Warning: this was 29 pages in Word. If that deters you, you have been fairly warned.

And now, without further ado...

The Segans, the Witch and the Wedding, Part 1
A Two-Part MoFiction
Written by Tergonaut
Produced by TergoCorp. Industries

Starring a cast of MoForumers characters across both parts
Tergonaut as Justin Hobbes
Vector
Adara
Crimson Darkwolfe
Gyser
Wonderbat
Ultra Sonic 007 a.k.a. Redley
Sailor Papirini
Gingersnap
CyKairus

I wish life were more like a machine. I understand machines. Machines do their job without complaint, and they give their all without question. They dont discriminate; as long as a person knows how to operate it, a machine will work just as well for anyone. When they get broken, they can be fixed. They operate within laws and principles, and they dont vary from those rules. Machines are intricate, yet theyre simple when it comes down to it.

Justin Hobbes
June 19th, 2006

The clouded glass doors of the SHQ Tower slid apart silently to admit the entrance of Justin Hobbes. The Moderator reached up to slip off his shades as he entered, and his turquoise eyes twinkled at the receptionist echidna. His red- white- and gray-colored sneakers reflected against the smooth tiled floor, blue polished tiles with specks of gold and ruby.

Good morning, Mr. Hobbes, greeted the red echidna as Justin approached the front counter. Administrator Vector is expecting you. You can use the elevator, hes in his lab.

Thanks, maam, said the brown-haired human with a thumbs-up as he passed the counter toward the center of the massive reception area, where the central column of the SHQ Tower stood with its various elevator doors all around its silvery surface. He dialed up the proper floor using the handy elevator buttons, each marked with the face of a particular Sonic the Hedgehog character; the button he pressed featured the mark of a crocodiles head, wearing a pair of large headphones on his head. He tapped his foot as he waited for the elevator, a good-natured tap-tap-tap set to the cheerful rhythm floating around in his head that morning.

The elevator door opened and he eagerly stepped forward, but caught himself in mid-step and changed his direction so he hopped out of the way of the female blue hedgehog who got off the elevator he called. Hey there, Charlie, he said with that same easygoing cheerfulness, a smile lazily slopped across his face. Whatre you doing at the Tower this time of day?

Hey yourself, Justy, said the hedgehog with a lopsided grin as she brushed some loose quills away from her face and stepped out of the elevator. I was just reporting in on the status of the RP Guild since we finished the repairs.

Youre tellin me? said Justin jokingly, having been a major part of those repairs. Thats chill, though, so replacing that actuator crystal worked?

Yes, and we repaired the electron accumulator cells. Turns out that we need to upgrade them, the power output isnt enough to keep up with the citys growth rate right now. Then Charlie leaned up against the wall next to the elevator, shining that grin up at Justin with heavy-lidded eyes. But enough about that business, whatre you here for? Arent you getting married this weekend?

Vec called me up, he didnt say what about, answered Justin quickly as he slammed his arm into the way of the closing elevator door, which automatically opened when it detected him in its path. And yeah, I am getting married this weekend. Didnt you get an invitation?

Along with everybody else and their dog, snorted Charlie. I dont know how the heck youre gonna throw this kind of bash, Justy, Ive been to your apartment and its no Taj Mahal. Your job as a Segan archeologist doesnt exactly pay that much, and fixing stuff at the Guild doesnt offer that much more. And then theres the rumors flying about that-

-that the woman Im marrying isnt who she claims to be, finished Justin with an exasperated sigh. Thanks for the concern, Charlie, but thats just some crazy tabloid story. It doesnt matter to me that she might be someone else, I love her for who she is, not who she might have been.

Whoa, calm down there big fella, were on the same side.

Justin took a deep breath and shook his head slowly. Sorry, I shouldnt have gone off like that on you.

Sokay, youve been getting a lot of that Cookirini is an imposter stuff lately, and you gotta defend your woman. Charlie shrugged. But you told me she lost her memory, and if my boyfriend had this sort of stuff going on, Id want to try to bring back those memories in a hurry before getting married. Thats a huge commitment, yeah?

First youd have to find a boyfriend, said Justin as a smile played across his face.

Details, details. Tell Vec that I want to have his children, maybe you can help me get started on this whole boyfriend thing. Her face retained the same serious expression she had used to make such a ridiculous demand, but her tone finally shifted to match. But you know what I mean, Justy, just...be careful, okay?

Roger that, Charlie. See you later.

Justin stepped into the elevator, and he turned around as the door shut, surrounding him in the square-shaped elevator walls. He shut his eyes and reached out to hold onto one of the hand rails that lined the elevators mirrored walls, the metal of the rail cool against his gloved hand. Actually, I lied to her just now, thought Justin as he felt the subtle pull of gravity strengthen briefly as the elevator started. I first met Cookirini during my first time in the Mobius Forum World, and it was only a few months before I left that we finally acknowledged that we had feelings for each other, back when the Sterling Shogun first showed up. I promised her that Id come back to see her again when I had to leave...

Thinking of the Sterling Shogun brought the image of Cookirini standing there, laughing after the Shogun had been completely disintegrated by some kind of force emanating from her. His eyes snapped open, a mixture of confusion and anger swirling about along with tender love. But still, that really bothered me. Shes said that she has amnesia, that she cant remember past a certain point, and maybe thats affected her personality as well. I cant let her down now, though, Ive got to trust her. Im getting married to her, right?

The elevator rang a bell when it reached the target floor, and Justin went through the open door.
* * *
Hey, Vec? Vector, its Justin, you there?

Justin stood outside the door to Vectors lab, listening for any sign of activity at the door. Subtle chemical and metal smells reached his nostrils, smells that told him there was well-kept machinery nearby. It warmed his heart to know that at least someone could take care of machines properly; maybe that was part of why he and Vector were such good friends. But while there was sound coming from the other side of the door, Justin could make out no sign of movement through the crystalline glasswork with the word CENTRAL LABORATORY written across in bold black letters.

Okay, if youre not coming out, then Im coming in, said Justin as he gripped the doorknob and pushed the door open slowly, poking his head through.

The inside of Vectors laboratory revealed what one might expect to find in the indoor domain of a brilliant yet eccentric scientist: to one side, computer consoles lined the inner wall with a variety of monitors, buttons, levers and switches; a clear area in the middle of the room was surrounded by four square table islands which had a marvelous array of beakers and other glass and metal containers bubbling with unknown substances of neon green and blue and red; toward the back of the room was a series of hulking box machines, manufacturing mini-factories and diagnostic equipment; and finally, scattered onto almost every open surface along the walls and sides of the tables and computers were hastily-taped sketches, notes and diagrams of various designs for technological wonders that even Justin couldnt fathom. The ceiling of the cool ice-blue room bathed the area in warm yellowish light that replicated natural sunlight, and the curved outer wall of the room had a huge reinforced glass picture window that gave a view of an entire quarter of Sega City.

It was at one of the four tables where Justin found an anthropomorphic crocodile. He wore a white labcoat and a pair of black and gold headphones with fat, comfortable ear pieces fit snugly onto his green reptilian head. Safety goggles covered his eyes as sparks flew from the arc welder in his hands, which reminded Justin of an enlarged version of the sort of tool his dentist had used on him back on Earth.

Figures Id catch him in the middle of something, thought Justin with a good-natured smirk as he walked around to the other side of Vector, pulling out his shades from his pocket and replacing them on his face so he wouldnt be blinded by the crocodile scientists work. Hey, Vec, can you hear me now?

Vector didnt even look up from the boxy contraption he was working on. Yes, I can, he replied in his naturally growly voice, in a friendly enough way to let Justin know he was in a good mood yet relay that Vectors mind was in another world at the moment.

Okay, good. You called me up to talk to me?

Mm-hmm, thats right.

Silence, save for the occasional crackle of the welder at work.

Wanted to tell me why?

Of course, of course, just let me finish this connection here...

Silence.

I really shouldnt, but its too much to resist. Hey, Vec, Charlie said that she wanted to have your kids. How do you feel about that?

Oh, absolutely. Ill get to it right after Im done with this, just hold on a little longer.

Justin allowed himself a chuckle before another snap popped out from the welder, and Vector turned off the device and lifted his safety goggles from his eyes. Sorry about the delay, I had a brainstorm just a few minutes before you came about building a better mousetrap, explained Vector as he placed a lid onto the device and put it away into one of the already-stuffed drawers embedded into the table he stood at. He looked up at Justin for the first time since the human had entered the room, just as Justin took off his sunglasses and slipped them back into his pocket. Now, youre probably wondering why I called you here today.

You read my mind, Vec. Justin leaned with one elbow on a single bare spot on the cluttered laboratory desk. So gimme the briefing, do we have another Segan ruin site to dig at? You didnt mention it on the vidphone.

I wanted to surprise you. You see, someone contacted me to hire you out for a ten million ring contract to explore some previously undiscovered Segan ruins.

Vec, Im an amateur archeologist, not a bounty hunter Then the number Vector mentioned finally registered with Justins mind. Wait, you said ten million?!

Correct. And dont worry, I didnt hire you out without your consent. I wanted to meet with her and discuss terms of the contract.

Justins eyes widened slightly with curiosity. Wait, her? Just who is this, anyway?

Georgia Stahlmansche of Effective Cybertronics Unlimited.

The table shook as Justin slammed both hands onto it. What?! Youre even thinking of taking that witch seriously?

Even made an appointment for her to meet with us in, oh Vector glanced calmly at the wall clock. Three minutes?

No, a thousand times no! That devil can take her money and shove it! Im not going to help her get any Segan technology if I can help it! Shes just going to use it to try to take over this world like she tried to take over my Earth!

Vectors reptilian face showed no sign of distress at Justins ranting as he held up a leathery green finger. Justin, I know what youve told me. Thats why I decided to accept the offer.

Huh? But that makes no sense, shes just looking to make it legit by signing us up to go along with it!

I realize that. But what shes also doing is putting us in a position where we can watch what she does in the Segan ruins. Would you honestly rather let her explore on her own and plunder without supervision?

Justins frown lightened slightly as he stood up straight and crossed his arms across his chest. Okay, good point. And it would be nice to get ten million off of her. But if shes paying that much, theres gotta be something she wants out of this operation, something really big.

And youll be able to find out what it is yourself, so we can prepare for it, finished Vector. Justin, I trust that youre right about her, but weve already talked about this. We cant ban her or take any other action without real evidence, and this may be the way to get that evidence. She is, at least in the public eye, a well-respected cybernetics company CEO.

Still, I dont like it.

Dont have to. And there she is.

Justin nearly jumped as someone knocked on the door from the other side, and he forced himself to relax as Vector went to open the door. She doesnt know that Justin Hobbes and Tergonaut are the same personand I gotta keep up the act now.

Vector placed his hand onto the doorknob and pulled it open with a wide crocodilian smile. Hello! You must be Miss Stahlmansche, said the Admin as he reached out with one hand to shake, and then he stepped aside to allow her inside. And youve brought someone with you, I see.

Justin was prepared for the appearance of Stahlmansche as she came into the laboratory, and the feelings of utter loathing that sprang up inside of him as he saw the woman. She was very youthful-looking, with freckles speckling her face around her nose, and looked almost too young to be one of the most successful businesswomen in Sega City. Distinct red hair done up in a professional bun behind her head did not help, nor the fine black business suit that she wore along with a proper white shirt and thin, European-styled tie. Only the curves of her body, veiled behind the tailoring of her suit, indicated she was older than a teenager. She stood a few inches shorter than Justin, and she reached up to remove the small pair of eyeglasses from her face and slip them into her front pocket as she approached him.

Mr. Justin Hobbes, I presume, said Stahlmansche, her voice precise and articulated, absent of accent to interfere with her words as she held out her hand to shake his.

Justin took the hand into his own and shook it. Shes got a good grip. Shes much stronger than she looks. And youre Miss Georgia Stahlmansche.

A pleasure, stated Stahlmansche coolly as she smiled up at Justin. It was a small, calculated smile, one that Justin had seen too many times in the ads that her company ran on the public networks in Sega City. And I need to introduce you to my traveling secretary.

Justin looked up as Stahlmansche stepped aside to allow another person to step through the doorway. When he saw who it was, it took an effort not to let his jaw drop. She was an anthropomorphic feline, with black stripes that ran through her pure snow-white fur. Long black hair fell down in neat cascades on either side of her head, and she was dressed in a gray womans business suitcoat and skirt that reached down just past her knees. She stood a little shorter than Stahlmansche, but her figure was not at all behind in any respect. Her large pair of white-feathered wings neatly folded against her back.

She looked up at Justin with deep brown eyes, and she smiled up at him. This was a warm, genuine smile, not the well-disguised false smile that Stahlmansche used. And Justin found himself smiling back at her too.

Mr. Hobbes, this is Adara. Adara, meet Mr. Ju-

Weve met before, interrupted Adara, her voice flowing with a soft German accent. Many times. Hello again, Justin.

Good to see you again, answered Justin. First time I saw Adara was back around Christmastime. I accidentally bumped into her when she was carrying a ton of packages out of a store. Ever since, Ive been seeing her a lot and weve become good friends, but up until now I had no idea who she worked for.

Ah, I see, said Stahlmansche, that smile still on her face as she looked shrewdly at the two of them. She turned to Vector, who had just closed the door. So, shall we begin with the details of this contract?

Yes, lets, said Vector. The four of them walked further into the laboratory, where Vector produced some chairs for everyone to sit down. You may begin, Miss Stahlmansche.

Very well. To give some background, approximately two weeks ago my company sold some scout and exploration robots to another company. This other company did not disclose their need for the robots, but the contract we signed allowed for disclosure of anything that they discovered during their expedition. It was only after they had reached their destination that we realized their target was a Segan ruin site.

Why didnt you report this earlier? asked Vector in a straightforward manner, his eyes fixed on the businesswoman. Ever since Segan ruins have been proven to contain dangerous traps and robots guarding them, only those granted permission by an Admin are allowed into them.

We didnt report it because the information that it was a Segan ruin was given to us just yesterday, explained Stahlmansche smoothly. I called you immediately after that came to my attention.

So, what happened to the other expedition? asked Justin.

They went deep within the ruins and were attacked by something. We presume that it may have been Segan security drones, but the transmissions we received are not clear. But before they were attacked, they went far enough into the ruins to detect some very interesting technology. The robots we sent were able to analyze the data and determined that there are a number of advanced technological devices held in some sort of low-temperature zone deep within the ruins.

What sort of technology are you talking about here? asked Justin. If its anything like the Molecular Incineration Field Projector, then theres no chance on the MFW that Im letting her get what she wants.

We couldnt determine the purpose or function of most of the technology, but one device in particular has given me reason to believe that it is a specialized Artificial Intelligence core drive.

An Artificial Intelligence network device capable of supporting an entire living beings brain if necessary? asked Vector, and Justin could tell the crocodile was impressed. A very astounding achievement, as even our modern technology now allows for fairly limited AIs, except in exceptional cases. Such a discovery could help advance our own robotics technology if it could be reproduced.

Exactly, said Stahlmansche, her smile widening. And I believe that my company has the resources to make the best use of such technology. Effective Cybertronics Unlimited has always been dedicated to the betterment of the general technological good of society, and we are well prepared to use this technology to enhance our services.

An AI core is what shes after? That doesnt sound like the sort of thing shed be willing to give up so much money for. There must be a catch somewhere here, she must be using that as a cover to exploit whatever it is shes really after, thought Justin.

So to the end of recovering that technology, I am assembling an expedition of forumers, continued Stahlmansche. As I need your permission, Vector, before I can proceed with this venture, and as Mr. Hobbes is currently the most experienced Segan archeologist in the world, I have come to you to inform you of my purposes and to hire Mr. Hobbes for his expertise.

Smooth as glass, thought Justin to himself as he considered the proposal. Now Im really curious. Why is she hiring forumers to join an expedition when she could just send some of her robots to do the job instead? Shes doing an awful lot of work to make this look like a completely legit deal, and that only spells out trouble to me. Especially if shes willing to pay ten million rings. And that kind of money would easily let me pay for the wedding, plus Id get to foil whatever plans Stahlmansche has

If Vec says okay, then sign me up, agreed Justin.

And given the circumstances, you may have permission to go to these Segan ruins as you have outlined, said Vector. Well have our people contact your people about the details of the contract.

Very well. Thank you for your time, gentlemen, said Stahlmansche as she and Adara stood up, Vector and Justin doing the same. I have arranged for the expedition to leave early tomorrow morning at the eastern edge of Sega City. I do hope that arrangement allows you to be properly prepared, Mr. Hobbes.

Ill be ready, said Justin firmly.

Good. We shall meet you at five oclock in the morning.
* * *
Mr. Crimson, I have asked you to join my expedition because I feel that I need someone along that I can trust.

Stahlmansches brow wrinkled worriedly as she looked across at the anthropomorphic red-furred wolf that sat in the chair in front of her desk. He was fairly tall, with a ridiculously-bushy tail that overflowed behind him and over the edge of the chair he sat in. He looked a little out of place in such lush surroundings, wearing a T-shirt and zip-off pants. Despite the visible fangs that showed even though his white-furred muzzle was closed, his quizzical expression was almost comical as he looked back at her with eyes as red as her hair.

Trust? Me? he asked with a nervous laugh. But why me? Youre hiring a bunch of other guys to come along with us, right?

Yes, all of them competent in their own respects. But as a corporate leader, I know from unfortunate first-hand experience that other companies are always trying to buy the loyalties of people around them, explained Stahlmansche, her thumbs batting lightly against each other in a show of agitation. Ive visited the Radians Prower bar and have never had to fear because you were there, ready to serve with a sincere smile. Crimson, you dont strike me as the kind of person who would betray a customer, and friend. Which is why Im about to tell you what it is that Im looking for in these ruins...

Crimsons expression had warmed up under the reassuring waves of compliments, and now his eyes were more curious and attentive as he leaned subtly forward, his ears perked on top of his head.

The Segans were masters of technology, said Stahlmansche. They were able to create technological marvels beyond even what I am able to produce through my company. And the artifact that was discovered before contact was broken, is what I am calling an Artificial Intelligence core drive.

It sounds important, said Crimson. But what does it do?

Its a computer powerful enough that it is...this is only theoretical, mind you...it is possible to transfer ones soul onto it.

Thats incredible...but what good is that by itself? I wouldnt want to be stuck in a computer for the rest of my life.

Stahlmansche allowed herself the luxury of a friendly chuckle, leaning back in her chair. By itself, it is fairly useless. But connected to a suitable robotic body, it essentially grants... She leaned forward, bringing one hand to the side of her mouth, and whispered, Immortality."

Is that really possible? yelped Crimson, his eyes wide. Does it really exist?

It does, and were going to recover it, said Stahlmansche as she sat up once again in her chair. You can understand now why I am so concerned that someone might attempt to steal it from me. I need someone I can trust to come with me on this expedition, someone who can watch the others and ensure that they dont backstab me at the crucial moment...someone like you, Crimson.

Wow...Im not really sure what to say, I mean, Im flattered...

Just say youll go along. If all goes well, Ill ensure that you are well-rewarded, said Stahlmansche with a flirtatious lilt to her voice as she smiled prettily at the wolf.

This elicited a blush that could be seen even through the layer of white fur around his mouth, and Crimson stood up from the chair quickly. You can depend on me, then! Ill make sure to watch the others closely!

Very good...remember, tomorrow morning at five...
* * *
Is it true? What you said in your message?

Stahlmansche leveled an even gaze across the desk at the flourescent green and purple hedgehog sitting there. His blue eyes stared back at her with an intensity that pleased her. Yes, Mr. Gyser. I would not lie about something of this importance.

Then how is it done? asked Gyser, impatience on his face. How can you give me my speed back? He tensed, as if ready to spring out of his chair.

I know how important this is to you, so Ill explain quickly. Effective Cybertronics Unlimited produces, among other things, bionic enhancements and supplementary cybernetics. My company recently patented a new series of servos installed into the legs. They can be modified to have enough output to grant you your speed back.

What do I have to do to get this?

Stahlmansche studied him carefully. Gyser controlled himself, but he did not hide his anxiety to regain his super speed. Perhaps he could not. Stahlmansche had studied his history, knew what had happened to tear this hedgehogs past. The scars across his chest in an X-shape plainly showed that past. What Stahlmansche saw in those eyes was someone desperate, someone willing to do almost anything for something.

The procedure is new and therefore expensive, stated Stahlmansche calmly, without malice yet without softness. However, I am willing to pay for it in full if you will join the expedition that I am forming to investigate a set of Segan ruins to the east of Sega City. Ive already hired a few others to join us, but I believe someone of your capabilities would certainly be of use on this journey.

Is that it? Then sign me up! Ive been looking for a good adventure anyway! When do we leave?

Five oclock tomorrow morning. Ill give you the rest of the details...
* * *
I understand that you want to explore some ancient Segan ruins.

Stahlmansche nodded to the yellow- and gray-clad man who stood in front of the desk. Yes, and I understand that you have an interest in such things. Would you like to sit down, Mr....?

Wonderbat. I am comfortable where I am.

Stahlmansche did not understand why the man was named Wonderbat when he clearly appeared to be a human. It did not seem to be because of the yellow Met helmet that he wore, which reminded her of old Mega Man video games she played in her youth. Perhaps it was because of the baseball bat that seemed to perpetually exist in his presence, and even now it served as a cane for him to lean on as he stood rigidly in front of the desk. He looked down at her with an expression like he smelled something distasteful but was too polite to mention anything.

All right, then to business. Are you willing to come along onto the expedition to explore the ruins?

Yes. Wonderbats voice was clear, but deadpan.

And for your assistance, I can ensure that you are compensated for your trouble.

Wonderbat was nearly unreadable as he shook his head. I do not require any compensation. All I want is to be able to join the expedition. That is payment enough.

If you insist, then so be it, said Stahlmansche, regarding Wonderbat with a curiosity of whether he really had feelings, or if he hid them well...like she did when she wanted to. But it seemed to her that there was something similar between this man and the robots that her company produced. Somehow that was what her intuition told her. I expect you to be there at five oclock tomorrow morning. We will leave immediately after everyone has arrived.

Good. I will be there.

Wonderbat then turned, walked to the door, and promptly melted into a silvery puddle that seeped underneath the door. Helmet, baseball bat, body...everything melted with him.
* * *
After Wonderbat left, Stahlmansche sat back into her chair and looked over at a section of the wall, her smile widening. So you have heard from them all. What do you think?

The wall panel slid down, and out stepped the form of another hedgehog, one with blue spines and a cybernetic arm. His eyes gazed darkly at her, a frown etched onto his face. All forumers with unique abilities. But I dont see why you bother using them when you could send in your robots after this cybernetic artifact youre looking for. That would present much less of a risk factor.

Ah, but my dear Ultra Sonic 007-

I am Redley now, interrupted the cyborg, his eyes dark and red.

Redley, you of all people should understand the importance of knowing the strengths and weaknesses of potential allies...or enemies. And this way, I am obeying the current legal systems requirements. I can safely say that I have done everything legally.

And what you are paying me for, is to spy on all of the other forumers who are coming along and ensure that you are protected at all costs...even if that means killing the others.

Exactly, said Stahlmansche, nodding to the hedgehog as he walked to the door, his cyber-arm gleaming. There is much value to having a professional in ones pay. Make sure that you are worth my money.

I am certain that you will find my services suitable for your needs. Make sure that your money is worth my time.

Very well. Tomorrow morning at five oclock, then.
* * *
Are we there yet?

Justin couldnt help the smile on his face at Crimsons question as the expeditionary group held on tightly to their seats. It had been the third time that the red wolf had asked the question since they had started out from Sega City in the massive Rough Terrain Vehicle that Stahlmansche provided for the expedition. But as the vehicle shook under a sudden constant pounding on its sturdy metal sides, this time the question held a little more urgency to it as Crimson held onto his stomach.

Youre looking a little green there, Crim, said Gyser from his own chair, a smile across his hedgehog muzzle as he looked across the middle of the aisle toward Crimson. Need us to pull over?

Naw, but you might need to, answered Crimson as he put his hand over his mouth to cover a burp. You look a lot more green than I do.

Justin laughed out loud at overhearing that, as did Adara, Ultra Sonic and even Stahlmansche at the front chuckled openly as Gyser crossed his arms in distaste. Are we there yet? asked the fluorescent green hedgehog. And whats with the percussion orchestra beating on the RTV?

Weve entered Cosmic Canyon, announced Stahlmansche smoothly, her hands splayed across the controls of the lumbering six-wheeled vehicle. Justin had hardly recognized her in the tan expeditionary jumpsuit she had donned rather than her regular business suit. Take a look outside the windows to see for yourself.

Justin turned in his seat to look out one of the small round viewing ports that lined the angular metal insides of the RTV. He let out a low whistle as he looked out onto a dark gray landscape. Like were on the moon, he thought as he saw a black sky speckled with stars and blasted craters littering the landscape both smaller than his foot and larger than their entire vehicle. What looked like asteroids and space debris hung in the air, in a variety of sizes and shapes but made of the same rock as the rest of the canyon which they were running down the middle of. Soon the ridges along either side rose up high on either side, and it seemed to continue on as far as Justins eyes could see in either direction through the cramped viewport.

Whats with the sky? asked Gyser as he peered out. Its seven in the morning, we should be able to see the sun by now.

Thats one of Cosmic Canyons unique features, explained Adara from her seat. Miss Stahlmansche and I did some research on the location before we started out. The canyon was named Cosmic Canyon because it resembled a moonscape in outer space. The sun never shines here, and there are never clouds, always endless night sky. Gravity is also reduced here, explaining the presence of the asteroids that we can see floating around.

Will the reduced gravity affect us as well? asked Ultra Sonic, leaning over his seat to look back at the black-and-white feline with intense green eyes. A casual smile flitted onto his face.

It will while were in the canyon, but the original exploration team reported that gravity was normal once they had gotten inside the Segan ruins, answered Adara.

What about air? asked Crimson.

The air is normal, thankfully. Aside from the survival backpacks that weve been provided with by Vector, we shouldnt need any special equipment to get to the door.

Speaking of doors, where is the entrance to the Segan ruins, anyway? questioned Justin as he leaned back in his chair with hands behind his head. His eyes ranged about the room, looking at the other expeditionary members. I really wasnt expecting Stahlmansche of all people to come along with us. Most of these people I know, like Crimson, Gyser, and Ultra Sonic, though with Gyser and Ultra I only know them when I was first in the forum before I left and came backand theyve changed. Gyser hasnt been running around at super speed like I remember, and Ultra certainly didnt have that cybernetic arm the last time I saw him. But since I didnt meet them as Justin Hobbes yet, Ive still got to pretend I dont know them at all, at least for now. If they havent changed in their hearts, I know I can trust them. Only person I really dont know on this cruise is Wonderbat, but then again, seems like nobody else does either.

The entrance is coming up on our rightnow, said Stahlmansche, and the entire vehicle lurched forward as it braked against the smooth surface of the canyon. The red-haired businesswoman unbuckled her restraints and got to her feet, strapping on her backpack as she walked down the aisle toward the rear of the vehicle. Everyone get ready to disembark.

Everyone rose from their seats and put on their respective gear as they followed Stahlmansche, who flipped a large lever. The grooved metal wall that made up the back of the RTV lowered itself as a ramp to the ground, where it raised a slow-moving dust cloud as it touched down. The ramp led to a cul-de-sac in the canyon wall, leading away from the main canyon by a narrow bottleneck pathway.

Stahlmansche smiled pleasantly at Justin. Would you like to go first? The Segan ruin entrance is inside the clearing. If there are any Segan defenses, youll surely be the one to spot them.

This is called, sending someone in first just in case theres a deathtrap, thought Justin with a note of grimness amidst his usually cheerful persona. Im on it, he answered, taking a step forward down onto the ramp

And he let out an undignified yelp as his feet took him down to the bottom of the ramp in a single step. His hand shot out to keep him from toppling over as he landed clumsily onto the dusty ground, like walking on sawdust-covered cement.

Watch that first step, its a doozy! called out Crimson, sounding very innocent despite his timing.

Are you all right? called down Adara.

Im fine, Justin called back as he dusted his hand onto his jeans and took baby steps, testing how much force would take him a certain distance across the moonscape. Just forgot about the reduced gravity for a sec there. I wonder if Stahlmansche knew that was going to happen? Everyone be careful and follow me.

Justin turned back ahead and stepped forward again, lightly. And again. Dust raised at each step as he continued, and now he was plowing ahead, slowly but steadily, his eyes looking to the sides of the passageway to look for clues of Segan markings. But there was no such sign, and he noticed that besides the noise being made by himself and the other members of the expeditionary crew, it was deathly quiet outside.

I dont like it when its this quiet.

Justin reached the end of the passageway and stepped into the cul-de-sac. From this angle, he could now see that it looked much more like another moon crater, except that the sides were much steeper all around. A rectangular section of one of the walls appeared to have been carved out with exact precision, revealing a long golden door that glistened in the starlight. The doors face was covered in markings, and a tiny seam down the middle of the door indicated how the door would open, like a supermarket automatic door.

Time to put Vecs compwatch technology to the limit, thought Justin as he raised his left arm and punched a few buttons on the side of the watch-like device strapped to his wrist. A two-dimensional holographic halo appeared around the watch, and symbols similar to the ones on the door scrolled along the circular screen.

What are you doing? asked Stahlmansche as she entered the crater, her voice clear in the quiet air.

Running a check on these hieroglyphics to find some hints on how to pop this can open, said Justin as he cycled his compwatch through various symbols, tapping ones that matched the hieroglyphs on the door and assembling them into the same order. Vector and I have been working on a translation program for the Segan glyphs. Its still incomplete, but weve managed to translate some of the more common symbols and its helped us get context for figuring out the rest.

The rest of the expeditionary party came through the crevice into the crater, all eyes on Justin. So what does it say so far? asked Ultra.

I think its asking for a password, answered Justin with his brow furrowed in concentration as he looked back and forth between the door and his compwatchs yellow holo-screen. Havent figured out how were going to activate it, though. This is the first time Ive seen such a heavy door.

A gray and yellow arm reached out, and Wonderbat rested his hand against the door, his eyes intensely focused onto the shaped markings. It says, To find entrance, find our icons of the Three: Cobalt, Gold and Crimson.

Hey, weve got one of those! wisecracked Gyser as he nudged Crimson.

Justin whipped his head around to look at Wonderbat, then back at his compwatch, then back to Wonderbat. I can only make out part of what you said, but thats the most accurate translation Ive heard of! How did you manage to pull that off?

Wonderbat returned Justins incredulous gaze with a frown. Idont know the answer to your question.

A tremor shuddered throughout the crater, and a low moaning noise echoed from the main canyon. Whoa, whats this about?! yelled Gyser as he slid his feet apart on the chalky ground to keep his balance.

I dont know, but Id rather not stay to find out! exclaimed Justin as he snapped out of his shock and turned back to the door. The Three that Wonderbat mentioned refers to the three patron deities of the Segans! Quick, find a marking that looks like a hedgehog, a two-tailed fox and an echidna!

What do we do if we find them? asked Adara, her wings spread out defensively behind her as she began looking at the door.

Just find them and then touch them, and hope that the door opens!

The moaning sound became louder and wind picked up from nowhere, throwing particles of the moonscape up into a thin cloud of dust. Everyone scattered along the wall, scrambling to find the specified runes.

Found the hedgehog! shouted Stahlmansche as she tapped a symbol of a hedgehog. The carved outline glowed with a bold bluish light.

And Ive got the echidna! yelled Gyser as his white-gloved fingers touched the shape, which glowed with a red light.

Wheres the fox, anybody found him?

The dust whipped up harder now, and Justin could hardly breathe or see in the storm that brewed in the house-sized crater. The taste of dry cement assaulted his senses. Then what felt like a pea-sized object stung his shoulder, and he whirled around to see a stream of small asteroids flowing into the crater from the crevice they had walked through!

Its a meteor shower!

The first wave of floating rocks sped past them, slamming first into the far wall of the crater before bouncing off at all angles and speeds. Most of them were small and shattered into dust, but anything bigger than a baseball survived the initial impact and whizzed around the crater like mad rocky pinballs.

Weve gotta get through this door! Its our only chance to get to safety!

Wheres that dumb fox? Justin heard Crimson mutter nearby.

Ive found him! Hes up there!

Ultra pointed up with his cybernetic hand toward the symbol of a twin-tailed fox, and his hand suddenly shot out from the rest of his arm. A winding cable trailed after the hand and tightened just as the hand used its fingers to tap the symbol. Ultra retracted his hand as the symbol glowed with a soft yellow-orange light, and the door slid open with incredible speed as if it had never been there. Darkness met their eyes inside, almost complete darkness in the corridor that matched the rectangular shape of the door.

Everyone inside! shouted Justin, and he waited momentarily as the others leapt into the safety of the passageway. The wind howled now, and he heard something flying at him from behind. He whirled around, and raised his arms reflexively as a meteor the size of his head flew right at him!

And in the next split-second, all he saw were white feathers, which buckled in front of him but held.

Adara!

Adara winced as she withdrew her wing, the rockball dropping from where she had deflected it. There isnt time to talk now, inside!

Right!

Justin and Adara dove into the darkness just as the golden doors shuddered and slid shut with a vibrating slam that echoed inside the black cavernous entryway. The sound from outside was completely cut off; silence met everyones ears once again.

Looks like we made it, said Crimson with all of the relief that Justin felt.

Wish this wasnt just the beginning, said Justin with a grimace as he pulled himself up to his feet and brushed his gloves together to rid them of dust. But were inside now. Lets get out our flashlights and get going.

There was a moment as everyone reached into their packs for their personal flashlights, a pen-sized type that had a flexible tip. Then the corridor was illuminated, and the group pulled themselves together and pressed forward into the dark.
* * *
Hey, Justin, what do you make of these?

Justin turned to look at where Gyser pointed his flashlight. The spotlight was on one of the dull amber-colored stone walls of the corridor, which had not varied in height or width about the size of an eighteen-wheeler truck from Justins Earth, sideways since they had entered. What Gyser pointed at, however, was another set of hieroglyphics.

It appears to lead down the corridor on this side, observed Stahlmansche as she angled her light along the side of the wall. Is it another puzzle to solve?

I dont think so, not this time, said Justin as he activated his compwatch again. Ive seen this sort of pattern before. Its something the Segans seem to have done with all of their construction efforts, where they would write down the history of the building or place along a surface. They would add to that history over time. But this is the longest one Ive seen yet, much longer than any of the others

Can you read it for us? asked Adara, looking with curiosity at the symbols.

Ill give you as much of a gist as I can, said Justin as he raised the compwatch and walked slowly along the wall, tracking the symbols as he went. Ill have to give some background.

The Segans were the original inhabitants of the Mobius Forum World, and had lived here long before Zifei ever arrived with the first forumers to found Sega City. It isnt understood fully why, but their culture developed around the Three, sometimes known as the Triple Threat by the Segans.

The Three represented the finest characteristics of their races main sub-races, which were similar to the hedgehogs, two-tailed foxes and echidnas that we know today. Cobalt, which was symbolic of the First Hedgehog, represents speed of thought as well as of body, and they were generally leaders because they were able to make decisions quickly. Gold is for the First Fox, and that lineage specialized in the development of education and technology. They made amazing inventors, as well as pilots of unmatched skill. Crimson not you, Crim represented the strength and vigor of the First Echidna, whose descendants were mighty warriors and athletes. They were also in tune with the more natural side of the Mobius Forum World and its powers, giving a mystical balance to the fox subraces mastery of technology.

Justin and the others continued to walk along the corridor, the compwatchs glowing screen shining in the dark of the tunnel. With the political power evenly divided between the three groups, who represented their respective subraces and the other subraces that developed later on like cats, bats and rabbits, they had a stable environment to continue advancing their technology until they had reached a level that is on par with Templar technology. There were sometimes struggles with a group that called themselves the Eggmanites, who worshipped technology like a god and felt it was their duty to mechanize the entire planet, but this only helped the Segans remain unified.

But then came a time when the Segans reached a plateau. They had developed their technology and culture to the point that they could see no possible way of becoming even better. Their lives became focused on finding a new way to ascend, to get beyond the bounds of mortal existence, as they thought that a limitation. So they tried to use their mystical and technological talents to create a device that would allow them to transmit their souls away from their bodies.

Where they successful? asked Stahlmansche. Justin felt he detected more than healthy curiosity behind the question.

This history here says that they were about towait, it uses the present tense here. We are about to test the transmigrator today. May the Triple Threat watch over our ways

Justin trailed off as he advanced his flashlight along the line of hieroglyphics. Everyone watched the beam of light as it passed the markings and onto a blank wall.

What happened? asked Gyser. Did it work?

II dont know, said Justin slowly. The history ends right here. Theres a glyph for danger, but it doesnt specify just what its warning abou-

The noise of clanking in the darkness ahead caused the group to whirl their lights toward the sound. The light revealed a pair of car-sized robots on tank treads, their chrome armor cracked and dulled by the ravages of time. But as decrepit as their armor appeared, the upper half of each robot, consisting of a circular turret with three long bladed arms, moved with an uncanny agility that belied full functionality. Hanging ebony spheres the size of basketballs swung from cables at the end of each handless arm. A single glowing red lens on a cylindrical stand on top of the turret glowered at the expedition members, blinking just slowly enough to flicker.

Maybe thats what the warning was about, quipped Ultra.

Segan security drones! shouted Justin, his hand already inside his leather jacket before pulling his sleek black Glock from his jacket holster. These ones dont look like they have long-range weapons, but watch those wrecking balls!

Can we even fight those things? I didnt remember to bring along a can opener, wisecracked Gyser, though he shifted his feet forward and backward, ready to dash.

Ill shoot them, my bullets should stun them long enough for us to deal with these things, said Justin quickly as he snapped off two shots. Each shot struck their target, and the two robots became engulfed by a bright burst of electricity that lit up the entire corridor. Courtesy of Vectors Capacitor-Augmented Projectiles, thought Justin.

Can we touch them now? asked Crimson, who screwed together two sections of metal pole together to make a spear, with one end tipped by a straight-edged point. Ive stuck a fork into an electrical socket before, and I dont remember liking it.

Wait a secondthere, the shocks died down! Theyre still stunned for a few moments!

Good, said Ultra, his voice sounding a little deeper than before as he launched himself forward. In his organic hand he held a black blaster which he fired twice, the scarlet bolts striking the robots treads and shattering their targets. In the same moment, he swung his cybernetic arm and shattered one of the three bladed arms at the joint, disabling that arm.

For a split second, Justin saw that Ultras eyes were no longer green, but red. Huh? Howd that happen? Did he get cyborg replacements for those, too? Yet something about it made Justin uneasy, like it was something more unnatural than an artificial eye

Hey, you cant have all the fun! shouted Gyser as he launched himself forward. Though he lacked Ultras super speed, the fluorescent hedgehog lithely leapt up onto one of the wrecking balls on the other robot. The momentum from this action caused the limp robotic arm to swing, and Gyser kicked off of the ball a moment before it smashed into the base of the robots turret, wedged into a new dent. Hey, guess Im having a ball after all!

Dont let your guard down, warned Crimson as he swung his spear at Gysers head. Gyser ducked into a spiny ball, and Crimsons weapon snapped the cable on the swinging sphere that had been aimed at Gysers head. The dropped ball hit the ground and made a noise not unlike a bowling ball as it thumped, then rolled down the corridor. Crimson blocked the swinging bladed arm formerly attached to the wrecker ball, then stabbed at the joint of the arm attached to the turret, causing it to spark and malfunction.

Aim for their sensor eye! shouted Justin. Thatll shut em down. It can only focus in one direction at a time, too, so try to use that to your advantage.

Sounds like a plan, meowed Adara as she stepped forward, and Justin saw that a long sword and large round shield were in her hands, both glistening white. She leapt to the air, using the limited airspace to maneuver around and swipe with her sword toward the sensor eye of the one that Ultra disabled. The sword sliced evenly through the electronic eye, sending sparks everywhere.

Wonderbat did not waste time with words as he stepped forward. He seemed to melt momentarily, liquid steel in color, and suddenly there were two, smaller Wonderbats who stood ready. One of them melted into a puddle and flowed underneath the remaining tank as the other copy shouted, Over here! This shout attracted the one remaining arm, which swung but missed as the second copy weaved backward just out of reach with unnatural flexibility. The first Wonderbat copy sprang back into shape on the other side, and he pointed his hand at the sensor eye. A split-second later, his fingers extended to sharp points that pierced the glowing red sensor, and then retracted before the two copies merged back together.

Everyone stepped out of range as the two robots went berserk, swinging their remaining arms around violently. They caught each other with wrecking balls, and the two robots sparked and exploded in places, leaving smoking wrecks behind.

Ha, advanced technology or not, a tin can is still a tin can, said Gyser as he wiped the sweat off his nose with the back of his glove.

In that case, we have three more tin cans behind us, reported Stahlmansche.

Justin looked back to see three more of the robot tanks advancing on them from the rear. What the blazes?! Howd they get back there without us noticing?

Youre the Segan expert, you tell us, retorted Stahlmansche. We should retreat the other way. The destroyed robots will block the way of the others and give us time to escape.

Done deal, answered Justin as he jumped forward and vaulted himself over one of the fallen drones. Everyone this way!

Those drones used a hidden security passageway to move around us, said Wonderbat as he dashed forward along with the others, his baseball bat on his shoulder. Thats how they managed to get the jump on us.

Wouldve been nice to know that before, said Crimson dryly.

I didnt remember before, Wonderbat snapped sharply.

Argue later, run now. Ultras voice was clear and stern.

Their flashlights beams bounced crazily around the corridor as the group dashed past the fallen robots and deeper underground. Justin led the way, trying to keep from panicking and forgetting the survival skills he had honed in previous digs in Segan ruins. Watch the floor and walls for anything unusual! he shouted. Segans have a bad habit of leaving traps around!

You mean like those? asked Gyser as he pointed at the walls ahead.

Streaming from panels that flipped open in the walls were what looked like purple pointy-legged mushrooms. Their metal sheen gave away their true robotic nature as they scurried along the walls, and their smooth round heads split apart to reveal square-barreled turrets that aimed at Justin and his compatriots.

Watch out, theyre mushbooms! shouted Justin as he leapt over the glowing red and yellow sphere-shaped blast that one of the robo-shrooms shot at his legs. He and the others dodged and flexed to keep from being struck by the barrage of these strange shots, which popped out of existence against the surfaces of the corridor but burned right through a corner of Justins jacket.

We cant waste our time with these traps, stated Ultra as he blurred forward with his super speed. Running along the left wall, his cybernetic arm flashed up and smashed into each of the drones on that side. To Justins eyes, he saw blue streak past each of the purple mushbooms and they shattered a split-second after Ultra passed by.

Show-off, muttered Gyser, and Justin thought he heard a note of jealousy in the hedgehogs voice.

Justin popped off some shots to take care of the right side. Go, go! Weve got to get to the end of this hallway!

But we keep setting off more traps as we go, said Stahlmansche, though she did not hesitate to keep running forward along with the others as Ultra returned to the group. Wont running headlong into them be more dangerous than dealing with each one at a time?

Trust me! shouted Justin as he aimed backward and emptied his clip at the security robots chasing them from behind. He slid the useless cartridge out and left it behind as his hand grabbed another clip from the inside of his jacket. He reloaded the gun before looking back up ahead. If we get far enough into the ruin, we should pass a security checkpoint and the robots will stop chasing us!

Thats only if we dont get caught first!

Crimsons cry echoed through the corridor as more of the mushbooms appeared from the walls, but the sound was eclipsed by the noise of clattering from behind the group and the poot! noises of the mushboom blasters firing on either side.

These Segans like their challenges! yelled Gyser as he acrobatically flipped forward through a series of blasts.

Look ahead, the way is closing!

Adaras warning came just as a wall began to slide into view from the right up ahead, closing off the entrance corridor. More mushbooms scuttled out into view, swarming out of their cubby holes into the open.

Do or die, run for it! shouted Justin as he slid his gun back into his holster and flexed his feet as he continued to run forward. The bottoms of his sneakers flared, and he was accelerated forward with each powerful burst from the boosters in his shoes. Nearby, Ultra sped on past to get through the doorway first, red beams from his blaster shooting down mushbooms along the way to cover for the team. Adara swept on alongside Justin, her large white wings throwing her forward as she carried Stahlmansche in her furry striped arms, the sword and shield vanished. Wonderbat slipped along on liquid feet, and Gyser and Crimson dashed headlong through the barrage of shots from all sides.

Its closing! Hurry!

Im moving as fast as I can!

Gogogogogogogogogo-

AAAAAA-

Justin flew through the doorway and deactivated his sneakers, using one final boost as he landed to reverse his momentum. He slid a foot or two before coming to a final stop, and he whirled around to see the others pass through the doorway just as the barrier crunched shut right through an unfortunate mushboom that had attempted to follow them.

Looks like we made it, panted Crimson as he and Gyser threw themselves to the ground, gasping for breath.

We arent through yet, said Stahlmansche as Adara put her back down onto her feet. And though we passed that trap, that doesnt mean we reached that checkpoint that Mr. Hobbes mentioned. We should exercise caution. I dont want to lose any lives on this mission.

Inside himself, Justin wanted to scream. You liar! You hypocrite! Youd sell our lives if you thought you could get something out of it! And then came the temptation to reach inside himself, to touch the power of the omni-suit and to finish her off once and for all, here and now

But he resisted, and he turned to look down the corridor again to keep any sign of his true thoughts from showing on his face. Looks like theres light at the end of this stretch of tunnel. Lets go.

A silence settled over the group, Justins ears only detecting the shuffling of footsteps behind him as they approached the end of the corridor. He turned off his flashlight as he stood there, but he dropped the light absently into his pocket as he looked through into the cavern ahead, his jaw going slack at what he saw. Whoa

Whats the matter, Justin? asked Adara as she stepped beside him, looking at his face before following his gaze. oh my.

The rest of the group joined them at the entrance and looked beyond to the underground city before them. Three major domed structures filled the wide cavernous room as larger central buildings surrounded by smaller subunits surrounding them in perfect circles. The three big domes were each colored blue, yellow and red, and were easily the size of football stadiums. The smaller ones were different colors. Seven shiny crystals shone from the ceiling, filling the room with glorious multi-faceted light. And in the center of the city stood a central pillar surrounded by huge golden rings seemingly held in place by some unseen force. Transparent tubes connected the pillar to the three major buildings, and the tubes were respectively colored to match the buildings that they led to. Smooth-looking streets with glittering lights and bordering greenery filled the space between buildings.

But Justins hands clenched into fists as he looked more closely. The wonder of the city was marred by serious damage. Massive holes gaped in the side of the three buildings, and some of the tubes lay broken, beautiful glass scattered through the streets. Vehicles jutted from holes in the road that they had been crushed in.

What the heck happened here? asked Gyser. Its totally deserted!

Looks like something attacked the city, said Stahlmansche as she began to step down the walkway that led to the city streets.

Yeah, something big, agreed Justin. But what could do this much damage? And how did it get past all of the security that the Segans had in place?

It goes back to the history that we read before, said Wonderbat. Whatever it was that attacked did not leave time for details to be left behind.

Lets split up and look around, said Stahlmansche, looking back over her shoulder. Crimson, go with Gyser and Wonderbat. Ultra Sonic and I will form a second group, and that leaves Mr. Hobbes with Adara.

Justin noticed Adara smile when Stahlmansche announced this, and he couldnt help but smile a little bit himself. I got the best-looking partner. And she seems happy about it too.

Its risky, but as long as we split into partnerships, it should be all right, agreed Justin grudgingly as he returned his gaze to Stahlmansche. But if any of you spot anything unusual, report over your communicators immediately, got it? That means hieroglyphics, or more clues about what happened here, or any technology that you run across. There shouldnt be security droids here, but dont start a fight unless you have to.

Gotcha. Well check out the yellow building then, said Gyser.

Ill go to the red one with Ultra, announced Stahlmansche.

And that leaves blue for me and Adara, said Justin with a smile. For some reason, being partners with Adara made him feel a little nervous, not in a bad way, but more in a giddy manner. He didnt quite know how to explain that, and he reminded himself that he was getting married that weekend. Then he wondered why he even had to tell himself that as he and Adara wandered off toward the blue building.

Whatever happened here, were going to find out, thought Justin.
* * *
Inside the yellow dome, Gyser let out a whistle as he looked around the complex. This is like some kind of lab! he exclaimed, his voice carrying through the smooth golden hallways as he, Crimson and Wonderbat walked along.

Thats what this looks like, said Crimson. And Im no scientist, but this looks way beyond the sort of stuff we have in Sega City.

They stepped through a collapsed wall and looked around the laboratory. This place looks like it got hit pretty hard, observed Gyser. Wonder if this was where they were working on that transmigrator thingie that Justin was talkin about earlier?

Wonderbat reached up with one hand and leaned it against the edge of the battered wall, feeling the rough texture. This is exactly the place, said Wonderbat, his voice sounding distant. This is where the devastation began.

Huh? Crimson looked back at Wonderbat, and noticed how unfocused his eyes were. Are you all right?

Wonderbat looked up, and his eyes aimed at Crimson, yet were seeing something else instead.

Wonderbat, help get everyone to safety! ordered a tall two-tailed vixen, the intensity of her eyes masked by the goggles on her face. But unlike the majority of foxes in Sega City, this woman had a form that was more human and more godly at the same time, taller, majestic even amidst the chaos of exploding machinery and screaming scientists. Her eyes knew that she was going to die

Im, Im fine, said Wonderbat dismissively as the flashback faded, and he saw Crimson and Gyser looking at him strangely.

Wonderbat turned away from the shattered laboratory, and Gyser and Crimson both shrugged as they headed after him, though at a respectful pace. So, whats your reason for coming along on this adventure? asked Crimson casually.

Me? Oh, mostly for the fun of it, answered Gyser. But the payoff is a leg upgrade to restore my speed. I, uhkinda lost it after

Crimson looked down at Gysers legs, and now he could see the scars on the left one more clearly. Fresh scars.

an accident, finished Gyser, suddenly not so eager to explain.

Thats all right, said Crimson. Stahlmansche asked me to come along. She hired me just like the others. Im not really sure, but it sounded a lot more interestin