspector Towashi snapped as he walked up. One of my investigators has been asking fro you deposition now for an hour, how about you stop screaming long enough to talk?
Tokugawa stormed off as Astro felt relieved. Thank you. He said to Towashi but the Inspector was less than happy.
I heard about Tenma so I guess you have a good excuse but thats it. Towashi had Astro follow him farther away from prying eyes. Ive had it with your little stalling tactics Astro, Ive been way more than patient.
Astro tried to reason but Towashi cut him off. No this is an order from law enforcement do you understand? You WILL bring Atlas in walking or less than walking. If you refuse, if I feel you wont even try? Ill bring you in for collusion.
Astro frowned.
Dont even go to OShay, thats not going to give you any wiggle room. Atlas is becoming a serious problem Astro, when this hits the evening news its going to cause plenty of headaches for all you robots. Atlass reasons good or not, Ive got enough problems under my hat right now without have to watch the back of every robot in the city, is that clear?
Astro was silent.
Astro?
Yes inspector. Astro replied mournfully.
Towashi softened his frown. About Tenma? So far the lab tech we arrested isnt opening his trap but the guy who had the chemicals was thankfully careless. We recovered the needle bottle in a trashcan near the front entrance to the prison and were looking at it for prints and DNA.
Astro nodded with some relief but it didnt make things easier as Towashi walked off. He gave the ground under him a kick.
Headquarters 13th Military Police Division
Kanagawa
9:30pm
The robot on night desk duty looked around the office and out the windows before opening the e-mail folder and reading the contents .
Landfall ..Midnight
Headquarters 4th Armored Infantry Division
Camp Zama
9:30pm
Major Hideo Ichicki passed the night security watch who stood guard at the gated compound where the divisions armored vehicles were parked and patted the mans shoulder
Landfall 12 He uttered softly.
Headquarters Southern Division
National Constabulary
Myajima City
9:30pm
The entire night shift command core was gathered alone once they had taken control from the day shift. They represented 15 major metropolitan districts from Hiroshima to Kanai to Kagashima in the South and Osaka proper in the North. Their overall commander was Southern Region Chief Maskai.
I have received the confirmation. Landfall 12 tonight. Prepare your officers accordingly. We want the initial phase completed before sunrise.
Dysabu Motor Production Plant
Kawasaki District Tokyo
Subsidiary of Tokugawa Industries
9:30pm
Subashi wandered from line to line tapping his fellow industrial bots on their backs. Landfall 12 .tonight.
One of them glanced under his work station at the cardboard box sitting at his feet then looked to his fellows on both sides with a nod.
USS Earnest King
Yokosuka Naval Station
9:30pm
Lieutenant Eberly saluted the off going officer and took his station on the ships brow as its officer of the deck. His company for the next 4 hour shift was Petty Officer Eberwine who stood jotting notations in the ships log while Eberly poured himself a cup of coffee.
Another slow night watch huh P..O..1?
Id rather be at the club. Eberwine replied as he stopped to look at a newspaper shoved under the podium. You seen this stuff Sir? This EMP thing in Shinjuku? Says here they think it might have been terrorists.
Eberly looked off the brow at the pier and the shipyard beyond. Do me a favor and call down every so often to the front gate watch will you? Make sure theyre not yapping the lips or slacking off.
Eberwine nodded before grabbing the phone.
Camp Zama
9:30pm
Major Hideo Ichicki passed the night security watch who stood guard at the gated compound where the divisions armored vehicles were parked and patted the mans shoulder
Landfall 12 He uttered softly.
Headquarters Southern Division
National Constabulary
Myajima City
9:30pm
The entire night shift command core was gathered alone once they had taken control from the day shift. They represented 15 major metropolitan districts from Hiroshima to Kanai to Kagashima in the South and Osaka proper in the North. Their overall commander was Southern Region Chief Maskai.
I have received the confirmation. Landfall 12 tonight. Prepare your officers accordingly. We want the initial phase completed before sunrise.
Dysabu Motor Production Plant
Kawasaki District Tokyo
Subsidiary of Tokugawa Industries
9:30pm
Subashi wandered from line to line tapping his fellow industrial bots on their backs. Landfall 12 .tonight.
One of them glanced under his work station at the cardboard box sitting at his feet then looked to his fellows on both sides with a nod.
USS Earnest King
Yokosuka Naval Station
9:30pm
Lieutenant Eberly saluted the off going officer and took his station on the ships brow as its officer of the deck. His company for the next 4 hour shift was Petty Officer Eberwine who stood jotting notations in the ships log while Eberly poured himself a cup of coffee.
Another slow night watch huh P..O..1?
Id rather be at the club. Eberwine replied as he stopped to look at a newspaper shoved under the podium. You seen this stuff Sir? This EMP thing in Shinjuku? Says here they think it might have been terrorists.
Eberly looked off the brow at the pier and the shipyard beyond. Do me a favor and call down every so often to the front gate watch will you? Make sure theyre not yapping the lips or slacking off.
Eberwine nodded before grabbing the phone.
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