Old Nissan Plant
New Shinjuku
10pm
Shinsaku Ban had found a place surrounded by growth to enter the fenced in factory without detection. Perhaps hed missed Atlas being around or by good fortune would find the troublesome metal sprite fast asleep someplace. He was determined not to repeat the silliness of their last meeting.
The Sotetsu Store
Across from the old Nissan Plant
10pm
Astro waited till Mitsuhito was away from any minders before he started speaking. I regret I wont be able to sneak you out tonight. He said as he watched over the car plant from atop the Sotetsu sign.
I guess it must be important for you to Dis the Imperial sovereign who has called you to help him personally. Your imperial personage has been greatly harmed by this
Yeah
yeah. Astro joshed. Spank me with a wet newspaper
blah, blah
He heard the Emperor laughing at the other end. I promise once I do this for the police I should be able to make it tomorrow night.
Mitsuhito waved a hand. Think nothing
no rush. But I do insist you come for dinner one of these days at least. I may get to try my skills in barbeque, you never know.
Astro smiled. Deal! You pick the day ok? Suddenly Astro flattened himself out atop the sign and watched as Atlas landed on the main factory roof in the compound. He waited for him to go inside before jumping off the sign and lighting his leg engines.
The Nissan Plant
Main Building
10:30pm
GRRRRRR
..WHAT WERE YOU THINKING?!!!
Atlas cringed in his little hiding space above the floor of the main building from Livians rage as it bounced all over his head. You just had to do it
.didnt you? Its all over the news Atlas!
Livian I
. Atlas sat trying to explain. He was torturing robots
throwing them away like trash
breaking the law
.
You only made things worse! Livian yelled. You always think youre doing good but all you keep doing is hurting the rest of us!
Atlas could hear the frustration in her voice then a deep sigh
Turn yourself in. She said softly.
Huh? Atlas replied shocked. What do you mean?! Livian
ugh
.
Turn yourself in Atlas
before something worse happens please?
Atlas frowned. I never thought I hear that coming from you
Well some one needed to say it! Livian replied upset. You cant be trusted by yourself
you act like
like a spoiled juvie brat!
Atlas snapped. The humans made me this way! I hate them! Theyre all barbarian, sub-life form cave dwelling idiots! How can we trust
.
ATLAS! Came a scream from inside the factory. Atlas clicked off Livians complaints and peaked out hole in the wall of hide a way to see Astro walking and looking about the buildings lower floor. GET OUT HERE ATLAS! I KNOW YOURE IN HERE!
Astro watched as Atlas came out of his hide-a-way and stood on the balcony above. I guess I shouldnt ask why youre here huh? He said as he casually leaned against a railing.
You really did it this time. Astro said as he seemed to slacken. Now I HAVE to bring you in
I dont have a choice.
Atlas jumped off the balcony and landed on the floor with a loud thump. Tokugawa is a vermin, no different than the rest of em.
Astro backed away as Atlas started walking towards him. And that was your solution? Well if it was to get people to focus on the plight of fellow robots? It went bust the moment you decided to trash a mans house!
Atlas snarled. Better to trash his stuff than see him profit and have a nice lifestyle off the bodies of our brothers. Youre such a guideless, naïve tool and I guess its time we really had it out.
Astro kept backing away. Im begging you Atlas
dont make me have to fight you, I dont want it! I dont want to hurt you!
Atlas snarled as he got closer. I told you to bring your butt kicking sauce to this little barbeque because when Im finished, Im gonna serve your stupid pansy hide on a skewer for the rest of the world to know not to screw with our kind ever again!
Atlas pushed Astro backwards. Come on
.do it! Do it! Start throwing punches puppy dog! Mans little toy!....
Cut it out! Astro yelped. Atlas! Dont!
Atlas threw his hands to his chest for another hard shove but Astro rolled with it, caught Atlas in the side of his neck with a left hand chop, pulled him around off his feet and smashed his right hand into Atlass kisser!
The red boy bot bounced over the floor and slid to a stop feeling his face as Astro backed into a combat pose
.Stop it Atlas! I can help you, it doesnt have to be like this!
Atlas snarled as he got to his feet. You got some bite! But have you got the fight?!
Atlas took off, slammed into Astro and power drove him through a wall!
Shinsaku Ban was almost through a window when he got knocked off and thrown to the floor in a side room by the shock of the two bots crashing together through another wall! He got up to catch them in a full blown fist fight as he scrambled to the doorway and fumbled for the disrupter rifle slung across his back.
A block and kick, a kick and block, a side swipe to the head, Atlas snatched Astro from a failed punch, tossed him in the air and punched him into a beam on the ceiling! But Astro came back, snatched Atlas by his arms and whip lashed him into the concrete!
Atlas rolled around as Astro charged him and fired a finger laser at Astros head. Though it glanced off, it was enough of a distraction for Atlas to flip himself up and drive a fist into Astros chest! It dented the chest panel and sent Astro bouncing across the floor! I told you! You better bring the sauce or Im gonna put you in the trash pile where you belong!
Astro stumbled to his feet as Atlas flew up and snatched him by his neck! No! no
it doesnt have to be like this
. Astro said as he flailed and struggled against the powerful grip.
Atlas punched him in the gutt then in the face. Dont make me bust you up Goodie! Stop thinking humans are such saints, you know youre wrong!
I wont! I wont be like you! Astro snarled as he broke the hold and rabbit kicked Atlas hard enough to imprint a foot into his chest armor! Both of them scrambled to their feet determined to throw the next blow when a white flash suddenly bathed over the whole building around them!
Shinsaku Ban covered his eyes and dove for the floor out of reflex just in time as three missiles came through the roof, slammed into the floor around Astro and Atlas and everything went black.
New Fan Fiction: Walkies Some more.
12 am
It happened all at once from Naha City in Okinawa to Sapporo on Hokaido. Tokyo, Yokohama, Nagoya, Osaka, Fushimi, Fukuoka were all hit at once by EMP bombs. What robots were robust enough to keep running were soon paralyzed by a second wave of high frequency radio pulses
Anything electrical, digital, or battery powered was killed. Power grids, transistors, pace makers, wrist watches, flashlights, emergency generators, car computers...gone.
At the naval base in Yokosuka, the reactor of the USS King locked into SCRAM and the sophisticated fighting ship wound to a cold stop with a sickening hum. The call to battle stations had to be made the old fashioned way, a ships musician running through the hanger deck blowing on a bugle and screaming at the top of his lungs. Not five minutes after the whole of Yokosuka city went dark, a series of explosions rocked the Kings hull as her propellers were surgically blown off their shafts rendering the ship worthless.
In the China Sea between Japan and North Korea, Admiral Kansai ran onto the bridge of the destroyer Asagumo and watched in horror as her sister ship the Kurama exploded in a hellish fireball. The Asagumo was rocked by explosions in her rear and soon she and the other destroyers of JMSDF Destroyer squadron 12 were dead in the water without propellers.
At Atsugi Naval Air Station where confused air crews were trying to report to their squadrons, a row of fighter planes went up like a Greek fire bath. They ran and scattered as white ball-like objects flew low over the base strafing gas tanks, equipment, the runway and bomb storage bunkers. The blowtorching towers of flame lit up the whole darkened city of Yamato near by.
Doctor OShay was home in his office when the power went out. He found Zoran still in her bed but obviously not functioning. Unlike her brother she had no reserves to power herself back up so like a loving parent looking over a sick child, OShay pulled an extra blanket up to her shoulders, tucked it gently around her then stomped about the house mad as hell that he couldnt call anyone.
His imperial majesty was awakened by his loyal night servant who told him what he knew and beckoned the young boy to follow him to the old Imperial bunker in the courtyard. The last time it had been used was when his Great Great Grandfather Hirohito surrendered Japan to end World War II. The people always come before the Emperor. Mitsuhito said as he slipped out of his happy coat, dawned a pair of jeans and a black t-shirt and started demanding couriers go beyond the palace and find out what was going on.
The Prime Minister was awakened by his wife at their residence and was trying to use a telephone when a robot servant came through the door of their room brandishing a pistol. Sir please refrain from foolish acts? The current national emergency will be corrected soon.
At his own home, Inspector Towashi was awakened by his adopted daughter Tai Min who crawled into bed scared of the darkness and noises around her. Suddenly there was a knock at the door and two police officers came into the living room with their weapons drawn. Inspector? Are you alright? One of them asked.
Whats going on? Towashi asked. Whats all the damned noise?
Then Towashi saw where the guns were pointing. Sir please refrain from any stupid acts. This national emergency will be corrected soon.
At JSDF Headquarters in Tokyo machine gun fire suddenly erupted somewhere in the complex forcing several aides to carry General Red into a room where they barricaded the door and tried to activate an emergency phone system. No avail, the system was dead. One of them handed the General a cocked 45 pistol. Our own men are shooting at us General! Powers out all over the city. Theres been explosions
Suddenly the whole room went up like a volcano. Outside some sort of pulse blast of energy ripped through one side of the building and expended itself out the other side.
In Ayase City, Kanada and his bike gang slid down an embankment to avoid the shooting happening at the regional office of the national constabulary. An army tank rolled up not far from them and sent a shell exploding into the barricaded front door.
Livian was flying down side streets trying to reach Atlas at the old Nissan plant after he told her Astro had shown up. Like most robots she lost power and her bike crashed off the road and into a drain ditch. By luck she was pulled out and dragged into the auto shop of Juzo Kansaki where he laid her on a blanket in the garage.
At the Ministry of Science, Reno didnt pay attention to his scantly clad frame as he ran in his underwear and socks after being caught in the shower by all the noise. Still dripping shampoo from his hair he tried to make sense of all the insanity outside while trying to call Astro, the Doc or anyone from any phones he could find. Amazingly he found one robot still working on the 15th floor of the complex. Weebles! he shouted as he walked up. Weebles what the hell is going on?!
Weebles turned and shoved a rifle in Renos nose. He then gave the shivering youth a quizzical look. Would you mind restoring some decency in your appearance Mister Reno and while youre at it? Refrain from any stupid acts? The current national emergency will soon be over.
It was the same everywhere. Moments of intense explosions, gun fire and chaos were replaced by the sounds of tanks, police vehicles and armed troops and robots wandering around the cities and suburbs with the same repeated mantra.
Citizens remain calm. This is a national emergency which will pass soon. Government information will be provided in due time. Remain calm.
At his home, Kenichi soon heard Tamao, Abercrombie and other class students banging on his door with their parents in tow. Soon Kenichis house was full of people who seemed to have some comfort in a stable 11 year old boy who was no better off than they were. He tried to call some one but like everywhere else this night, things were quiet.
Back on the USS King, Lieutenant Eberly and the enlisted men armed with rifles suddenly came face to face with a white floating spherical object, obviously armed, that floated in front of the officers boarding ladder. Are you in command of this ship?
Eberly shook his head. I am the officer of the Watch.
Eberly heard a cocking sound from the sphere and it advanced forwards. I wish to relay a message to the Commanding Officer. You will surrender your ship at once. Failure to comply will result in the slaughter of your crew.
As if to prove its point, the sphere turned to one of the Sailors and disemboweled him with a single shot. You will surrender this ship at once! Comply!
Eberly turned and shook visibly. Get the Captain .now!
On the bridge, Captain Caswell watched as the spheres surrounded the giant aircraft carrier and herded members of the crew into a surrounded group. There was nothing he could do, no power, no weapons the choice of sacrifice while in keeping with tradition was utterly worthless
Send a message to Mister Eberly? He said to a crewman. Strike the colors, we surrender.
At other military bases and police stations across Japan came the same events with the same results. Base after base was surrendering to a collection of armed humans and armed robots.
It happened all at once from Naha City in Okinawa to Sapporo on Hokaido. Tokyo, Yokohama, Nagoya, Osaka, Fushimi, Fukuoka were all hit at once by EMP bombs. What robots were robust enough to keep running were soon paralyzed by a second wave of high frequency radio pulses
Anything electrical, digital, or battery powered was killed. Power grids, transistors, pace makers, wrist watches, flashlights, emergency generators, car computers...gone.
At the naval base in Yokosuka, the reactor of the USS King locked into SCRAM and the sophisticated fighting ship wound to a cold stop with a sickening hum. The call to battle stations had to be made the old fashioned way, a ships musician running through the hanger deck blowing on a bugle and screaming at the top of his lungs. Not five minutes after the whole of Yokosuka city went dark, a series of explosions rocked the Kings hull as her propellers were surgically blown off their shafts rendering the ship worthless.
In the China Sea between Japan and North Korea, Admiral Kansai ran onto the bridge of the destroyer Asagumo and watched in horror as her sister ship the Kurama exploded in a hellish fireball. The Asagumo was rocked by explosions in her rear and soon she and the other destroyers of JMSDF Destroyer squadron 12 were dead in the water without propellers.
At Atsugi Naval Air Station where confused air crews were trying to report to their squadrons, a row of fighter planes went up like a Greek fire bath. They ran and scattered as white ball-like objects flew low over the base strafing gas tanks, equipment, the runway and bomb storage bunkers. The blowtorching towers of flame lit up the whole darkened city of Yamato near by.
Doctor OShay was home in his office when the power went out. He found Zoran still in her bed but obviously not functioning. Unlike her brother she had no reserves to power herself back up so like a loving parent looking over a sick child, OShay pulled an extra blanket up to her shoulders, tucked it gently around her then stomped about the house mad as hell that he couldnt call anyone.
His imperial majesty was awakened by his loyal night servant who told him what he knew and beckoned the young boy to follow him to the old Imperial bunker in the courtyard. The last time it had been used was when his Great Great Grandfather Hirohito surrendered Japan to end World War II. The people always come before the Emperor. Mitsuhito said as he slipped out of his happy coat, dawned a pair of jeans and a black t-shirt and started demanding couriers go beyond the palace and find out what was going on.
The Prime Minister was awakened by his wife at their residence and was trying to use a telephone when a robot servant came through the door of their room brandishing a pistol. Sir please refrain from foolish acts? The current national emergency will be corrected soon.
At his own home, Inspector Towashi was awakened by his adopted daughter Tai Min who crawled into bed scared of the darkness and noises around her. Suddenly there was a knock at the door and two police officers came into the living room with their weapons drawn. Inspector? Are you alright? One of them asked.
Whats going on? Towashi asked. Whats all the damned noise?
Then Towashi saw where the guns were pointing. Sir please refrain from any stupid acts. This national emergency will be corrected soon.
At JSDF Headquarters in Tokyo machine gun fire suddenly erupted somewhere in the complex forcing several aides to carry General Red into a room where they barricaded the door and tried to activate an emergency phone system. No avail, the system was dead. One of them handed the General a cocked 45 pistol. Our own men are shooting at us General! Powers out all over the city. Theres been explosions
Suddenly the whole room went up like a volcano. Outside some sort of pulse blast of energy ripped through one side of the building and expended itself out the other side.
In Ayase City, Kanada and his bike gang slid down an embankment to avoid the shooting happening at the regional office of the national constabulary. An army tank rolled up not far from them and sent a shell exploding into the barricaded front door.
Livian was flying down side streets trying to reach Atlas at the old Nissan plant after he told her Astro had shown up. Like most robots she lost power and her bike crashed off the road and into a drain ditch. By luck she was pulled out and dragged into the auto shop of Juzo Kansaki where he laid her on a blanket in the garage.
At the Ministry of Science, Reno didnt pay attention to his scantly clad frame as he ran in his underwear and socks after being caught in the shower by all the noise. Still dripping shampoo from his hair he tried to make sense of all the insanity outside while trying to call Astro, the Doc or anyone from any phones he could find. Amazingly he found one robot still working on the 15th floor of the complex. Weebles! he shouted as he walked up. Weebles what the hell is going on?!
Weebles turned and shoved a rifle in Renos nose. He then gave the shivering youth a quizzical look. Would you mind restoring some decency in your appearance Mister Reno and while youre at it? Refrain from any stupid acts? The current national emergency will soon be over.
It was the same everywhere. Moments of intense explosions, gun fire and chaos were replaced by the sounds of tanks, police vehicles and armed troops and robots wandering around the cities and suburbs with the same repeated mantra.
Citizens remain calm. This is a national emergency which will pass soon. Government information will be provided in due time. Remain calm.
At his home, Kenichi soon heard Tamao, Abercrombie and other class students banging on his door with their parents in tow. Soon Kenichis house was full of people who seemed to have some comfort in a stable 11 year old boy who was no better off than they were. He tried to call some one but like everywhere else this night, things were quiet.
Back on the USS King, Lieutenant Eberly and the enlisted men armed with rifles suddenly came face to face with a white floating spherical object, obviously armed, that floated in front of the officers boarding ladder. Are you in command of this ship?
Eberly shook his head. I am the officer of the Watch.
Eberly heard a cocking sound from the sphere and it advanced forwards. I wish to relay a message to the Commanding Officer. You will surrender your ship at once. Failure to comply will result in the slaughter of your crew.
As if to prove its point, the sphere turned to one of the Sailors and disemboweled him with a single shot. You will surrender this ship at once! Comply!
Eberly turned and shook visibly. Get the Captain .now!
On the bridge, Captain Caswell watched as the spheres surrounded the giant aircraft carrier and herded members of the crew into a surrounded group. There was nothing he could do, no power, no weapons the choice of sacrifice while in keeping with tradition was utterly worthless
Send a message to Mister Eberly? He said to a crewman. Strike the colors, we surrender.
At other military bases and police stations across Japan came the same events with the same results. Base after base was surrendering to a collection of armed humans and armed robots.
3am
.
Emergency power cell activated .fusion system off line .full restoration 60 minutes .diagnostic check complete .functions restored .
Astro awoke in a smoky, fire covered, debris strewn word of darkness covered in debris. He could move his arms, a good sign, but not his legs, a bad sign. He crained his head to see a mess of concrete and steel over the lower half of his body but at least his toes wiggled so it wasnt a total loss. That white flash? An EMP bomb. What happened after that? Ugh .
Astro thought about his problem. He could sit and wait till his fusion reactor kicked in. He had 4 emergency power cells but hed drain those quickly trying to cut himself loose. He felt and found his knee joints were clear so he thought about disconnecting the legs and calling for Doctor OShay or Reno then he found communications were dead.
ATLAS! He yelled out. Atlas had to be alright, they were the same robot class after all so Astro called him several times before laying back and sighing Hes probably still out of it. Sheesh! If you wanted him that bad at least you could have told me to move before you fired those missiles. Astro snorted to the unknown attackers. He lay trying to catch anything beyond the rubble around him and so far nothing no radio, no television, no Internet? What the hell?
Suddenly he heard something rustling, tripping and cursing through the debris. Atlas?! He asked. Atlas if youre up, dont leave me like this? It kinda sucks.
Shinsaku Ban stumbled and fell next to Astro with a gasp. Mister Ban?! Astro asked as he watched the man clutch an arm. Are you hurt? Did you see Atlas?
Answer to your first question, I think my arm is broke. Answer to the second? No. Ban looked over Astro and sighed. How about you?
Uh .half normal and trapped. What happened? Who blew up the building?
Id like to know too. Ban replied wincing. I was watching you two brawl and the next minute Im doing summersaults and cartwheels like Bugs Bunny.
Astro sighed. I cant call anyone. No communications at all.
Theres no lights. Ban replied. Nothing its totally black all over the place. I did hear what sounded like explosions up to half an hour ago.
Astro ran through his diagnostic program again and huffed. 30 minutes
Ban looked about and saw that even his wrist watch was dead. If youll be alright, Ill go around here and try to make sense of this.
Astro calmly placed his hands on his chest. Not like I have a choice. Not even a deck of cards. See if you can find Atlas? Hes gotta be buried under this mess someplace.
Emergency power cell activated .fusion system off line .full restoration 60 minutes .diagnostic check complete .functions restored .
Astro awoke in a smoky, fire covered, debris strewn word of darkness covered in debris. He could move his arms, a good sign, but not his legs, a bad sign. He crained his head to see a mess of concrete and steel over the lower half of his body but at least his toes wiggled so it wasnt a total loss. That white flash? An EMP bomb. What happened after that? Ugh .
Astro thought about his problem. He could sit and wait till his fusion reactor kicked in. He had 4 emergency power cells but hed drain those quickly trying to cut himself loose. He felt and found his knee joints were clear so he thought about disconnecting the legs and calling for Doctor OShay or Reno then he found communications were dead.
ATLAS! He yelled out. Atlas had to be alright, they were the same robot class after all so Astro called him several times before laying back and sighing Hes probably still out of it. Sheesh! If you wanted him that bad at least you could have told me to move before you fired those missiles. Astro snorted to the unknown attackers. He lay trying to catch anything beyond the rubble around him and so far nothing no radio, no television, no Internet? What the hell?
Suddenly he heard something rustling, tripping and cursing through the debris. Atlas?! He asked. Atlas if youre up, dont leave me like this? It kinda sucks.
Shinsaku Ban stumbled and fell next to Astro with a gasp. Mister Ban?! Astro asked as he watched the man clutch an arm. Are you hurt? Did you see Atlas?
Answer to your first question, I think my arm is broke. Answer to the second? No. Ban looked over Astro and sighed. How about you?
Uh .half normal and trapped. What happened? Who blew up the building?
Id like to know too. Ban replied wincing. I was watching you two brawl and the next minute Im doing summersaults and cartwheels like Bugs Bunny.
Astro sighed. I cant call anyone. No communications at all.
Theres no lights. Ban replied. Nothing its totally black all over the place. I did hear what sounded like explosions up to half an hour ago.
Astro ran through his diagnostic program again and huffed. 30 minutes
Ban looked about and saw that even his wrist watch was dead. If youll be alright, Ill go around here and try to make sense of this.
Astro calmly placed his hands on his chest. Not like I have a choice. Not even a deck of cards. See if you can find Atlas? Hes gotta be buried under this mess someplace.
4am
The old Nissan Plant
Astro stood dusting himself off and dancing a little jig to make sure his legs werent ruined. He stood quizickly analyzing information streaming into his electronic brain as Shinsaku Ban returned with a bottle of oil and a bag of tools. Thought you might need these? He said.
Baby oil? Astro said smirking as he look at the bottle.
Thats all I could find. Ban said as he found a place to sit. No sign of Atlas the explosions were pretty devastating.
Trust me hes too mean to die. Astro snorted back. I got something scratchy stuff. Says theres a national emergency?
Ban rubbed his bad arm and Astro moved to x-ray it. Yeah you got a fracture. Let me splint it up. You have a T-Shirt?
As Astro bandaged Bans arm he continued to scan the airwaves. Its confusing. Im getting a lot of robot jibberish I cant make out. Secured here. Arrests made Astro looked about and pouted totally confused. What the heck is going on?
Just then some flashing blue and red lights showed up. Police. Ban said pointing.
Took em long enough. Astro said as he waved to the car. Can we get some help over here? This man has a broken arm!
The two police officers came walking up with blaster rifles in their hands as Astro smiled at them. Whats going on? I cant call anybody, the city looks dark, Im getting crazy stuff through my receivers. I think Atlas is buried somewhere in this mess uh .
Astro suddenly realized something was wrong when the blasters started pointing towards him. He quickly jumped forwards, snatching one out of one officers hand while the other missed hitting him in the head by inches!
What! Astro snapped as he batted the other rifle away. Whats wrong with you guys?! Has everybody gone nuts?!
The officers scrambled to their cars screaming into their shoulder mics while Ban snatched Astro by a hand. Something tells me this isnt a good place to sit! He started running through the debris pulling Astro behind him as balls of laser energy slammed into ground around them.
HEY! Astro yelled. DID YOU FORGET SOMETHING?! He picked Ban up by the seat of his pants and bolted into air!
Keep me steady and Ill hit em with my rifle! Ban snarled as he tried to pull his disrupter rifle from his back. Astro couldnt see what was chasing him but the explosions from the missing shots over his head told him these werent things to be playing with!
How close are they?! He screamed at ban.
Close enough to kiss! Ban snapped back.
Im not available! Astro snarled. His hip guns telescoped from his behind and cut lose a stream of armor piercing bullets that shattered one of the pursuing spheres like an egg shell. They flew low over the streets around trucks and cars, under overhead walkways and over the rooftops with three spheres blasting up debris all around them!
Suddenly the orbs turned a corner and found ..nothing? They floated about in a gaggle trying to find their targets when Astro jumped one from behind, ripped the guns off of it and whirled around like a top sinking his hands into its sides. AIR BOWLING! He screamed as he unleashed the sphere and sent it crashing into the others with a fiery explosion!
Ban felt himself lifted off the ground and carried through the city till Astro landed inside the tree fort he and his school friends had built as their club house. What were those things? Ban asked as Astro peaked out the window.
I didnt have the time to ask but theyre not friendly. Did you see how dark everything is? I didnt detect radiation or anything so its not something nuclear. Astro slipped down onto the floor. I still cant contact anyone
The White House
Washington D.C.
President Adam Jackson was about to finish reading a book and turn in for the night when a secret service agent knocked on his bedroom door. Mister President, the National Security Advisor is here to see you.
Jackson met the man half way in the room and slowly read the piece of paper hed been handed. Have we tried to contact the Prime Minister?
For an hour now Mister President. No word from our military bases or units. We got a transmission from Camp Zama of some sort of assault but it cant be confirmed. We cant raise the embassy in Tokyo or the counsel general in Osaka.
The President took a moment to think. Start calling the cabinet, the Joint Chiefs Chairman and put me in touch with the Commander of the Pacific Fleet at Pearl. Keep trying to get some news and some word from the Prime Minister.
The Residence of the UN Secretary General
Falls Church, New York
Current SG: Yun Ho Jung resident of China
Not involved? Involved in what? Yun said as he sat on his bed and fumbled for his remote. Japan? Yes I am watching the news now. Why am I supposed to be worried about our involvement? Mister General Secretary I must respectfully ask you again, what in devils name are you talking about? They mention only black-outs.in Tokyo. Yun paced the floor rubbing his hand through his hair. EMP weapons? You cant contact our Tokyo embassy? No .No .I will not call an emergency session over something as trivial as a blackout stop panicing!
Yun stomped his foot. Youve been drinking that French wine again havent you? I warned you against these over-indulgent tendencies of yours Han! Damn it! You havent changed since college, when will you grow up!
The Secretary General slammed the phone down and went back to bed.
The old Nissan Plant
Astro stood dusting himself off and dancing a little jig to make sure his legs werent ruined. He stood quizickly analyzing information streaming into his electronic brain as Shinsaku Ban returned with a bottle of oil and a bag of tools. Thought you might need these? He said.
Baby oil? Astro said smirking as he look at the bottle.
Thats all I could find. Ban said as he found a place to sit. No sign of Atlas the explosions were pretty devastating.
Trust me hes too mean to die. Astro snorted back. I got something scratchy stuff. Says theres a national emergency?
Ban rubbed his bad arm and Astro moved to x-ray it. Yeah you got a fracture. Let me splint it up. You have a T-Shirt?
As Astro bandaged Bans arm he continued to scan the airwaves. Its confusing. Im getting a lot of robot jibberish I cant make out. Secured here. Arrests made Astro looked about and pouted totally confused. What the heck is going on?
Just then some flashing blue and red lights showed up. Police. Ban said pointing.
Took em long enough. Astro said as he waved to the car. Can we get some help over here? This man has a broken arm!
The two police officers came walking up with blaster rifles in their hands as Astro smiled at them. Whats going on? I cant call anybody, the city looks dark, Im getting crazy stuff through my receivers. I think Atlas is buried somewhere in this mess uh .
Astro suddenly realized something was wrong when the blasters started pointing towards him. He quickly jumped forwards, snatching one out of one officers hand while the other missed hitting him in the head by inches!
What! Astro snapped as he batted the other rifle away. Whats wrong with you guys?! Has everybody gone nuts?!
The officers scrambled to their cars screaming into their shoulder mics while Ban snatched Astro by a hand. Something tells me this isnt a good place to sit! He started running through the debris pulling Astro behind him as balls of laser energy slammed into ground around them.
HEY! Astro yelled. DID YOU FORGET SOMETHING?! He picked Ban up by the seat of his pants and bolted into air!
Keep me steady and Ill hit em with my rifle! Ban snarled as he tried to pull his disrupter rifle from his back. Astro couldnt see what was chasing him but the explosions from the missing shots over his head told him these werent things to be playing with!
How close are they?! He screamed at ban.
Close enough to kiss! Ban snapped back.
Im not available! Astro snarled. His hip guns telescoped from his behind and cut lose a stream of armor piercing bullets that shattered one of the pursuing spheres like an egg shell. They flew low over the streets around trucks and cars, under overhead walkways and over the rooftops with three spheres blasting up debris all around them!
Suddenly the orbs turned a corner and found ..nothing? They floated about in a gaggle trying to find their targets when Astro jumped one from behind, ripped the guns off of it and whirled around like a top sinking his hands into its sides. AIR BOWLING! He screamed as he unleashed the sphere and sent it crashing into the others with a fiery explosion!
Ban felt himself lifted off the ground and carried through the city till Astro landed inside the tree fort he and his school friends had built as their club house. What were those things? Ban asked as Astro peaked out the window.
I didnt have the time to ask but theyre not friendly. Did you see how dark everything is? I didnt detect radiation or anything so its not something nuclear. Astro slipped down onto the floor. I still cant contact anyone
The White House
Washington D.C.
President Adam Jackson was about to finish reading a book and turn in for the night when a secret service agent knocked on his bedroom door. Mister President, the National Security Advisor is here to see you.
Jackson met the man half way in the room and slowly read the piece of paper hed been handed. Have we tried to contact the Prime Minister?
For an hour now Mister President. No word from our military bases or units. We got a transmission from Camp Zama of some sort of assault but it cant be confirmed. We cant raise the embassy in Tokyo or the counsel general in Osaka.
The President took a moment to think. Start calling the cabinet, the Joint Chiefs Chairman and put me in touch with the Commander of the Pacific Fleet at Pearl. Keep trying to get some news and some word from the Prime Minister.
The Residence of the UN Secretary General
Falls Church, New York
Current SG: Yun Ho Jung resident of China
Not involved? Involved in what? Yun said as he sat on his bed and fumbled for his remote. Japan? Yes I am watching the news now. Why am I supposed to be worried about our involvement? Mister General Secretary I must respectfully ask you again, what in devils name are you talking about? They mention only black-outs.in Tokyo. Yun paced the floor rubbing his hand through his hair. EMP weapons? You cant contact our Tokyo embassy? No .No .I will not call an emergency session over something as trivial as a blackout stop panicing!
Yun stomped his foot. Youve been drinking that French wine again havent you? I warned you against these over-indulgent tendencies of yours Han! Damn it! You havent changed since college, when will you grow up!
The Secretary General slammed the phone down and went back to bed.
Sunrise
Doctor OShays house
Finally. OShay said with comfort as he closed Zorans chest panel and watched the little robot girl stir back to life from the jury rigged power cell he installed. She sat up and yawned, looking at him somewhat funny.
Doctor? You look tired.
Ive been up all night in the dark Zoran. Im afraid we have no power any place at the moment, I cant contact the Ministry or your brother.
Zoran scratched her head. Did you mess with me?
I had to install a power cell to bring you back up. There was a big loss of power and your own reactor got shut off with it.
Zoran swung her legs around and walked down stairs to see Norra the nany bot still lying on the living room floor. What happened?
I dont know but I need you to be my cell phone since youre working again. Try to call your brother.
There was a knock at the door and when OShay opened it an armed uniformed soldier pushed him aside and aimed his rifle at Zorans head. Dont do anything stupid robot. If we so much as detect a transmission from you we wont hesitate to destroy you.
Zoran screamed and latched onto Doctor OShay. WHAT THE HELL IS THE MEANING OF THIS OUTRAGE! HOW DARE YOU COME INTO MY HOME!
Suddenly the Doctor got a face full of rifle from another soldier. There is a national emergency. You are to remain in your home. You shall deactivate this robot and await further instructions from the government. We will not hesitate to punish anyone who will not comply. Do it now!
Doctor OShay looked at Zoran. Im sorry I wont let them hurt you Zoran. He quietly got her to lay down and deactivated her.
Thank you for your compliance during this emergency. The soldier said. OShay grabbed him by the shoulder as he was leaving and almost got rifle whipped for it.
Whats going on?! Can you tell me of any news regarding Astro? Ive been trying to call the Ministry of Science for hours, please!
The soldier turned around. Astro? He has been declared a danger to the state. If he returns you will deactivate him at once. Failure to comply will mean death for anyone who helps him. You will comply.
OShay was horrified, he stood in his doorway with his mouth agape. Dangerous? Whats happening?!
The Tree House
Astro slept with his boots bundled as a pillow. He wasnt long resting when he felt Shinsaku Ban sitting next to him with the disrupter rifle in hand.
Ugh? Is everything ok? Astro asked.
If you define tanks as ok. Ive seen two in the last hour and soldiers have been going through the park. Wonder if theyre looking for you?
Astro sat up and rubbed his head. Some powers back and I think I can get a radio signal now no television. I got a cable signal. The image appeared in Astros eyes. Just a blank screen with the NHK logo for now.
Ban seemed relieved. Well so far theyre JSDF so its not a war or I dont think it is.
Astro slipped his boots on. I gotta get home.
Until we know whats going on Astro, I think you should stay with me. Those cops? Those crazy spheres? You should play it safe.
Morning
Juzo Kansakis Auto Shop
Livian woke up still on the floor of the garage, her senses spinning wildly as she tried to stand up. Juzo caught her by the arm and lowered her back down. Obviously youre not a hundred percent yet. Youre lucky though, your bikes trashed.
Thats lucky? She replied. Whats going on?
Huh, the question of the hour it seems. Juzo replied as he shrugged his shoulders and walked to a car engine on a stand. If it doesnt affect my business, I guess I shouldnt be too concerned should I? All I know is the police have been driving around saying something about a National Emergency and that the government had it under control.
Livian frowned, thinking of Atlas. It better not be you. She thought.
Juzo turned around waving a finger. They also said all robots need to stay put for now which means you shouldnt try going anywhere till otherwise. I dont want to call the police on you, you seem nice and I dont get many visitors to talk to.
Ministry of Science
Morning
Reno walked down the hallways as if another normal day had arrived. He was entering the front lobby of the building when Weebles came up behind him. Mister Reno, where are you going?
Reno looked back. Where I always go every morning? To visit Gidion?
Weebles floated around and blocked Renos walk. Begging your pardon Sir but I must imploy you to remain here for your own safety.
Reno snorted back. Look I still dont know what the hell is going on but every day I go over to the pool pen to spend quality time with Gidion, he expects me to be there and when I dont show he becomes a really pissy Porp-bot with a very irate attitude and then he tends to throw a fit and trash the place out. Now if youre going to take responsibility for the mess thats fine with me!
Weebles shook his hands. Oh no Sir! I was just concerned for your safety, I didnt mean how about I accompany you?
Reno agreed and they went over to the pool where Gidion was jumping and playing about. Morning Gidion! Reno said cheerfully with Weebles at his back. He knelt down and lovingly hugged the robot dolphin. You ok? He asked softly.
Weebles failed to take notice of the small radio receiver clipped to Renos ear. Whats going on? Gidion asked.
Wish I knew .whos my cuddly Porpy bot!
I dont like it. Gidion said as his eyes turned frownish.
I want out of here Reno replied. Do you want a treat?!
Gidion looked at Weebles and poked Renos shoulder. Grab my fin and hang on.
A split second and Reno was gone! Weebles paniced and fumbled the rifle in his hands as Gidion tore through the water and flew over the partition fence beyond into the sea!
ALERT! ALERT! WE HAVE AN ESCAPE! THE DOLPHIN HOLDING TANK! Weebles shouted over and over till several of the white spheres came flying down, over the pool and out into the bay!
Gidion surfaced with Reno hugging his tail. Grab the mouth piece! I have to dive! He shouted as he and Reno power dove into the bay.
It was a half an hour before they came up again under an old pier near the city, the robot dolphin lovingly rubbing his snoot against Renos chest. Im fine Gidion, thanks.
Gidion urged Reno not to leave him. I can take care of myself. You just watch your back and find a dolphin pod to hang with till you hear from me ok?
Gidion snatched Renos pant leg with worry. Oh come on Gidion, Ill be alright.
Reno hugged him dearly and tearfully sent Gidion on his way before climbing from the water.
Doctor OShays house
Finally. OShay said with comfort as he closed Zorans chest panel and watched the little robot girl stir back to life from the jury rigged power cell he installed. She sat up and yawned, looking at him somewhat funny.
Doctor? You look tired.
Ive been up all night in the dark Zoran. Im afraid we have no power any place at the moment, I cant contact the Ministry or your brother.
Zoran scratched her head. Did you mess with me?
I had to install a power cell to bring you back up. There was a big loss of power and your own reactor got shut off with it.
Zoran swung her legs around and walked down stairs to see Norra the nany bot still lying on the living room floor. What happened?
I dont know but I need you to be my cell phone since youre working again. Try to call your brother.
There was a knock at the door and when OShay opened it an armed uniformed soldier pushed him aside and aimed his rifle at Zorans head. Dont do anything stupid robot. If we so much as detect a transmission from you we wont hesitate to destroy you.
Zoran screamed and latched onto Doctor OShay. WHAT THE HELL IS THE MEANING OF THIS OUTRAGE! HOW DARE YOU COME INTO MY HOME!
Suddenly the Doctor got a face full of rifle from another soldier. There is a national emergency. You are to remain in your home. You shall deactivate this robot and await further instructions from the government. We will not hesitate to punish anyone who will not comply. Do it now!
Doctor OShay looked at Zoran. Im sorry I wont let them hurt you Zoran. He quietly got her to lay down and deactivated her.
Thank you for your compliance during this emergency. The soldier said. OShay grabbed him by the shoulder as he was leaving and almost got rifle whipped for it.
Whats going on?! Can you tell me of any news regarding Astro? Ive been trying to call the Ministry of Science for hours, please!
The soldier turned around. Astro? He has been declared a danger to the state. If he returns you will deactivate him at once. Failure to comply will mean death for anyone who helps him. You will comply.
OShay was horrified, he stood in his doorway with his mouth agape. Dangerous? Whats happening?!
The Tree House
Astro slept with his boots bundled as a pillow. He wasnt long resting when he felt Shinsaku Ban sitting next to him with the disrupter rifle in hand.
Ugh? Is everything ok? Astro asked.
If you define tanks as ok. Ive seen two in the last hour and soldiers have been going through the park. Wonder if theyre looking for you?
Astro sat up and rubbed his head. Some powers back and I think I can get a radio signal now no television. I got a cable signal. The image appeared in Astros eyes. Just a blank screen with the NHK logo for now.
Ban seemed relieved. Well so far theyre JSDF so its not a war or I dont think it is.
Astro slipped his boots on. I gotta get home.
Until we know whats going on Astro, I think you should stay with me. Those cops? Those crazy spheres? You should play it safe.
Morning
Juzo Kansakis Auto Shop
Livian woke up still on the floor of the garage, her senses spinning wildly as she tried to stand up. Juzo caught her by the arm and lowered her back down. Obviously youre not a hundred percent yet. Youre lucky though, your bikes trashed.
Thats lucky? She replied. Whats going on?
Huh, the question of the hour it seems. Juzo replied as he shrugged his shoulders and walked to a car engine on a stand. If it doesnt affect my business, I guess I shouldnt be too concerned should I? All I know is the police have been driving around saying something about a National Emergency and that the government had it under control.
Livian frowned, thinking of Atlas. It better not be you. She thought.
Juzo turned around waving a finger. They also said all robots need to stay put for now which means you shouldnt try going anywhere till otherwise. I dont want to call the police on you, you seem nice and I dont get many visitors to talk to.
Ministry of Science
Morning
Reno walked down the hallways as if another normal day had arrived. He was entering the front lobby of the building when Weebles came up behind him. Mister Reno, where are you going?
Reno looked back. Where I always go every morning? To visit Gidion?
Weebles floated around and blocked Renos walk. Begging your pardon Sir but I must imploy you to remain here for your own safety.
Reno snorted back. Look I still dont know what the hell is going on but every day I go over to the pool pen to spend quality time with Gidion, he expects me to be there and when I dont show he becomes a really pissy Porp-bot with a very irate attitude and then he tends to throw a fit and trash the place out. Now if youre going to take responsibility for the mess thats fine with me!
Weebles shook his hands. Oh no Sir! I was just concerned for your safety, I didnt mean how about I accompany you?
Reno agreed and they went over to the pool where Gidion was jumping and playing about. Morning Gidion! Reno said cheerfully with Weebles at his back. He knelt down and lovingly hugged the robot dolphin. You ok? He asked softly.
Weebles failed to take notice of the small radio receiver clipped to Renos ear. Whats going on? Gidion asked.
Wish I knew .whos my cuddly Porpy bot!
I dont like it. Gidion said as his eyes turned frownish.
I want out of here Reno replied. Do you want a treat?!
Gidion looked at Weebles and poked Renos shoulder. Grab my fin and hang on.
A split second and Reno was gone! Weebles paniced and fumbled the rifle in his hands as Gidion tore through the water and flew over the partition fence beyond into the sea!
ALERT! ALERT! WE HAVE AN ESCAPE! THE DOLPHIN HOLDING TANK! Weebles shouted over and over till several of the white spheres came flying down, over the pool and out into the bay!
Gidion surfaced with Reno hugging his tail. Grab the mouth piece! I have to dive! He shouted as he and Reno power dove into the bay.
It was a half an hour before they came up again under an old pier near the city, the robot dolphin lovingly rubbing his snoot against Renos chest. Im fine Gidion, thanks.
Gidion urged Reno not to leave him. I can take care of myself. You just watch your back and find a dolphin pod to hang with till you hear from me ok?
Gidion snatched Renos pant leg with worry. Oh come on Gidion, Ill be alright.
Reno hugged him dearly and tearfully sent Gidion on his way before climbing from the water.
The Tree House
Morning
The sphere floated in through the window and spun about before leaving. It didn’t see anything worth staying for…
Of course it didn’t look up at the ceiling where Astro was spread out spider like with Ban laying on top of him. “We can’t stay here all day.” Ban said.
“Well it’s not like I can go walking around.” Astro replied smirking. “The pointy head, these thick boots and well…I’m not exactly camouflaged huh?”
As they climbed down though, Ban saw a soldier walking around the park by himself. “Must be special forces, he’s wearing a beret.”
Astro pursed his lips. “I hope I don’t get spotted.” He jumped out of the window, landed behind the soldier and slapped his hands on the man’s shoulders. An electric charge raced through his body and knocked the soldier out cold. Astro picked him up and took him back to the tree fort.
Ban watched as Astro adjusted the Beret. “How do I look?”
“Silly.” Ban replied. “The clothes are so baggy you’ll be spotted.”
Astro stood up and tucked as many of the drooping folds as he could. “Well it might get me home at least. You have to get to a hospital for that arm, that’s the first thing.”
Astro flew Ban to the ground and threw the rifle over his shoulder. “Just act like I found you in a car accident if anyone asks.” Astro modified his voice to sound a little older. “How do I sound now?”
“Like a midget who got lucky.” Ban replied. “This is foolish.”
Astro smirked. “Everything’s foolish today so it really doesn’t matter.”
The Imperial Palace
Tokyo
Mitsuhito stood brooding at the television as his family Maiden walked into his office. “Your majesty. The court representatives have returned, seems they were met by police, robots or soldiers at some of the government offices. No reasons were given.”
“It’s inexcusable.” Mitsuhito snorted. “I don’t care if there’s a conception of my age but no one refuses the questions of the Imperial house. My Father, my Grandfather and our fathers before wouldn’t tolerate it!”
Mitsuhito stormed to his closet and snatched a jacket. “Majesty where do you think you’re going?”
“To get answers. Let’s see anyone throw excuses when I’m waving a fist in their face.”
The Maiden took him by the arms. “You know it’s not your place. Your grandfathers always respected the law and the trust of the people. The Emperor must not meddle in affairs of state.”
Mitsuhito frowned. “The Emperor is entrusted with the safety of his people, especially when it appears something dire has happened to them. I refuse to remain shelled up and silent! That was allowed before with dire results.”
The Maiden slowly removed the jacket from Mitsuhito’s hand. “Majesty…As I was entrusted to watch over you from the day of your birth, it is my sacred duty to your mother that I protect you and this I will do at any cost, your protest or not. Now let us wait and act carefully not rashfully.”
The boy nodded. “At least the power’s back on. I’ll….I’ll be playing my XBOX for a while. Call me if things change.”
Kenichi’s House
Morning
Tamao, Kenichi, Abercrombie and others from their class sat eating Cheerios and looking every so often at the television screen.
“This sucks!” Tamao snorted. “We’ve played all the games, how long do we have to sit like this?”
“Till we’re told.” Kenichi replied.
“Did you see the tanks?” Crombie said scratching his head. “All night long they’ve gone up and down our street. Do you think it’s a war?”
“If it is, it’s the most quiet war I’ve ever heard.” A girl said as she sat next to Kenichi. “Maybe it’s a monster?”
“What am imagination! Yeah…Godzilla and Mothra have invaded the Ginza looking for the secret stash of girl’s panties to take over the world.” Tamao said mournfully. “Duh! What a dumb idea?!”
“Oh yeah?!” The girl snorted back. She jumped on Tamao and attacked him causing a pig pile of screaming kids trying to make sense out of the senseless…at least till the television started making chime noises…
“Hold it!” kenichi shouted. “Something’s coming on!”
Bushin Street
Across from Number 7 community hospital
New Shinjuku
Astro stopped and sat with Ban next to a trash dumpster. “Hold it…NHK’s about to say something.”
Doctor O’Shay’s House
Doctor O’Shay turned Zoran back on and sat her in front of the television. “Don’t try calling your brother you understand? If he calls you, don’t answer it.”
“But?” Zoran looked upset.
“For his safety Zoran. Until we find out what’s going on.” O’Shay lovingly petted her.
The office of the KEHL
Tokyo
As many people as could packed into the small office room as the NHK broadcast began. Some gasped as they saw not the usual announcers for the morning news report but a single emotionless robot sitting in their place.
“What the hell is this?!” Zenzo snorted out. “Since when do robots broadcast the news?”
NHK Announcement
Citizens of Japan,
Last night an extraordinary emergency required a rapid response of the government. Thankfully the nature of this pending unrest was quickly resolved with little violence. We regret the confusion and undue stress that has been brought upon you and rest assured your government is working swiftly to restore a climate of normalcy. In reasonable time, your government will fully disclose all details of the situation and the steps it will take to bring a new and exciting future for both our nation and the world. Please cooperate with public authorities, refrain from acts which could disrupt the peace and go about your normal lives. We will speak again with you soon. This concludes this broadcast.
Bushin Street
Across from Number 7 community hospital
New Shinjuku
Astro pushed Ban towards the hospital. “Go…you need to see a doctor.”
“Unrest? Normalcy? Situation? What kind of bull are they throwing?” Ban complained.
“Whatever it is…it stinks.” Astro snorted. “Go!”
Ban turned around. “Astro? What are you going to do?”
“I don’t know.” Astro replied frowning. “I tried to call home again and no one’s answering. Right now I guess I should just keep my eyes open and keep hidden.” He rubbed Ban’s arm. “If you happen to go to my house? Will you tell Doctor O’Shay I’m fine? And give my sister a kiss for me? She’s probably screaming.”
Ban nodded and rubbed Astro’s head. “Take care of yourself ok?”
The office of the KEHL
Tokyo
Zenzo screamed up a storm. “I KNEW IT! I GOD DAMNED *&^%$$ KNEW IT!” He cleaned his desk with a hand swipe and snarled at the crowded room. “I told you all this was coming! You don’t put a God damned robot on NHK unless there’s been a coup de etat!”
“One problem though.” William Hunt replied. “We’ve seen the police and the military running around and they’re enforcing things. This can’t be a robot coup.”
“Yeah!” Another person said. “I’ve seen armed robots running around with the cops so how can it be a robot rebellion?”
Zenzo snarled. “Well whatever it is? Telling us to sit on our butts and remain calm is a flying sack of *&^% ! Sit down my foot, yeah we’ll sit alright…sit on their front door step with clubs and see how they like it!”
Storage Shed
Ayase
Kenada watched more of the gang show up since the world by mouth message traveled over Ayase City fast. The only one he couldn’t contact was Livian and that made him nervous.
“Ok…I have something to say.” Shinji said as he walked in out of breath. “The military has control of the constabulary office. I saw soldiers and…..and robots dragging dead cops out….gasp…..gasp….some cops were still resisting…they….they….”
“What?” Kenada asked.
“They dragged them out and those ball things….killed them!”
There was gasping among the assembled gang till kenada raised his hand. “Everyone knows we don’t like the cops, we bikers and police have always been adversaries but never….never….have any of us wish ill on them. Anyone who kills a cop in cold blood is our enemy and that enemy deserves a full on ass kicking from us…anyone opposed?”
No one reacted so Kenada grabbed a baseball bat. “Now I don’t know what’s going on and you all don’t know what’s going on but being told to sit down and suck from the bottle of the government goes against everything we stand for. Anyone who’s worried about their own lives or the lives of their family can go home. As for me I have no family except this gang and our home is being threatened. Don’t know by who but anyone who screws with this family will eat this bat in their face. Who’s with me?”
The place exploded in cheers.
Morning
The sphere floated in through the window and spun about before leaving. It didn’t see anything worth staying for…
Of course it didn’t look up at the ceiling where Astro was spread out spider like with Ban laying on top of him. “We can’t stay here all day.” Ban said.
“Well it’s not like I can go walking around.” Astro replied smirking. “The pointy head, these thick boots and well…I’m not exactly camouflaged huh?”
As they climbed down though, Ban saw a soldier walking around the park by himself. “Must be special forces, he’s wearing a beret.”
Astro pursed his lips. “I hope I don’t get spotted.” He jumped out of the window, landed behind the soldier and slapped his hands on the man’s shoulders. An electric charge raced through his body and knocked the soldier out cold. Astro picked him up and took him back to the tree fort.
Ban watched as Astro adjusted the Beret. “How do I look?”
“Silly.” Ban replied. “The clothes are so baggy you’ll be spotted.”
Astro stood up and tucked as many of the drooping folds as he could. “Well it might get me home at least. You have to get to a hospital for that arm, that’s the first thing.”
Astro flew Ban to the ground and threw the rifle over his shoulder. “Just act like I found you in a car accident if anyone asks.” Astro modified his voice to sound a little older. “How do I sound now?”
“Like a midget who got lucky.” Ban replied. “This is foolish.”
Astro smirked. “Everything’s foolish today so it really doesn’t matter.”
The Imperial Palace
Tokyo
Mitsuhito stood brooding at the television as his family Maiden walked into his office. “Your majesty. The court representatives have returned, seems they were met by police, robots or soldiers at some of the government offices. No reasons were given.”
“It’s inexcusable.” Mitsuhito snorted. “I don’t care if there’s a conception of my age but no one refuses the questions of the Imperial house. My Father, my Grandfather and our fathers before wouldn’t tolerate it!”
Mitsuhito stormed to his closet and snatched a jacket. “Majesty where do you think you’re going?”
“To get answers. Let’s see anyone throw excuses when I’m waving a fist in their face.”
The Maiden took him by the arms. “You know it’s not your place. Your grandfathers always respected the law and the trust of the people. The Emperor must not meddle in affairs of state.”
Mitsuhito frowned. “The Emperor is entrusted with the safety of his people, especially when it appears something dire has happened to them. I refuse to remain shelled up and silent! That was allowed before with dire results.”
The Maiden slowly removed the jacket from Mitsuhito’s hand. “Majesty…As I was entrusted to watch over you from the day of your birth, it is my sacred duty to your mother that I protect you and this I will do at any cost, your protest or not. Now let us wait and act carefully not rashfully.”
The boy nodded. “At least the power’s back on. I’ll….I’ll be playing my XBOX for a while. Call me if things change.”
Kenichi’s House
Morning
Tamao, Kenichi, Abercrombie and others from their class sat eating Cheerios and looking every so often at the television screen.
“This sucks!” Tamao snorted. “We’ve played all the games, how long do we have to sit like this?”
“Till we’re told.” Kenichi replied.
“Did you see the tanks?” Crombie said scratching his head. “All night long they’ve gone up and down our street. Do you think it’s a war?”
“If it is, it’s the most quiet war I’ve ever heard.” A girl said as she sat next to Kenichi. “Maybe it’s a monster?”
“What am imagination! Yeah…Godzilla and Mothra have invaded the Ginza looking for the secret stash of girl’s panties to take over the world.” Tamao said mournfully. “Duh! What a dumb idea?!”
“Oh yeah?!” The girl snorted back. She jumped on Tamao and attacked him causing a pig pile of screaming kids trying to make sense out of the senseless…at least till the television started making chime noises…
“Hold it!” kenichi shouted. “Something’s coming on!”
Bushin Street
Across from Number 7 community hospital
New Shinjuku
Astro stopped and sat with Ban next to a trash dumpster. “Hold it…NHK’s about to say something.”
Doctor O’Shay’s House
Doctor O’Shay turned Zoran back on and sat her in front of the television. “Don’t try calling your brother you understand? If he calls you, don’t answer it.”
“But?” Zoran looked upset.
“For his safety Zoran. Until we find out what’s going on.” O’Shay lovingly petted her.
The office of the KEHL
Tokyo
As many people as could packed into the small office room as the NHK broadcast began. Some gasped as they saw not the usual announcers for the morning news report but a single emotionless robot sitting in their place.
“What the hell is this?!” Zenzo snorted out. “Since when do robots broadcast the news?”
NHK Announcement
Citizens of Japan,
Last night an extraordinary emergency required a rapid response of the government. Thankfully the nature of this pending unrest was quickly resolved with little violence. We regret the confusion and undue stress that has been brought upon you and rest assured your government is working swiftly to restore a climate of normalcy. In reasonable time, your government will fully disclose all details of the situation and the steps it will take to bring a new and exciting future for both our nation and the world. Please cooperate with public authorities, refrain from acts which could disrupt the peace and go about your normal lives. We will speak again with you soon. This concludes this broadcast.
Bushin Street
Across from Number 7 community hospital
New Shinjuku
Astro pushed Ban towards the hospital. “Go…you need to see a doctor.”
“Unrest? Normalcy? Situation? What kind of bull are they throwing?” Ban complained.
“Whatever it is…it stinks.” Astro snorted. “Go!”
Ban turned around. “Astro? What are you going to do?”
“I don’t know.” Astro replied frowning. “I tried to call home again and no one’s answering. Right now I guess I should just keep my eyes open and keep hidden.” He rubbed Ban’s arm. “If you happen to go to my house? Will you tell Doctor O’Shay I’m fine? And give my sister a kiss for me? She’s probably screaming.”
Ban nodded and rubbed Astro’s head. “Take care of yourself ok?”
The office of the KEHL
Tokyo
Zenzo screamed up a storm. “I KNEW IT! I GOD DAMNED *&^%$$ KNEW IT!” He cleaned his desk with a hand swipe and snarled at the crowded room. “I told you all this was coming! You don’t put a God damned robot on NHK unless there’s been a coup de etat!”
“One problem though.” William Hunt replied. “We’ve seen the police and the military running around and they’re enforcing things. This can’t be a robot coup.”
“Yeah!” Another person said. “I’ve seen armed robots running around with the cops so how can it be a robot rebellion?”
Zenzo snarled. “Well whatever it is? Telling us to sit on our butts and remain calm is a flying sack of *&^% ! Sit down my foot, yeah we’ll sit alright…sit on their front door step with clubs and see how they like it!”
Storage Shed
Ayase
Kenada watched more of the gang show up since the world by mouth message traveled over Ayase City fast. The only one he couldn’t contact was Livian and that made him nervous.
“Ok…I have something to say.” Shinji said as he walked in out of breath. “The military has control of the constabulary office. I saw soldiers and…..and robots dragging dead cops out….gasp…..gasp….some cops were still resisting…they….they….”
“What?” Kenada asked.
“They dragged them out and those ball things….killed them!”
There was gasping among the assembled gang till kenada raised his hand. “Everyone knows we don’t like the cops, we bikers and police have always been adversaries but never….never….have any of us wish ill on them. Anyone who kills a cop in cold blood is our enemy and that enemy deserves a full on ass kicking from us…anyone opposed?”
No one reacted so Kenada grabbed a baseball bat. “Now I don’t know what’s going on and you all don’t know what’s going on but being told to sit down and suck from the bottle of the government goes against everything we stand for. Anyone who’s worried about their own lives or the lives of their family can go home. As for me I have no family except this gang and our home is being threatened. Don’t know by who but anyone who screws with this family will eat this bat in their face. Who’s with me?”
The place exploded in cheers.
A Sewer System maintenance room
West Shinjuku
Morning
Sparks peaked through the crack hed made from lifting the manhole and slipped back down into the small room under the street which was nearly crowded with robots of different sizes, shapes and occupations. One of them, a clerical bot dressed in the uniform of a police officer, was relaying tales to the others gathered around him.
I was just the lucky one in the room who was EMP hardened. I had to play dead under this turned over desk. I saw that one robot just blowing away policemen. Then he turned on Ida poor Ida she was just our maid bot! She made coffee and pastry for the other police and that ball thing just tore her to shreds.
Sparks leaned against Robotsky, his bigger counterpart, and exclaimed. Its finally happened. I told you all the day would come when the humans would go too far! Though I wasnt exactly thinking wed resort to breaking the Robot Laws. The revolution has come at last my brothers!
Kegley stood up. Revolution? What revolution? You call murder a revolution? Some of us have seen humans murdering humans, robots murdering robots, robots and humans killing each other, this isnt a damned revolution!
The fridge, Sparks and Robotskys side kick threw a finger in the air. I bet Atlas would have something else to say about this? If anyone could find him of course. This is the result of years of human mistakes! The bulls have come back to roost.
Sparks shook his head. Thats chickens. Bulls do not roost.
Well bulls are meaner. Chickens cant exactly peck you to death.
Sparks slapped Fridge off the top. Shut up? If anyone has the brains to explain this situation its me? Thats why Im the leader of the Robot Revolutionary Liberation Front! HAIL RALF!
Robotsky shook his head. I dont like the sound of RALF. Its like what humans do when they drink too much you know?
Sparks shook his head. Please dont let me beat you senseless again.
Tree
Across from Old Nissan Plant
Morning
Atlas finally awoke and felt himself in a wild contorted shape as he slowly opened his eyes. The right one didnt work for an obvious reason as he felt the jagged metal sliver that protruded from it. His first thought might have been Livian, instead he silently called over and over again Astro? Come on Goodie speak up! Im all screwed up here.
He sighed but not mournfully. Astro was too tough to be so easily destroyed. But how Atlas ended up snagged by a tree was beyond him. He pulled himself strait onto a branch and stood looking out the foliage towards the remains of the factory building. The thought of losing his cherished fire fighter stuffie bear made him snarl but there was nothing he could do with the cops, the military and those strange spheres hovering around the site.
All he could think about was that he got set up and that the humans were not concerned if Astro was close or not when they blasted the building to bits. He and Goodie may have been polar opposites but Astro could never have called in a strike like that!
Atlas snarled as he slowly climbed down the tree. If Astro ended up hurt in any way? The fleshies were gonna pay in spades for it. He landed on the street and huddled against the trunk looking for a way to dodge out. Suddenly a sphere dropped from the air above and blasted the tree clean in half, knocking Atlas over into a wild scramble to escape getting shot!
I can tell this is gonna be a messed up day! He screamed as he took to the air with several Spheres hot on his heels.
A street in downtown Shinjuku
Mid-morning
Reno came out of a second hand store in torn jeans, a worn jacket, an empty bottle in a bag and stopped to wipe dirt on his face. Just another wino on a drunk, good cover he thought as he walked along taking in what he saw. Cops and military police along with some robots were throwing people in vehicles or pulling wires from other robots and taking them out of commission. All the while he kept hearing the same stupid public announcement from cars, radios and televisions.
He stopped by a park and snatched up a piece of cardboard to lay on behind a bush while he adjusted the earpiece and tried several radio frequencies. Astro? Hey buddy bot where are you? Call me back Reno tried several times with no answer and was about to get up when Astro called back.
Dont call me again for a while. He said quickly.
You alright? Reno asked but got no reply. Damn! he said as he threw the cardboard away and started walking again.
The White House Situation Room
Washington D.C.
The President and his cabinet were in session trying to make sense of the news coming from Japan so far what little they got given the obvious extent of the information control being exercised. The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, General Chamberlain, stood to give a report
So far we are still unable to contact any of our commands in Japan. We have contacted the JSDF Headquarters in Tokyo however General Red was not available and no clarification was given. All weve received from them is that the National Situation was under control and that some explanation is forth coming.
The President leaned forwards. What have we activated for alert so far?
Two carrier Battle Groups, the USS Vinson out of Washington State and the USS MacArthur out of Pearl. We have the 1st Marine division, the 3rd Marine Amphibious Group and the 4th Marine expeditionary brigade on Guam on standby. Four attack submarines and two fleet ballistic missile subs in the Western Pacific.
The President turned to his Secretary of State? Maddam Secretary?
I tried to contact Minister Shino at her residence in Tokyo but no answer. I contacted the Japanese Ambassador here and the UN representative in New York and both of them have had no contact with home. They state the same reason of National Emergency as we have heard.
The President rubbed his palms together. Is there any special forces near Japan?
The Chairman replied. Currently theres SEAL Team 3 led by Commander Marcinko. They left Iwo Jima aboard the USS Snark after a joint operation with the JMSDF.
The President rubbed his chin. Cut an order. I want an eyes on in Japan. Find out whats going on and report back.
The Chairman saluted and walked from the room.
Shinjuku
Mid-Morning
Astro left what Yen he had found in the pockets of the soldier clipped to the clothes line where he found a boys baseball uniform and walked down the street with the hat flopped over as much of his face as he could get it. His biggest worry was his points and with things looking as wild as they did he was suddenly debating doing a chop job on the one near the crown of his head but then hed lose the ability to silently send messages.
As for messages, that was a problem. Given what he saw so far, the flying spheres, the black trucks with small radar units running around all over the place, anything hed try to send could be picked up. He thought about Reno, dumping him like that was so uncool and hopefully hed understand the good reason.
Walking by a closed electronics store however, Astro did a double take with his mouth gaped. The television had his picture on it with phone numbers to the police and the military. Under the picture was the word .WANTED!
Wanted? Astro asked himself. For what?! He stood only briefly to try and catch what volume there was but the set must have been on mute so he kept walking. Home was not far off but what then? They probably had the house ringed.
Kenichi? His house was close. Astro decided to go there hoping he could then contact the Doctor and find out what was causing all the insanity.
West Shinjuku
Morning
Sparks peaked through the crack hed made from lifting the manhole and slipped back down into the small room under the street which was nearly crowded with robots of different sizes, shapes and occupations. One of them, a clerical bot dressed in the uniform of a police officer, was relaying tales to the others gathered around him.
I was just the lucky one in the room who was EMP hardened. I had to play dead under this turned over desk. I saw that one robot just blowing away policemen. Then he turned on Ida poor Ida she was just our maid bot! She made coffee and pastry for the other police and that ball thing just tore her to shreds.
Sparks leaned against Robotsky, his bigger counterpart, and exclaimed. Its finally happened. I told you all the day would come when the humans would go too far! Though I wasnt exactly thinking wed resort to breaking the Robot Laws. The revolution has come at last my brothers!
Kegley stood up. Revolution? What revolution? You call murder a revolution? Some of us have seen humans murdering humans, robots murdering robots, robots and humans killing each other, this isnt a damned revolution!
The fridge, Sparks and Robotskys side kick threw a finger in the air. I bet Atlas would have something else to say about this? If anyone could find him of course. This is the result of years of human mistakes! The bulls have come back to roost.
Sparks shook his head. Thats chickens. Bulls do not roost.
Well bulls are meaner. Chickens cant exactly peck you to death.
Sparks slapped Fridge off the top. Shut up? If anyone has the brains to explain this situation its me? Thats why Im the leader of the Robot Revolutionary Liberation Front! HAIL RALF!
Robotsky shook his head. I dont like the sound of RALF. Its like what humans do when they drink too much you know?
Sparks shook his head. Please dont let me beat you senseless again.
Tree
Across from Old Nissan Plant
Morning
Atlas finally awoke and felt himself in a wild contorted shape as he slowly opened his eyes. The right one didnt work for an obvious reason as he felt the jagged metal sliver that protruded from it. His first thought might have been Livian, instead he silently called over and over again Astro? Come on Goodie speak up! Im all screwed up here.
He sighed but not mournfully. Astro was too tough to be so easily destroyed. But how Atlas ended up snagged by a tree was beyond him. He pulled himself strait onto a branch and stood looking out the foliage towards the remains of the factory building. The thought of losing his cherished fire fighter stuffie bear made him snarl but there was nothing he could do with the cops, the military and those strange spheres hovering around the site.
All he could think about was that he got set up and that the humans were not concerned if Astro was close or not when they blasted the building to bits. He and Goodie may have been polar opposites but Astro could never have called in a strike like that!
Atlas snarled as he slowly climbed down the tree. If Astro ended up hurt in any way? The fleshies were gonna pay in spades for it. He landed on the street and huddled against the trunk looking for a way to dodge out. Suddenly a sphere dropped from the air above and blasted the tree clean in half, knocking Atlas over into a wild scramble to escape getting shot!
I can tell this is gonna be a messed up day! He screamed as he took to the air with several Spheres hot on his heels.
A street in downtown Shinjuku
Mid-morning
Reno came out of a second hand store in torn jeans, a worn jacket, an empty bottle in a bag and stopped to wipe dirt on his face. Just another wino on a drunk, good cover he thought as he walked along taking in what he saw. Cops and military police along with some robots were throwing people in vehicles or pulling wires from other robots and taking them out of commission. All the while he kept hearing the same stupid public announcement from cars, radios and televisions.
He stopped by a park and snatched up a piece of cardboard to lay on behind a bush while he adjusted the earpiece and tried several radio frequencies. Astro? Hey buddy bot where are you? Call me back Reno tried several times with no answer and was about to get up when Astro called back.
Dont call me again for a while. He said quickly.
You alright? Reno asked but got no reply. Damn! he said as he threw the cardboard away and started walking again.
The White House Situation Room
Washington D.C.
The President and his cabinet were in session trying to make sense of the news coming from Japan so far what little they got given the obvious extent of the information control being exercised. The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, General Chamberlain, stood to give a report
So far we are still unable to contact any of our commands in Japan. We have contacted the JSDF Headquarters in Tokyo however General Red was not available and no clarification was given. All weve received from them is that the National Situation was under control and that some explanation is forth coming.
The President leaned forwards. What have we activated for alert so far?
Two carrier Battle Groups, the USS Vinson out of Washington State and the USS MacArthur out of Pearl. We have the 1st Marine division, the 3rd Marine Amphibious Group and the 4th Marine expeditionary brigade on Guam on standby. Four attack submarines and two fleet ballistic missile subs in the Western Pacific.
The President turned to his Secretary of State? Maddam Secretary?
I tried to contact Minister Shino at her residence in Tokyo but no answer. I contacted the Japanese Ambassador here and the UN representative in New York and both of them have had no contact with home. They state the same reason of National Emergency as we have heard.
The President rubbed his palms together. Is there any special forces near Japan?
The Chairman replied. Currently theres SEAL Team 3 led by Commander Marcinko. They left Iwo Jima aboard the USS Snark after a joint operation with the JMSDF.
The President rubbed his chin. Cut an order. I want an eyes on in Japan. Find out whats going on and report back.
The Chairman saluted and walked from the room.
Shinjuku
Mid-Morning
Astro left what Yen he had found in the pockets of the soldier clipped to the clothes line where he found a boys baseball uniform and walked down the street with the hat flopped over as much of his face as he could get it. His biggest worry was his points and with things looking as wild as they did he was suddenly debating doing a chop job on the one near the crown of his head but then hed lose the ability to silently send messages.
As for messages, that was a problem. Given what he saw so far, the flying spheres, the black trucks with small radar units running around all over the place, anything hed try to send could be picked up. He thought about Reno, dumping him like that was so uncool and hopefully hed understand the good reason.
Walking by a closed electronics store however, Astro did a double take with his mouth gaped. The television had his picture on it with phone numbers to the police and the military. Under the picture was the word .WANTED!
Wanted? Astro asked himself. For what?! He stood only briefly to try and catch what volume there was but the set must have been on mute so he kept walking. Home was not far off but what then? They probably had the house ringed.
Kenichi? His house was close. Astro decided to go there hoping he could then contact the Doctor and find out what was causing all the insanity.
USS SNARK
SSN-989
300 Miles off Tokyo Bay
Mid-Morning
The Executive Officer keyed his mic. Skipper I have an EAM from National Command Authority.
Commander Volker took the Emergency Action Message in hand, read it and keyed a mic set over his head at the navigators station. Commander Marcinko to the control room.
Richard Marcinko was a legend in the Special Warfare community. One of the last serving plank-owners of the original group of Navy Frogmen commissioned by President John Kennedy as the Navys special warfare force. He was a short, stocky, rough speaking troll of a man with hulking steel arms and a mean looking disposition that made a Doberman pincher look cute. He walked up to the navigation table and took the EAM from the Commander
Japan? This is all you got? Marcinko asked.
Thats all NCA sent us. We dont know who the enemy is, or if there is one but since we cant establish contact with our forces in country youve been chosen as the eyes and ears of the President.
Marcinko turned to his Chief, Juble Early. Tell the guys were getting some beach time in Tokyo Earl. They better have their steel BVDs packed because the Geisha may be armed.
Early saluted and left the table. Now .where to land? Marcinko said as he pondered the map. Can you park us off ..here?
The Commander nodded. Satsuma? The way ins going to be a bit shallow Dick.
No more than my wife. Marcinko replied smirking. Sorry .my ex-wife. He laughed as he walked away. Another vacation for 21 bucks a day! I love my job!
Kenichis House
Mid-Afternoon
The other students and their parents finally left the house and Kenichi slowly made his way up to his room completely funned out of existence from the excitement, though he fealt hed never get any sleep. Wandering into his room he closed the window, drew the shade and slowly collapsed onto his bed. He cooed softly and was zoning out when a wet finger suddenly jabbed his ear!
EEEAH! DORK! He snarled as he drew a fist and looked over the side of the bed to see Astro looking back at him.
Missed you too.
Ugh! Ive been trying to find out where youve been all morning! Kenichi snorted. The whole worlds gone bozo and where are you?
Astro sat up and stretched. Playing dodge ball with those crazy spheres. You got any idea whats going on?
Kenichi shrugged. Totally clueless. Except the WANTED posters on television, what did you do?
I peed on the Diet building. Astro said proudly.
Cut it out! Kenichi snorted.
I didnt do a thing! Astro snorted out. The last thing I remember was I was trying to bring Atlas in and we got into a big fight then I wake up and a whole stupid buildings on top of me! Have you heard anything about Atlas on the news?
Uh uh Kenichi replied.
Astro sat rubbing his arms. The Tsumitomo fire? The Daisu noise thing? Doctor Tenma? This was something big in the works, it had to be. Astro frowned. I cant go home.
Kenichi sighed. You look beat up. I dont think my mom would mind you staying but
Astro shook his head. I cant. I wont put you in danger.
I think were already in danger enough. At least you can get some rest?
Astro sighed.
Just shut up and lay down. My beds big enough.
Astro crawled onto the bed and fluffed up a pillow. Ken?
Yeah?
Did anyone ever tell you you hit like a girl?
Kenichi swatted Astro off the head. Shut up and sleep?
367-90 Sumitchima Street
Eigo-cho Shinjuku
Atlas finally found a place to rest, thanks to the robot who snagged him by the wrist and pulled him through a thick hedge after hed clobbered the last of the pursuing Spheres that had dogged him about the city. Now he lay with his right eye tapped up after the bot had removed the piece of shrapnel.
She was well she looked his age appearance. Her yellow hair flowing around her shoulders, her soft smile made him content. Still she wasnt Livian and Atlas was burning to know where she was.
This one was a lone, her parents had not returned from their own jobs as hospital attendants, probably busy as heck at the moment.
Whats your name? He asked as she finished taping the patch on his eye.
Nicky.
Thank you. Atlas said as he sat up. You didnt have to do this. You might get punished for helping me.
She chuckled a little. Im already in trouble enough. Theres been plenty of soldiers and other robots coming by here.
Atlas snorted. Any idea whats going on?
Nicky put away the first aid kit and handed Atlas a small can of oil. I think its a civil war. There was a big battle at Camp Hushino twenty miles from here. I heard explosions all night long.
Atlas pursed his lips. Civil War? Robots and humans? I keep seeing robots with rifles too.
Nicky shook her head. Uh uh its robots with humans on one side fighting robots and humans on the other.
Atlas contorted his face. What the heck? That makes no sense.
Tell me about it. Nicky said frowning. I dont know where my family is. I cant call anyone.
Atlas slowly touched her face. If I were your parents? Id be proud of my daughter. Youre sunshine in a robots heart.
Nicky melted. Awwww .youre cute even if the television says youre a dangerous creep.
Atlas frowned. Yeah and Astro? Dont listen to the junk on television. Astros no danger to anyone well then again. Atlas smirked as he rubbed the dent in his chest.
Engine 17
The Fighting Dragoons
Mid-Afternoon
Only their prized 1985 show engine worked, a scarce collectors item but the situation couldnt be helped. Bobo and Timber were jumpered again for the 3rd time in the day! In a situation like this you couldnt afford to go short handed no matter what the chaos.
After the truck had been parked and most of the equipment dropped and checked in place just in case the alarm decided to go off again, Captain Kira called the Company together around the side of the fire house.
He stood with his shirt off dressed in fire pants with their dirty black suspenders leaving stains on his white t-shirt. Obviously when the Captain was going to say something utterly serious, he would dress like this for utter effect.
Obviously He started with his hands out by his sides. The world has gone totally belly up. If this isnt obvious about now then most of you have hit the bottle in an effort to stave off a certain level of reality.
The attempt at some levity sort of failed.
Ok Ill be serious. Things are totally Beeeeeeep do we agree?
The company reacted with nods and sounds of agreement.
Obviously the reining phrase of the day is .Whisky Trot Fox however right now I want you to look to your left to your right .look around .and remember to look down.
A jab at Timber and Bobo.
We are all brothers and sisters here. Robots and non-robots. Despite what we have seen our thoughts, our vices, our beliefs as individuals dont take priority over who we are! Right now all we know is that a bunch of idiots have decided to go into the communal stupid house and turn the whole country into a big messed up dung heap! Our concern however is life. We fight to save lives no matter who it is, thats what firemen do. Leave the other bull for the idiots on the soap boxes to fix. We fight fires!
Captain Kira walked up to Timber and Bobo. These are our brothers. We are going to protect them. You two have this family, you will protect them. Together we will go out there and keep doing what weve been trained for, what we were made for and what we were born to do. Is that clear?
The response was sort of mute.
God damn it! Is that clear?!
YES SIR!
Captain Kira nodded. Get some rest I doubt well have enough time to sit for a coffee social for some time to come.
As the meeting broke, Bobo walked off on his own before Timber snatched him by the arm. Woe! Where you going?
Bobo shook his head. The Captain can talk about us all being brothers but its a little hard to .you saw all that?
Timber pursed his lips. Everybody saw it. Trust me if theres not one person here willing to admit things are bad? Theyre not right.
Bobo followed Timber into the hose tower where they started hoisting the used lines to dry. Look You watch my back, Ill watch yours, as robots we stick together ok? Now Im not saying our own guys here would do anything but that doesnt mean some other nutcase might not be thinking of creasing our braincases with a sledgehammer.
Timber tapped Bobos head. Play .it ..cool.
Bobo nodded then closed his eyes. I cant get the image of that robot
Hey?! Timber snorted. I said .play it cool.
SSN-989
300 Miles off Tokyo Bay
Mid-Morning
The Executive Officer keyed his mic. Skipper I have an EAM from National Command Authority.
Commander Volker took the Emergency Action Message in hand, read it and keyed a mic set over his head at the navigators station. Commander Marcinko to the control room.
Richard Marcinko was a legend in the Special Warfare community. One of the last serving plank-owners of the original group of Navy Frogmen commissioned by President John Kennedy as the Navys special warfare force. He was a short, stocky, rough speaking troll of a man with hulking steel arms and a mean looking disposition that made a Doberman pincher look cute. He walked up to the navigation table and took the EAM from the Commander
Japan? This is all you got? Marcinko asked.
Thats all NCA sent us. We dont know who the enemy is, or if there is one but since we cant establish contact with our forces in country youve been chosen as the eyes and ears of the President.
Marcinko turned to his Chief, Juble Early. Tell the guys were getting some beach time in Tokyo Earl. They better have their steel BVDs packed because the Geisha may be armed.
Early saluted and left the table. Now .where to land? Marcinko said as he pondered the map. Can you park us off ..here?
The Commander nodded. Satsuma? The way ins going to be a bit shallow Dick.
No more than my wife. Marcinko replied smirking. Sorry .my ex-wife. He laughed as he walked away. Another vacation for 21 bucks a day! I love my job!
Kenichis House
Mid-Afternoon
The other students and their parents finally left the house and Kenichi slowly made his way up to his room completely funned out of existence from the excitement, though he fealt hed never get any sleep. Wandering into his room he closed the window, drew the shade and slowly collapsed onto his bed. He cooed softly and was zoning out when a wet finger suddenly jabbed his ear!
EEEAH! DORK! He snarled as he drew a fist and looked over the side of the bed to see Astro looking back at him.
Missed you too.
Ugh! Ive been trying to find out where youve been all morning! Kenichi snorted. The whole worlds gone bozo and where are you?
Astro sat up and stretched. Playing dodge ball with those crazy spheres. You got any idea whats going on?
Kenichi shrugged. Totally clueless. Except the WANTED posters on television, what did you do?
I peed on the Diet building. Astro said proudly.
Cut it out! Kenichi snorted.
I didnt do a thing! Astro snorted out. The last thing I remember was I was trying to bring Atlas in and we got into a big fight then I wake up and a whole stupid buildings on top of me! Have you heard anything about Atlas on the news?
Uh uh Kenichi replied.
Astro sat rubbing his arms. The Tsumitomo fire? The Daisu noise thing? Doctor Tenma? This was something big in the works, it had to be. Astro frowned. I cant go home.
Kenichi sighed. You look beat up. I dont think my mom would mind you staying but
Astro shook his head. I cant. I wont put you in danger.
I think were already in danger enough. At least you can get some rest?
Astro sighed.
Just shut up and lay down. My beds big enough.
Astro crawled onto the bed and fluffed up a pillow. Ken?
Yeah?
Did anyone ever tell you you hit like a girl?
Kenichi swatted Astro off the head. Shut up and sleep?
367-90 Sumitchima Street
Eigo-cho Shinjuku
Atlas finally found a place to rest, thanks to the robot who snagged him by the wrist and pulled him through a thick hedge after hed clobbered the last of the pursuing Spheres that had dogged him about the city. Now he lay with his right eye tapped up after the bot had removed the piece of shrapnel.
She was well she looked his age appearance. Her yellow hair flowing around her shoulders, her soft smile made him content. Still she wasnt Livian and Atlas was burning to know where she was.
This one was a lone, her parents had not returned from their own jobs as hospital attendants, probably busy as heck at the moment.
Whats your name? He asked as she finished taping the patch on his eye.
Nicky.
Thank you. Atlas said as he sat up. You didnt have to do this. You might get punished for helping me.
She chuckled a little. Im already in trouble enough. Theres been plenty of soldiers and other robots coming by here.
Atlas snorted. Any idea whats going on?
Nicky put away the first aid kit and handed Atlas a small can of oil. I think its a civil war. There was a big battle at Camp Hushino twenty miles from here. I heard explosions all night long.
Atlas pursed his lips. Civil War? Robots and humans? I keep seeing robots with rifles too.
Nicky shook her head. Uh uh its robots with humans on one side fighting robots and humans on the other.
Atlas contorted his face. What the heck? That makes no sense.
Tell me about it. Nicky said frowning. I dont know where my family is. I cant call anyone.
Atlas slowly touched her face. If I were your parents? Id be proud of my daughter. Youre sunshine in a robots heart.
Nicky melted. Awwww .youre cute even if the television says youre a dangerous creep.
Atlas frowned. Yeah and Astro? Dont listen to the junk on television. Astros no danger to anyone well then again. Atlas smirked as he rubbed the dent in his chest.
Engine 17
The Fighting Dragoons
Mid-Afternoon
Only their prized 1985 show engine worked, a scarce collectors item but the situation couldnt be helped. Bobo and Timber were jumpered again for the 3rd time in the day! In a situation like this you couldnt afford to go short handed no matter what the chaos.
After the truck had been parked and most of the equipment dropped and checked in place just in case the alarm decided to go off again, Captain Kira called the Company together around the side of the fire house.
He stood with his shirt off dressed in fire pants with their dirty black suspenders leaving stains on his white t-shirt. Obviously when the Captain was going to say something utterly serious, he would dress like this for utter effect.
Obviously He started with his hands out by his sides. The world has gone totally belly up. If this isnt obvious about now then most of you have hit the bottle in an effort to stave off a certain level of reality.
The attempt at some levity sort of failed.
Ok Ill be serious. Things are totally Beeeeeeep do we agree?
The company reacted with nods and sounds of agreement.
Obviously the reining phrase of the day is .Whisky Trot Fox however right now I want you to look to your left to your right .look around .and remember to look down.
A jab at Timber and Bobo.
We are all brothers and sisters here. Robots and non-robots. Despite what we have seen our thoughts, our vices, our beliefs as individuals dont take priority over who we are! Right now all we know is that a bunch of idiots have decided to go into the communal stupid house and turn the whole country into a big messed up dung heap! Our concern however is life. We fight to save lives no matter who it is, thats what firemen do. Leave the other bull for the idiots on the soap boxes to fix. We fight fires!
Captain Kira walked up to Timber and Bobo. These are our brothers. We are going to protect them. You two have this family, you will protect them. Together we will go out there and keep doing what weve been trained for, what we were made for and what we were born to do. Is that clear?
The response was sort of mute.
God damn it! Is that clear?!
YES SIR!
Captain Kira nodded. Get some rest I doubt well have enough time to sit for a coffee social for some time to come.
As the meeting broke, Bobo walked off on his own before Timber snatched him by the arm. Woe! Where you going?
Bobo shook his head. The Captain can talk about us all being brothers but its a little hard to .you saw all that?
Timber pursed his lips. Everybody saw it. Trust me if theres not one person here willing to admit things are bad? Theyre not right.
Bobo followed Timber into the hose tower where they started hoisting the used lines to dry. Look You watch my back, Ill watch yours, as robots we stick together ok? Now Im not saying our own guys here would do anything but that doesnt mean some other nutcase might not be thinking of creasing our braincases with a sledgehammer.
Timber tapped Bobos head. Play .it ..cool.
Bobo nodded then closed his eyes. I cant get the image of that robot
Hey?! Timber snorted. I said .play it cool.
Mid-Afternoon
Shibuya Prison
The Warden stood with one of his officers outside the medical building as two large and armed robots approached with a man between them. The warden ordered no resistance, not because he was part of whatever was happening but because the party offered convincing reasons against any heroics.
The man was young, about 19 or 20, with dark sunglasses and dressed in a black business suit. Warden, I am Rock. The man said coldly. You have a prisoner named Tenma here correct?
The warden nodded.
Good! You will turn him over to me. Please dont make things difficult, my friends here are not exceptionally good at artistic blood.
The warden turned to his aide. Get Tenma ready for travel?
Afternoon
Doctor OShays house
Zoran watched as the Doctor put his business coat on and adjusted his tie. Please dont leave Doctor? She asked him worryingly.
Getting back to work at the ministry will keep my mind from being consumed with fear Zoran. Dont worry, as long as you do as youre told, youll be fine.
A knock on the door stopped OShays progress and he watched as Shinsaku Ban walked in looking like a cat that went tumbling through the spin cycle. Albert?
OShay met him and walked him to the couch. What happened to your arm?
I learned how to fly last night. Ban said sarcastically. Actually I was in the middle of a fight between Astro and Atlas when the building they were in got leveled by missiles.
Zoran gasped! My brother! Wheres my brother?!
Ban reached over and gave her a kiss on the head. Thats from him. He said he loves you and you shouldnt worry.
Where is he? Ive tried to call Astro but he wont answer
And you should stop calling him. Ban replied. Or didnt you watch the latest news? Hes wanted by someone as a threat to the state.
OShay got angry. Thats crazy!
Crazy or not, its a reality. Astro knows he cant come home because theyre watching the house. Ive probably opened my mouth too much already! We better just drop it right now.
Zoran threw a fit. DROP IT! HES MY BIG BROTHER! THEY CAN DROP IT TILL IT FALLS INTO A BLACK HOLE!...
Zoran! OShay cautioned. Screaming wont help right now. Until we know more about whats happening we cant just go flying off the handle now be a good girl and behave yourself.
Zoran shook with tears streaming down her face and ran to her bedroom crying. Ugh . OShay sighed. This is so terrible.
Afternoon
Shigosaki National Highway
Between Osaka and Tokyo
It was only hours since Takiuma by good fortune had found some parts he scavenged from a junkyard to get his car going again and now he was being scrutinized by an armed soldier at a checkpoint that had cut the highway. Two heavy tanks blocked the lanes and the soldiers had already demonstrated their willingness to use force on those who tried to run the blockade.
The young man looked about 19 and he seemed to be taking his time, perhaps goading anyone to challenge his immediate authority. He probably gazed at Takiumas license now for the 2000 time.
And where are you going citizen? He asked.
I was on my way to Yokohama. Takiuma replied with a slight bow. My kid brother has suffered a stroke and Im hoping to make it there before nightfall.
The soldier gave Takiuma back his license. Proceed Sir and please continue to follow the orders of officials. I wouldnt want your trip impeded further.
Takiuma quieted the urgings to ask what was going on. It seemed the burning cars he was passing clearly told enough.
Samurai Jeffs
New Shinjuku
Afternoon
Livian finally got home after pushing her bike from the drainage ditch 8 miles back. She thanked her host for his kindness and understanding by helping him work on that engine block. She walked into the house first and called Atlas but got nothing back. She tried her phone, still dead. She tried the cell phone, that was dead. She pulled out an emergency hand radio and slapped a battery into it and thankfully it worked.
Atlas? She said quietly. Atlas? She rubbed the radio gently hoping to coax a response. Atlas please answer?
All she got was static. There were thoughts of going out to look for him but she deemed that a waste a time. Atlas wouldnt come out so easily unless he had too and in all this mess? He certainly wouldnt.
Kenichis House
Mid-Afternoon
Astro was sort of cooing and wrapping himself around a pillow when kenichi shook him. Hey? Wake up.
Astro slowly open his eyes and looked around. What time is it?
3:30. Theres supposed to be some updated broadcast on NHK in 15 minutes. Kenichi watched as Astro rolled from the bed and shook himself. You wanna call home?
Astro shook his head. Cant.
Ive seen those sphere things flying around. Im surprised they cant see you? Or can they?
Astro sat on the floor. I can cloak myself well enough that theyll get frustrated. Has there been any new news?
Kenichi shook his head. Nope. But they want us to go back to school tomorrow. They want people to go back to work. As if all this stuff never happened.
Shibuya Prison
The Warden stood with one of his officers outside the medical building as two large and armed robots approached with a man between them. The warden ordered no resistance, not because he was part of whatever was happening but because the party offered convincing reasons against any heroics.
The man was young, about 19 or 20, with dark sunglasses and dressed in a black business suit. Warden, I am Rock. The man said coldly. You have a prisoner named Tenma here correct?
The warden nodded.
Good! You will turn him over to me. Please dont make things difficult, my friends here are not exceptionally good at artistic blood.
The warden turned to his aide. Get Tenma ready for travel?
Afternoon
Doctor OShays house
Zoran watched as the Doctor put his business coat on and adjusted his tie. Please dont leave Doctor? She asked him worryingly.
Getting back to work at the ministry will keep my mind from being consumed with fear Zoran. Dont worry, as long as you do as youre told, youll be fine.
A knock on the door stopped OShays progress and he watched as Shinsaku Ban walked in looking like a cat that went tumbling through the spin cycle. Albert?
OShay met him and walked him to the couch. What happened to your arm?
I learned how to fly last night. Ban said sarcastically. Actually I was in the middle of a fight between Astro and Atlas when the building they were in got leveled by missiles.
Zoran gasped! My brother! Wheres my brother?!
Ban reached over and gave her a kiss on the head. Thats from him. He said he loves you and you shouldnt worry.
Where is he? Ive tried to call Astro but he wont answer
And you should stop calling him. Ban replied. Or didnt you watch the latest news? Hes wanted by someone as a threat to the state.
OShay got angry. Thats crazy!
Crazy or not, its a reality. Astro knows he cant come home because theyre watching the house. Ive probably opened my mouth too much already! We better just drop it right now.
Zoran threw a fit. DROP IT! HES MY BIG BROTHER! THEY CAN DROP IT TILL IT FALLS INTO A BLACK HOLE!...
Zoran! OShay cautioned. Screaming wont help right now. Until we know more about whats happening we cant just go flying off the handle now be a good girl and behave yourself.
Zoran shook with tears streaming down her face and ran to her bedroom crying. Ugh . OShay sighed. This is so terrible.
Afternoon
Shigosaki National Highway
Between Osaka and Tokyo
It was only hours since Takiuma by good fortune had found some parts he scavenged from a junkyard to get his car going again and now he was being scrutinized by an armed soldier at a checkpoint that had cut the highway. Two heavy tanks blocked the lanes and the soldiers had already demonstrated their willingness to use force on those who tried to run the blockade.
The young man looked about 19 and he seemed to be taking his time, perhaps goading anyone to challenge his immediate authority. He probably gazed at Takiumas license now for the 2000 time.
And where are you going citizen? He asked.
I was on my way to Yokohama. Takiuma replied with a slight bow. My kid brother has suffered a stroke and Im hoping to make it there before nightfall.
The soldier gave Takiuma back his license. Proceed Sir and please continue to follow the orders of officials. I wouldnt want your trip impeded further.
Takiuma quieted the urgings to ask what was going on. It seemed the burning cars he was passing clearly told enough.
Samurai Jeffs
New Shinjuku
Afternoon
Livian finally got home after pushing her bike from the drainage ditch 8 miles back. She thanked her host for his kindness and understanding by helping him work on that engine block. She walked into the house first and called Atlas but got nothing back. She tried her phone, still dead. She tried the cell phone, that was dead. She pulled out an emergency hand radio and slapped a battery into it and thankfully it worked.
Atlas? She said quietly. Atlas? She rubbed the radio gently hoping to coax a response. Atlas please answer?
All she got was static. There were thoughts of going out to look for him but she deemed that a waste a time. Atlas wouldnt come out so easily unless he had too and in all this mess? He certainly wouldnt.
Kenichis House
Mid-Afternoon
Astro was sort of cooing and wrapping himself around a pillow when kenichi shook him. Hey? Wake up.
Astro slowly open his eyes and looked around. What time is it?
3:30. Theres supposed to be some updated broadcast on NHK in 15 minutes. Kenichi watched as Astro rolled from the bed and shook himself. You wanna call home?
Astro shook his head. Cant.
Ive seen those sphere things flying around. Im surprised they cant see you? Or can they?
Astro sat on the floor. I can cloak myself well enough that theyll get frustrated. Has there been any new news?
Kenichi shook his head. Nope. But they want us to go back to school tomorrow. They want people to go back to work. As if all this stuff never happened.
Office of the KEHL
Tokyo
Mid-Afternoon
We dont know whats going on. For all we know this is a whole lot of nothing.
People getting shot, robots carrying guns, Martial Law are all nothing?
I heard rumors of a Coup De Etat by robots.
Yeah and those tanks with robots and humans riding on them is a robot Coup? What a bunch of bull!
Can we all calm down? Zenzo asked. Has anyone had any luck finding weapons?
William Hunt snorted. Japan and weapons? Are you kidding me?
Its who you know. Zenzo replied. Yakuza, Industrialists, hard core military fanatics? Theres weapons in Japan trust me. Hopefully our word of mouth communications dont fall pray to a traitor.
Speaking of traitors, suppose we find one among our ranks? What do we do?
Zenzo frowned. They get a fair trial then they get a fair blindfold. If theyre lucky we just might let them get away with ritual suicide.
Those robots were pleading for our help.
Fox em. Zenzo said as he gripped a baseball bat on his desk. Right now there are no such things as a good robot.
Shinkoyama Ginza
New Shinjuku
3:30pm
Reno stopped to lean against the glass of a book store where a television was ready to broadcast whatever was coming from NHK. He looked about and watched the two soldiers standing across the walkway from him. They didnt look too impressed by his raggy looks and he was hoping they wouldnt decide to have a little fun. He gripped the handle of the steak knife in his pocket for a little extra insurance as he turned back to watch the televison.
NHK Broadcast
This time the announcer was a human woman, or so many believed. Actually it was a human and she was looking more joviant than serious, there was a sort of twinkle in the eye that caused more than few upset nerves as she started to speak
Citizens. Last night, extraordinary measures were undertaken to redirect the future of Japan. It became obvious to many in our government and in the many citizens who are recognized leaders in financial and industrial matters that a new course for Japans survival and eventually that of the entire world needed to be set. Our new national leader will now speak to you. We urge you our fellow citizens to listen to him calmly.
There was a pause, though brief it registered among many with a slow almost maddening feeling of distress. Finally the voice came, though not with a picture. It sounded firm, yet youthful
Our fellow citizens. I speak to both Japanese and to robots as we are one people, one national identity. First I humbly apologize to all for the radical actions taken on behalf of the nation but this matter was forced upon us given the direction of the country and of the world beyond since the fate of both are woven and unbreakable.
Our nation has achieved a promise of technological, cultural and social accomplishment unheralded in the history of mankind, a nation where humans and robots have achieved an advanced society devoid of conflict and chaos. A state of existence which has not only benefited our wonderful nation but has begun to benefit the rest of the world.
To that end, we have taken the steps needed to continue this evolution, which is the natural order of the universe. It is a matter of evolution which can not be changed and will only benefit the entire Earth. We will finally realize the long held dream so many have yearned for, a world at peace, a world of societal advancement whos benefits shall know no boundary with Japan as its great steward. At long last we will achieve for all mankind the great promise of Haku Icho. I ask all Japanese and all robots to join us in this great movement.
In closing, we of the government wish our citizens to return swiftly to a state of normalcy. For our children to return to school, for our people to return to their jobs and their normal lives. Let us vow to work together in this new and momentous effort to take our nation and the world into a new era of enlightened peace. I look forward eventually to walking among you, our wonderful citizens of Japan, to join you in celebration of this new and wonderful world we will create together.
Nickys home
Atlas sat before the television tapping his feet together and brooding deeply while Nicky played with her lips and gave him a worried glance. What does this mean? She asked.
Atlas smiled at first then rubbed his head. Sounds nice but .
Nicky watched Atlas get up and grab his boots. I gotta go.
Huh? Nicky said stunned. Why? I was hoping you might stay till my parents came home.
He smiled at her. I have someone Im worried about. Once I knew shes fine, Ill swing back by, I promise.
He swung her arms and gave her a warm smile. Im sure your parents are just fine probably more worried about you than the work they have to do. Ill be back ok?
Nicky nodded and put a bag in Atlass hands. Some oil for the road?
Atlas almost blushed. Youre so sweet.
Kenichis House
Astro had some strange quirks whenever he was thinking and by thinking it was something deep. He leaned back against the wall, a foot raised and tapping behind him, his finger slowly rubbing along his lips and sometimes his eyes would concentrate on it as he suckled it. Every few moments hed glance at Ken, then at his finger, then back at Ken. It could drive somebody crazy.
What? Ken asked at last, the silence was irritating.
Astro slowly peaked out the bedroom window and turned back, his face now looking dreadful. Were all in danger everyone.
Ken snorted. Thats a little obvious.
Its much worse. Astro said as he peaked again out the window. All he had to say was Haku Ichiu. Its a little 18th century Hiku that means The Seven corners under one roof. An excuse for global conquest.
Astro looked out again. Theres soldiers going door to door down the street I havent got much time.
Ken ran over to a wooden toy box and pulled it from the wall. Here! You can sit inside this cubby hole and pull on the box with that steel grip of yours.
Astro shook his head. Im not going to put you and your mom in danger.
If were already in danger, it doesnt matter does it? I dont know what youre planning Astro but if you try to run out now theyll shoot the whole neighborhood to pieces!
Astro pursed his lips. Ken?
Kenichi snatched him by an arm and tugged him across the room. Stop being so heroic! Besides my moms making my favorite dinner tonight and Ill be insulted if you refuse me.
How can you think of dinner ?
Ken pushed Astro into the cubby hole. Just shut up and be quiet?
Tokyo
Mid-Afternoon
We dont know whats going on. For all we know this is a whole lot of nothing.
People getting shot, robots carrying guns, Martial Law are all nothing?
I heard rumors of a Coup De Etat by robots.
Yeah and those tanks with robots and humans riding on them is a robot Coup? What a bunch of bull!
Can we all calm down? Zenzo asked. Has anyone had any luck finding weapons?
William Hunt snorted. Japan and weapons? Are you kidding me?
Its who you know. Zenzo replied. Yakuza, Industrialists, hard core military fanatics? Theres weapons in Japan trust me. Hopefully our word of mouth communications dont fall pray to a traitor.
Speaking of traitors, suppose we find one among our ranks? What do we do?
Zenzo frowned. They get a fair trial then they get a fair blindfold. If theyre lucky we just might let them get away with ritual suicide.
Those robots were pleading for our help.
Fox em. Zenzo said as he gripped a baseball bat on his desk. Right now there are no such things as a good robot.
Shinkoyama Ginza
New Shinjuku
3:30pm
Reno stopped to lean against the glass of a book store where a television was ready to broadcast whatever was coming from NHK. He looked about and watched the two soldiers standing across the walkway from him. They didnt look too impressed by his raggy looks and he was hoping they wouldnt decide to have a little fun. He gripped the handle of the steak knife in his pocket for a little extra insurance as he turned back to watch the televison.
NHK Broadcast
This time the announcer was a human woman, or so many believed. Actually it was a human and she was looking more joviant than serious, there was a sort of twinkle in the eye that caused more than few upset nerves as she started to speak
Citizens. Last night, extraordinary measures were undertaken to redirect the future of Japan. It became obvious to many in our government and in the many citizens who are recognized leaders in financial and industrial matters that a new course for Japans survival and eventually that of the entire world needed to be set. Our new national leader will now speak to you. We urge you our fellow citizens to listen to him calmly.
There was a pause, though brief it registered among many with a slow almost maddening feeling of distress. Finally the voice came, though not with a picture. It sounded firm, yet youthful
Our fellow citizens. I speak to both Japanese and to robots as we are one people, one national identity. First I humbly apologize to all for the radical actions taken on behalf of the nation but this matter was forced upon us given the direction of the country and of the world beyond since the fate of both are woven and unbreakable.
Our nation has achieved a promise of technological, cultural and social accomplishment unheralded in the history of mankind, a nation where humans and robots have achieved an advanced society devoid of conflict and chaos. A state of existence which has not only benefited our wonderful nation but has begun to benefit the rest of the world.
To that end, we have taken the steps needed to continue this evolution, which is the natural order of the universe. It is a matter of evolution which can not be changed and will only benefit the entire Earth. We will finally realize the long held dream so many have yearned for, a world at peace, a world of societal advancement whos benefits shall know no boundary with Japan as its great steward. At long last we will achieve for all mankind the great promise of Haku Icho. I ask all Japanese and all robots to join us in this great movement.
In closing, we of the government wish our citizens to return swiftly to a state of normalcy. For our children to return to school, for our people to return to their jobs and their normal lives. Let us vow to work together in this new and momentous effort to take our nation and the world into a new era of enlightened peace. I look forward eventually to walking among you, our wonderful citizens of Japan, to join you in celebration of this new and wonderful world we will create together.
Nickys home
Atlas sat before the television tapping his feet together and brooding deeply while Nicky played with her lips and gave him a worried glance. What does this mean? She asked.
Atlas smiled at first then rubbed his head. Sounds nice but .
Nicky watched Atlas get up and grab his boots. I gotta go.
Huh? Nicky said stunned. Why? I was hoping you might stay till my parents came home.
He smiled at her. I have someone Im worried about. Once I knew shes fine, Ill swing back by, I promise.
He swung her arms and gave her a warm smile. Im sure your parents are just fine probably more worried about you than the work they have to do. Ill be back ok?
Nicky nodded and put a bag in Atlass hands. Some oil for the road?
Atlas almost blushed. Youre so sweet.
Kenichis House
Astro had some strange quirks whenever he was thinking and by thinking it was something deep. He leaned back against the wall, a foot raised and tapping behind him, his finger slowly rubbing along his lips and sometimes his eyes would concentrate on it as he suckled it. Every few moments hed glance at Ken, then at his finger, then back at Ken. It could drive somebody crazy.
What? Ken asked at last, the silence was irritating.
Astro slowly peaked out the bedroom window and turned back, his face now looking dreadful. Were all in danger everyone.
Ken snorted. Thats a little obvious.
Its much worse. Astro said as he peaked again out the window. All he had to say was Haku Ichiu. Its a little 18th century Hiku that means The Seven corners under one roof. An excuse for global conquest.
Astro looked out again. Theres soldiers going door to door down the street I havent got much time.
Ken ran over to a wooden toy box and pulled it from the wall. Here! You can sit inside this cubby hole and pull on the box with that steel grip of yours.
Astro shook his head. Im not going to put you and your mom in danger.
If were already in danger, it doesnt matter does it? I dont know what youre planning Astro but if you try to run out now theyll shoot the whole neighborhood to pieces!
Astro pursed his lips. Ken?
Kenichi snatched him by an arm and tugged him across the room. Stop being so heroic! Besides my moms making my favorite dinner tonight and Ill be insulted if you refuse me.
How can you think of dinner ?
Ken pushed Astro into the cubby hole. Just shut up and be quiet?
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