Iiiiinteresting. A whodunnit Tergomystery! I shall await the next part with baited breath.

The bait is so I can attract snacks while I wait ^^

Suddenly my life went into tumult. All I have to do is Copy and Paste x_x But I can't even gain enough time to do that!! I'll have a new section up tomorrow however.

The legal staff at TergoCorp. Industries would just like to inform the readers that this is indeed an actual authenticated and authorized MoFiction starring Tergonaut...that isn't actually written by Tergonaut!

I can hear you gasping already. 😛

But speaking as one who has foreknowledge but is pretending not to, this is gonna be a good one! I of course am gonna keep coming here to read on.

...and I've got my own final section to post up in my currently-running MoFic - so I know the feeling.

O crap---lawyers...Oh ok, they not tryin' to sue me. Ok Lets continue! Part I continues here

5:55 pm

Vec, have you seen anything like this? Justin asked, as he pulled his eyes away from the microscope in question.

No. Not at all. We both know its a system of nanites-as we both know that even with power given to them, they are still limited in their capabilities. I do not think this is what killed that man, but maybe theres something here that Im missing.

I dont know. If you cant hack it, then we may have a serious problem on our hands. Justin smirked, before leaning against a table. A slight cough exited his form, prompting Vector to a new set of questions. That reminds me, how was your check-up? Justin looked over to Vector, before shutting his eyes and tightening his mouth. Whoops. I knew there was some other issue I had to take care of. I didnt get a chance to review the scans with the doctor.

Make sure you do, so we can monitor its growth. Vec mumbled, eyes lifting off the probe he was using.

I know. Wiping the sweat from his forearm, Justin looked to the little black form on the table that was being investigated. It was a complex system of small robots that acted on a specific command, not unlike his suit. But they seemed to be completely inert to any kind of command. They still siphoned power at a fantastic rate, but their use still was undetermined. No clue what this was used for?

It doesnt respond to anything we try. I was sure an electrical charge would be enough to get it to work, but theres something special about these guys that make them work with your suits energy structure. Maybe if we use another set of nanite inclusive hardware, theyll react. Pushing away from his workstation, Vector rolled over to a small drawer where he kept a small number of hand held gadgets. Pulling one out, he looked it over, before handing it to Justin. Here, use this. Im interested in the results.

Justin looked over to it, and started over to the thin box. When he was in distance, he held up the radio in order to turn it on. Immediately, the nanites reacted, mimicking the shape of the radio-even to the LCD screen. Justin stared at the instant transformation, reluctant to believe that the transformation was facilitated without some sort of command at some region. He turned to Vector, who nodded. I supposed as much. There is not much I can deduce, other than this set of nanites was part of a recorder function-that is they mimic the last thing that comes in contact with their own electromagnetic field. Itll take me some time, but maybe they were able to record the last shape that Palmer saw. It seems they were constructed to be limited, butthats makes no sense. Maybe theyre still reacting

Reacting to what? Justin asked. Cant be to my suitthough even I dont knock that possibility out the window.

Well, the autopsy revealed that the assailant used some sort of electromagnetic weapon. However, this weapon doesnt leave any noticeable burn marks. Also, the assailant has to be strong, since it seems that the person was tossed up-shot-and then left for dead. Vec concluded, looking at the newly formed remote. He reached over, to pick it up, and noticed that the nanites were able to replicate the functions of the original device. Remarkable. Its as if they connect wirelessly-without human command. This can be bad, if these guys were developed with specific intents in mind. Ill most definitely need more time to assess the potential of this.

Wellget some sleep tonight Vector. Ill see myself out. Justin said, as he stretched, and reached for his jacket. Im sure there will be a lot of work tomorrow.

Yeah, same to you. Vector responded. But both knew that once Vector had his nose within something that struck his interest-he was up until it was over. Justin admired that, he was the same way when he was intent on finishing something that only his imagination held limits on-whether it be unearthing artifacts, trying to translate Segan hieroglyphics, or even keeping his social life straight. But for now, enjoying the rest of the day was trial enough. A quick nap will do, then Ill get to actually accomplishing something today.

Like reviewing your results? Vector chimed.

Yeah. Ill take care of that now. Justin nodded, as he headed out for the moment.

--

7 pm

Im glad you came back Justin. I have something to talk to you about. The doctor walked to an empty room, allowing Justin to enter before him. Closing the door behind them, the doctor immediate walked over to the white screen, and affixed a few black sheets upon it. Turning off the lights, Justin now saw a digital-color scan of his bodys tissue and muscle mass from three different angles. Alright. I see me on a screen. What else is there?

Well, this is your normal muscle mass he stated, pointing to the reddish colored mass all throughout the picture. Thisis the malignant form. He stated next, affixing his pointer to any green layer that seem to exist at random points along his body. It seems that the largest point is upon your abdomen, with smaller growth along your legs and back. There is also a very small growth at the base of your throat, which could explain the clammy taste you described to me months earlier.

Yummy. Justin casually replied. He studied the photos for himself, and noticed a series of green lines that seemed to start from his stomach and cycled through his body. Hey, whatre these?

That is what I have to talk to you about. Those green lines are your gland secretion levels. Latelyyour levels have been extremely high-as if you have been under high stress-even while presumably asleep. You literally have adrenaline continuously flowing throughout your body at the rate equal to the initial blast you receive when your brain elicits the fight-or-flight response. However your hypothalamus he points up to the base of Justins brain is showing NO reaction at all. I cant begin to tell you what I think is happening to you Justin. I just urge you to take some time off, and hope that this blows over without any long term effects.

S-sure thing. Im going home to take a nap right now. Is there anything else I should do?

Not right now. Just rest and fluids, and come back in a few days-as we have to do a toxicology exam as well. I want to know how this is affecting your other systems. The doctor took the screens down, and let himself out, leaving Justin with something new to trouble his mind for the night.

--

9:40 pm

In a caf across town, a person begins working feverishly on a laptop. Seeing that it was the only one in the caf doesnt calm the person any. No risk was taken, as their hood still covered the appearance. Hands were sealed within gloves, to protect the identity. As time seems to fly by for this figure, it cannot be helped that a sort of musing starts, mumbles of incomprehensible computer jargon. All this talk however, is also being typed at a feverish pace-to a point that one would think that Sonic the Hedgehog himself was applying his mastery of speed to typing. After a half hour though, all tapping against the keyboard was done, and the program which was being worked on so feverishly, saved. This figure waited a minute, to read the last new prompted line. A cellphone was brandished, and a call was made.

Yes. Sorry to wake you. However, I was pondering if this was a good time for us tocontinue our test. A slight pause, before any response was made. I see. Then, I shall continue as planned. Good Night.

Looking back to the computer screen, the figure gave a smile.

Program Terminus Enabled
Subject: Brian Samuelson
Terminate? Y/ N _

Without any hesitation, Y was hit. Immediately, the form got up, left a few bills on the table that were in its pocket, and cautiously packed its laptop away. Throwing the strap over its head, it gingerly made its exit, looking up at the sky.

Your time is over

--

Across town, two folks finish their extended shift at a large corporate building. Well, a lot of progress was made. Who knew they would be able to actually leap off the table in a single command? Almost as if they anticipated our calls, in order to serve and ultimately protect.

Hush Brian. You knew as well as I did that we were basically complete, if it did not give off that astounding blast of energy. Brian held the door open as Sharon exited the main lobby of Effective Cybertronics Unlimited. The male stops to lock the doors to this building, pulling on them to reassure that they were indeed locked. Alright. Well, you have a good night Sharon.

You too Brian. Im sure that tomorrow, well be able to solve that improper discharging problem.

I hope so. We have a deadline to meet, and this is the only thing I can think of that will allow us to get a jump on the next stage of development. Brian turned away, and began to walk home. Almost immediately, the both of them caught sight of a figure heading toward them, floating on blue jetlike flares. The woman stared at the being that was simply hovering there, and looked over to Brian. Brianwhat do you think that is?

Im not sure Sharon. But Ill walk with you, just in case it decides to try anything odd. The woman nodded and the pair began to walk off in the initial direction Sharon was walking, occasionally staring at the individual in question as they did so. Before they reached the end of the block however, a third small blue light began to emanate from the midsection of this being cloaked in darkness. Both Brian and Sharon stared at this light, wondering if it was a flashlight or something. When the sphere that they were so enamored with suddenly doubled in size, Brian realized exactly what was about to happen, and urged Sharon to run. She obliged silently, feet taking off against the concrete. Brian was about to follow suit, until he saw that the light had tripled in size from when they had originally saw the figure. By then, it was too late, as the ball of electric energy was fired, slamming into Brian before he could utter even a scream. His body went into complete shock, as his brain was overloaded with impulses and electrical currents. Sharon stood there stunned, as she watched the figure then take off, albeit slowly. In the dimming light, she could tell that it washuman? Maybe? She wasnt sure. She wasnt sure any of this happened. Hurriedly, she called 911, frantically worrying about how she might be next. How thatmonster might come back and finish her off just the same. She hid as best she could; crouching behind one of the decorative statues in the area, hoping the law enforcement came around before that thing had a chance to strike again.

As Sharon hid, she failed to see a form walk off into the night, holding up a small object to the sky. The figure quietly walked off, tapping its bag lightly with the object as it made its way down the streets. Even as the enforcement came, it walked right past them, as if invisible to the whole sequence of events that took place. The blocking off of the crime scene, even as people came out of their homes in order to take a look at what was going on. The urgency of the matter, as EMTs would arrive on the scene to give their prognosis on how this man would fare, if they got there early enough. How the newspaper reporters would die for a scoop, and how they brutally interviewed people that were brave enough to come up with a story. Heck, maybe someone did see something, but that would cause the police to try and cover up suspicious claims of foul play, as well as false claims to them knowing who was the culprit. Truth was, the cops didnt have a clue. Even the head Administration did not have a clue. All of their sensitive equipment couldnt help them now.

2 down, 2 to go.

--

Im alive. Honest.

Sept 20th, 6:45 am

But I dont need to take another shower, Im a clean piggie, honest The mumbling continued for a moment, before an incessant reaction inside his lungs would cause Justin to sit up from bed, and began to cough vehemently. He hissed in between coughs, not understanding what brung this on. When the coughing fit stopped, he stared over at the clock, attaining a grasp of just how long he slept.

Wow. I really must have been tired. I dont even recall passing out that long. Swinging his feet over to let them rest on the floor, he took a moment to catch his breath. Wait, catch his breath? Patting his body, he felt and now smelled his perspiration all throughout his shirt and pants. It was as if he ran 10 miles only minutes ago. He got up, and checked where he placed his shoes. Sure enough, they were by the door, as he remembered putting them there

Must have been a good dream. Justin smirked, as he went over to the fridge. Grabbing the juice, he quickly poured himself a glass, and jumped into his chair. The television was turned on, and he leaned back to take a sip. Unfortunately, he never reached that point in his enjoyment of orange juice, as there was another News Cast on. Immediately, Justin ran toward the shower, in order to get out of those clothes and into something new. It seemed that the killer struck again. But this time, there was an eye witness, and he wanted to be able to interview her himself.

In the back of his mind, Justin knew he recognized the face of the victim. Once he finished his shower, he wasted no time in grabbing a towel to dry off and throwing on any old thing. Running to a nearby table, he stubbed his toe as he sifted through the piles of papers and magazines. Finally he came across the article he was looking for. It pictured that woman, along with two men and three other women standing around a small podium at some kind of conference. Reading the article again gave him goosebumps, because his hunch had been right. He recognized her as one of Georgia Stahlmansches top nanotechnology workers. I knew it would lead back to you. All I have to do now is to figure out why you would stage this. The article in his hand started to crinkle under Justins resolve to tie this to her. Dropping the crinkled mass of paper, Justin hobbled over to the doorway, to throw on his shoes and get this day started.

---Day 2

7:30 am

The puddles left over from yesterdays rain were still hanging around, undaunted by the sun that would surely cause them to dwindle into nothingness. Justin jumped across another one, before slowing down as he reached Headquarters. Grabbing the door handle to act as a brake, he flung the door open as he propelled himself through and ended up at a hasty walk. Almost immediately, two Enforcer Foxes walked up to Justin, with their arms held across their chest.

Justin, you are expected at the top floor ASAP. Please. One fox pointed to the elevator which was being held for him. Unsure what this was about, Justin merely nodded, assuming that Vector had some breaking news that may help this case come to a swift resolution. You guys are sure taking this seriously-if Im being escorted. Well sir one fox explained Weve been told that this may be a breach of security.

Justin reeled back slightly, as the elevator doors closed behind them. He turned around and took a moment to lean against the wall. The foxes watched as the boy stood there, thinking hard. A breach of security? How? Who would try to assassinate people? I can understand rivalry in the sciences, but to go so far as to take anothers life? I cant stand for that at all. He looked up to the foxes, and winced a bit. Cant this thing go any faster?

After what seemed like a lifetime, the elevator reached the top floor. Justin waited until the Foxes told him that it was safe for him to exit the elevator, before he was led to the conference room. Once inside the conference room, Justin walked straight toward Vector, whom had his hands on a small disc. The look on Vectors face said all that Justin needed to see, and he immediately sat down. Looking around now, he saw that Jack was in the room as well as a third party that kept its back to Justin. Paying no mind to the third person, he would start. Ok. Look, I was watching the news this morning, and I had to run over here as fast as I could because I think I may have found a connection.

You havent seen the news lately, havent you? Jack stated, looking at Justin with an accusing eye. Justin leaned back, unsure what Jack was alluding to. Vector cut in just then. Like I said before Jack, dont jump to conclusions. Justin.. a sigh escaped the reptiles maw, before he continued. Therewas a videod account of what happened, captured by the buildings surveillance. It is not totally clear, but with the witnesss description of who the assailant waswell watch. Justin turned his attention toward the monitor, as Vector loaded the disc into the accompanying drive.

The videotape popped up-showing Brian and Sharon walking out of the building. Almost as if called on cue, the form appeared from the shadows, with one part of its body glowing. Justin leaned in, trying to see if the light could be distinguished as any shape or form. Before he had a chance to spit out a hypothesis, the light doubled in size, and he could see the two people begin to run away. The ball was fired after it grew in size again, leaving Justin to turn away from the act that followed. The female was off camera, but the being would step into dim light, before taking off.

Thisis the part were having problems reconciling, Justin. Vector presented, as he pointed to the last frames of the video with the assailant in it. It seems that our killer has jet like propulsion units on its boots, as well as.. He froze the tape as the assailant took off, where everyone could see the shape of the form clearly enough. It was slightly bulky on some parts; slim at others, but the giveaway was the backwards swoop upon the helmet. Justins eyes opened in pure terror, as he stood up. No! NO! I wont believe what youre suggesting? Im sure theres a reasonable explanation for this! Someone else could have a helmet like that, and its dark. We cant even see a color scheme.

The witness said that it seemed to be orange and blue, but that she couldnt be sure because of the dim light. Would be the perfect coverif you ask me. Jack stated calmly, looking over to Justin. Justin was on edge inside. He wanted to bite at Jack for thinking what he was thinking. But right now was not the time to let his identity slip. He looked to Vector, and suddenly shook his head. Wait. Earlier you said that I had not seen the news. What did I miss on my run here?

Jack sat up, and pointed to the monitor as he cued for the video to be turned off. Instantly, a live news feed was on the screen, blasting to the whole MFW-the medias suspicions on who this masked assailant was. The part of the video that Justin had finished seeing; the part where you could see the flying assailant was frozen and blown up on the screen-with an image of Tergonaut shown to the side. Underneath the photos ran the header

Tergonaut-Friend or Foe!

Can I see you in the hall Justin? Vector asked, as Jack got up to take a phone call. Justin nodded, looking over to Jack suspiciously before exiting the room.

--
12pm-in the hall

No. This is ridiculous. I cant understand how this could happen? The Omni-suit has been in my care for the last 3 days Vector. Im POSITIVE I havent had to use the suit. It has to be someone trying to place the blame on me.

Justin. Calm. You are going to stress out over this. The world isnt completely sure its Tergonaut, and neither am I. In fact, Im not even sure how the media is literally beating us to every juncture. But we need to run some tests, so I need you to hand over the suit. Complacently, Justin agreed, and reached for the back of his neck. Feeling for the small patch of metal, he would tug on it lightly, before the patch would spring off the base of his neck, into his palm. Closing his palm tightly, he would hand it over to Vector. Looking at the device in his hand, Vector would then make for his lab, Justin in close pursuit. Hey wait. I need to see what you are going to do. I cant do much else. The only thing I have going for me is that virtually no one knows who I am.

Thats what we have going for us too, Justin Vector stated, as he looked back. Jack was nowhere in the vicinity right now. Leaving Justin, the reptile would walk back into the conference room, and swiftly wrap things up with Jack and the third form. Meeting adjourned. Ill contact you with my results. Heading toward his lab after exiting, a finger pointed at Justin. I want you in my sight for as long as possible.

Youll get no argument from me. But like I said. You can access the suits memory capacity. Youll see that I wasnt in use of the suit. He held the door open to Vecs lab as Vector scuttled in, immediately making a beeline for the area where he usually made updates to Justins suit. Heres my dilemma Justin. Im wondering why the two murders so far have been on nanotechheads. Coupled with this shocking footage today-Im pondering if they may have made a second suit.

No. Not theyVector. She. Im sure that there is something going on in that building that Georgia is not being forthcoming about. Like maybe how shes almost done replicating a suitable battle armor to combat mine. Its no secret to us that she wants complete control over this world-and having an armor that can stand toe-to-toe with mine would almost ensure her victory over me in that regard. Justin stared Vector down as the scientist went to work on the suits memory, inserting a jack into the small black device that was pulled from Justins neck. Immediately, it reconfigured into a laptop sized panel, which allowed for easier accessing of specific parts.

Justin then caught sight of something odd. The small panel of nanites that was recovered from the first murder scene instantly jumped up, and changed into that of the OMNI-01 Suit. Though only a foot tall, it was an exact copy of the suit at hand! Lightly, he tapped Vector on the shoulder. VecI think you should take a look at this

Vector looked over from his computer terminal, and spotted the mini-01. Instantly, his roller chair brung him over to it, as if transfixed on a specific element not thought of before. What triggered this transformation? The Omni-suit isnt actually present. Justin stated, as he looked back to his own panel of nanites.

No. But the energy that your suit uses, and therefore gives off-is. I stated this before, but Im positive now that this panel here, is no more than a recorder of the energy that another nanite based technology uses, allowing it to show us in full 3d representation of the actual shape, mold, form, whatever was the last configuration that nanite form was in before being reverted to its stable state. However, since it is able to tell us what form any other nanite technology was last it, this means it can read and respond to energy levels, and can possibly show us the energy levels of any nanite form before and up to present day! This is actually years ahead of what I thought possible?

Vecyou lost me. Explain. Justin said, as he twirled a finger in place to show he was trying to wrap his brain around it all.
Its simple really Vec started, as he reached for the mini-01 suit. Instinctivly, the suit walked onto Vectors open palm. Carrying it over to the actual OMNI panel, the mini-01 would jump on it, and raise its arms, before standing still, the plate where the visor would be starting to glow. This nanite technology acts like a VCR if you will. It records the last few impulses that a nanite based technology gives off, and reconfigures itself into that form. I guess, by feeding off that energy, it makes an imprint in the nanites data banks, so it can remember that form.

Alright. So if this small panel is like a VCR-as well as a mimic-it should be able to tell us what happened to its creator. Justin stated. It should be as simple as saying Rewind. Upon stating rewind, the mini-01 would begin to move in a circle, backwards, mimicking movements and actions from some data bank that was previously inaccessible. Vector would look back to the terminal, to notice that the OMNI-s records were also rewinding-in sync with the mini-01s movements, as ifit was the armor itself. Justintell it to stop. Vector stated, watching the computer screen.

Umm ok. Stop! Justin said, pointing a finger at the mini-01. Immediately it stopped and reconfigured itself into a man. Justin was puzzled, but he had an idea what Vector was going to ask him. Taking the initiative, Justin grabbed a nearby chair, and sat himself in it so he could rest his arms on the back of the chair.

Play.

Vector watched the terminal, occasionally glancing over the monitor to spot the mini-01. The screen showed the suits video recorder. Currently, there was a picture of a man on the screen, outside of a garage. Suddenly, the suits camera would show that it was lowering down, until it was eye level to the man. The gauge that showed the power usage of the suit showed that a weapon was being used, the electric based weaponry. With a silent hiss to himself, Vector watched as the memory banks showed the opposing hand toss the man upward, before shooting him continuously with the buckshot, right up until he landed.

It was at that point that Justin suddenly ducked, as small pellets of electric composition flew his way from the mini-01. Hey! Its attacking me! Vector looked over to the little bot, and watched as it finished its recounting of events in a 3d state. The little bot would then do something odd. It began to fly off, and once the flight was ended, it turned into a panel and fell flat on the OMNI-01 panel. Looking to the on-board camera though, the camera only showed static from the moment the omni-suit presumably began flight.

Thats strange. Very strange, but scarily accurate.

Whats accurate, that this little bot tried to give me a tattoo? Justin remarked, standing up finally.

No. If what this little bot just did is any indication...its irrefutable proof that Tergonaut DID kill those people Justin. Before Justin had a chance to counter, he stopped himself. He just saw for himself a recounting of what happened. Of how the OMNI-01 armor flew down to that man, tossed him up with no mercy and shot him as if he was a shooting target. The problem here was that HE remembered no such thing, and he was positive that he was in possession of the technology. But the machine here was the proof. The data wasnt altered, and he didnt have to look at Vector to know that his suit actually had that on its on-board surveillance. Justin turned around, and grabbed a chair, unsure what to think, what to even say. The whole world seemed to turn on its head just then, and throw everything it had at him. He took a deep breath, and suddenly found himself in a coughing fit. He fell to his knees, and Vector immediately came to his aid. He helped Justin sit back on the chair, and hastily went to fetch him a cup of water. Justin took a deep breath, raising his hand to his face. Opening his eyes, he shut them again, and wiped his hand on his pants. That was not blood. That was not blood. I am not bleeding. Those words were thought over and over again, even as Vector gave him water, and began talking about a course of tests on him to check his neural network. Even as Vector went to check something on a terminal in the back, Justin didnt think to move. He was angry, and shocked at the same time. He had no one to blame for this, and whomever it was-was able to cover their tracks so well that it left even Vector bemused as to how these crimes were committed-aside from what the killer made it seem to be the obvious.

That Tergonaut was the killer.

Wow. I'm implicated as a murderer.

How am I going to get out of this one?

Great work, keep it up!

Ok Cranking this out now.

Part I End

Justin instantly thought of Terrornaut, but that train of thought was shut down-Terrornaut would never dream of mimicking his form to do his dirty work. There was no other malevolent source that would consider doing such a thing as well, so how in the world did this occur? How did he let the source of benevolence be taken from him?

He looked toward Vector finally, and snapped back to reality when he noticed Vector had been calling him for some time. "S-Sorry Vector. I dont know what happened there"

"Hey, its a lot to handle right now. But were going to do some tests right now, ok? Then were going to put you up here-for your safety as well as everyone else."

"Vec.." He stood up, looking at his friend. "You...dont believe I did this too, do you?"

"I dont think you did. But I have a theory on this. One that may lead us to figure out at least HOW this person is able to do what they are doing. But until then, we HAVE to monitor you. Otherwise, were going to have to call Georgia to help us stop the OMNI-01 if it is used again, and if what you say is truewe cant let that happen either."

"Thats the better course of action then. Im glad my plans are free." Justin joked, as he reached to grab the OMNI panel. The smaller nanite panel would slide off, completely inert. Vector noticed that, and grabbed it as well, putting it close to the larger panel. When no response went off, Vector pocketed the smaller panel, and ushered Justin into the lab. "I think we were just handed our first clue Justin. Ill explain as we start these tests."

"What do you plan to do, and can I help in any way?" Justin replied, anxious to see if there was any way he could utilize his own knowledge to help clear his alter-egos name.

"Not yet. Since the general public doesnt know your identity, we can assume its safe for you to go walking around outside. But even if we leave the armor here, theres a high chance of someone already tracking the suit-though I detect no such devices-and breaking it out of here. Also, the killers modus operandi seems to be a bit skewed. You are always returned with the suit, and of course, the visual sensors seemed to not record any events that you can access immediately, as if they are blocked until a later time. I was able to view the logs of the first murder from your suit, and Im sure than in a few hours, Ill be able to view the second. So right now, what we have to do is figure out what is happening to you. Your symptoms, and the frequency of their occurrences, may be another clue here."

--
7pm

Mentally, the argument that went on inside Justins head was one of a deep analytical person, something Justin never really thought himself to be. He was a bit more carefree, but not too lax. But this situation called on him to work from every possible angle, just as Vector was now. He reviewed the handout Vector gave him, still unclear as to how the results came to be.

"So, once again Vecyoure saying my tests came back positive for adrenaline, as well as other hormones I release when using the OMNI-01?"

"To the letter. Even to the point where your brain patterns, and your entire neural network can be mapped throughout the physiology of the system during those times. Justin, if I was anyone else-I would be 100% sure that you committed those crimes while in the suit." Vector didnt turn away from his screen though, as he began examining the inner layers of the OMNI-01 suit. "Theres no other possible explanation. I mean, even for the sake of argument, I even found what seems to be blood in the suit. Now-admittedly, Im not that good with blood as I am with chips, but Im sure a quick test will show that this is your blood."

"Why would blood be in the suit Vector? The attacks were swift and precise, no retaliation at all. How would I incur damage, let alone enough damage that I would be rendered to bleed! This doesnt make any sense. Its liketheyre in my head and I cant do a thing about it!" In one sweeping motion, Justins left leg would connect with the crumpled up papers he released from his hand, kicking them clear across the room. The garbage can was next to fly, before Vector stood up to block Justins rampage. "HEY! Nothings going to turn over because you decide to get mad."

"."

"Now look. We dont have a definite cause. But like I said, I have a few ideas Im running though now. The first is to see if there is a faulty chip inside the suit."

"We already know theres a faulty chip inside the suit Vector-its why I have this can-" Justin stopped himself there, and looked toward Vector. He was sweating badly, the T-shirt he was in now clinging to his torso. Hair was a matted down mess, and he was sure that smell wasnt from those beakers in the back. "Look, I appreciate what you are doing, but I dont need you to lose sleep over it. Where do I sleep?"

"Go down the hall, and to the left. First open door is a room. Youll be locked in, and that door is the only way in or out. This way, if someone guns for you, theyll have a ball of a time getting to you." Sparks flew from his soldering gun as he continued his preliminary test. Justin shook his head, before giving Vector a half-hearted wave.

--
1 am

As soon as Justin left the area, Vector would wave his hand in the air, passing his claws through a thin laser sight. Instantly a screen would lighten, and he would turn around to view it, one hand now inserted within a mesh glove. The glove was connected to a panel, that allowed for his hand to feel through the suit for any abnormalities, while the results could be seen on the screen. Watching without squinting now, Vector would continue his research, searching for anything that seemed irregular to him. His work had two dedicated tasks now. One: as a scientist, to unlock the secrets of this magnificent armor, and two: to figure out if this work had been sabotaged, and if so, by whom, and why?

Five hours had scrolled past him, but the lights never seemed to dim. His ambition was the same, cascading though many a method of testing, and even more hypothesis, sometimes hypothesis being created in the middle of testing others. He hissed whenever something didnt turn up, and whenever he got a readout that did not calculate to his preliminary results, he would recheck it. This wasnt just for him; this was for the friend that was sleeping in the next room. At that crucial hour, when sleep and fatigue would finally catch up to him, he would notice two beeps. The first beep came from his screen, where the computer analyzing the shielding of the suit would show a series of sections that would culminate in the suit having an irregular shielding pattern. The groin, head and lower legs were receiving very high levels of protection from the prototypical shielding type, but the torso and upper legs were receiving weaker levels, the weakest around his mid torso. Vector already know this, but the computer clicked on something new. Leaning in, Vector would press on the screen, allowing the image to be blown up at that spot. Two more taps, and he now oversaw the layout of all the chips used. They all looked like peaceful interlocking nanites, except for the slightly bright one. The one that seemed to be giving more energy than the rest of the nanites in the immediate area.

"Well little guywhy are you working so hard?" Vector zoomed in on the chip, in an attempt to analyze it, when the second beep made him look up. His screen was subsequently split in half-as a transmission from a secluded terminal came in. Vector recognized the terminals address, and gave the communicator a half-hearted breath.

"Well now, I wasnt expecting you to be interested, Derek. You didnt say a word at the meeting?"

"On the contrary-Id like to know why you didnt contact me earlier, Vec-BEHIND YOU!"

He had no time to react, as a blunt object slammed itself into the back of his head. A large roar would exit Vectors maw, but he was down for the count. Immediately, the form headed out of the room, leaving Derek with only his imagination as to what just occurred.

"Vector! Vector! Talk to me...damnit. Im on my way"

He picks the best cliffhangers, he does.

And the neatest thing is that he's foreshadowing very well in a variety of ways from nearly the beginning of the fic. I don't think I quite have the stuff to come up with a good mystery story, and it amazes me when people can handle revealing details, but just barely not enough of them to piece together the truth until it's revealed later on.

o.O Reviving this. Did I seriously never finish this for the board??? Or did it get deleted?

I'm afraid you never finished posting it to the board. Good to see you back around though.

Whoa! Looks like I owe you and everyone a finished story. Let's dig this one back up.

I got about 10 more as well to post. Sorry everyone ;_; I hope I didn't lose any fans...if I had any to begin with..x_x

8 months later, geez.

Part II

The sky was a harsh collective of stars, outlining themselves in intricate patterns possibly figured out by the space travelers hundreds of years ago. As they may have interpreted them on their flights of fancy, it was these same stars that bear witness to the form known as Tergonaut flying through the sky as a high speed. He kept his altitude high to ensure no radar grids would catch him, before dipping down; almost as if all control was lost. Both fists were out in front, and began to charge up during descent. Interlocking parts would begin to transform, until the left arm transformed itself into a plasma-like cannon-heated energy being charged up in its barrel. The right arm began to brace the newly formed appendage as their target was being descended on

This man, Alex Dracon, is the next link between man and greatness. he said to himself as he walked toward his apartment building. Keys quickly flicked out, the man would take a moment to look around. He knew no one was behind him, but he could not help but notice that the sky-even the neighboring area was devoid of sound. Maybe they stayed silent while in the presence of greatness! An audible cackle, before the sky turned to bright shade of yellow, rendering the unfortunate individual to shield his eyes. Who turned on the hi-

The assailant would land on the sidewalk, leaving a definite dent in the asphalt. The body of the individual in question was currently flying, before slamming into the wall of a nearby convenience store a good 30 yards away. The vital signs were being monitored, waiting for the eventual flatline of the heart. When that occurred, it was all but too late to make an escape, as many a light was turned on to investigate the sound.

A few people were already staring at the damage done to the building, and now were able to have a good look at the burnt orange and blue armor. There was no mistaking it, as a woman compared the figure to a picture she had clipped from a magazine. In a shocking sight, the suit began a withdrawal from around the figures head. The hair could be seen, but as the glowing portion of the now receding helmet dwindled away, a dark swoosh enveloped the entire form one second-and be gone the next.

The helmet came off, and all Justin saw wasdarkness? Nothing made sense, as he felt his chest and stomach both feel as if they had been sucker punched. But wait, wasnt he asleep? In the tower? He kneeled over, and tried to take a deep breath. That became a problem, as he then figured out that he could not breathe. His eyes sprang open in fear, before the delicate taste of oxygen slammed into his orifices. His body involuntarily guzzled down the gas, as he now felt cold steel on his hands and knees. He kept his eyes closed, feeling as if he drank four bottles of nondescript moonshine. His eyes stayed closed, but he felt the presence of someone nearby. Reaching out in front of him, he would feel a set of shoes. Body stretched out in order to pull himself up, but all at once, the feeling of fatigue and weakness, coupled with internal pain was too much for him to handleand he passed out. Not before leaving the feet in front of him a small present.

Ugh..all over my feet Tergonaut? Derek stated, looking down at the boy on the floor. You owe me for that.

--Day 3

And this was the scene here at Thorndyke Lane and Coconuts Rd. A third victim to this menace, whom we now know as Tergonaut! I have with me a witness to the heinous crime committed here last night. Maam, can you recount what happened?

Ah Sho can! With da two eyes in my face, I saw tha metal monstrosite! He flew down, all glowin with the power of a thousan bulls-steamin like a baby buffalo bon in da dead o wintah! I couldnt watch him attak da man, but dat dere fella, he stood not a chance! I saw da man fly 150 fet befo he hit da concrete wit some force! I felt da trema in mai bed, n Im on da 4th floor!

Thank you maam. And you sir? You said that you saw the person behind the mask?

Yes. YES YES! He grabbed the microphone from the newscaster, eager to grab as much camera time as possible. Wiping his fur from both sides of his face to clean it up a bit, he spoke. Yo, Im telling you, yo Terg came down ere like he was on a vendetta son! Like straight outta comic book-Saints Row-type deal yo. I was ready fo him to jack the fools car, cause Tergonaut is gansta, knaamean? Naa, so check it, I heard this hiss, like his suit has some SICK hydraulics, and yo, right when I coulda seen his grill, he was gone off some Drunken Master Ninja Vanish. I was like Whoa! Then I saw this other Orange thing just jump off da roof! I knew it was Terg, but I didnt know he was like Spidaman! Money was flipping and jumping and ..yeah it was sick. But yo Terg, why you icin people? Dun hurt me or my crew, ya heard!!?? Cuz we bust back! T-LANE!!! The individual would hold up his fingers in the shape of a T-eliciting cheers from the entourage behind him.

T-th-thank you sir. T-thats all for right now, well return when more information is revealed. But if anyone spots this dangerous figure, the local enforcement has alerted us to tell you all to NOT approach him at all! Call the authorities immediately, and keep a DISTANCE, as this individual is considered armed and dangerous.

The television would be turned off, before the remote was thrown at the wall. @#%$! We got ourselves witnesses! What the heck is going on? Jack demanded, looking to Justin and Vector. Justin was currently behind a glass, with Vector leaning against the glass. Sinking his head between his knees, Justin was pulling at his hair. This enemy had him by the skin of his teeth, and he had nothing on him. Not even a clue as to how he was doing this. Now he couldnt even fight against this form as Tergonaut. Who knew what else this person was capable of? Besides that, his stomach was ready to be born from his mouth, as he curled in a ball, rocking on the cot.

Idont believeit Jack He was able to release those words with little difficulty but subsequently buried his face in the pillow. Vector took a good long look at him, before walking away, heading toward the conference room. Justin, once we have a grasp of what happened, well come back and tell you.

Fine he winced, as he growled, punching the pillow in his discomfort.

Leaving Justin, Jack and Vector would close the door behind him. So, what happened to you? Jack stated, pointing to the hefty amount of gauze around Vectors head.

I had a run-in with a bad concoction. In any event, we do have someone who has tangled with this phenomenon now-and can give us some insight on how to approach it. I didnt come to until they got here-and I later assessed they saved Justin from being harmed. But by then Justin was unable to speak. He was holding his head in his hands, possibly crying at what he saw happen.

Whos they? Jack asked, looking around quizzically.

I assume hes referring to us. The owner of the voice would step out of the dark corner in the room. Jack would stare at the form for a moment, before nodding. Well, who knew you were back?

No one, and Derek would have liked to keep it that way. But there had been some strange activity in the electromagnetic spectrum that demanded attention, so Boss sent us here to check things out. Lo and behold, we noticed a distress signal from the HQ.

But thats the problem Derek, I didnt send a distress signal. I sent a signal to notify you that there was something amiss here, and if you could give any insight on what was happening. Youre one of the better biochemical scientists I know, and virtually the only one I can trust. Vec stated, looking down at the floor for a moment. Jack looked to Derek for a moment longer, before taking a seat. So I assume you are the missing link in this puzzle?

It would seem so. We guess weve seen the connecting agendas, as well as a piece of the puzzle that may have been missing. You see, Vector had a diagram open on the communication screen. That image was relayed directly back to us when we opened the connection the second we got back. We were able to deduce that it was a nanite from some sort of suit, but it was wrong in its power allotment. We downloaded that specific spec onto our PDA as fast as we could, because at that moment, Vector was attacked by a bright orange armored forearm.

Wait. Jack interrupted. Youre telling me

Yeah. O' Metalbucket whopped our resident croc here a good one. Onlythe suit was here in the building already. Because the alarm did not go off.

You see, back in the early days when the Tower was consistently sought out to be conquered, Derek here was one of our morefrequent visitors. We had to set up a system in order to alert us Admins when someone came up here. Of course, now we can track everything, from teleporters to shadow-jumpers to fliers. We did it via body scans of course-and then thermal imagery. Were working on neural sensory next, so we can identify newcomers by their brainwaves

All that is very fascinating Vector, but its not helping us get anywhere. Jack interrupted.

Sorry. To continue. The key point is that the assailant had to be in the room when I was attacked, or the alarm would have gone off. That left only me. Vector took a moment to swallow that lie. Derek as my witness, he saw me get hit by the forearm, before the suit went to get its wearer. Derek?

Derek stood up, and walked over to their side of the room, looking at the handle of his sword. As far as we know, we had to teleport there. The instant we teleported in the room, the alarm went off, telling us that the intruder was hiding in plain sight when Vector was attacked. He was in pretty bad shape, but since this place runs a lot like a Citadel, we was able to override the controls and utilize Dereks voice command-telling the system this was a distress situation. Instantly, we were able to watch surveillance all throughout the city using the citys own cameras. Thats when we caught something-barely, on an airports radar screen. We let our PDA to do the rest of the work as we tended to Vector. He was still banged up when we had to leave.

Anyway, we had to make tracks, and we werea bit tired from our expenditure. So we had to shadow jump all the way to where the PDA said ol Metalhead was at. We get there right to see the end of the resonating light. We didnt even think, because there were people all around-one of them being Justin. We just had to get him out of there fast. Derek paused, and looked to Vector, before continuing. He was about to get hurt really bad if we didnt intervene...

Excuse meJack stated, walking down the hall in order to take a phone call. As he left their audible range, Derek walked up to Vector, arms crossed over its chest. Tone was lowered so only the crocodile could hear.

He turned to look at the cell where Justin slept. He came back, and kept his secret. He has his reasons to stay that way. Ill respect that. Thats why the moment he could have been seen, we jumped out of his shadow, shirt first. He pointed to the orange shirt he now wore, instead of the fabled green trench. and pulled him down face first. No one knows what he looks like, but we can tell you one thing-if we hadnt did that, wed have an even worse problem that raving gangsters trying to steal some limelight.

I thank you for that. But remember, Jack dosen't know Terg is Justin. You have to keep it that way. Vector acknowledged, never taking his eyes off of Jack. When the man began heading back toward them, Vector shut his maw, eliciting Derek to do the same.

Well, given the current situation, that possibly was the best thing to do. But what about the Spiderman reference? Did you have anything to do with that? Or did Tergonaut jump away as described? Jack inquired.

We had to get back here. So we shadow-jumped with Justin all the way back here, flying back the last bit of the way. Derek thinks we let him go during the travel, but that wouldnt be why hes sick. He would have just passed out from lack of oxygen. A half hearted shrug, before adding a few more cents to the jar. As for Tergonaut. I dont know where he went.

"Well, Ill get on the line, and start having patrols tighten up security, as well as inform SONIC of these latest findings. We may have ourselves a renegade. Turning, Jack headed off down the hallway again, immediately issuing commands of all degrees from his phone.

Well worry about that later Vector stated, as he headed toward the cell... fortunate Jack left for now. What we have to do now is find out just whats going on that making the suit act on what seemed to be its own impulses. Otherwise, we have no other choice but to re-incarcerate him again. Oh, and DerekSpiderman?

Well, I know he didnt do it. Or at least, he wasnt aware of it. Derek stated, as they reached Justins cell again. Andwe couldnt think of anything else to do, so of course we carried the suit with us! I didnt know someone spotted us running up a building! By the way, that suit is incredulously heavy.

Well, how do you know Justin is innocent then? Vector stated, looking back to the fellow scientist. Well, when he had his mask off, he was sweating, bleeding a bit even. But it was his eyes that gave it away. He was confused, as if he just woke up too early from a surgery and didnt know why all these things were sticking out of him. We think our kid's being brainwashed

Or controlledwe already established that, and I think that excess power nanite may be the key. Vector stated.

Derek looked over to Justin, as he slept soundly. Alright Vector. What do you need us to do to help him? Were game. Vector looked to Derek, and immediately gave Derek a quick tongue flicker. Derek leaned back by the obscene gesture, and turned his head. His peripheral vision would alert him to the fact that Jack was returning, possibly with some news. Before Jack was in earshot, he shot a comment at Vector. Stop doing odd things like that to tell me hes coming!! Worked, didnt it? Vector stated back as Jack called their attention.

Well, I still got a task force to command folks. Ill let you whizzes figure out whos doing this. But if another murder occurs, were going to have to confiscate all records and reveal his identity to the public; as try him under the legal system. Jack shook his head, even as Vector was about to protest that call. I cant change the laws Vector, you should know that better than anyone.

He walked off, leaving Derek and Vector with one solid notion. Find out what was happening to Justin. Fast too, because the public was demanding answers. Now.

Just wish he hadnt thrown up on us. We never thought wed see the boy behind the mask puke. He always kept it together. Derek remarked, crossing his arms over his chest before walking toward Vectors lab. Hey, lets get to work. I doubt Justin would appreciate us just gawking at him right now. Were all he has right now.

You say that as if he was a good friend Derek? Vector retorted, following right after the enigma. A silence grew between the duo as they headed into the lab, before Derek replied

You could say...we have our mutual respect for each other. How far that may stretch, will hopefully never be tested. Now, about this nanite of unknown alignment..

3 hours later, possible Mid-Afternoon

That wasnt me. I couldnt have left the bedroom that night. ButI smelt the charred air. I saw the body lying in the corner. I even felt the depletion of power in the suit. But it wasnt me? I dont remember even getting the suit from the office. All I can tell you is that I realized where I was all of a sudden, kinda like when someone throws a bucket of water on you, and you wake up in a shock. Thats how I felt. Then I felt nauseous, and dizzy. The ground quickly faded away, and I swore I thought I was flying again. But I couldnt breathe, like I was flying in space with no suit protection. All in all, I thought I died. Next I know, Im crawling on the floor somewhere, up here I think, and then I passed out. I THINK I may have vomited thoughon something.

You did Justin. Vomit, I mean. Onsomeones shoes-whom that iswell keep to discretion. But that person does know who you are now, and he--err they asked me to tell you that they are eternally sure that your secret will sleep with them to their own grave.

WellId like to thank these people, but how did he know about the situation? Justin asked, sitting up after what felt like a 2 day nap to him. Again, he was drenched in sweat, and his mouth tasted like it had clammed up as well. Smacking his lips together a few times wouldnt clear the taste, so a covered hacking was tried, with little consequence. Vector took a good look at his friend, and took a seat next to him. Well, weve made some great progress, possibly in a direction that was never foreseen. While we dont have a direct clue as to why you dont remember why you were at the crime of the scene, the suit does have some electromagnetic resonance that we discovered only now.

Resonancelike giving off a signal? Justin asked, looking toward the lab, which was closed for the moment. Yes. Here, go take a shower, and come back to the lab. Theres something we have to show you-emphasis on the we. Vector rose, before leaving the boy to his own thoughts.

Vec took no time to rest lately. Not while he was so close to figuring out what was causing his friend to act under the impulse of someones dark wishes. When he found himself back into the laboratory, he spotted Derek looking at the screen, with the photos of the three victims up on the screen, as well as their professions. Hey Vec-I think I got a motive.

Really? Besides what we found out about the nanites origin? Vector hinted, as he sat himself down, donning the neuroglove in order to continue his scrutiny of the inner layers of the suit. He immediately picked up that the objective term was I and not we, meaning he had full cooperation of the actual Derek Laster.

Yah. See look. These fellows all prospered in nanotechnology. The second death also had some knowledge of biochemistrybut the thirdhe was into something a bit closer to home. The third guy-he had a backing in archaeology, particularly about Templar origin.

Templar huh? You think they were using their science to create something? Vector stated?

Not create. Replicate. Derek pushed the pictures aside, and brung up a tree he had created while Vector was talking to Justin. You see, all three of these folks were working under the table-together-on a top secret project that came to light only when this third guy died. The project itself I still dont know anything about, except that it uses a technology of nanites that can replicate themselves into an exact clone of whatever adjacent nanite technology is in their vicinity-inherently cloning the device, so it can be broken down and studied-and then replicated. So-that little flat panel you showed me was more than just a little inert recorder. It was actually cloning the suit, and showing off its combat prowess, if you will. But you already knew that.

I did. I just wanted someone else to figure this out, so I did not seem like I was crazy. But what else did you figure out? Vector asked, looking at the suit still, wondering how to fix this new problem he had discovered.

The menthey all worked for a woman called Georgia Stale-man-chic. Pronunciation was botched on purpose. Im guessing she had a rough childhood

At the mention of the name, Vector dropped everything he was doing, and removed himself from the table. He looked to the door, but it was too late. The towel was tossed onto the floor, and the boys fists were balled as tight as they could be. He looked toward his suit, and pointed to Vector. Show me the video from last night. I want to see everything. Vitals, statistics, energy modulations, everything from 5 minutes BEFORE the attack. I want to know everything you know, so I can put an end to it.

You know what that may lead to Justin? Derek commented, making himself visible to Justin for the time being.

I do...Derek was it? I assume you are referring to what I was ultimately given control of. The survival of the suit. Well there is only one thing to do. If there is no clear solution, then the suit has to be destroyed. Im ready to take that step, ONLY when we have exhausted every option to us possible, INCLUDING extraditing Georgia herself.

Good preachy talk. Now.. Derek turned in the chair, and stood up. Walking to Justin, he extended his hand in good intentions. Lets put those words away, and put on our game faces. A smirk was given, as Justin agreed, shaking Dereks hand. A glance down, as he felt the shocking cold of the grip he received. As Derek released and walked back to the adjacent station, Justin was left looking at his hand. Ivefelt this grip of cold beforedo I know you?

You will, when the time is right. You already know us though. was his retort, before a pair of gloves went on as he began to examine the recorded evidence-to which Justin grabbed a seat and began to watch for himself. A glance was given over to Vector, and then back to this newcomer to the field. Justin knew he was familiar, but currently, he was too focused on figuring out what had happened rather than nostalgic feelings.

--

Late that night&nbsp &nbsp &nbsp &nbsp

Anything on your end, Vector? Derek asked, looking over the OMNI-01s power grid, aligned with the map of Justins neurological and endocrine system readouts.

Well, aside from having to rebuild the suit from scratch, nope. Were going to have to put it back. How could this one piece cause the whole suit to malfunction?

So, this had to be one of the creators of the suit, huh? In order for the suit to work optimally? I would think the suit would adapt to deal with the problem. Not to mention that Im positive no one would have tried to sabotage a prototype suit Justin added, looking to the others as he worked on the actual hardware, trying each part on to see if he could physically detect any changes.

Probable Justin. However, I think that this one nanite was releasing, and possibly is still releasing, some sort of neurological EMP into you-to the point where you could forget spaces of time. In a sense, have a neural remote that made you forget about time. Possibly a fail-safe, but it causes the suit to have an improper shielding. Vector looked up, in order to stretch his neck. Jaws opened wide, impressing both at how wide his mouth actually was.

I still dont understand how the power of one can supersede the power of many? Justin retorted, placing the arm plate he was messing with down on the analysis table.

If I may. Derek piped up, looking at the both of them. The scientist persona was out in full force now, trying to solve the problem at hand. I think that the suit DID compensate for the differed actions of this sole nanite. Thats why the suit has improper inner shielding. The unlimited well of energy came as a cost, since this nanite drew on it to keep enough of an impulse in your body in order to be effective when it occurred. The rest of the suit probably saw this, and blocked areas of the body that they thought this nanite could affect worse than others during times of strain on the suit-hence why you have this cancer in random spots rather than coalesced in one area on your body. The suit was trying to save you, but its actually making it worse. Sure, theyre benign now, but as long as this EMP inducing nanite exists, youre being screwed over. Only thing is, it DOES complete a circuit so intricate you are better off not toying with it, or risk flying a completely damaged suit.

Exactly what I feared. Vector added, looking back over to Justin who seemed completely lost by the statement Derek just uttered. Holy run on sentence there. But I understand Justin commented, waving his hand to show he was keeping up. But what are our options? I cant just sit here and have you two tell me that my suit is inoperable. Someone else is operating it for me, and possibly committing their own sick desires, while destroying everything I tried to protect and care for.

All we need to figure out is what the intent of the killer is. We all know they were in nanotechnology that comparably could have created your suit in the next what, year? Who had the most to lose from having this created before them?

We already know the answer to this Derek. Georgia. Shes the only person who had anything to gain from me losing my name out here.

No, no. See, if it is her, she most surely has a way out of it. We need to find the person who is responsible for the sabotage of the suit. Not to mention they were working for her. What would be the reason of exterminating her own work force-unless one of them could not be trusted.

How Derek? I cant get back to my own world! Even if I could go back in time to st

The revelation suddenly threw a point in the air that made the three of them realize just how powerful this device was. Justin coughed, looking down at the floor. The looks you two are giving me

You wouldnt be here unless that device wasnt used before. Vector started to relate the hypothesis that seemed to shoot across both scientific minds. It makes sense. The device needed its own test run, and right during the sequence you told me that led you to come to the MFW the first timesomeone flipped the switch. But instead of giving you a neural overload, the suit must have retro-acted, causing the energy to be localized outside the suits infrastructure

allowing the energy-energy strong enough to wipe out a persons perception of time Derek continued to manifest outside. It would have to try to escape through time. However, since this was its test run, the amount of time that needed to be wiped out was incalculable. So-it would escape through space-causing a tear within space-formed by time-leading to the concept of a portal.

that allowed your suit to try and feed off that energy, causing you to be drawn toward the portal, and eventually you ending up here. Vec finished, looking to Derek. The Templar Knight nodded in full agreement, leaving Justin with his hands over his face.

If I wasnt already a geek, Id have to deal with my head exploding right now guys. But we dont have time for contrived hypotheses. How do we track this person? We cant send a relay signal back, because we still dont know how this device attacks my memory. I dont understand how I dont forget everything I did that day! Its like it only focuses on the event at hand, before knocking me senseless

Derek hopped up, almost knocking over a few pieces of equipment. Vector! Youre right, he is a genius! Thats absolutely correct Justin! It doesnt erase your whole memory because its localized!

Both Vector and Justin gave each other perplexed looks, before letting Derek continue. Im sure youre going to explain what youre so happy aboutright?

Of course Vector. When you mind analyzes data, it courses to a part of your mind that needs a portion of time in order to convert it into working memory. Now, the reason you cant remember what happens for that portion of time is becauseit affects your short term memory! Thats how come you never remember it. Because it blocks your ability to convert the event from short term to long term memory, by use of an electrical interruption so strong it blows your fuses for who knows how long!

But that would still mean that Justin did the crime, and then was subsequently made to forget? Vector added.

Not necessarily. Say someone wanted to commit the crime at a certain time; they could then cause the EMP to go off, causing the suit to react and trigger transformation in order to dispel the energy-or use the energy to power the suit. As such, that electrical impulse would be used as the ejected weapon. Since were dealing with an energy that does affect time, it already-in effect, did its burning already, on Justins neurons. This leaves Justins mind open to the impulse-sort of like a marionette. The impulse would mirror his brain-fooling the suit-since they would come in through a remote link-a link established by that nanite that seems to be pulling double shifts. When the person was done, the impulse would end, and Justin would be freed of the energy, causing the suit to deactivate. Only last time, Justin snapped out early. The suit must have found a way to at least lessen the electro shock you receivedcausing you to be able to realize you were in the suit-though too late to stop. TINNER, I believe you called it?

Wow was all he could say. Justin sat back down, stunned at how swiftly the process was put together. He could see why Vector called for another mind to join him on this-it was something out of a comic book!

Now, as for stopping it, I think I have that covered. Vector countered. He beckoned the two of them to watch the screen in front of them, as he began to explain his plan to strike back.

--

Next day

Today, at 3:30 Georgia Stahlmansche will be at the Town Fountain, giving a speech about the recent events that have occurred, and a possible solution to help guard the folks of Sega City. She hopes everyone will attend-

The television was shut off mid-broadcast. Looking out the window, Justin watched as some workers headed over to the Fountain, to begin setting up the stage and the accompanying stands. Cleaning his weapon, he took a moment to feel the back of his neck. Shrugging the thought, he returned to his original thoughts, about Georgia.

In the back of his mind, he could not help but think that she had some pre-disposed position on this event. In fact, she was more than eager to jump at the chance to introduce some new kind of animatronic force. Grabbing his jacket off the back of the door, he left his apartment in a rush, turning around to toss the rag he was using to clean his weapon back in the apartment. While a stern look covered his face, his mind was in a tizzy. Those two mad scientists have been working all day and night. I hope this plan works.

Justin ran out of his building, and turned left on Amy Rose lane. Heading up the block, his intended target was the library. Stopping in mid-stride, he felt what seemed to be a foot in his chest. Clinching his chest, he began to cough vehemently, falling to the street. A few bystanders ran to his aid, leaning him up against a wall. Son, you need to get to a hospital

N-no. Im fine. I just need water. My throat is dry.

You sure. You almost looked like you had a heart attack? The man said, still holding Justin up against the wall.

No, no Im fine sir. Justin wriggled free, and stood on his own two feet. Reassuring the gentlemen-and nearby folks he was ok, he turned to run, heading back toward the library. Looking to his watch, he read 1:30. Two hours, guys.

--

Got it. Derek stated, looking at a screen overview of the MFW. Zooming on Sega City, he broke down the screen grid into a ten by ten block radius-using the fountain as the center of this grid. Aside from the natural wireless networking that occurred, there seemed to be no foreign signals being beamed around. Now that we have a lock down on all signals being beamed in this area-I can easily track any signals that appear-either from the suit, or somewhere else.

Good. We know that our foe is using an outside terminal, and is most likely bouncing the signals off of some common satellite, using a recycling signal to hide its tracks. What we can do is create a relay signal to rebound off of every incoming signal, allowing us to in effect-ping that device.

How will that work? Im sure that if they are able to utilize the sabotage of the OMNI-01, they can catch a ping-and reroute it back to us so it looks like the local coffee shop is the cause? Looking at Vector, Derek thought the croc had lost it. The faith would be restored as Vector laughed, an eerily loud sound that made you realize all this croc had was confidence-in his friends as well as his own abilities. You forget Derek. Im the leading scientist in this City. Not Archonn, not Stahlmansche, no one. I dont want to sound egomaniacal, but I dont like it when someone new comes into this world that I only help maintain some sort of stability-and tries to take over. Ill test my wits against someone like that anytime.

Derek nodded, and returned to the holographic representation. Honorable words for a greybeard

Greybread? You really are starting to sound like T

Dont. I know what I said. Dont ever say I sound like him, he still ticks me off. Now, when are we sending our carry-signal to track?

Oh. We arent. Justin is. Thats why I told him to get to the library, and get online as soon as possible. When that computer terminal turns on, Im going to ensure that it keeps sending a signal out every 10 minutes until we have your signal code written. Right on cue, the familiar sound associated with Justins online persona would be heard by the both of them. Vector slid over, and began to type furiously, before looking back to Derek. Signal is locked. Now Justin should be heading over to the fountain now. Time?

Uhh..Its 13:50 We still got a good hour thirty. Whats next?

How long would it take you to shadow-slide to that area? Vector inquired, looking at a small device he had picked up from a side drawer. Im not sure. No more than 15 minutes maximum, if I was moving top speed, had all the shadows I needed, and wasnt teleporting. Cocking his head to one side, Derek turned to look at Vec. Why?

Unfortunately, I forgot to mention one thing. I need you to help Justin.

Why would you want me to shadow-slide there, instead of teleport?

Derek asked, crossing his arms. Well, I already alerted Jack, and he has Knight and Camden in the air-to oversee that no flying suits come raining down. Unfortunately, Im sure that we wont be able to stop the suit from leaving here

Wait...here? You mean Justin isnt wearing it? Derek turned to look in the room, and sure enough, there was the suit, covered in a protective barrier, to constitute an artificial power grid. You still have it plugged it into the grid! If that signal comes though, wont it at least short us out?

Nope. I made a secondary precaution while I had you create that transponder code last night. When that signal comes though, it will record what exactly happens to that nanite. Im sure that it affects a specified area, but I would like to know where. Once that is recorded, the grid will drop, and we will see just how powerful that signal is against TINNER. Hopefully, TINNER will best it, and complete its mission.

Were working with a variable called A.I here Vector. A.I has limits. Whether they are too high or too low, has to be ascertained. Just level with me, you want me to watch Justins back.just in case something goes wrong Derek didnt even finish the statement, the situation was already sounding grim. Im going to need to take a nap. I need to be fully rested in order to pull this off.

Thank you DL. Im sure you will see my reasoning for doing this, possibly in the heat of action-as where I hear you are better suited then you let on. You can sleep in the adjoining room. Would you like something to alert you?

I wont need it. Im sure Ill get up and have to act instantly. Derek took off the lab coat he donned on that night, and headed toward the room that Justin had occupied. As he left, Vector turned to look at the hologrid that was constructed. Boys pretty bright, he figured that out just as fast as Justin did. Now

Turning to the screen, Vector watched as the signal of Justins logging in to that solitary computer was slowly giving off the ping signal, feeding the sequence Derek had wrote into a solitary satellite that Vector isolated for this specific event. When the sequence had finished inputting into the satellite, Vector interrupted the signal. Leaning back in his chair, he reached over for a clawed handful of nuts, tossing them in his mouth. Alright. Now we wait. Just hope I can kill all these birds with one stone

--

Part III

3:20

The door opened, revealing nothing special. Just a small caf, with many folks on laptops here. A snicker was released. Taking a table by a window, the hood was dropped, revealing locks of red hair. Eyes sparkled with the genuine intent that what was being done here was honorable, fingers passing the will of the mind into binary form. Pulling a photo out of the pocket attached to the top of the laptop, it would be pasted upon the top left corner of the screen. A sigh, before a few more keys were pressed. A new picture would pop up, showing a humanoid figure on the screen, lined up with a syringe. A scale bar would appear, and the toggle was pushed to the maximum limit. Hitting enter-the diagram showed that the syringe was actually a representation of certain spots in the humanoid figure on the screen. Almost immediately, these little spots in the body began to release small green pixels-pixels that flooded the human body on the screen. When the appropriate level of green was covering the body, the enter key was hit again. Another smirk would be seen, before the cursor would open up another program. This one resembled a telecommunication device. Clicking on it would cause a connection to try and be established. It only took a moment, before it was received.

--

The slumber of the dark entity was harshly disturbed, as the alert that a signal was made was blaring. Darting in the room-he wasted no time in jumping over the hologrid of the city. A quick glance gave him the time of 3:24. Skidding to a stop, he spotted the suit moving, on its own. The specified nanite was glowing red, as well as vibrating at a different frequency than the rest of the suit. Those vibrations, with the amount of heat it was giving offequaled, on a molecular level, the collision of particlesthose..tetryon particles Wait, werent those the particles Vector told me that are the@#%$, dont have time to take notes Derek jumped into action, grabbing his PDA, and securing it to live feed mode, before connecting it to both the Headquarter network as well as his Templar Citadel network. That way, it could be saved in two locations. With out a second to waste he darted at Vector, whom was merely standing still. Stay just like that Vec.

Wouldnt dare think to move. He said with a smile as he looked at the screen. DL dove directly at him, before handspringing over the snout of the scientist and diving into his shadow. Ironically, Vector stood directly on the spot that all the internal steel beams of the Headquarters made a shadow that led out through town. It was like a waterslide for DL as he flew out of the building, leaping out on top of a rooftop a few blocks away.

A tiny clinking sound forced DL to turn around. High above him, there was a streak of orange, heading toward The fountain! @#%$, I gotta move NOW!

--

Vector had spotted the signal, and allowed it to make contact, before merely hitting Enter on his end. He watched the recipient signal be bounced back, hidden in the SHQ satellite he isolated for this time period. The transponder signal Derek made was hidden within that signal however, allowing Vector to get a fix on the location in under 10 seconds. The laptop could be turned off, and he would still know what computer sent off the signal. Turning to the hologrid, he spotted a red dot leave a caf not 6 blocks away, and head toward the center. Suddenly, the sounds of the grid protecting the suit giving way caught his attention. Before he had a chance to try a countermeasure, he watched as the suit darted toward the nearest window, and fly directly through it. Well, nowthat was unexpecta glance over, and Dereks PDA was spotted.

Always the learner. Looks like we have our evidence. Only three minutes remaining.

--

Walking through the crowd, Justin got the signal he was waiting for over his watch. Clicking it once, he could hear Vector clearly. Speak. Im in the crowd. Good. Derek got the hologrid working. Im sending the signal givers coordinates to your watch now. Be careful though, TINNER is starting to take over like you said. Shell be over you in under a minute.

Justin blinked, and looked at the screen. Sure enough, from his position, the red dot was coming straight toward him. Justin turned heel, and began to push through the crowd, reaching in his jacket for his weapon. Feeling the front of it, he pulled it out and looked at the cartridge. There were only 5 shots! No time to worry, Im going to have to make these shots count. He finally reached a thin part of the crowd, where he could easily evade folks. Holding his weapon low, so as to not catch the eager eye of the Enforcer Foxes, or Stahlmansches bodyguards today, he eased his way to a lightpost. The red dot was nearly on him. He began looking behind around frantically. South, Westnothing. Eastnot-wait! He turned off the communicator, to ensure no feedback from his weapon screwed up his watch. He darted toward the stage, as the red-haired individual sped up on stage, right as Stahlmansche stepped up to the podium.

The crowd began to clap enthusiastically, as she stood up on a stepstool-hidden behind the podium, in order to appear taller. Hello-citizens of this city! She quietly waited for the applause to die down, before continuing. Im here today to ease the fears you folks have had appear into your lives. Recently, this city Georgia stopped, noticing that her bodyguard had took a few steps toward her near immediately. Turning to take a look at what could have her bodyguard Espadrille ready for action, she froze in place, keeping her face stoic.

Freeze! Justin shouted, catching the attention ofno one. Something else had snagged both Georgia and the criminals interest. The crowd spotted it as well, giving Justin plenty of time to look as well as dart toward the stairs. He saw the OMNI-01 in the air, charging up a megalith of energy to blast someone. He wasnt sure whom, but right now, he had to get these people out of the way, suit, or no suit. A single command bellowed from his lungs as he bolted. GET BACK FROM THE STAGE.

The cloaked figure dashed toward Stahlmansche, intent of pinning her to the ground as the OMNI-01 suit prepared to fire. Justin couldn't things end like this, and without having any rational idea of how he was going to save two people, dove for Stahl as well.

---

DL had not stopped running ever since he reached the rooftop. Throwing his sword ahead of him, he would vault across another roof, even as the orange streak started to be tailed by a pair of jets. He had no time to calculate anything. Eyes glinted yellow, and the enigma lunged off the roof, diving with all the speed he acquired from his speed shifting. Landing on the ground, he curled into a roll, before springing out of it and bulleting toward the stage, as Justin dove for the woman. Sword was grasped in mid-flight, as DL ran up someones back and dove again, realizing he was going to have to fly in order to pull this off. The blast was about to fire as he flew forward, spotting Espadrille flying off as fast as she could in order to intercept the now incoming blast. He grabbed Justins leg-positive Justin felt the icy grip by the noticeable reflex to relive itself of this uncomfortable feeling, and shielded his eyes from the flash of the blast that had now reached their location

--Part IV

Opening his eyes, Justin patted his chest, followed by his legs and then head. No noticeable wounds were present on his body. Sighing to himself, he focused his mind on his next objective, and that was apprehending the individual responsible for this. Climbing to his feet, Justin reached down, grabbing the collar to the person he had tackled moments before. Turning her around, his face instantly lost color. Mouth tried to form itself into a shape other than the gaping maw Georgia was staring at-but to no avail. Filled with a slight feeling of disgust, he shoved her away, and scrambled on his feet, looking around to see who else was nearby. Explain Georgia. Who was that and why did it have to come down to this?

The woman in question dusted off, before fixing her attire presently. I dont think its me you should be interrogating, Mr Hobbes. Justin tried to keep his cool, but he almost lost his life to his own suit! He hoped that whatever just happened had somehow crafted enough evidence to convict her. Right now though, in the back of his mind, he knew this is what she wanted. He knew she was silently smirking, that he was forced to save her, and therefore absolving her of the crimes committed over the last week. But he couldnt do anything else. He couldnt apprehend her-he did not even have his weapon near him- though he wish he was pointing it at her right now. He was literally shaking again, but this time it was due to a cold feeling running through his body. He felt his hands lowering, as a hand appeared from below him. Looking down, confused, both individuals watched as a brown-haired male form slid out of what seemed to be the ground.

DL? Justin stated, looking at Derek with a confounded look. Gerogia looked at the enigma herself, perplexed. Yeah...Justin. Lucky I teleported you guys in time. Thoughthat bionic woman took the hit for all of us. He nodded his head backwards, referring to the body of Espadrille, which was shorting out still. Georgia left the males, in order to survey the damage to her bodyguard.

As she left, Justin walked up to DL, and placed a hand on his shoulder. I should have guessed it was you, Derek. I owe you one.

You owe me nothing. Clean up here, and Ill see you up there. DL shrunk back in the ground and lunged away. Justin watched him depart, and turned to look at the damage done. Suddenly, a thought ran across his mind- coming to the realization that the suit was nowhere to be seen. Looking around, he could not spot any pieces of orange armor lying about, -and the jets that were in the area had already taken off. Had they already recovered the suit? Had Vector discovered who orchestrated this, and what was their true goal? Who was the suit actually targeting? He then looked around, not seeing a sign of the actual individual they were tracking. He grabbed his weapon off the ground, trying to hold in his anger.

"In the wake of my rage toward Georgia, I may have let the criminal get away. Im no better than that person is, if they somehow commit another murder. I hope we can still track them, or I wont be able to forgive myself for this."

--

Later that week

Well, it seems that your bodily fluids are back to normal, Mr Hobbes. Nothing seems to be out of whack, though earlier, I wanted to alert you about a rise in your fluid discharge.

A rise? Justin asked, turning to the doctor. He kept a straight face though, so as not to feel as if he was belittling the doctor now.

Yes. I noticed a 300% increase in your hormonal influences, causing your body to use up its available energies quite hastily. Every time you replenish those lost nutrients, they would be used up very hastily, until your body achieved a balance. Had they not, you would have experienced severe muscle cramps in your chest, possibly your back as well.

Oh.reallyJustin nodded, looking toward a window as he did so. I wont overexert myself that much for a while, if thats what you are getting at.

Precisely, Mr Hobbes. You have yourself a good day then!

He nodded and walked off, leaving Justin to put on his shirt. Justin hopped off the table, grabbing his shirt off of the other end and tossing it on. Leaving the room, he signed a release form, before heading upstairs to hear what Vector had to say about this.

I havent heard a thing about this on the news, and its been three days now. No one has an idea of what actually happened. Im not even sure Im sure what happened. All I know was that I passed out as soon as I came back to the Tower after helping the local law enforcement clean that up. I guess Derek took the place of the lead doctor, and made sure Im betterstill weird that DL helped me. But I heard that the jets tailing my suit were able to shoot it down. They said it shattered on impact, but Im still not sure about that. If it did thoughthats the end of Tergonaut.

Maybe thats a good thing? Justin told himself as he got up and headed slowly to Vectors lab, hands crossed over this chest. Its been increasingly hard for me to lead this life-and with the amount of trouble that is occurring, I am still just one man against all of this. The city has defenses, and though Tergonaut is one of them, I dont think I can continue this-not when Im so easily succumbed to the level of a criminal in the public eye. I have friends I will still protect, but the responsibility of the suitIve been feeling as if its starting to make me choose between living one life, or living the other.

But now, that decision may have been made for me.

He continued to head down the hallway, reaching the familiar door that led into the briefing room. Walking in, he spotted no one. Turning to head back in the hallway, he noticed that it was completely silent. Instinct kicked in, and he pulled out his pistol, just in case things had gone sour here. Reaching Vectors lab, he would kick the door in, holding the weapon out to paralyze anyone in their steps. He was greeted with nothing. Just an empty lab. He closed the door, and headed to the cellblock area, darting around a few corridors. Finally, the familiar green scaled form came into view, giving Justin some piece of mind. Hey-Vec..

Ah, Justin youre better. Thats good. Ive got some news for you.

Whats up? Did you guys actually destroy the suit? Justin asked, slightly worried about how this could impact his future.

Well, thats the thing. Theres a lot that was not seen in the midst of that explosion. Vector led Justin to a separate corridor, and opened a solid black door. Letting Justin walk in first, Vector turned on the light, to show him-OMNI-01, completely intact, with someone in white making minor repairs on the suit.

ButHOW? The suit was hit by the jets missiles correct? Im sure that would have left a lot of damage-due to the size of the shot released! Justin was excited to see the suit had survived the crash, but he was at a loss as to how that occurred.

You suit was unmanned, Justin. TINNER had taken over to try and escape the situation at hand, once it had control of the suit. I supposed that would occur, but the missiles, I was sure the suit would be destroyed in the process. When the blast was released, I noticed the suit merely folded back into its storage form, leading the missiles to fly through the space which the connected suit occupied, and colliding into each other. I assume that was the bright flash you all saw, before the plasma shot hit the stage.

Wait? So the missiles missed? Great!

Vec continued. During the moments before the missiles flew to collide with each other, TINNER reverted the suit into its laptop sized conversion, and Derek merely teleported to snag it, before it smashed into the ground.

T-thats great! Thats great news. But what happened to everyone else? Wheres Derek? Or the cloaked individual who I tackled. Come to think of it, did you catch a glimpse of the cloaked individual? Wheres Georgia?

Calm down Justin, youre more eager than a beaver! Vector commented, as he placed a hand on his pals shoulder. Ill answer everything right now, in my own order. Starting with you. When you got back here and passed out, we did get you to medical facility. Derek took over for the head doctor, since your body was in overload. You were basically undergoing shock, due to you missing an introduction of an enzyme in your body. Only it wasnt an enzyme, but an electrical impulse to make your body believe that you were missing something.

Derek had figured that out at the last minute, and we concocted a serum that would remove the stimuli nucleus from your nervous system. Took two days of close monitoring, but youre 100% better.

Now for Georgia. Shes actually undergoing questioning about the deaths of the three scientists-as she was linked to them by your handiwork. That nanite compound you recovered for me to study was the basis of their research. They were planning on replicating your suit Justin-utilizing the supertech that once created it.

Super tech? But there is no Supertech on this planet, right? Unless...Georgia found a way to get back

No. Not that. She didnt find a way to get back He led Justin out of the room, and turned off the light. Justin turned around to notice that the technician working on the suit was gone.

Hey-Vec, you turned off the light on thathey---who was that?

Dont worry. Derek works best in the dark.

..Oh! Justin turned around, and peeked back into the room. Despite it being near pitch black in the room, he could see two blue gems around six feet off the ground. Taking a moment, the gems would begin drifting toward him, until a smoky black humanoid head would poke out from the room. Yeah-just checking to see if there are any residual electrical stimuli left in the suit that might discharge, then Im out of here.

Oh, well, I just wanted to tha-

A long snaky shadow reached up to block the boy from speaking. Justin leaned back to avoid touching the object, as Derek spoke-with a sharply feminine tone.

No need to thank us, Justin. Were always glad to help. Now go run along-well be leaving soon.

Justin gave DL a slight wave, before backtracking toward Vec. As DL slid swiftly back into the darkness, Justin gave Vector a puzzled look. Are you SURE hes trustworthy with my secret? I dont need him/her..IT being a newly acquired liability.

Vec sighed, and headed back to where Justin found him. Im sure. A lots changed since you got back, him-and his interactions with us being one of the larger changes. Go to the second cell on your right. Your last question will be answered.

Unsure, Justin placed his hand on the holster of his weapon, as he walked down to the cell, and almost fainted at the sight of the person responsible. The red hair was a throw off, but the style of clothing was unmistakable. The face, it had been a while, but he knew deep down that with her appearance here- the battle had reached an all time high.

YOU!

---And...that's it, for now. At least, until Boss man Terg gives me direction for the next installment in this small timeline. Stay tuned for The Spire though, to catch up on DL's own adventure in the Templarverse. n_~