Rockman.EXE:The College Years-3-82:Great Battle of Light(sp)

[Blue Bommer]

Man, this took some time. This was a good chapter, with the birthday, and new PEAT SP's. And showing Noah's skill was a great addition. Only one problem, the "I HATE spicey food" line, made me cry.Well, not realy, but you get the idea.
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[Elizabeth]

Actually, Lumine being overpowered could lead to some interesting plot events. You've just mentioned navis not in the bad guy group having adverse reactions to the Crest of Arcadia, so why not demonstrate those effects on the character who is currently the good guys' greatest advantage?

Unless you were already planning to use the crest to turn Megaman into a Copy X parallel ...

[Viewtiful Starman]

Not gonna get in to what I thought of the chapter (I'll leave it at, I disliked it )
But I'm glad to see that you're noticing what's IMO, one of the large faults that annoyed me in the chapter.
Also, I like Nicol and Fefnir and I'm interested in seeing what you do with them.

[Lan1220]

Finally, an update. I've been dying for it. Still, you gave Noah too much attention and i'am glad you noticed that. Anyway, i'am looking foward to the next chapter.
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Sig credit goes to Hikari Angel

[SonicNigma212]

Well, I got to say that this chapter is good so far. I said that it's good, just not great. Well, honestly I don't know. Adding the characters from the MegaMan Zero series is good. I also like how you put in some personality for the new villains. Well, I've like with how you gave Noah some attention, but I have to agree with one of them for when he or she said that you gave him a little too much attention. Well, that's all that I have to say. I hope that you keep up the good work. Later!

Maurice A. Nigma :grr:

"Knowledge from the past is important,"
"it's what we do with that knowledge that determines our future."

[Blue Bommer]

Uh, you might not want to quote the entier chapter, thats just a wast. Next time, just peaces, and, please edit that. Or, just say it.
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[Flame Buster]

Seriously, thats really annoying... and AMZ I agree with everyone about Noah, I mean, how long has he had Lumine?
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[Midnight]

[Mari]

SonicNigma212: Refrain from quoting large portions of text next time, please. I've already editted your post.

Webbuilder, don't worry about it. That was a fair critique.
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Currently fangirling Edgy Eft and mplayer1.0RC1 -- firefox 2 is just okay, those are pure awesome.

[Mari]

SonicNigma212: Refrain from quoting large portions of text next time, please. I've already editted your post.

Webbuilder, don't worry about it. That was a fair critique.
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Currently fangirling Edgy Eft and mplayer1.0RC1 -- firefox 2 is just okay, those are pure awesome.

[Anime Master ZERO]

Thanks goes to TheWebbuilder for giving me the idea for this chapter back in season 2.

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CHAPTER 2-38
SciLab Ice Attack!

Greg stared down onto the street from the apartment window and sighed as loud cheerful music filled the air.

“I hate parades,” he mumbled.

“Why’s that?” asked Waya.

“The same reason I hate clowns.”

“You hate everything,” Nicol argued.

“Anyway, what’s with this parade, anyway?” asked Greg as he sat down at the table.

“The Prime Minister of Electopia’s in town this week,” Diana answered, “The parade’s just a welcome presentation.”

“Man, I hate government officials,” Greg moaned.

“You’re not the only one,” Waya responded.

“Well, you won’t have to worry about that for too long,” Diana said as she got up off the couch and placed the magazine she was reading on the coffee table.

“Why? What are you planning to do, assassinate the Prime Minister?” asked Greg.

“Not exactly.” Diana smirked as she walked over to the boys and sat down, “I’ve got something slightly more…” She paused in her sentence as she tried to think up a suitable word.

“Else?” suggested Nicol.

“For lack of a better term, yes.”

* * *

Lan, Chaud, and Sean sat at the bar inside the Power Plant discussing matters regarding the Prime Minister’s presence in the city.

“So Lan, you’re saying you know why the Prime Minister’s here?” Chaud asked as he set his martini down on the counter.

“Actually, I read it in an e-mail from Dad,” Lan replied, “Apparently, there’s a big thing going on at SciLab and the Prime Minister’s going to be attending it. Some kind of presentation, I believe. Anyway, according to Dad, this presentation could very well increase the government funding for SciLab.”

“Sounds like a lot of pressure’s being placed on Dr. Hikari,” Sean mused as he took another handful of free peanuts and placed them in his mouth, “So what’s this presentation about?” Lan took another sip of his margarita and continued.

“I don’t have all the details, but I think it has something to do with protecting our Electopia’s part of the net from massive crime organizations. Or something along those lines.”

“And I take it that we’ll have to be there, too,” Chaud assumed.

“You assume correct,” Lan answered, “However, my dad wants us to be there as undercover security. So does Mr. Famous, according to the e-mail he sent me.”

“And how exactly are we going to go as undercover security?” asked Sean.

“A formal reception is going to take place at SciLab both to welcome the Prime Minister and for the presentation. It’s going to take place Sunday night.”

“A formal reception, huh?” Chaud contemplated this for a moment as he finished off his martini, “Somehow, the set-up just seems too perfect.”

“What can I say? The timing was perfect. My dad thought of everything,” Lan said confidently, “I think I’ll bring Maylu with me. She’s always been interested with anything my dad has to present.”

“I’ll be coming alone,” Sean piped up, “Yai’s got something to take care of regarding Gabcom.”

“And as president of IPC, I have an obligation to be there,” Chaud added.

“Then it’s settled.” Lan finished off his drink and placed his glass on the counter, “Now come on. Let’s go.”

“Right.” Sean grabbed another handful of peanuts, wrapped them in a napkin, and stuffed them in his pocket before following his two fellow Net Saviors out of the Power Plant.

“By the way, Chaud, thanks for buying,” Lan said to the older Official.

“I only did it because all Sean ever does in there is sit around and eat the free peanuts,” Chaud answered, “Those drinks weren’t cheap.”

“What’s up with that anyway, Sean?” asked Lan.

“I told you before,” the crimson-eyed teen responded, “I don’t drink. And since I don’t drink, what else am I supposed to have while I’m at the Power Plant? Besides, I love those free peanuts.” The three friends continued walking across campus until they reached the QUAD.

“Well, this is where we part ways until tonight,” Chaud mentioned, “I’ll see you later.” And with that, he turned and walked off in one direction. Sean then turned and bid farewell to Lan before heading off in another direction, leaving the brunette all by himself. He was just about to leave as well when he heard a beeping coming from the side of his hip.

“Hey Lan, phone call from Mr. Famous,” MegaMan piped up. Lan opened the case at his side and pulled out his new blue and yellow PET SP. He watched as MegaMan enlarged the screen depicting Mr. Famous’ face.

“Hi there, Mr. Famous,” Lan greeted.

“Lan, I’ve told you this endlessly since you were ten. It’s just simply Famous,” the jersey-wearing man replied, “Anyway, did you…”

“Yeah, I told Sean and Chaud about it. We’ve all got plans laid out.”

“Excellent. Well then, I was really just checking in. And now that I’ve received your report, I wish you the best of luck in your mission.”

“Thanks, Mr. Famous,” Lan said with a smile as he prepared to put his PET SP away.

“It’s only Famous!” But it was too late. Lan had already closed the channel and returned his PET to its case.

* * *

“I hate it when Diana goes shopping,” Waya thought out loud as he, Greg, and Nicol sat right outside the women’s fitting room inside the department store, “Why does she always have to drag us along, or at least one of us.”

“You don’t know a lot about women, do you, Waya?” Greg asked.

“And you do? You don’t even have a girlfriend. Nicol’s five years younger than you and he’s already got the start of a relationship going on,” Waya shot back.

“Don’t get me involved in your fights,” Nicol told the two.

“The way they fight, sometimes it’s hard to believe that we’re on the same team,” Harpuia sighed from Waya’s PET SP. Just then, the door to the fitting room opened and Diana stepped out wearing an elegant white dress.

“Well, what do you think?” she asked.

“Should I be honest or would you prefer me to lie through my teeth?” replied Greg.

“I think you look beautiful,” Nicol complimented.

“Aww, thank you, Nicol.” Diana smiled before turning to her two other comrades, “What about you two?”

“I’m not going to say anything for my own safety,” Greg quickly answered before going back to the game he was playing. Diana then turned for Waya’s opinion, but he was gone.

“Well since Nicol’s the only one who ever gives his opinion, maybe I should take him only whenever I go shopping,” Diana huffed. Greg silently mouthed a “Thank God”.

“So you’re planning to attack SciLab during its presentation on Sunday night?” asked Nicol.

“That’s right,” Diana replied.

“So where does that dress come in?”

“I have to get in, don’t I?”

“And I supposed you already forged an invitation,” Greg butted in.

“As a matter of fact, I have,” Diana replied.

“An infiltration,” Nicol noted, “Seems pretty standard.”

“Well, just let me get changed and then I can pay and we can leave.” Diana turned around and disappeared back into the fitting room.

* * *

Lan was thankful that Chaud’s grad tuxedo fit him as he and Maylu entered SciLab. His hair had been slicked back with some gel and his PET case hung from his hip safely concealed beneath his jacket. Maylu wore a long light pink evening dress and some jewelry she had borrowed from Yai. Her hair had been done up nicely, but she still wore her barrette. Her lipstick matched her dress and her handbag, which was also borrowed from Yai, was a deep pink. Behind them, Sean and Chaud were walking up the steps into SciLab. Chaud wore his newest tuxedo and Sean, being one for modesty and working with what he had on hand, wore his best suit. When they arrived at the door, they presented their invitations and stepped into the lobby.

“Lan, I’m so glad you could come!” Dr. Hikari greeted as he walked over to his son.

“We’re just here for our job,” Lan replied, “Plus I’m really interested in seeing what this presentation is all about.”

“Well, you’ll find out when the Prime Minister gets here.” No sooner had he spoken, a black car with the Electopian flag flying from the hood pulled up in front of SciLab. An official opened the door and the Prime Minister stepped out.

“Welcome to SciLab, Mr. Prime Minister,” Yuuichiro greeted as the head of Electopia’s government entered the building, “I’m the head scientist of SciLab, Dr. Yuuichiro Hikari.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Dr. Hikari,” the Prime Minister greeted back.

“Anyway, please follow me to the main lab.” Dr. Hikari turned around and walked across the lobby with everyone else right behind him. However, one person remained behind. She slipped away from the crowd and made her way in secret to one of the small computer terminals by the front desk. She waited until everyone was inside the lab before getting to work.

“You know what to do,” she whispered into her PET before she aimed it at the jack-in sensor, “Jack in!! Leviathan, power up!”

* * *

“Thank you all for coming to this special presentation here at SciLab,” Dr. Hikari addressed his audience, “While I explain the new system, my assistant Dr. Sokuryoku will demonstrate.” A tall man with black hair and glasses stepped forward.

“Ladies and gentlemen,” he said, “here to help demonstrate the new system is my son, Zack.” Lan turned his head towards a boy, probably around the age of eighteen, sitting on a chair to the side. He was wearing blue carpenter jeans, a green T-shirt, a red vest, white Nike sneakers, and green gloves that left only his thumb, index, and middle fingers exposed while covering up the last two fingers. His hair was jet-black like his father’s ,but it had red streaks running through it. A pair of sunglasses were clipped over his shirt collar.

“Zack, could you please jack in?” asked Dr. Sokuryoku. Zack said nothing as he got up and walked over to a computer terminal. He took out a red and black PET SP and pulled back his left sleeve, exposing his wristband. He clicked the small electronic device into place and aimed it at the jack-in sensor.

“Jack in!! RapidMan, power up!” On the screen overhead, everyone watched as a Navi appeared. His body was covered in a black suit and his torso was encased in red armor. A pair of jets and two wings were mounted onto his back. Two more jets were mounted onto the backs of his red boots. Two bracers encased his forearms and his hands were covered in black and red gloves. His helmet was also red and resembled those worn by fighter pilots with the exception of an oxygen mask. Instead, was white mouthguard. A black visor covered the rest of his face. In the center of his helmet was a white five-pointed Gundam crest. His icon, a dashing Fishy2 without leaving a trail of flames, was located in the center of his belt buckle.

“Ready to begin!” RapidMan shouted enthusiastically.

“Begin the demonstration,” Dr. Sokuryoku ordered. Several lab aides started up the system and everyone watched as RapidMan took off. He flew across the network with such incredible speed that the camera was having trouble trying to keep up.

“Our newest defense system involves the use of specialized adaptive enhancements,” Dr. Hikari explained, “Normally, an enhancement permanently or temporarily increases the power of a certain attribute. However, this new program will allow a Navi to increase any of his or her own attributes at will by shifting extra power into that particular structure. In addition, the enhancements can also be switched to any other ability at anytime.”

“So you’re saying that this whole thing really isn’t a system but just a program?” one person asked.

“Please hold all your questions until the end of the presentation,” Dr. Hikari addressed and started to resume. However, before he could continue, the image on the screen faded out and it was replaced with the image of a beautiful female Navi. She wore a white bodysuit and ocean-blue armor. Long blue gloves covered her arms and her high-heel boots went well up her thighs. Her helmet was the same color as her armor, but it had a lighter blue visor over the front and a pair of white fins pointing downward at the back with her long white hair flowing out from underneath it. Her icon was displayed on her chest and strapped to her back was a long spear.

“Hello, everyone,” she greeted, “My name is Leviathan. And all of you, especially you Mr. Prime Minister, are my prisoners.” Suddenly, all the doors slammed shut and the locks activated. Leviathan snapped her fingers and several turquoise-colored sharks and blue Garum viruses appeared inside the system.

“Sharkseals and Snow Garums, attack!” she ordered. Immediately, the Sharkseals disappeared under the floor panels, save for their fins, while the Snow Garums began to unleash their icy breath on the area. Immediately, the air vents opened up and freezing cold air began to blow into the room.

“Lan, the temperature’s dropping rapidly!” MegaMan warned, “Leviathan’s going to freeze everyone in the room!”

“And on top of that, the Prime Minister’s here, too!” Lan exclaimed, “We’ve gotta jack in and stop her!” He quickly ran over to where Zack was standing and took his PET out from its case.

“I don’t think so!” Leviathan grabbed her spear and activated an energy edge around the head. She immediately struck it against the floor and the higher vents in the room redirected their aim upward, covering the ceiling with ice. At the same time, Leviathan set the heating system on to melt the ice slightly only to have it refrozen until she had created several sharp icicles. She struck the floor with her spear again and the frozen spikes began to fall.

“Lan, look out!” MegaMan warned. Lan looked up and his eyes widened. He dove to the side just in time to avoid getting skewered by one of the icicles.

“We’re never going to be able to jack in at this rate!” Lan cursed.

“You are all at my mercy!” Leviathan sneered. Suddenly, two red missiles shot her in the back, taking her completely by surprise. She turned around and saw RapidMan hovering a few feet in the air with his arm aimed right at her.

“You’re Lan Hikari, aren’t you?” Zack called towards Lan.

“Yeah, that’s right.”

“I’ve stalled her long enough to allow you get jack in, so do it!” Lan nodded and looked at his PET screen.

“Ready, MegaMan?” he asked.

“Always!” the blue Navi replied. Pulling back his left sleeve, Lan exposed his wristband and clicked his PET into place. He then thrust his arm out to the side and brought it forward, aiming it at the jack-in sensor.

“Jack in!! MegaMan, power up!” A thin red beam shot out and a blue streak of light deposited MegaMan inside the system. As soon as he switched on his PET display, Sean and Chaud came up and clicked their PETs onto their wristbands.

“Jack in!! ProtoMan, power up!”

“Jack in!! Axl, power up!” Soon, the other two Net Saviors joined their blue comrade and along with RapidMan, they faced off against Leviathan.

“Do you think you can stop me?” she asked.

“We don’t think. We intend to,” ProtoMan replied. Leviathan smirked and pointed forward with her spear.

“Viruses, attack!” Right on her command, the Snow Garums and Sharkseals launched themselves at the Navis.

“Rapid Fire!” RapidMan thrust his arms out as his hands morphed into a pair of cannons and he launched a quick-firing barrage of missiles. Several of the projectiles struck a number of the viruses and deleted them on impact.

“Taste my blade!” ProtoMan dashed passed the pack of Snow Garums and deleted an entire line of them. Meanwhile, MegaMan and Axl stood near the back firing at the oncoming hordes with their weapons.

“Axl, watch out!” MegaMan warned. Axl turned his head and looked up just in time to see a Sharkseal leap up and come down towards him with its maw wide open.

“I don’t think so!” Suddenly, RapidMan appeared between the redheaded Navi and the shark viruses, “Rapid Punch!” His arms were a red blur of motion as he furiously delivered a series of fast punches until the virus was deleted.

“Thanks, RapidMan.” Axl grabbed the handed that was extended to him and RapidMan pulled him back to his feet.

“It’s still gonna take us a while to destroy all these viruses,” the hovering Navi noted as he looked around.

“No sweat. We’ve got the right chip for the job.”

“You got it, Axl!” Sean grinned as he took out a chip from his pocket and slid it into his PET, “ElecGospel Battlechip in, download!” Axl’s hand morphed into Gospel’s head and he unleashing an electrifying yellow blast that engulfed and wiped out all the viruses. Leviathan saw the attack coming and jumped up just in time to avoid getting hit. When the blast finally passed, she landed back on the floor and looked up at her opponents.

“Impressive firepower,” she commented, “However, you’re going to need more than that just to defeat me.”

“Don’t worry!” MegaMan called to her, “We intend to!”

“MarkCannon3 Battlechip in, download!” Lan dragged the chip over to his Navi and MegaMan’s hand morphed into a red shielded cannon.

“VariableSword Battlechip in, download!” ProtoMan raised his arm as his hand changed into the arrow-shaped sword.

“BatCannon4 Battlechip in, download!” Axl brought his arms forward as his left hand transformed into a dark purple canon with bat wings.

“Don’t think you can win just like that,” Leviathan taunted.

“Don’t taunt us,” ProtoMan warned, “We always take them seriously.” And with that, he swung his sword and sent a Sonic Boom towards her. At the same time, MegaMan and Axl fired their weapons at Leviathan. Meanwhile, in the other room, Diana watched the fight on her PET display and smirked. Reaching into her purse, she produced a shiny white Battlechip and inserted it into her PET.

“Crest of Arcadia Battlechip in, download!” The three attacks collided with an invisible barrier as a white column of light rose up and surrounded Leviathan. Her icon slowly went black and was replaced with the Crest of Arcadia while her eyes became tinted with red. Soon the light died down and she stepped forward, her spear now glowing with a frosty aura.

“Frozen Barrage!” She swung her spear and several ice shards flew out from the spearhead and shot towards the Navis.

“Incoming!” yelled Axl. ProtoMan quickly jumped forward and activated his shield. The ice shards struck the smooth red surface and broke against it while the rest that missed sailed past and headed straight towards the others.

“MegaMan, provide a second defense!” Lan ordered, “Soul Unison: Proto Soul Battlechip in, download!” As soon as his PET registered the chip, MegaMan instantly transformed into Proto Soul. Forming his right hand into his sword, he activated the shield on his left arm and started blocking for Axl and RapidMan.

“I’m going in,” Zack announced, “RapidMan, go!” On his operator’s command, the quick Navi flew in towards Leviathan at blazing speed.

“Frozen Barrage!” Swinging her spear again, Leviathan launched another storm of ice shards, but RapidMan was ready.

“Here we go!” With a combination of speed and agility, he skillfully flew through the storm and made his way towards the spear-wielder, “Rapid Dash!” Suddenly, he teleported forward as if using a StepSword and slammed hard into Leviathan.

“Rapid Punch!” Without giving her a chance to retaliate, he immediately began throwing punches at her. The speed with which he delivered his blows and the force his fists dealt each time was enough to push Leviathan back, but because she had been empowered with the Crest of Arcadia she was able to block a good majority of them with her weapon.

“Not bad,” she commented, “However, it’s going to take more than speed to defeat me.” She kicked RapidMan away and spun her spear in front of her. She swung it around and launched a ring made of ice towards him. RapidMan quickly flew to the side and avoided getting hit, but the first attack merely served as a distraction as two more ice rings flew out and encircled him. She closed her hand into a fist and the rings tightened around RapidMan, binding him.

“Zack, you can’t just take someone who’s powered by the Crest of Arcadia head-on!” Chaud near-shouted.

“You could’ve told me sooner,” Zack grumbled.

“I think it’s time to make things more interesting,” Leviathan smirked as she tapped he spear against the floor. Outside in the room, more icicles formed on the ceiling and one-by-one they began to fall. Everyone scattered to avoid getting impaled as the temperature continued to drop. A scream alerted Lan’s attention away from the battle for a moment. Maylu had slipped on a patch of ice that had formed on the floor and fallen. But what he saw next caused hi pupils to shrink. A long sharp icicle had just broken off and was falling towards Maylu.

“MAYLU!” His concerns no longer on the battle, Lan ran as fast as he could to save his girlfriend from getting skewered.

“Lan!”

“Hang on, Maylu!” Lan took a leap forward and as he landed he grabbed onto Maylu and rolled away just as the icicle slammed into the floor.

“Maylu, are you okay?” he asked as he got up.

“Yeah, I think so,” Maylu confirmed. Lan quickly got to his feet and helped her back up. Meanwhile, back inside the system things were starting to look rather grim.

“Every time the Crest of Arcadia is used, our opponent has the upper hand!” MegaMan exclaimed.

“We can’t let her win this fight,” ProtoMan said as he blocked another barrage of ice shards, “Too many government officials are present to let that happen.”

“Wait a second!” Sean suddenly realized something and turned to Zack, “Zack, isn’t that program you were going to demo made for this kind of situation?” The dark-haired boy instantly smacked his forehead with his hand.

“Of course!” he exclaimed, “How could I forget about that? RapidMan, I’m initiating the program!”

“Got it!” Zack quickly input a code into his PET and RapidMan’s body began to resonate. By chance, the Prime Minister looked up from his huddled position on the floor towards the monitor and saw what was happening inside the network.

“Enhance speed!” Zack ordered.

“Enhance speed!” RapidMan repeated. A short moment later, he dashed towards Leviathan and appeared before her in a split-second.

“Enhance strength!” Zack commanded.

“Enhance strength!” RapidMan’s speed dropped back to normal levels as his fists began to glow. He drew back his arm and thrust it forward. His punch connected with Leviathan’s jaw and sent her flying back.

“Hyper Sword Battlechip in, download!” RapidMan’s hand morphed into a long yellow sword and he swung it around before bringing it down to his side.

“Time to end this!”

“Wait!” MegaMan ran up to RapidMan, “I’m coming with you.”

“Lan, what are you doing?” asked Zack.

“Trust me,” Lan replied, “I think I know what the enhancement program is based on.” Zack looked at him for a moment before giving him an affirming nod. Inside the system, MegaMan hopped onto RapidMan’s back and the speedy Navi took off.

“Enhance speed!” Zack ordered.

“Enhance speed!” With speed equal to a StepSword’s teleportation ability, RapidMan dashed towards Leviathan. The Crest-empowered Navi recovered from her opponent’s punch and landed safely on the floor.

“It’ll take more than that to defeat me!” she declared as she slammed the end of her spear into the floor and summoning a giant ice dragon.

“Are you ready, MegaMan?” Lan asked as blew into his hands to keep them warm.

“I’m ready!” the blue Navi replied.

“Then let’s do it. Activate Style Change: Hub Style!” As he and RapidMan flew closer and closer to Leviathan, MegaMan made his transformation. His clothes and armor changed to radiant green and his stripes and helmet began to shimmer while his helmet crests crackled with energy.

“Hub Style!”

“Here we go, RapidMan!” Zack shouted as his Navi reached Leviathan, “Enhance power!” RapidMan’s sword began to glow brightly as he redirected his flight path and shot up to the ice dragon’s head. At the same time, MegaMan jumped off and landed right below him.

“Hyper Sword!” RapidMan swiftly swung his blade and cut through the ice dragon. At the same time, MegaMan had his hands aimed at Leviathan.

“Mega Cannon Battlechip in, download!” Lan’s PET registered the chip and Hub Style transformed it into a Program Advance, which took the form of a red Giga Cannon.

“Giga Cannon 3!” The resulting explosion was a big one as Leviathan was blown back. However, MegaMan wasn’t finished as he charged up his buster and aimed it at her.

“Charged Hub Shot!” His arm shot upward from the recoil as the blast streaked towards the spear-wielding Navi and struck her hard. She collapsed onto the floor, breathing heavily.

“Impressive, MegaMan,” said Leviathan. Slowly, she pulled herself back to her feet with the help of her spear and propped herself against it for support.

“However,” she continued, “know this. As long as you continue to fight forces like our group, not only will you and your operator be in peril but also your loved ones.”

“Like we haven’t heard that line before,” Lan scoffed.

“But an attack was never attempted until today,” Leviathan smirked before she logged out. Meanwhile, Axl and ProtoMan went about heating the ventilation system back up.

“LavaSeed Battlechip in, download!” A red seed appeared in Axl’s hand and he threw it forward. It landed on the floor and created a pool of lava that melted the ice in the surrounding area.

“Nice job,” ProtoMan commented.

“Thanks,” replied the redheaded Navi.

With Leviathan gone for the moment and everything back to normal, the four Navis logged out.

* * *

“And after witnessing the result of Dr. Hikari’s and Dr. Sokuryoku’s new enhancement program,” the Prime Minister announced, “it is my duty and my honor to increase government funding for SciLab’s research.” Applause erupted from the crowd in congratulations to the scientists’ success.

“One question, Dr. Hikari,” Zack piped up from the side, “What exactly is the enhancement program based on?”

“I’m glad you asked, Zack,” Dr. Hikari replied, “As you all may have witnessed tonight, my son’s Navi, MegaMan, possesses a powerful Style Change called Hub Style. Knowing full well that most Navis cannot attain the power of Style Change, I developed this program to simulate its enhancing capabilities. However, the programming was far too complex for the prototype to upgrade all of a Navi’s attributes at once. So instead we changed it slightly so that the user can shift the power-up from one attribute to the next at will.”

“Huh, so that’s what Lan meant,” Zack thought aloud before turning to the crowd, “Well everyone, let’s give another big hand to Dr. Hikari and my father Dr. Sokuryoku!” Another round of applause filled the room. As Maylu turned to Lan, she noticed that he wasn’t right next to her like he was a moment ago. She looked around and caught a glimpse of him leaving the room. Concerned, she followed after him.

“Lan, what’s wrong?” she asked. Lan remained silent.

Leviathan’s words. And that attack with the icicle. Could she really be the one to live up to her threat this time? he thought. He didn’t want to, but he knew that he had to. Lan slowly stood up and turned to face Maylu.

“Maylu,” he said slowly, “during the attack you almost got killed.”

“Lan, I’m okay,” Maylu assured him.

“Yeah, but for how much longer?” There was an uncomfortable silence between the two.

“Lan, what’s wrong?” asked Maylu.

“Before she logged out, Leviathan said something to us. As long as we continue to fight, our loved ones will always be in danger.”

“But Lan, I’ve been with you on your missions before.”

“Yeah, but this time was different. The enemy actually made an attempt on your life, Maylu. I’m afraid of what might happen to you next time.”

“Lan, what are you saying?” Lan turned his back on Maylu and stared down the hallway.

“I’m saying that we should just be friends,” he finally said, “At least until this whole thing blows over.” There was along silence between them before Lan spoke again.

“Maylu, I’m not happy about this either. I’m doing this for your own protection.” And with that said, he walked away.

“Lan,” MegaMan said softly, “are you going to be okay?”

“MegaMan, you heard what Leviathan said,” Lan answered, “This is for the best.” As he walked towards the SciLab exit, a Snow Garum wearing a helmet cam watched through a security camera. The signal was sent immediately to Diana’s PET, where Diana herself watched the events take place as she rode a cab home.

“That worked out just as I had hoped,” she said, “The heart is such a delicate thing; so easily manipulated. And your attack and words have deeply wounded his, Leviathan.”

“Thank you, Diana,” Leviathan replied.

“With his mind now distracted, we have one less opponent to worry about for a while,” Diana continued, “We should act fast before he gets over his break-up.”

“I’ll tell the others the good news.” Leviathan opened up an e-mail window and quickly typed and sent messages to Waya, Greg, and Nicol. Meanwhile, Diana put her PET away and gave a satisfied smile for her work that night. She may have failed her mission, but she succeeded in achieving her goal.

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End of chapter 2-38.

CHAPTER PREVIEW
MegaMan: Think you’re going to be okay, Lan?
Lan: Yeah. Besides, we’ve got more important things to worry about like classes and future missions.
MegaMan: You realize this may affect your performance in both those things.
Lan: I’m not that worried about it.
Lan & MegaMan: Next time on Rockman.EXE: The College Years, “The Manga Artist”.
MegaMan: I’m just concerned for you, Lan. I am your brother, after all.
Lan: I’ll be fine. Really.
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[Midnight]

You know, I honestly don't know what to think about this one. It was certainly of better quality than that of your previous chapters, but there was something about it that did not bode so well with me.

I enjoyed the majority of the chapter. It seemed a little less linear than that of the previous ones, which is a good thing, but the last portion of the chapter was a bit of a stretch for me. It looked as though you just ripped the classic dilemma of heroism or loved ones right out of Spiderman.

Otherwise...this has to be one of the best of this arc.
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Today, these three players are after Big Bucks! But they'll have to avoid the Whammy, as they play the most exciting game of their lives! From Television City in Hollywood! It's time to 'Press Your Luck!'--Rod Roddy

The Kingdom of Loathing: An Adventurer is You! // I ♣ Seals

Avatar by Spork. I very much appreciate it! <3

[Lan1220]

I agree. Other than those, this chapter is nice.
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Sig credit goes to Hikari Angel

[Flame Buster]

It wasn't bad, however, what happened to the whole CoA thing with Lan?
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[Abiisan]

I liked the chapter, but I don't think that that Diana and co. are dumb enough to stop considering Maylu a weakness just because she and Lan broke up. They would know that Lan obviously still cares about her if the two just broke up after leviathan said what she did. What I mean is that just because they are separated in words, Lan and Maylu have been best friends since they were kids, and won't stop caring about each other after that one incident.
In other words, Maylu is still a weakness that they could very easily use to their advantage. Besides that, I loved how this was written and hope future chapters are this well written.
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Formerly known as LunarSun

Banner and icon by Xhunter17

[SonicNigma212]

I like with how this chapter is turning out. Now we're getting somewhere. I like for when Lan was effected by the threat that Leviathan to Lan. I also liked for when broke up. I'm sure that this is bound to make things interesting for both Lan and Maylu as this season developes. But what about both MegaMan and Roll? How are they affected by this? Well, I hope that you keep up the good work. I hope that the end of the third season turns out good. I just love for when drama gets into this. Well, later!

Maurice A. Nigma :grr:

[RollSoul]

This is the longest fanfic EVER!!!
Still going...
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NOTICE: This user no longer uses this account, they made a new account cuz they dont like the name of their account anymore =3

[Anime Master ZERO]

CHAPTER 3-9
The Manga Artist

“So just because Leviathan said a few words, Lan and Maylu broke up?” Tory asked in disbelief.

“That’s exactly what we thought,” Sean replied as he and Chaud talked with Dex, Yai, Tory, and Noah about the situation inside the kitchen.

“How’s Lan been taking it?” asked Noah.

“He’s trying to get over it, but it’s still a tad difficult for him,” Chaud replied, “He is making progress, though.”

“And Maylu?”

“She said she understands Lan’s reason,” Yai answered.

“We should give them both some space and let them sort it out themselves,” Dex piped up, but a certain eight-year-old had other ideas.

“Nuh-uh! We gotta get them back together!”

“What can you do?” Dex asked incredulously.

“I don’t know, but it’s better than doing nothing,” Noah answered.

“Doing something only makes things worse.”

“How can you know if you haven’t even tried?”

“Hey, break it up!” Chaud called, “Do I have to separate you two like little kids?” Right about then, Lan walked into the kitchen.

“What are you guys talking about?” he asked.

“Uh…” Tory started.

“We were just talking about…” Sean said uncomfortably as he frantically moved his eyes back and forth around the room for an excuse. His eyes quickly fell on Noah, who was seated behind Lan holding a pair of cinnamon buns next to his ears.

“We were just talking about Princess Leia and how her hair compares to that of Queen Amidala!” the crimson-eyed teen lied upon seeing the young prodigy’s cue. Lan wasn’t convinced, even when he turned around after Noah had quickly devoured the cinnamon buns.

* * *

The next day was rather uneventful. Classes went as usual with nothing out of the ordinary happening. During her break at noon, Maylu went to the SUB food court and bought a turkey club sandwich for her lunch. However, several other students had also decided to use their breaks that hour to eat so there was barely anyplace to sit. Deciding that it was a nice day, she placed her tray on top of a nearby garbage can and went outside to eat. When she got out there, she found a spot at a picnic table where a teenaged boy was sitting. He wore a yellow T-shirt underneath a red unbuttoned T-shirt, green cargo pants, red tennis shoes, and a red baseball cap covering his deep brown hair bearing his Navi’s icon, which appeared to be a half-black half-white diamond inside a circle of similar design but of reversed colors, turned backwards on his head. He was hunched over a sketchbook with a pencil in one hand and his lunch sitting right next to him. His backpack was on the ground beside him next to a skateboard.

“May I sit here?” asked Maylu.

“By all means, go ahead,” the boy invited.

“Thank you.” Maylu sat down across from him and began to eat her lunch. After a few bites, she decided to strike up a friendly conversation with the boy.

“What are you drawing?” she asked.

“A doujinshi,” the boy answered, “I always like to draw them in my spare time.”

“So you’re majoring in fine arts?”

“That’s right.” The boy looked up from his sketchbook, “My name’s Takuya. Takuya Takamisaki.”

“I’m Maylu Sakurai.”

“Good to meet you, Maylu.” Takuya put away his pencil and picked up his sketchbook, “What are you taking?”

“Education,” Maylu replied, “I’m studying to become a music teacher.”

“That sounds like a nice dream,” Takuya commented, “You’ve probably already guessed it, but I’m studying to become a professional manga artist.”

“Well, you’ve certainly got the talent for it,” Maylu indicated towards his sketchbook.

“Thanks.” Just then, a beep came from Takuya’s hip and he took out a black and white PET.

“Takuya, e-mail from your roommate,” Takuya’s Navi informed him, “He wants you to know that he’s gone out to get more milk.”

“Got it. Thanks, MangaMan.” Inside Takuya’s PET, Maylu could see a Navi with Takuya’s icon emblazoned on his chest. He wore no helmet, allowing his spiky gravity-defying hair to stand up on end. His body was covered in a black bodysuit with white stripes running down the sides. A pair of orange pads covered his shoulders along with a pair of grey bracers around his forearms and grey boots encasing his feet. Around his hip were countless bottles of various paints used by manga artists and strapped to his back were a giant pencil and a giant paintbrush.

“So Takuya,” Maylu continued, “What year are you in?”

“This is my first year,” Takuya answered, “I’m still trying to get to know my way around campus.”

“Would you like me to show you around?” asked Maylu. Takuya looked over at Maylu.

“Really?” he asked, “You’d do that?”

“Of course,” Maylu replied, “There’s still plenty of time before this period ends.”

* * *

Lan had the afternoon off from classes and was on his way back home to get ready to go to work when he was stopped by Greg and Waya.

“We heard from Diana that you had broken up with your girlfriend,” Greg smirked as he taunted Lan.

“So we’re going to use this opportunity to finish you and MegaMan off,” Waya added. MegaMan looked up at his brother with a worried look etched on his face.

“Lan,” he started, but he didn’t get any further as his operator looked at the two straight in the eyes.

“Why not?” he asked, “Maybe slaughtering you in a NetBattle will cheer me up.” With wide grins on their faces, Waya and Greg took out their PETs, clicked them onto their wristbands, and took aim at the nearest jack-in sensor.

“Jack in!! Harpuia, power up!”

“Jack in!! Phantom power up!”

Lan pulled back his sleeve and exposed his wristband. He whipped his PET out of its case and clicked it in place before thrusting his arm out to the side and bringing it forward.

“Jack in!! MegaMan, power up!”

Three thin beams of light shot into the sensor and deposited the Navis inside the system.

“Prepare to enter a new level of pain!” Harpuia laughed.

“Bring it on!” yelled MegaMan.

“With pleasure!” Harpuia grabbed his lightsabers and ignited their blades while Phantom activated his energy shuriken. MegaMan moved back a step and took his battle stance. With all three Navis now ready for battle, the fight commenced. Harpuia and Phantom wasted no time in launching their attack. The green-armored Navi took a running start and flew towards MegaMan while his partner ran across the battlefield with deadly ninja speed.

“Get ready for them, MegaMan,” Lan warned.

“I’m ready!” the blue Navi replied.

“Let’s hit them with a Program Advance. Yo-yo Battlechip in, triple download!” MegaMan’s hands each morphed into a yo-yo launcher and he brought them over his head where they merged together with the third. His hands fused together into a customized yo-yo launcher and he brought it down in front of him.

“Great Yo-yo!” MegaMan pointed his weapon at his two opponents and a trio of yo-yos shot out. However, the duo was prepared. Harpuia fell back and allowed Phantom to run ahead and throw his shuriken forward. The glowing projectile flew through the air and arced behind MegaMan’s yo-yos. As it came around, it severed all three cables before returning back to its owner. Immediately following Phantom’s attack, Harpuia flew forward and slashed MegaMan with both lightsabers. The blue Navi screamed as his triple yo-yo launcher was cut into pieces and he was thrown back.

“MegaMan!”

“You’re off your game today, Lan!” Greg taunted, “Is it because your mind’s distracted?” Not wanting to be defeated by the two standing before him, Lan poked at his PET display and dragged two Battlechips over from the custom menu onto his Navi.

“RockCube, Pulsar2 Battlechips in, download!” A stone Rubix cube formed on the field behind Harpuia and Phantom as MegaMan’s hand morphed into a sonic blaster. Bringing his new weapon forward, he fired a sound wave at his opponents. As planned, the two of them moved away from the blast and it hit the RockCube, causing sonic waves to spread out in every direction from the stone and thus hitting both Navis.

“Looks like my mind’s not as distracted as you thought,” Lan smirked.

“You just got lucky,” sneered Greg, “This will be an easy win for us.”

“We won’t even to use the Crest of Arcadia,” said Waya.

“Time to die, MegaMan!” Harpuia laughed as he flew forward with Phantom right next to him.

“LifeAura Battlechip in, download!” Lan inserted the chip into his PET and a purple glow surrounded MegaMan.

“NorthWind Battlechip in, download!” Waya quickly slid a chip into his own PET and a powerful wind blew through the system and MegaMan’s LifeAura dissipated as quickly as it had formed. As soon as his defenses were down, Phantom rushed in and slashed with his shuriken. MegaMan screamed as he was thrown back and his back slammed against a wall.

“We can’t waste any time toying with him,” Greg said to Waya, “We have to finish him off.”

“Let’s just have some fun for just a bit longer,” Waya replied with a grin as they watched MegaMan slowly get back onto his feet.

“Might as well. We’re never going to get another opportunity like this.” Greg grabbed a chip from his pocket and slid it into his PET, “MoonBlade3 Battlechip in, download!”

“StepCross Battlechip in, download!” Harpuia teleported forward until he was right up close to MegaMan and slashed him across the chest with his lightsabers. Closely following his attack, Phantom appeared behind the blue Navi and slashed him in the back with a kunai.

“Damn it!” Lan cursed.

“You know, Lan, it’s still not too late to save your Navi,” Greg said to the headbanded NetBattler. Lan looked up as Greg held out his Crest of Arcadia chip.

“I already told you my answer,” Lan responded, “so you can take that chip and shove it up your ass!”

“Your loss,” Greg said casually as he put the chip away.

“MarkCannon3 Battlechip in, double download!” MegaMan’s hands morphed into red shielded cannons and he pointed them forward. He waited until the crosshairs locked onto his two opponents and fired, sending a power of energy blasts at them.

“Invisible Battlechip in, download!” Greg’s chip kicked in and his Navi disappeared, so Harpuia took the hit from the two MarkCannon3s instead.

“We won’t give up,” Lan muttered, “Program Advance! Hi-Cannon Battlechip in, triple download!” Inside the system, MegaMan’s hands morphed into Hi-Cannons and he brought them up over his head where they fused together into a Giga Cannon. With his new weapon now completely formed, he brought to forward and aimed at his opponents.

“Giga Cannon 2!”

“Guardian Battlechip in, download!” Waya smirked as the grey idol appeared before Harpuia and the blast from MegaMan’s Program Advance hit it dead-on, causing retaliation by its Punisher.

“MegaMan!”

“I’m fine, Lan!” MegaMan called as he slowly rose up, “But for how much longer, I don’t know.”

Unbeknownst to anyone on the battlefield, a pair of eyes was watching them from the distance. After witnessing what had just happened, the figure ran off.

* * *

“And this is the HUB,” Maylu told Takuya as she continued giving the first-year a tour of the university.

“Yeah, this is where I’m living,” the young artist said. As they continued, a hole opened up in the ground and Rush popped out.

“Aup!” Takuya quickly took a leap back in surprise.

“Takuya, it’s okay,” Maylu assured him before turning to Rush, “What is it, Rush?” The dog viruses began to bark hurriedly while she nodded along until he finally finished.

“Do you understand what he just said?” asked Takuya.

“No, but Roll does,” Maylu answered and took out her PET, “Roll, translation please?”

“He said that MegaMan’s in trouble,” Roll replied.

“MegaMan? Lan!” Maylu quickly got up, “Lead the way, Rush!”

“Aup!” Rush gave a quick salute and began to run off.

“Maylu, what’s going on?” asked Takuya.

“It’s Lan Hikari, my b…” Maylu stopped herself before she could say ‘boyfriend’, “my friend. And he’s in trouble.”

“Maylu, I’m coming with you,” Takuya offered, “You might need my help.”

“I appreciate it,” Maylu answered, “Let’s go!” And with that, she unfolded her scooter and took off with Takuya skateboarding right behind her.

* * *

“You’re at the end of your rope, MegaMan!” Harpuia laughed as he watched MegaMan struggle against the vines that had snagged him as a result of Waya’s Rope2 chip.

“Greg, would you like to have the honors?” asked the yellow-clad teen.

“With pleasure,” Greg replied with a grin. Meanwhile, Lan was desperately trying to find a chip to help him break MegaMan from the vines.

“Where is it? Where is it?” he whispered to himself.

“Program Advance!” announced Greg, “AntiDamage, AntiNavi, Muramasa Battlechips in, download!” Phantom raised his free hand over his head and several glimmers of light gleamed out from overhead from light reflecting off multiple shurikens as they flew down towards MegaMan.

“CurseShield3!” There was a loud clang and MegaMan looked up to see Roll standing in front of him with three Dominerd3s blocking the shurikens.

“Roll!” The pink Navi turned around and winked.

“Hope you’re doing okay, MegaMan,” she said. MegaMan smiled.

“I’ve been better.”

* * *

“Maylu!” Lan exclaimed.

“What’s going on here?” asked Waya, “Diana told us you two broke up!”

“Listen!” Maylu called to the two Crest holders, “Lan and I may not be lovers anymore…”

“But we’re still the best of friends!” Lan finished. Takuya then stepped forward.

“Lan, you heal MegaMan. We’ll handle these two for now,” he said, “Jack in!! MangaMan, power up!” A white stream of light dropped down inside the system and deposited MangaMan onto the battlefield.

“Ha! What can a Navi designed for art do against us?” Harpuia scoffed. MangaMan took the pencil off his back and attached it to his right arm.

“A lot more than you realize,” he said with a confident smirk.

“Stonespikes Battlechip in, download!” Takuya inserted a chip into his PET and MangaMan drew something onto the floor.

“What’s that?” asked Greg.

“It’s called a transmutation circle,” Takuya replied, “Now watch.” Everyone watched. As soon as MangaMan had finished drawing, he planted his free hand against the center of the circle and it shone brightly. Bolts of energy shot out from it along the floor and several spikes made of stone shot up from underneath Harpuia and Phantom, sending them flying into the air.

“Nice shot!” Lan complimented as he slotted in one recovery chip after another while watching the two fall back down and hitting the floor.

“Let’s attack together!” Maylu announced, “Aqua Tower Battlechip in, download!”

“Tetsusaiga Battlechip in, download!”

“Aqua Tower!” Roll planted her hand firmly on the floor and a pillar of water rose up and rushed towards Phantom and Harpuia. Meanwhile, MangaMan drew himself a giant sword with fur around the hilt and he grasped it tightly in his hand as soon as it formed.

“Wind Scar!” He slammed the blade against the ground and several waves of energy shot out along towards the two Arcadia Navis. The Aqua Tower hit them first and blew them back followed closely by the Wind Scar as it blasted them away.

“We’re ready!” the Hikari twins announced simultaneously and the blue Navi stepped forward to join Roll and MangaMan. Lan, Maylu, and Takuya each took out a chip and inserted them into their PETs.

“Gun Del Sol EX Battlechip in, download!”

“SuperVulcan Battlechip in, download!”

“Negi Springfield’s Staff Battlechip in, download!”

The Gun Del Sol EX appeared in MegaMan’s hand and he fired a Spread that hit both Navis. Immediately following his attack, Roll flew in and unleashed a hailstorm of bullets on the two. Finally, MangaMan drew a long wooden staff, grasped it at his hand and aimed it at their opponents.

“Rastel Maskil Magister. Flet, une vente! Flans saltatio pulverea!” The black and white Navi thrust the staff forward and a powerful wind blew back Harpuia and Phantom.

HARPUIA LOGGING OUT

PHANTOM LOGGING OUT

With their Navis defeated, Greg and Waya quickly turned heels and ran off.

“Lan, are you and MegaMan okay?” asked Maylu.

“We’re fine,” Lan answered, “thanks to you guys. How’d you know I was in trouble?”

“Rush told us.”

“Rush? Where is he?”

“Aup!” Lan turned around and saw Rush standing there with a big grin on his face.

“Well Rush, I guess I owe you one,” Lan said before turning back to Maylu, “And Maylu, I…”

“You don’t need to say anything, Lan,” Maylu assured him.

“So I take it you two have known each other for awhile?” Takuya asked, trying to get a part in the conversation.

“Maylu and I have known each other since we were in diapers,” Lan answered, “We’ve been really close friends since.” Takuya smiled.

“It’s good to see how much your friendship means to you,” he told them, “Don’t lose sight of that. Your friendship is your best weapon.”

“That’s deep, Takuya,” Maylu commented.

“Hey Takuya, how’d you like to come with us for pizza?” Lan invited, “You know, let the others get to know you.”

“Sounds swell. Let’s go!”

* * *

Nicol was pouring himself a glass of orange juice and Diana was sitting on the couch in the living room when Greg and Waya burst in through the door.

“That was a complete disaster!” Waya near-yelled.

“Hey, it’s not my fault those two came when they did!” Greg yelled back.

“Things didn’t go well?” asked Nicol.

“I can’t even begin to explain,” Waya replied as he sat down next to Diana while Greg went to grab something to eat from the kitchen. As he did, the phone rang. Seeing as he was the closest one to it, he picked it up and answered it.

“Hello?” Greg suddenly stiffened up and everyone’s eyes fell on him. “Uh-huh. Yeah. Um, okay. Alright then. Bye.” He hung up and everyone looked at him expectantly.

“Well?” asked Diana.

“That was Saiba,” he informed his roommates, “He’s coming.”

“Saiba’s coming here?” Waya, Nicol, and Diana repeated.

“He’ll be arriving next week. Everyone, get off your asses! We’ve got work to do!” Everyone in the apartment got up and started going around making preparations for the anticipated arrival.

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End of chapter 3-9.

CHAPTER PREVIEW
Lan: I’m glad I was able to get my head cleared up.
MegaMan: Thank God. Now you can focus more on your studies and job.
Lan: Especially since our landlord is coming to collect the rent.
MegaMan: And you’re either going to need more hours or a raise to pay off your portion.
Lan & MegaMan: Next time on Rockman.EXE: The College Years, “Work”.
Lan: I think I’m finally getting used to all of this.
MegaMan: That’s good.
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[Flame Buster]

MangaMan seems like a really cool character. However maybe you should have made Lan think about using the Crest during the battle while Megaman was getting the poop kicked out of him. Just a thought. I also thought Lan challenged Greg and Waya waaaay too abruptly. You should have made them gang up on him in the street or something. Overall, the chapter wasn't bad, I just found it lacking in some places.
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[Blue Bommer]

"Work"? Oh god, Lan must mess something up, or a whole chapter on working will be boring. Heh, I keep messing up Megaman with Meg, Mangaman.
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[TheWebbuilder]

The chapter was better than the last few have been; although, the battles still remain a contest of Chip selection.

I'm not entirely sure if this MangaMan is a good idea or not, so I won't make a judgment call yet.

I think the way you handle the 'Crest of Arcadia'(CoA) offer was a let-down though. In the time that it's taken us to get to this chapter, we'd all gotten to expect a bigger showdown/deal over the CoA proposal instead of a flat-out rejection. I was kind of reminded of Lan's refusal to use a Dark Chip for some reason...

All those who saw a potential 'rebound romance' coming, raise your right hand...
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