Been a long wait so I won't hold you up! Enjoy the longer chapter!

[EDIT] 9/9/2022 : I gave it some thought and decided to place some warnings here. It gets pretty heavy from here on out. **TW** Violence and Death in this chapter!

⊱ ────── {⋅. ✯ .⋅} ────── ⊰

[Phoebe]

"That's not...That's not Ratchet...."

Mags looked at the woman as if she was crazy, eyes wide in disbelief. "Uhm...Pho, what do you mean? There's no other Lombax that was off planet besides Ratchet, Arthur, and Clank. Besides..." he gestured to the group in the living room, "He looks the same. Just like Kaden...as he always was."

Phoebe shook her head, "I can feel it, Mags." she whispered, "Please, believe me. It's not him."

"He regained his memories, Phoebe. And...who knows what happened to Clank!"

"That's another problem." she said, "He said nothing about Clank! They are best friends."

Mags frowned, "Something happened."

Phoebe went silent, tears almost coming to her eyes.

No one would believe her. Kaden especially. He was already so overjoyed but...why couldn't he see it!? This...this person impersonating her son held no recognition in their eyes! The adoration that would be there when Ratchet looked at Kaden was no longer there. The soft gaze he looked at Phoebe with...was also gone. The joy that he had when seeing Oliver...nonexistent.

His posture...the way he held himself, his confidence, demeanor...everything was wrong.

"Phoebe...are you alright?"

She looked back to Mags, "No." she said, "No one will believe me."

Mags was silent, "Phoebe-"

"Mags, you need to help me here." she whispered, pulling a device out of her pocket, "This...holds Clank's memories. I need you to help me access it."

"Pho-"

"Please." she begged, laying a gentle hand on his arm, "For me? For Ratchet and Clank?

Mags looked hesitant, staring at the group in front of them in contemplation. Oliver was adamantly speaking with Ratchet, Kaden watched the boys with a fond look, gaze mainly focused on his son.

Mags eventually sighed, tapping Phoebe's hand, "Alright, I'll help you." he replied, "When?"

"Tonight or tomorrow." she confirmed, "I'm not wasting time." Mags nodded, "Okay...tomorrow. My place. But how will you tell Kaden?"

"I won't." she said simply, "He will be too busy with...Ratchet. I can tell. I'll make an excuse. That or we'll come up with something"

Mags nodded, shifting on his feet and looking back to the group...

"Ratch? You okay?" he called out.

Nova snapped out of their thoughts, shaking their head, "Sorry...just...out of it, I guess."

Oliver nodded, "Maybe you should rest?"

"Not tired..." Nova replied, avoiding eye contact with the boy, "There's..a lot."

Oliver winced at the words, looking back at Kaden, who looked like he wanted to ask something. He opened his mouth-

*Knock*Knock*

"I know who that is..." Kaden got up with a smile, "Get ready, Ratch. You are about to be hugged."

Nova refrained from scowling, they didn't want to be hugged by strangers anymore...

Kaden opened the door and in came...whoever it was. An excited, calico-furred Lombax looked around the room, before his eyes laid upon Nova. There were tears in his eyes, "Ratch! Ratchet!" he ran forward, and Nova stood up to (hesitantly) accept the hug.

They almost fell backward at the force...

"I'm so glad you're okay!" the boy said, "I don't know what I'd do if something happened!"

"Well, I'm back now." Nova said awkwardly, forcing a kind smile on their face, "I'm glad you're alright too."

Hunter pulled back...

A small frown on his face...as his eyes narrowed...

Nova froze in place...

Fuck...well, it's not like anyone would believe the boy, right? Ratchet's father was fooled, and they are sure Phoebe is as well. The other boy, Oliver, was so naïve as well...

"Yeah..." Hunter said, stepping back a bit, "I've been through a lot...."

Suddenly...an intimidating man stepped up behind the boy, having the same look on his face. He crossed his arms...

"Well...hello there, Ratchet."

Nova felt their ears lower at the gaze. C'mon...what would Ratchet do? How would he-

The calico-furred boy placed a hand on his shoulder, "Yeah...my dad is with us now...you don't have to speak if you don't want to, especially after what he did." he turned to his father, "Right, dad?"

"That is correct." Arc replied, "I won't ask for forgiveness, but know I won't hurt you again."

Nova nodded, not knowing what to say.

This...is gonna be hard.

⊱ ────── {⋅. ✯ .⋅} ────── ⊰

"So...that's what happened while you were gone."

Nova watched as Kaden placed a bowl of homemade soup in front of them. Phoebe made herself busy in the kitchen, one ear perked to listen to the conversation...

"So...they are in prison now?" Nova asked, trying their best to act like Ratchet would in the situation. Not like they had many of Ratchet's memories to go off of anyways after erasing most of them...

"Yeah." Kaden said with a smile, "You think we'd just let them go after all of that?"

Nova tilted their head down, staring at the table.

So...Alister Azimuth was alive in this dimension and was never cast into a life of exile. This man named Cyfrin wanted to take advantage of The Clock and "fix" everything. Ratchet experienced all this stuff firsthand.

"It's good they are locked up." Nova said, "They can't hurt anyone else now."

"That's right." Kadan said, "And trust me, they will face the consequences when this all blows over."

Phoebe wiped the frown off her face, turning around to face them at the table, "Well...I bet you're tired after such a long journey. Do you have any injuries?"

Nova paused, not sure how to respond. It would only make sense that Ratchet sustained something...but-

"Clank...took good care of me." they replied, "I'm not one-hundred percent, but I'm not in pain either."

They watched as the woman's eyes narrowed, but only for a second, "Really? I thought when we chatted on the radio with you Clank said that you were injured. He didn't tell us what, but-" she pulled out a chair to sit down, staring right at Nova.

The robot paled, it seems like the woman wasn't as convinced as they thought she was...

"Well, it's been a while." They replied casually, "And Clank is good at taking care of me."

Phoebe hummed, nodding her head in understanding, "And Arthur?"

Nova paused, scanning their memory banks for that name, but nothing came up. Thankfully their silence seemed to make Kaden react, "Did...something happen!?"

Damn...they were so stupid! Perhaps faking is the only way to go here, but with the way Phoebe was looking at them-

All they could do was tilt their head down to stare at the bowl, unable to formulate anything besides, "I...don't want to talk about it."

Kaden looked over to Phoebe, but the woman looked emotionless. He wondered why she-

"Then don't you worry about it." was all she said, "We have all the time in the world to discuss what happened. Why don't you finish your soup and head to bed?"

Nova sat in silence for a while as the woman got up. Kaden stared at his wife in shock, unable to find any words to say himself. But when he glanced back at Nova he smiled in reassurance, "Everything will be okay." he said, "Just...finish your food before it gets cold."

Nova, while not disinterested in the food, decided to listen. They picked the spoon up and hesitantly scooped the broth into their mouth.

They needed to act, and fast.

⊱ ────── {⋅. ✯ .⋅} ────── ⊰

[Ratchet]

Ratchet sat with his head hung, glaring silently at the floor....

"We should reach the planet in two days...about."

Ratchet lifted his head, staring up at Arthur with a tired eye. The older boy had nothing else to say, unnerved by Ratchet's sudden change in attitude. He had a feeling that no matter what he said, he would be met with a snap or cold shoulder.

"Two days..." Ratchet scoffed, "Not quick enough." he stashed his blaster away, cracking his knuckles nervously. Arthur watched his actions with bated breath, "You should relax." he decided to say, "Not like any of us can do anything about it now."

Unsurprisingly, this isn't what Ratchet wanted to hear, "But we don't have time to spare!" he clenched his jaw, "It's-"

"-Ratchet...just shut up already!" Arthur let out a low hiss, cutting off the boy immediately, "Look, I don't know what the fuck is going on because no one is telling me anything...I'm pissed. I really am. And I'm not going to let you sit here and whine like a baby the whole ride home. I'm sick of it." Ratchet sent him a harsh glare but he continued, "I know you're upset about what happened with Clank but instead of dwelling on it we need to prepare to get home. Who knows what will be waiting for us?"

"But...Clank-"

"-Will be fine. Eventually." Arthur responded, "Would he want you to worry about him every goddamn second of the day?"

Ratchet looked away...no...no, Clank would not want that....

"Exactly." Arthur answered for him, "Clank's strong, alright? Whatever is going on, he can handle it. But now...now we have to prepare for the worst." he sat down next to Ratchet, "For all we know, The Creator will be there before us and we have to be ready for that, okay?"

Ratchet almost looked ashamed of himself....

Why was he acting like such a child? Why couldn't he just push forward and-

"I know you're worried, Ratch." Arthur placed a hand on his shoulder, "And tired...and hurt but...please. We need to help each other here. I...I can't let you get lost in your head before everything goes down."

Ratchet sighed heavily....Arthur was right. He needed Ratchet. Everyone did.

...

But Clank needed him too...but...but Clank wouldn't want him to sit and wait either.

...

"You're right." he admitted, "Sorry I-"

"-No need to say sorry." Arthur cut him off, "It's okay, Ratch"

It's okay....

The word repeated in Ratchet's head....

It's okay....

...

But it really wasn't.

He lifted his head, looking over to Arthur with a sad smile, "I guess...I have something to explain to you then...before we get there."

"Tell me everything." Arthur pulled back a bit, "We have time, after all."

Time....they had time...

...

With that, Ratchet sat back to tell Arthur everything he knew. About Clank, about The Creator...about Nova...

....

And about the dangers that they were about to face.

But throughout it all, Arthur just sat there with an understanding smile, not as fazed as Ratchet thought he would be. Perhaps he was too good at hiding it, but Arthur's support at that time was needed....it was welcomed.

It was as if Ratchet wasn't talking about crazed murderers or freaky evil clones. It was as if he was talking about the weather or his plans for that evening....not of the danger. Not of the possible death.

But he just went on, letting everything out to the other like it was nothing. Arthur listened, and that was that.

...

Because in the end, they would have to fight for their lives and their families. In the end, they had to face all these troubles head-on. It is inevitable.

And while the thought made Ratchet falter a bit, he reminded himself that he did this dance before. He knows the steps, he knows the possible outcomes, he knows...a lot. He has been through countless wars and battles and knew the parts of weapons like the back of his own hand. But what he didn't know was the complexity of his emotions....

Yes...he knew he was a hero meant to save lives. He knew the costs. He knew what he was getting into but now...now everything felt so much worse.

He didn't know why...but it did. The thought left his hands shaking slightly.

Perhaps it was because he was injured. Perhaps it was because he now had a family on the line...well, more like the whole Lombaxian race. Or maybe it was because he didn't have Clank by his side.

...or maybe a combination of all three.

"You're not alone in this, Ratchet." Arthur's voice cut through the fog that his mind created.

That's right....he wasn't. He had Arthur and the rest of The Resistance. And once Clank woke up from...whatever he is going through, he would have Clank too.

....

Everything will turn out just fine...it will.

...

He will make sure of it.

⊱ ────── {⋅. ✯ .⋅} ────── ⊰

[Nova]

[The Next Afternoon]

After a night of going over new information, Nova could sense that something was off...

Ratchet's father, Kaden, acted like...well like he did yesterday. Overjoyed and a bit overbearing. Ratchet's friends seemed cheerful as well last night, but they could sense something eating away at...Oliver? Was it? Hunter was getting quieter as the night went on too...

The rest of the adults acted pretty much the same...except for two...

Mags...and Phoebe.

Mags just...wasn't here today, and Phoebe was...well, she acted as off as she did last night. Nova really tried to ignore her glances but...it was getting hard to do so at this point...

"So...how did you sleep?" Phoebe asked, "Feel any pain? Oh! Would you like me to-"

"I-I'm alright Pho-uh! Mom! I'm alright."

Damn...why was she looking at them like that!?

The woman smiled at them sweetly, but there was something hidden within her eyes. It was almost like a glare...

Nova wasn't sure....

...

Oh well...they couldn't dwell on it.

Instead, they tuned back into the conversation at the kitchen table, Kaden's voice the only thing able to keep them grounded at the moment,

"So the plan is to get the shields back up and running before anything else. Mags says they are ancient but we could get it to work in time for the...yeah.." he trailed off, eyes drifting to everywhere but Nova, "I'm...sorry you have to hear this right when you get back."

Nova swallowed thickly, "Clank and I have been prepared for it. I mean...it doesn't really affect me at this point." they leaned forward, forcing a smile on their face, "I want to help! The quicker we get that up the quicker we can focus on getting people to safety!"

The man nodded at them slowly, and Phoebe...Phoebe seemed to be analyzing them closely. Hopefully, they are becoming more convincing...

Ratchet would help, right? He's a hero! Of course he would!

"Fine, as long as you listen and don't accidentally shock yourself or...something."

"I doubt he would." Phoebe piped up, turning away from them, "He's a smart boy."

Kaden looked at his wife oddly but said nothing. She was acting...strange. He was snapped out of it when she piped up again, "Mags will be there, right? I'm sure you two can handle our boy, right?" she raised a brow.

"Uhm...he'll join us a little later. He said he had something to take care of first...whatever that is. Lucan said he'll oversee us since he used to help operate the shields." he looked over to Nova, "Maybe Oliver will tag along too."

Nova brightened up, acting quite excited. They didn't know Oliver so well but...Ratchet did. Looks like they would have to grin and bear Oliver once again...

Phoebe smiled, "Sounds like you two have exciting plans then!" she looked towards the clock, "I guess I'll go out and do some shopping in case we need to stock up. I'll see you two later?"

Kaden nodded, "Yeah, we will."

The woman left to get ready without another word. Oddly enough, Nova could feel a rising tension between them, and it seemed to be more of anger or frustration. They didn't know why, but obviously, their presence created a new rift...for whatever reason...

Phoebe was skeptical...and Kaden probably figured that out by now. But then again, not like they cared much. These people were nothing to them and would never be anything.

"Well...we better get going, kiddo." Kaden stood up, "Ready?"

Nova looked up at the man, standing up as well.

"Born ready."

⊱ ────── {⋅. ✯ .⋅} ────── ⊰

Turns out they weren't "born ready".

Kaden chuckled as they stared at the component in confusion, brows furrowed as they were unable to determine what led to what.

They were currently attempting to sort through Ratchet's memories for this. A basic scan provided useless since the parts were so outdated that-

"This is shit." they couldn't help but say, crossing their arms. Kaden looked at them in surprise, "What? Too complicated for you?"

"More like too old for me." they hissed in frustration, "Do you really think this will work?"

"It has to." Kaden replied, "And we don't have time to stand around or make another system." Kaden popped open the hatch to one of the control panels, "Stand around or help me."

Nova watched as the man started to dig inside, shaking their head in exasperation as their eyes drifted elsewhere.

They seemed to be in a control room of some sort, a huge screen depicting various blueprints on the wall in front of them. A row of holo TVs showed some camera recordings scattered throughout the city. And behind some locked bars were important systems, including the one to activate the shields. A computer sat beside each of these systems, ready for someone to press the button for activation and whatnot...

"Ah...shit..." Kaden pulled back, wiping his brow. Nova looked back over to the man, feeling a bit guilty for slacking off. They cautiously approached the man to see what was up, "What's wrong?"

Kaden looked up at him, "I can't reach my arm that far..." he gestured to his injured shoulder, "And...well I can't use this heavily."

"I can reach in." Nova said, words pouring out of their mouth before they could stop them. They mentally cursed themselves when the man brightened up, "Sure! Come here!" he eagerly reached out, pulling Nova forward to sit beside him, he seemed so excited. "I'll guide you through it!" he took Nova's hands, taking off his gloves and putting them on Nova's own, leaving the robot to stare in astonishment.

Sure, they were too big...but this gesture of kindness-

"Alright...now carefully reach for those two wires in the back and-"

Nova wordlessly listened to the made drawl on, losing themselves within the motions. The only thing they could feel on their back was Kaden's supportive hand...

...

It felt nice.

⊱ ────── {⋅. ✯ .⋅} ────── ⊰

Meanwhile...with Phoebe.

"What do you mean it won't work!?"

Mags sighed as he pinched the area between his eyes, which were tightly shut. "It's going to take a while to download, Phoebe." He said, sitting at his computer tiredly, "I'd say we have it by tonight."

"But we don't have time!" she huffed, "Kaden it with...with that imposter right now! What if-"

"Calm down already, Phoebe!" Mags almost snapped at her, but managed to remain calm, "What if it is Ratchet? Won't you feel guilty?"

"I know it's not." she said confidently, "That's not how he acts."

"He's different, Pho." Mags replied, "He remembers his past now. He's not gonna be the same."

Phoebe went silent at that, turning to the computer screen, "Whatever you say." she hissed, "Go join Kaden. I'm waiting for this."

Mags shook his head but decided not to argue with Phoebe now. There were more important things...

"Fine. And if it's done before I get back-" he pointed to it, "Play it."

Phoebe nodded, plopping herself down in the chair and glaring at the screen.

She knew it...she felt it...

She was going to find this out, and once she had evidence...she was going to pulverize whoever dared to stand in her son's place.

...

She swears it.

⊱ ────── {⋅. ✯ .⋅} ────── ⊰

[Nova]

"And...done!"

Nova stepped back as a blinking light on the machine signaled its reawakening, an odd tapping sound could be heard from within as more and more components came back to life. Kaden stepped back next to them, a satisfied smile on his face as he placed a firm hand on their shoulder,

"See? Told ya' you could do it!"

Nova stiffened as the man's hand stayed on the shoulder, but Kaden didn't seem to notice, too caught up in his...celebration? Nova wasn't so sure...

"You did most of the work..." they mumbled, but Kaden just shook his head,

"We did it together. You and me!" he chuckled, shaking Nova a bit, "It's been a while...how about I take you somewhere after all this? Might as well take advantage of our time now..."

Nova tilted their head, both confused at the man's words and his actions.

It wasn't that big of a deal...

"I...guess so?"

Kaden raised a brow, confused. He ended up saying nothing because the door opened just then, Mags stepping into the room....

"S-Sorry, Kade! Got caught up but-oh! Hey Ratchet!" he looked between the both of them, "What did I miss?"

They both turned to face the man, "Well...we fixed most of it." Kaden rolled his eyes playfully, "You're an hour late, Mags."

"Yeah yeah, whatever! At least you two got to spend some father and son time together while I was suffering!"

Kaden rolled his eyes as Nova turned back to the machine, scanning it, "I...don't think it will be able to keep the shield up for more than a few days." they said, "Will someone be watching it?"

The men looked at them, "Well...Mags is going to take the dimensionator to the far end of the city and help those who are escaping. Lucas is leading the charge against The Creator and Tachyon and I..." Kaden paused, "I guess I'll have to do it."

Mags looked at him in concern, "But...the headquarters will probably be one of the main targets...what about Phoebe and-" he cast a glance towards Nova, "You-"

"Once I get Phoebe and Ratchet to safety I'll-"

Something clicked in Nova's head, and they were unable to stop themselves as-

"You don't need to protect me." They said, "I can take care of myself."

And while it was something Ratchet would say, they didn't know why they were saying it. Not like they cared what happened to the people here. They were just looking for a way out and nothing more...

...

They need to find out how to do that, and soon.

Kaden looked over to them, "No. You are not going to-"

"I am." Nova said firmly, "I'm not just going to stand by while people get hurt. It's not what I do!"

Why were they saying this!?

Kaden looked offended for some reason, mouth open to retort but Mags stepped in...thankfully.

"Look you two, we'll figure this out later! Now we-"

*Swish*

All three of them looked towards the door, Lucas walking in with his full uniform on. He seemed tired and withdrawn but still held himself up high. Checking their internal timers, Nova realized that the man was late, and there seemed to be a reason for it...

"Well...look who decided to show up! Where have you been?" Kaden huffed, but he seemed amused. Lucas, however, did not.

"Just had a little hold up" he turned his head, someone stepping up beside him, "Someone followed me."

So...it was Oliver....he seemed to be in a mood as well, Nova noted.

"Ah, great!" Kaden smiled, looking over towards Nova, "Why don't you two boys get out and do something while we talk, huh?" Kaden reached into his pocket and pulled out a bag of bolts, handing it to Nova, "I'm sure this will be boring to you two anyway."

But there was something off about Oliver's expression that was off. If Nova had to compare it to something, they'd say it looked like Clank's face when-

"Actually...I have something to say-"

"Oliver, enough of this." Lucas cut him off, "We-"

"No! I have to say it!" the boy growled under his breath, glaring at Nova. The bot felt themselves freeze up underneath the gaze.

Really? They had to deal with this now!?

"I want to know why you're not telling us anything!" Oliver exclaimed, "What about my brother!? Clank!? What happened to them that you're hiding from us!?"

Nova stiffened, as did everyone else in the room,

What could they even say to that!?

"I-I'm not-" but their attempts at speaking were weak at best and Oliver spoke right over them,

"It's like you don't even care anymore! I don't even know who you are!"

"Oliver! Stop this at once!" Lucas scolded his son, "Ratchet is-"

"-Not acting as he should be!" Oliver stepped forward, "You turned up here last night and you haven't said one word about them! My brother was with you a-and Clank was with you! He is your best friend! A-And you were covered in oil so-"

Suddenly the boy's eyes widened...

"Are they dead!? Is that why you-"

"-They aren't dead!" Nova spoke up, just trying to get the boy to shut up and be done with it.

It didn't work...

"Then why won't you say anything!?" Oliver finally held up a finger, pointing it accusingly at Nova, who found their temper slowly reaching its boiling point.

Oliver was tearing up, "If my brother is dead-" his lip wobbled, "It's on your hands!"

"Oliver! Enough!" Lucas finally placed a hand on Oliver's shoulder, sending an apologetic look at both Nova and Kaden. Kaden himself was glaring back at Oliver, but he said nothing.

Nova, however, made up their mind...

"Fine...just blame everything on me." they hissed, "When you're the one that didn't do anything to help me."

Now...Nova didn't know if that statement was true or not, but the devastated look on Oliver's face was satisfying to see.

...

That's what the kid gets for running his mouth, after all. Nova didn't care about it any longer.

Kaden scolded them as well, but they didn't pay attention as they walked out of the room, door sliding shut behind them. They let out a long, tired sigh, a small smile creeping onto their face.

Serves him right.

...

Maybe Ratchet wouldn't have said that, but it's not like that matters now. They feel like Oliver's hostility will only be the beginning of their problems here. And they were certain that Tachyon and The Creator weren't far behind now...and The Resistance too...

...

They had to act, and now.

So with that thought in mind, they turned away from the door and started walking down the hallway. Surely The Council's Headquarters would have some interesting things to find...

⊱ ────── {⋅. ✯ .⋅} ────── ⊰

[Clank]

. . .

[Performing System Start-Up]

.

.

.

Clank's eyes opened, red fading into green as he slowly started to sit up. He held a hand up to his head as if he could ease the throbbing pain, but it did nothing to ease the pain. Confused, he looked around the area cast in dim lighting. No one was sound...not even-

...

Not even who?

...

He turned to make his way off the lab table, steps heavy as it felt like he was learning to walk again. He could help but stumble as his vision swam...

What's...happening?

He took a few more shaky steps, hand about to leave the edge of the table he used for support-

*Step...Step*

"Clank!"

The robot looked up at the voice, unable to decipher who it was at first. Their voice was quite tired as their exclamation of his name was followed by a yawn.

....

Oh...it was Louie.

"H-How are you feeling!?" the man came forward, "You look like shit!"

"I...feel like it." Clank nodded, swallowing thickly, "What happened?"

The man rubbed the back of his neck, "Well...simply put, you collapsed and didn't wake up. It's been hours!"

"H-Hours...?" Clank held his head again, it didn't feel like hours. Honestly, it felt like he was run over by one of Ratchet's hoverbikes...

Oh! That's who wasn't here! Ratchet!

"W-where's Ratchet?"

Louie grimaced, "Getting the soldiers ready. He hasn't rested since you collapsed."

Clank shook his head, "So...same old Ratchet." He steadied himself, brushing off his clothing as he stood up straight, "I...should be okay to walk. Thank you for watching over me, Louie."

The man nodded, "It's no problem." he patted Clank's shoulder, "Just take it easy."

The robot nodded, slowly pulling away from the man as he tried his hardest not to stumble through the door. Once he left, he looked around to see groups of soldiers scattered about. Some resting, most practicing their aim. Even a few were going over their strategies...

But where is Ratchet?

"Clank!"

Ah...there he was...

Ratchet barreled into his side, hugging him in a surprising show of affection. Clank was quite stunned when the other pulled back suddenly, "Are you okay? How do you feel? Did Nova mess up your systems!?"

The questions kept pouring out, so much that Clank couldn't even keep up with them. He held a hand out to make Ratchet pause, "I'm alright, Ratchet. I feel a bit off but it's manageable. And no, Nova did not mess with my systems."

"Well, they obviously did because you collapsed!" Ratchet pointed out, "Get back on that table and let us look at your-"

"Enough, Ratchet." Clank sighed, rubbing his temples, "Please, we have no time. We must get prepared."

Ratchet looked at him, a conflicted expression on his face, "No."

Clank's ear perked up, "What do you mean!?"

"You're not fighting in this condition, Clank!" Ratchet replied, "I won't let you! You can get hurt or-"

"I'm not going to stand around and watch people get hurt!" The robot argued, "I'm more capable of helping now than I ever have been!" he looked away from Ratchet, "I'm not that useless...toaster anymore. I can help you!"

Ratchet scoffed, "We went over this, Clank. You were never useless." he put a hand on Clank's shoulder, "Pal, I just don't want anything to happen to you."

"And I don't want anything to happen to you." Clank shot back, "Not if I can help it."

The two friends stared at each other for a while, nothing more needed to be said as Clank's eyes said it all,

Please...just let me be there and help you.

...

And Ratchet listened...

"Well...I can't stop you so-" he looked around the room, "-fine. Not much longer until we get to the Lombaxes so...let's plan it out. Can you still contact them?"

Clank blinked, wincing as he was unable to connect to anyone...but the system-

"I can not contact anyone personally, but the access to the internet and data systems are open. I will be able to see what's going on."

Ratchet nodded, "Well...Nova could be there already, and with The Creator and Tachyon-"

"They should be prepared. Kaden and Mags have a dimensionator and should be getting people to safety. As for what Nova is doing-"

"-I don't even want to know." Ratchet grumbled, "Let's focus on how we'll help the Lombaxes. I guess...you check the network and see what's up while I come up with something?"

Clank smirked,

"Sounds like a plan."

⊱ ────── {⋅. ✯ .⋅} ────── ⊰

[Kaden]

To say he was furious was an understatement...

How could Oliver say those things!? And how could his own son say those things back!? It was so out of character! Even if Ratchet did regain his memories, Kaden never thought he would act like...like that.

...

Oliver was already scolded big time, but he was in tears. And now Ratchet...oooh he was going to be in so much trouble-

...

After he finds him, that is.

After leaving Lucas and Oliver in the control room, he made his way through the whole headquarters, searching in every open room and corridor. It's been close to an hour, and there was only one place he could think of that Ratchet would know...

...

The cells.

The thought made him shiver. What could his kid be doing in there? Wouldn't he want to avoid it? Or was he tormenting the prisoners!? And Arc had to be there, right?

So he slowly made his way there. Standing outside the steel door for a moment before opening it. And-

Ratchet was not there.

Cyfrin held a huge smirk on his face, while Alister started down at the ground in defeat. The woman at the far end just stared into space all wide-eyed and stiff. Kaden tilted his head, glaring at the prisoner closest to him.

"What are you smirking about?"

Cyfrin looked up, grin widening, "Well, we just had a very enlightening conversation...I assume you're looking for your son?"

Kaden froze at the word, speechless for a moment, "Where is he!?

"He left not too long ago, right Azimuth?" Cyfrin looked over to the man, who stiffened. He looked uncharacteristically shaken. "Kaden-"

"-I don't want to hear anything from you." Kaden cut him off, "I-"

"-Kaden, please! You have to listen to this! Ratchet is not-" Cyfrin growled at the man, trying to silence him. Kaden cut him off anyways,

"-Enough, Alister." he grimaced.

He still wasn't used to being so cold to the other man...

"Where did Ratchet go?"

Cyfrin shook his head, "No idea!"

Kaden hissed under his breath, deciding that he wasted enough time here. He turned to exit the room, but before the door could shut he heard Alister's voice-

"That thing is going to-"

And the door shut before the sentence could finish...

....

Kaden didn't really care.

He was heading towards the exit when his holo-phone started to vibrate, with a heavy sigh, he picked it up, "Hello?"

"Kaden?" his wife's voice came through the speaker, "Kaden, I need you to listen to me."

The man became concerned. Phoebe never really used that tone of voice on him unless something was really, really wrong. He steeled himself, "What is it!?

Phoebe sighed heavily, "You're not going to believe me but-" she gulped, "-that isn't Ratchet you're with!"

Kaden was silent, stopping in his tracks as he couldn't believe what he just heard,

"What!?"

"K-Kaden just believe me!" Phoebe pleaded with him, "I-I have proof! Bring Mags with you to his apartment and make sure that-"

"-But Ratchet is missing." Kaden's face hardened, "I don't-"

"Please, Kaden." she begged, "Please."

Kaden rolled his eyes, almost pulling the phone back in disbelief, "I can't believe you, Pho. Ratchet is back! Right in front of-"

"KADEN!"

He pulled the phone back then, her shriek making his ear ring. It was enough to shut him up at least.

"Fine!" he hung up before she could retort, making his way back to retrieve Mags.

He couldn't believe her! How could she think that way about their son!? There was no way!

...

He turned his back and retraced his steps, blood boiling the more he thought about it. He hoped Mags would be on his side with this one to at least try and convince Phoebe otherwise but...he was curious to see what "proof" she found anyways.

And as he walked away...he failed to notice the Lombax right around the corner...

...

It was Nova that peeked their head out as his footsteps retreated.

...

They heard it all...

With a dissatisfied expression, Nova looked away from the man and tapped their chin. So...in just a short amount of time, everything is going to cave in on them...

Not like it mattered now...

They reached into their pocket and pulled out a key they retrieved from the man, Cyfrin's, office down below. Oh...their plan was going to work! It had to!

With that, they stepped out from hiding and made their way to the holding cells.

This was going to be good.

⊱ ────── {⋅. ✯ .⋅} ────── ⊰

Upon arrival, both Kaden and Mags were forced to sit down.

"Phoebe...surely it's just a misunderstanding." Mags tried to reason with the woman as she fiddled with the computer, "I mean-"

"Just wait until you see this!" she said, "I can't believe it!"

Kaden sighed, "Pho-"

"Whoever that is isn't our son, Kaden! We need to stay away or...or find them before something happens!"

She pulled back, stepping out of the way and letting Mags take control of the mouse, watching as he was about to hit play...

"I'll call Lucas to see if they can find them!" she started to walk away, "Hopefully they aren't up to something!"

The two men watched the panicked woman leave, eyes eventually landing on each other. They just shook their heads and Mags reached forward to press play.

They saw the same moments that were in Ratchet's memories.

How they met, what they did, where they went...except most was all from Ratchet's back.

Everything they've seen before, so why was Phoebe freaking out? Ratchet was Ratchet and Clank was Clank.

"What the hell is she talking about!?" Kaden reached forward now, navigating down the list to go to a later memory. Mags gave up at this point and was dozing in the chair. Phoebe...well they assumed she left.

"Let's...just look through these last ones." Kaden clicked on one of the files, a familiar bright light flashing across the screen. It made Kaden's stomach do a flip as he saw it. "Mags...Mags!" he tapped his friend awake, "Look!"

Mags jumped awake, watching the screen with wide eyes as he registered what he was seeing.

"This...must have been after the accident."

And he was right...

They watched as Clank's small metal hands pushed himself up, looking over the scene in silence.

The whole main room was a disaster. The ceiling has mostly caved in, and the ground was filled with cracks. A large burn mark was now seared into the ground, along with the body of-

"A-Alister..." Kaden stuttered, looking horrified at the screen. To see his...best friend in such a way was...it was so, so wrong. Alister shouldn't be so still. He shouldn't be so...well, dead.

But he was, and Clank was just staring...and he kept staring for a few minutes. It got to the point where Kaden was about to close the file, until Clank finally turned away, "Sigmund..." he stated, "Take...Take him away. With care, please. He deserves a proper resting place."

"O-of course, Sir. I-I-I'm on it!" an old robot, one that hovered over the ground, nervously said to Clank.

The memory stopped when Clank numbly walked away in silence. Nothing more could be said or done, they supposed. However, this overwhelming feeling of dread still loomed over Kaden and Mags' heads...

"The next one is dated a while later..." Mags noted before Kaden started it. "What-"

"Let's see." Kaden was now getting impatient. First, they were wasting time now. Second...

He didn't want to see Clank in pain. He...he couldn't witness his boy go through this...not again.

....

But perhaps he should listen to his wife and figure out what was going on.

The next memory was even more concerning...

Clank was staring down at a couple of books scattered out in front of him. His small hands were balled up as he tore a page out carelessly. It revealed an even more complicated page, the text too small for either of the men to read...

Clank seemed to be stuck in his head again, not saying anything at all. Kaden wished he could know what the robot was thinking. He wished he could hear the anguish, the pain, all the spiraling thoughts that were obviously plaguing Clank's mind. But he couldn't, so he had to bear with the silence.

Fed up with the silence, Mags reached forward instead and skipped a few memories, finally landing one he was satisfied with. He pressed play and leaned back in his seat.

But something was wrong.

Clank stood on a chair, above a mysterious machine. Kaden would say it even looked to be...Lombax-shaped.

...

But then he put two and two together.

But then Clank activated something, and the creation was covered in...in-

"No fucking way..." Mags cursed, leaning forward as if his eyes were fooling him. Was-

Clank emotionlessly said, "XR - 082709 :

Access Code 6 15 18 - 18 1 20 3 8 5 20

Override Code 13 25 - 6 18 9 5 14 4

System Engage...

Hello XR"

"No..." Kaden couldn't believe his eyes.

"Hello, Clank."

The voice sounded so much like Ratchet, but something was obviously off. This...this thing was-

"Kaden, we have to go!" Mags stood up, already heading towards the door, "We have to find that thing and stop it from doing whatever it's here to do!" he shouted, before whispering out shakily, "Oh my stars...she was right."

"Yeah, and she's going to have our fucking heads and never let us live this down." Kaden replied, "She must have notified Lucas already so...hopefully they are searching for them right now..."

And...oh...it was all starting to sink in. Clank...created a copy. He created some monstrosity that most likely was against them judging by their actions and cold remarks.

Also...there must have been a very good reason that Clank didn't tell them any of this. In fact, that realization even made him furious. How could Clank do such a thing? Was he-

"Kaden! Snap out of it" Mags pulled him forward,

"Let's go!"

⊱ ────── {⋅. ✯ .⋅} ────── ⊰

But when they entered the building it was quiet...too quiet.

"Phoebe!" Kaden called out for his wife to try and get some sort of response but...nothing. There wasn't even a guard like they expected there to be.

"They are probably all looking for that imposter...let's see if Lucas is still here or...anyone else."

Kaden nodded as he followed his friend, feeling quite uneasy. He held out his hand on instinct, his old Omniwrench materializing into it. Mags raised a brow, "Why the fuck do you have that on you? Actually...why do you have a whole Manifestor on you!?"

"We're getting ready for a war, Magnesium! What the hell do you expect!?"

Mags just shook his head and muttered something under his breath. Kaden was about to press him on it, but once they arrived at the control room...

The shield operator...was off. Odd...it should be on.

"No one is here..."

They both stood there in silence, looking around for any clue as to what happened. Kaden turned back around to peer into the hall, "I wonder where they went?"

"Perhaps to the prisoners? Or outside maybe? The evacuation point?

Those places could be possible...The Dimensionator was ready to go in the farthest end of the city, protected by the guards until the time came to leave. As for the prisoners...well Arc and his son could be there....

"Let's g-"

*Twack!*

"Kaden!?" he faintly heard Mags call out, but a loud thump sounded out right after. Kaden, despite wanting to see his attacker, had no choice when his eyes were covered. The blow to the back of his head was enough to make him disoriented and on the verge of passing out.

With a sigh of defeat, he welcomed the darkness.

⊱ ────── {⋅. ✯ .⋅} ────── ⊰

The next thing he woke up to was Phoebe's frantic voice...

"Kaden!? Kaden wake up!" he felt her shake him awake, "Kaden!?"

"I-I'm up! I'm up!" he said, sitting up slowly to look around the room and-

They were in a prison cell...a very familiar one. Which meant...Cyfrin and the rest were released!? But how did they all get here!? How did-

"Ratchet's clone put us in here!" Phoebe explained, "They let the prisoners out to distract Lucas' guards. So while they were gone-"

"They got me and Oliver. Destroyed the shield operator" Kaden looked over to see the man, standing in the far corner with his arms crossed, Oliver sat by his feet, head hung as he pressed a hand to the side of it. He was probably hit in the head too...

"But before all that, they dragged Arc in here as well." Lucas pointed to the other corner, Arc sitting next to his panicked son on the ground. "They threatened Hunter if I didn't comply. That...and they already unleashed the prisoners."

Kaden shook his head in disbelief, looking back at his wife, "And you?"

The woman grimaced, "Got me after them, and then when you came-"

"They got us." Mags piped up beside him, "So now...we're all trapped here until they come back. Whenever that will-"

*Step...Step*

"-be..." Mags finished, looking unamused as the clone stepped forward. Kaden immediately stood up and gripped the bars.

How did he not notice? How did he not realize the shade of green was off in their eyes? How did he overlook all these small details that screamed it wasn't his son!?

"You're a fool." they said, "So blinded by the thought of your son that you didn't even realize what was right in front of you."

They said it as if they could hear Kaden's thoughts...the thought made Kaden growl at them,

"Go to hell."

But the words didn't make them bat an eye. Phoebe stepped forward instead, "Do you really think you can get away with this!? Someone will notice that we are all gone eventually!"

The clone chucked, "Doubtful. You see...the evacuation efforts have just begun." everyone's eyes widened, "Everyone is just so occupied with that right now..."

"Why!?" Lucas asked, "Why did they-"

"Well, it has been a while and a few messages on the network was all it took to make everyone alarmed. It was really easy and, besides, better sooner than later.." they smirked, but they sounded like they were hiding something. Kaden couldn't tell what it was...but he knew it was sinister.

"Who even are you!?" Oliver suddenly shouted, "You come back posing as my best friend and-"

The imposter cut him off, "Your best friend? Ha! That's laughable considering the things you'd say to him." they rolled their eyes, "Besides, who would want to be friends with an interdimensional freak anyways?"

"Don't you dare talk about him like that!" Oliver snarled, "You have no right!"

"I do. Actually. I was created to be his replica, after all. We may not be the same but...I know more about him than all of you ever will."

"I think that would be Clank, not you." Oliver argued back, "But-"

"Clank created me as a replacement since Ratchet had to go off and be the hero. Goes to show how easily replaceable Ratchet was, right?"

"Wrong." Kaden denied their words, "You're nothing like my son."

"No..." the clone smiled, "But perhaps I'm everything he should have been."

They looked down at their hand, Kaden's wrench materializing in their hand. Kaden shook his head, "No you-"

"Thanks by the way....I needed this." they examined it closely, "Almost reminds me of Ratchet's..."

They suddenly looked up with a satisfied smile on their face. With a quick scan...their day started to feel even brighter, "Well...looks like it's time." they chimed, "Soon I'll be gone from you all and both The Creator and Tachyon will be too busy to follow." they chuckled, "Finally...I can be away from-"

"-Really!?" Mags exclaimed, "So you're just going to let us die!?" he gestured over to both Oliver and Hunter, "Kids too!? Please! At least let them go!"

"Not a chance." they growled, "Not a single Lombax will come with me. I mean...look at the bright side-" he gestured up to the ceiling, "Your own glorious leader took off to fix things! Doesn't it give you peace of mind knowing that this all won't matter? You won't even remember it!"

"The Clock isn't a time machine, damn it!" Kaden yelled, "Even you should know that!"

The robot chuckled, "Perhaps...but you see...I don't care!" they glared at all of them, "No hard feelings...this is just payback for everything life gave me. No...for everything Clank gave me!" they clutched onto the Dimensionator tightly, "I...was never supposed to exist. All because of his stupid obsession with your son! It ruined everything!"

"You don't have to do this!" Phoebe begged, "Please! Think about this!"

"Says the one who wanted to dispose of me too!" Nova pointed an accusing finger, "You're like the rest!"

Another pause as they blinked rapidly...

"Well, I better go now." they started to walk away, "Enjoy!"

Oliver jumped to the bars, "Wait! Just-"

*Slam!*

...

The door shut...and everyone was left in silence.

Oliver slowly walked back towards his father, clutching his knees close to his chest. "Mom...mom won't know where to find us..." he mumbled, "No one will! We're all gonna die here!"

"Oliver! We'll find a way out, I promise!" Lucas stood up, patting himself and trying to find a weapon or tool of some sort that could help them. But...looks like it was all taken...

Hunter was curled up in a corner, watching the whole scene unfold. He looked towards his father, who seemed to be panicking as well.

Kaden, Phoebe, and Mags just stared at one another until one of them broke the silence,

"It's...all my fault." Phoebe whispered, "I knew something was off from the start but-"

"-That thing fooled us all." Lucas snapped, "We're all to blame for our naïvety."

Everyone went silent again, but this time Kaden was the one to break the silence,

"I just...how?"

"Clank created that to act just like Ratchet..." Mags replied, "Not that it did a really good job."

"So...Clank was their Creator...does that mean in his dimension...he is The Creator?" Hunter asked suddenly. Everyone's heads snapped in his direction, "But...Clank didn't act that way. He and Ratchet are heroes so...so why-"

"You can't create a replica of someone." Kaden said bitterly, "A robot, that is. How can you replicate the soul? The personality? Everything..." he stared longingly at the door, "Perhaps Clank's creation is perfect but...it had it's own feelings from the beginning."

Oliver chuckled at that, sniffling, "Goes to show that no one can replace Ratchet...he's too unique for that...ha!" he wiped his nose, "I...wish he was here."

They all looked down simultaneously, well, all except for Hunter, "Well, The Resistance said they were on their way here, right? Once Ratchet and Clank hear of this I'm sure they'll come to get us!"

"But what if they aren't here in time!?" Oliver argued, "What if this whole place collapses or...or explodes with us in it!?"

"Stop being so pessimistic." the other boy shot back, "At least we could hope for the best. I mean, even if we are going to die I'm not going to go scared!"

Arc reached over to pat his son's shoulder, silently telling him to stop his miniature rant. Kaden winced at the sight,

Kids shouldn't be talking about their death like this...they didn't deserve it...

"We'll be okay." Phoebe said softly, "I know we will. Let us all calm down, okay?"

It was left unsaid, but the majority of them wanted to say that the odds of getting out were slim. But no one wanted to say it out loud for fear of making the mood even sourer.

...

Kaden stood up then, along with Mags to help Lucas (attempt) to open the lock to release them all. Even if the button to release was across the room...perhaps there was a chance they could bust it?

But...Kaden knew it was nearly impossible.

...

He designed it himself after all. But now...it seems his creation will now resign them to their demise.

⊱ ────── {⋅. ✯ .⋅} ────── ⊰

Nova stepped out of the building, letting out a big sigh of relief.

Now...to get the dimensionator without being seen...It will-

*Swoosh!*

A huge gust of wind forced them to cover their eyes, dust almost blinding them as it flew through the air. Once it was over, they looked up to the clear blue sky, the sun now blocked by a huge ship...a quick scan was all they needed to perform.

The Resistance...

"Oh my stars...really!?" they called out in frustration, stomping their feet. They needed more time instead of dealing with this shit!

They looked down and around, "So...the banging was their ships landing...which meant they needed to leave now or...

...

Clank...they couldn't leave without doing something at least. They could stop the resistance from advancing or...or something else! C'mon Nova! Think! Think, think, think!

...

They shook their head, making their choice as they made their way to the city square. No doubt the people will be more alarmed than before...they couldn't waste time any longer.

⊱ ────── {⋅. ✯ .⋅} ────── ⊰

[Clank]

"Where are the shields!?"

Clank looked out the window as they descended, the city was untouched but unprotected. No people were scrambling to get anywhere, and from what he could tell the guards were scattered, armor gleaming in the light.

They were all looking up.

"What's going on...?" Ratchet mumbled thoughtfully, "I thought they would be ready to leave by now. And once we touch down-"

"-The Creator and Tachyon will shortly follow." Clank finished, "This isn't good..."

"Well, then we have no choice. Go down there and see what's going on with the guard and then start the evacuation."

"We can split up temporarily," Clank added, regret immediately sinking in. The last thing he wanted to do was leave Ratchet's side, but they needed to do this right.

"Yeah...good idea." Ratchet looked over to him, "I get the guard and you find out about the evacuation efforts, how about that?"

"Sounds...great." Clank replied, "What about Nova?"

"They are the last of my worries." Ratchet turned around, the ship jolting as it finally hit the ground. He placed a hand on Clank's shoulder, "Take Arthur with you. I'll meet you after...after all of this."

"We must be prepared to face off against The Creator and Tachyon, Ratchet." Clank added, "But...first the people I suppose."

"That's why we have armor!" Ratchet said cheerfully, "C'mon! Let's get ready, Pal!"

His hand left Clank's shoulder, and the robot, as always, followed his friend undoubtedly.

⊱ ────── {⋅. ✯ .⋅} ────── ⊰

Unfortunately, their plans were scrapped right away...or almost. Clank wasn't sure now.

"What do you mean he isn't here!?" Ratchet asked one of the guardswomen, "He gave you orders, right!?"

"I-I'm sorry but we haven't seen him in hours! Not even his wife has! It's like he disappeared!"

Clank looked between the two of them, anxiously shifting from one foot to the other. Arthur stood awkwardly behind the two friends, feeling out of place. The rest of The Resistance stood near the ship, waiting to receive orders.

For some reason, Clank had an odd feeling in his gut...

"Perhaps we should move on from the subject and work with what we have, Ratchet." he stopped his friend from continuing, "Why don't you go tell The Resistance to come here and get any necessary weapon and armor? I'll go look for everyone."

He sighed, looking up at the sky, "We should be prepared for them to arrive at any-"

*BOOM!*

Everyone around them flinched at the sound, Clank's eyes widened as a ship, fresh out of hyperspeed, entered the atmosphere. A whole bunch of smaller ships entered right after.

Oh hell no...

"Ratchet! We need to start now!" he looked over to the guard, "Get a team to start evacuation procedures! Ratchet.../you get The Resistance?"

"Yeah, Pal! I got this!" his blaster materialized in his hand, "You'll find everyone?"

"Yes!" he looked towards Arthur, "Come with me now!"

Just like that, the two friends split up, leaving the guard behind to do their part. Clank's mind started to catch up with him-

Where were they!? Where were Kaden and Mags? The ones that were supposed to help with the evacuation? Where was Lucas!? One of the best Captains of the guard meant to lead them? And...why weren't people scrambling to evacuate right now!?

"You all have to go! Far end of the city!" he shouted to whoever could hear, "Now! There is no time to waste!" and he didn't pay attention to those who fled at that moment, snapped out of their trance. Arthur shouted as well, trying his best to keep up with the robot as they blindly made their way through the city...not knowing where to go.

This was going to get ugly any second now...

⊱ ────── {⋅. ✯ .⋅} ────── ⊰

[Ratchet]

"Time to move out!"

Ratchet directed The Resistance away from the ship, "Move it!"

Many pushed past him in waves, ignoring the obvious ship in the sky that was now (no doubt) watching all of them scramble, ready to fight.

"They aren't blasting our heads off yet..." Ratchet heard Nefarious walk up to him, "You better not lose this, squishy!"

"You're helping too, Nefarious!" Ratchet rolled his eyes, "Go with the others and get yourself a damn cannon or something!"

"With pleasure." he groaned, "Someone has to make sure that half-wit doesn't blow everything up.

{That half-wit was Qwark, who was currently fretting over what helmet he could wear, getting in everyone's way in the process)

"Just...get him outta here!" Ratchet waved him off, "We-"

*BOOM!*

Ratchet covered his head as a large explosion sent him and the others flying to the side. He groaned as his head smacked on the ground, his helmet flinging off in the process.

"What the-"

Another explosion, this time making his ears ring painfully.

...

As the sound faded back into his head, he felt a large, clawed hand pick him up,

"Get up, you stupid squishy!" Nefarious shouted, "You're not dead yet...unfortunately." (but honestly, it was said in more of a "relieved" tone...perhaps Nefarious was soft under that dirty, steel exterior...)

"I...I got it!" Ratchet steadied himself, "Come on! Let's go!"

Whoever survived the onslaught ran to join the others, Ratchet just behind them, occasionally turning around to look behind them. Enemies now started to drop down from the ships, ready to fight.

As he turned back around, a sudden chill ran up his spine, gripping at his lungs as the familiar feeling of anxiety kicked in, heightened by the adrenaline coursing through his veins...

...

He sucked in a deep breath and kept running. Now was not the time to falter....

Now it was the time to fight.

⊱ ────── {⋅. ✯ .⋅} ────── ⊰

[Clank]

He heard the explosions too...

Each blast took his breath away, reminding him that Ratchet was over there, possibly getting caught in the crossfire. The thought of something happening so soon was...was sickening.

...

But he wasn't going to let Ratchet down! He was going to find everyone and bring them to safety first!

"Uh...Clank? Are you okay!?"

Oh right...Arthur was still here...

"Y-Yes.." he replied breathlessly, looking over to the boy as they ran. Arthur didn't look like he believed him but said nothing as another explosion outside of the city cut him off. He instinctually ducked his head, ears ringing after the sudden noise faded...

The duo stopped in their tracks as a flood of people ran past them, their rushed and panicked voices made Clank even more anxious.

"Arthur..." he whispered, "Go to the evacuation point."

"What!? No! I'm not leaving you!"

"We need to find out what exactly is going on!" Clank gestured to the sky, "We don't have much time and I'd rather you get to safety first. Please...help the people, Arthur. I'll be fine. I promise I'll find the others too."

The boy looked conflicted, but a violent shove from one of the fleeing civilians knocked him out of his stupor. Clank watched as the boy let out a large sigh, wiping his brow

"F-Fine." Arthur finally replied, "I'll be waiting for you."

Clank nodded at him, not wasting time watching him go as he continued. In all reality, he didn't know where he was going, but he could still perform scans to pick up familiar-

Wait...

...

He blinked again to make sure he was seeing things right...

"Nova." he said in realization, slowly turning around to find his creation glaring straight at him. Their eyes, so much like Ratchet's own, were filled with so much malice. It felt like icy knives piercing into Clank's body...

But he wasn't going to back down...

"Nova." he repeated, "Where are they?"

They scoffed, "Out of my way." They said simply, "Now you are the only problem I have to deal with." they seethed.

"It doesn't have to be this way!" Clank tried to talk them down but, as he predicted, it had no effect. Nova materialized an Omniwrench. It looked quite similar to Ratchet's own but considering the make and design...something told Clank that it was Kaden's own.

The fact made him shiver...

"Oh...it does." Nova growled, "I may have lost once...but I'm not planning on doing it again!"

Clank, having no choice for a melee weapon, was forced to use his fists to defend himself as Nova charged forward. They swung the weapon straight into his side. Clank grunted but remained unfazed as he grabbed the end of the Omniwrench...

"I'd think you'd be smarter since you have Ratchet's memories!" he jabbed, "You're too-"

"-Well, I do remember a thing or two like this!"

Clank called out in shack as he was quickly tossed in the air, landing on the ground behind Nova, the robot laughing all the while, "And I thought you'd be smart enough to let go!"

Clank pushed himself up, immediately holding his arms up in front of his face to block a swing. Metal met metal with a sickening *Bang!* as Nova channeled all of their anger into their swing. Clank was mostly unfazed, only wincing at the impacts as he tried to calculate what his next move would be.

Nova's movements were less desperate and clumsy since their last fight. Perhaps they tapped into Ratchet's fighting style in their memory? Well, it didn't matter because it was being used against Clank and it was starting to hurt...

At the sound of metal splitting, Clank finally decided to wing it and grab the wrench again, leaning backward as they entered an all-too-familiar dance. Clank has tried to disarm them before, but whether or not Nova would fall for it again depends on their newfound skill.

"Let go!" Nova growled in his face, practically threatening to spit at the sight of it. But Clank twisted his wrist and got a solid grip on-

-Too late. He wheezed as Nova delivered a solid punch to the chest, right where his core was located. It winded him and gave Nova a chance to pull back. Once they did so, Clank fell to his knees to catch his breath, only to be caught by Nova.

The robot pinned him to the ground, the end of the wrench pressing against his neck and cutting off any airflow. No...he didn't necessarily need air to survive, but it was still painful and the rising internal temperature would soon be too much to bear.

On reflex, his hands came up to claw at the wrench, managing to leave a few scratches, but Nova pressed harder.

"How does it feel?" they asked darkly, "How does it feel to be the one in danger now?"

Clank wheezed...

"Pathetic..." they muttered, "Weak back then...and even weaker now. Perhaps it's because you've grown too attached." they mocked, "You have your little friend back, a new family...you've become too human."

Clank mustered a threatening growl. Was that what this was about? Was Nova jealous? Was-

"I envy you." they seethed, starting to twist the wrench, "You have people who love you and I have nothing! I didn't ask for any of this!"

Clank got a grip-

"And everything is your fault!"

-he pushed up forcefully, kicking Nova's knee in. The other robot hissed at the action, accidentally letting Clank be in charge of the Omniwrench now...

Without thinking, Clank gave a hard swing right into their gut. Somewhere in the back of his mind, he scolded himself....especially after seeing their terrified face.

But they deserve it... a dark voice in the back of their mind said, Kill them now...

No! I can't! He fought back against the thoughts, Stop it!

Nova smirked as they witnessed the internal conflict suddenly plague Clank...

They launched forwards instead and sent them both tumbling to the ground. Their hands scrambled for anything they could grab, opting for Clank's neck. They weren't just squeezing...

But aiming to tear it apart...

Fearful, Clank flipped them over, punching them swiftly between their optics to try and stun them. He stumbled off of them and ran to grab the Omniwrench, he twirled it in his hand, swinging downwards-

What are you doing? Stop! Don't kill them!

He paused mid-swing, horrified at what he was about to do. Nova looked stunned as well, but it was quickly erased when they slid something out of their pocket...charging forward-

"Whoa!"

Clank dodged a slash, not seeing the average kitchen knife in Nova's hand now.

"Did you steal that from their kitchen!?" he found himself asking,

C'mon...really!? You ask that!?

"Heh...just a precaution!"

And oh...that sentence sounded too much like it came from Ratchet's mouth....

But it was easier to dodge than Clank thought. Sure, Nova was quicker now, and more-

"Ah!" he tripped backward, Nova's foot tripping him. He steadied himself, but not until Nova roughly grabbed him and pressed the blade to his neck. The Omniwrench was quickly forgotten as Clank's body froze up, blade pulling back and-

*BOOM!*

Nova looked back for a second, realizing the war that was now going on around them. Their eyes widened at what they saw within the fray...

...

"Nolen..." Nova whispered out, the blade just inches from Clank's face. The silver Lombax opened his eyes, wondering why the blade never hit him. Then...he saw it.

Nova looked over at the scene that was not too far away from them. It was a group of rebels that had their backs to each other in a circle, blasting and hitting their enemies as they approached. One man in particular held Nova's gaze.

It wasn't until a big explosion did the rebels scatter away. They split up from each other as others struggled to get up.

Clank slowly raised his hand, putting his fingers on top of the blade and gently pushing it down and out of his face. Nova snapped out of it, glaring back at him, blade shaking in his grip.

But Clank just stared, watching as they looked back and forth between their friends, and him...

"Nova." he finally said, and the other robot looked back at him, "You have a choice."

A choice....a choice...

Nova rarely got those...if at all. Their path was controlled by outside forces. Clank...The Creator...

They got their first choice when deceiving the Lombaxes and now...

....

Nova slowly lowered their blade, staring into Clank's eyes. Conflicted.

Revenge...or...?

...a choice...

And once the blade was lowered all the way-

Nova made their choice...

"I still hate you." they said bitterly, "But it's time for me to do something right."

They looked back at Clank, eyes watery. "Your family and friends are locked up in the headquarters." Clank's eyes widened,

"You better get them and help them escape now!" Nova shouted, "Go already!" they turned to run away, not looking back at Clank even once.

Clank just nodded at them, watching them go as they turned to face their enemies.

....It was then Clank watched as they let out a fierce battle cry that echoed throughout the battlefield as they sliced through The Creator and Tachyon's minions like butter. Steel bent, glass flew, and smoke filled the air from fried wires...

...

In the end, it looks like Nova wasn't a failure after all. Despite their shortcomings...it looks like a hero was hiding under that exterior this whole time.

It just took Clank and Nova some time to see it...

...

Clank turned away, determined to save everyone and after...after they are all safe he will help Ratchet. He needs to. He has to...

...

He wouldn't fail anymore.

⊱ ────── {⋅. ✯ .⋅} ────── ⊰

Upon arrival, he could immediately sense that something was wrong.

The noises from outside were so loud it was heard through the walls. The ground shook with each explosion. Everyone...must be terrified.

So he quickened his pace, stopping just outside the door as he heard voices,

"It's getting closer..." a voice said, "Do...you still think someone is coming?"

Unfortunately, the voice went unanswered. Just as Clank heard a bang come from inside, he opened the door and entered the room, everyone turned to him,

It was silent for a moment as the others stood in shock. Clank stared back at them, not knowing what to say...

"C-Clank!?" Phoebe whispered, "Is that you!?"

The robot nodded, stepping closer to the prison cell, "Yes! It's me! I-"

"-You came for us!" Oliver called out, "After...after that-"

"-I know." Clank cut the boy off before he could say anything more, "I...I know." he repeated, sounding regretful.

But he can't worry about that now. Nova was dealt with and on their own, away from them all.

He looked around the room, walking over to the access panel on the wall and prying it open. With a few harsh tugs, the plate came clean off the wall. He pressed a few buttons to disengage the lock, finally setting the group free.

With a heavy heart...he turned to all of them, tail tucked between his legs and his hand came up to rub his arm. He refused to look any of them in the eyes. But...he wasn't going to get away so easily-

"Clank..." he winced at Phoebe's voice, "We know about...the clone. They locked us in here."

"I know."

"Y-You know!?" Hunter asked, "So you knew we were-"

"I dealt with them on the way here!" Clank shouted back, wincing at the volume in his voice, "I-I know! I made a mistake, okay!? I made a terrible mistake that I can never make up for b-but...ugh! We don't have time for-"

He was cut off when two hands here placed on his shoulders, he looked up to Kaden, whose gaze softened considerably...

"Why didn't you tell us?" he asked. Clank felt as if his throat was closing up as he swallowed,

"I'm ashamed." he whispered, "I-I couldn't stand losing him I...I was lost and I-I didn't know what to do and I didn't want any of you to hate me-"

"Oh kiddo..." Kaden pulled him forward into a hug, "We could never hate you." he then pulled back again, looking into his eyes, "I just don't want you going through any of this pain at all. I'm not mad."

Another person wrapped their arms around him,

"And I'm not either!" That was Oliver. Hunter joined in and even Phoebe came closer as well to offer her comforting presence...

...

This was nice...but it can't last.

"W-We have to get out of here, now." Clank pulled back from them, "There's not much time to explain but...it's time."

Everyone looked at one another, looking quite anxious...

"Then I must return to my guards!" Lucas replied, "Come, let us all leave this place."

One by one they started to run out the door, leaving Kaden alone with Clank for a bit, "Everything will be alright, Clank. Let's stick together, alright?"

And as much as he wanted to...he couldn't. He had to help Ratchet after he got them all to safety!

But...if he said that now, the man would never let him go...

So, with a smile, he nodded at the man. And with a simple flick of the hand, he brought Kaden's wrench back into existence, handing it to him.

"Of course, Kaden."

⊱ ────── {⋅. ✯ .⋅} ────── ⊰

[Nolen]

With a fierce battle cry, someone joined the fight.

They jumped right in front of him to finish the robot off, turning to look at him.

"Ratchet!? What are you doing here!? You're"

"Not Ratchet, asshole." they punched his upper arm, and he looked up at them in shock. Their eyes stared right at them, a small smirk on their face.

"N-Nova?"

"Stop staring and focus!" the robot shouted, "We don't have time for stupid reunions here! We're here to fight!"

Nolen found himself nodding his head, at a loss for words. Nova directed the other soldiers to focus as more enemies started to surround them. They slid up beside Nolen, arms touching as they all backed up.

"Show them what you got, old man."

Nolen scoffed, firing up his blaster,

"Gladly, tin-can!"

With the help of Nova's strength and crushing blows, a decent amount of enemies were falling around them. Some even backed up in surprise, which then gave them the chance to strike. A few lazers split the group up, but they stuck close together. The turrets were the big problem.

"We need to take those out!" Nova shouted, looking around at the destruction, "This isn't good..." they muttered to themselves, launching to the side as a powerful blast almost hit them.

*rumble...*

Nova looked down at the ground, and then around them to see what caused the ground to shake.

The blasts from the turrets were creating holes in the ground, and when they didn't hit the ground...they hit the buildings around them...

"It's gonna come down..." Nova warily eyed one of the tall, business buildings beside them. They turned towards Nolen, "I have an idea!" they said.

"What's that?" Nolen asked, a smirk on his face as he immensely enjoyed shooting these robotic minions in the head.

"Lead them to us-" Nova huffed, whispering as low as they could to the man beside them, the sounds from the battlefield almost drawing their voice out, "That building is gonna fall. Crush 'em all with that and then head to safety."

"Got it." Nolen replied firmly, "Did you hear that?" he asked the group of soldiers around them, smiling when he got some silent nods, "Alright...let's do this!"

With that, the group started moving back slowly, letting the enemies gain on them. Nolen looked over to the robot beside him, "How long?"

Nova blinked, performing a quick scan...

Structural integrity....not much longer...

"Approximately 45 seconds..." Nova started pushing some of the soldiers back, "Just a bit more..."

Surely the minions would also notice the building collapsing...they would try to run too. They need to be trapped!

....

35 seconds....

They were running out of time!

"It won't work." Nova told Nolen, "They'll scatter."

However, the man just chuckled, "Don't worry, I got a trick up my sleeve...thanks to Louie."

Nova didn't know what that was, but they hoped it would work.

With a few more steps back, Nolen slid his hand into his coat, pulling out an odd circular device. Nova didn't care to scan it, too focused on their enemies to even-

They snapped out of it-

"Run!" They stopped firing, pushing the soldiers back and away from the collapsing building. With a *Swing!* and a *Bang!* a bright blue light emitted from behind them. Nova turned to look but was pushed forward by Nolen's firm hand. "Don't look! Just go!"

They barely avoided the debris that fell from above, only one of the soldiers almost getting crushed underneath a heavy, metal beam.

But as soon as it began...it stopped.

Nova coughed as dust and smoke filled their filtration systems, alarms blaring in their head at all the foreign materials they just inhaled. They waved their hand in front of their face to help clear the smoke, trying to find Nolen and the others within.

"Nova!" they jumped when a firm hand suddenly clamped down on their arm, "Let's go!"

They were pulled along again, eventually getting out of the smoke and into the open air, not that it was much better. The smell of fire and blood filled their senses next, making a feeling of dread wash over them.

"We're getting the fuck outta here!" Nolen shouted, "Don't look back!"

Just on the horizon was a glowing blue light, a portal...one that was so clear in Ratchet's memories that it shook Nova to their core.

...

They almost stopped this from happening...they almost signed everyone's death sentence...and now here they were...

A quick glance behind them revealed a whole wave of bots not so far away, more being dropped from The Creator's warship. Without the shields-

...

The shields!

Nova suddenly stopped, their hand slipping from Nolen's own. The man turned around, looking them up and down to try and find out what caused the sudden change, "Nova!? What's wrong!? Are you-"

"I need to go back." They said, "I-I need to fix this!"

"Fix what!?" Nolen looked around them cautiously, watching danger approach them, "We need to leave!"

"I'm the one that did this!" Nova gestured behind themselves towards the city's entrance, "T-There's supposed to be shields! I-I can still!"

"We need to go!" Nolen's hand shot out, grabbing and tugging on Nova to try and get them to move, "Now! The portal is-"

"I'm going." Nova said flatly, "You get to safety. I'll..see you on the other side."

Nolen stopped tugging, but his hand was still in Nova's own. They both stared at one another, one ready to bolt and the other ready to fight...

"Then I'm coming with you." The man said, "I'm not leaving you here...not again."

Nova grimaced but said nothing as they turned to run, Nolen following just behind them as they weaved through the battlefield. Nova heard Nolen laugh loudly, "Hah! We're kicking their asses though! Look at all the fallen robots!" but he suddenly stopped himself, "S-Sorry...is that bad to say to-"

"I could care less!" Nova replied, a bit out of breath, "The robots fucked me over too! But what we should really worry about is Tachyon and The Creator themselves!"

They both turned a corner, the headquarters building just in sight. As long as they are quick, they will avoid an incoming attack...

"And where are they?" Nolen caught up beside them. Nova shook their head, "I can't scan right now...I am almost certain The Creator is in that ship, and Tachyon...well, is going for the Lombaxes."

Nolen nodded, looking up to the ship that Nova mentioned, "So if we put the shield up-"

"The Creator won't be able to make it in so easily along with the rest of his minions!" Nova clarified, stopping just before the doors, "We need to be quick!"

As they entered the building, a loud rumble was heard from outside. Nova paused, feeling the ground vibrate beneath them, "The warbots...alright! Let's go!"

Thankfully Nova knew their way around, otherwise, this place would be a maze of hallways. Nolen even became dizzy the more turns there were.

"It's...empty."

"Everyone evacuated this place." Nova replied

Thank the stars Clank made it in time. They didn't know what they would do if they had to face the people they wronged so...

...

Perhaps it was a good thing.

When they entered the control room, Nolen stopped in his tracks to look up at all the machinery, admiring the technology and intricate workings. He whistled, impressed, "Damn...this is high-tech."

"Yes...all except the shields!" Nova went up to the terminal, accessed it, and looked through the system. They bent down and reached in, pulling out the plug they did earlier, the line practically frayed.

Now...how to fix it in time!?

They stood back up, accessing the terminal once more to try and find a possible solution. Their mind was running at a mile a minute...

Wire disconnected...machine unresponsive...energy required...

No! Nothing!

They smacked the side of the screen, frustrated with themselves.

How could they be so stupid!? How could they do this!? They were so blinded by their hatred that-

"Nova..." Nolen placed a hand on their shoulder, "If it can't be fixed...we need to go."

But the robot looked up at the screen once more, reading over the words and finally coming up with one possible solution...

With a heavy "heart", they bent down and pulled out the plug again, analyzing it. There was another ominous rumble...

....

They made their choice.

"I...I can power the shields up again." they stood up, looking over to Nolen, the man sent them a beaming smile, "Great! Let's-"

"-it...will take a lot of power." Nova made the perma-guise recede on their arm. With a violent tug, they ripped off the metal plate protecting all their wires and components. Moving some wires around, Nova held the plug close, "Nolen-"

"No." the man said desperately, "Don't tell me you're...D-Don't you-"

"-This will take all the power I got, Nolen." they said, lip wobbling, "I have to."

"So you're gonna die just to put up a fucking shield!? Nova, we're winning!"

"For now!" The robot argued, "I...I can't let this go on!" they clutched their fist, watching the components tighten and light up from within, "If I don't do this everyone will be in more danger than they already are. That...and I need to fix my mistakes."

Nolen shook his head, stepping forward and reaching for the wire, "I can't let you!" he bellowed, "I'm not letting you die!"

"This is my choice, Nolen!" they said, "You want to make up for what you did to me? Well do this for me!" they silenced the man, feeling relieved as he stopped reaching for the wire,

"Please."

Nolen slowly backed up a few steps, not breaking eye contact even as his eyes started to water slightly. Several emotions flickered on and off his face, there was sadness, anger, and uncertainty. A sick combination that almost made Nova pause in their actions.

Nolen steeled himself,

"Okay." he said simply, "I...I understand."

Nova nodded, wincing at the sudden bang from outside.

They held the wire closer,

"You'll...stay? Right?"

And they knew it was selfish of them...they knew it. They didn't deserve to have someone there when they would shut down...

But...they were selfish.

*click*

The plush didn't fit right, but the spark that came from their arm let them know it was working...somewhat. Error messages started to pop up in their vision, and a surge of energy caused them to collapse. Luckily Nolen caught them,

"I got you." he said, "Just...breathe."

Just breathe...even that was difficult...

They directed all their power to the machine, the components coming to life one by one. A bright light lit up from within, and the terminal showed the shield status as "powering on"

A little more...

"S-S-Sorry you...have to see this."

"I've seen worse." Nolen said dryly, holding back tears, "And...I wouldn't leave you either way. Not again."

Not again...

...

Sad this would be the last time Nova would experience this then.

[ERR0R! POWER CRITICALLY LOW]

[ERR0R BATTERY CAPACITY BELOW 10%]

[SYSTEMS : CRITICAL! SEEK-]

They blinked the messages away, body twitching as more power started to drain from them. It felt like everything was caving in...like something was holding them down to the ground. They went numb, but all they could focus on was the ceiling and the man's eyes above them.

"I-I...It wasn't supposed...to end this way." they started. They didn't know why they started saying it, but it's not like they could stop themselves now, "I wanted...to be free."

Nolen's lip wobbled, but he refused to appear weak right now. He would cry later. Not now. Nova needed him.

"I know." he whispered, "I'm sorry."

If no one else was going to say it, he would.

Nova felt their core seize up, hand coming up to their chest as they realized their filtration systems ceased to function...which meant no more breathing. Which is now leading to their body heating up, slowly becoming hot to the touch.

The man didn't seem to mind....

*Boom!*

The building shook as a few cracks formed in the ceiling. Nova watched helplessly as more error messages blinded them.

Scan...scan...

....

"N-Nolen..." they wheezed, voice glitching out, "You...have to leave me here."

"What!?" the man shook his head violently, "I told you I'll stay! I-"

"-You can't stay." Nova stiffened, "This building...w-w-will eventually...." he tried to gasp on reflex, but they couldn't take in any air, "...you must go. Please."

Nolen stayed silent, holding the robot tighter. Nova couldn't hold back a weak scoff, "My...body will only supply....p-power for a short time....you have to help everyone out there."

The man shut his eyes, not wanting to believe-

"Nolen." Nova blindly grasped for one of Nolen's hands, "L-Let me do this...."

A squeeze...

"Please."

The man finally opened his eyes again, staring into Nova's dimming eyes. The optics flickered every so often and yet Nova... still smiled. There was a hint of both pain and sadness within their expression, but it seems that they've come to accept what was going to happen to them.

...

Who was Nolen to deny their last requests?

"A-Alright..." he replied softly, gently lifting Nova so he could prop them up against the machine. They ended up sitting like a doll, no strings attached, head hung to the side. It was...

It was sickening to see...but he can't be weak right now.

"Is this...okay?" he gestured to their position. Nova did not make a move...

"Y-y-yes...." they whispered, "Thank...you."

Nolen stared into their eyes for longer, until the color completely drained. His heart fell to his stomach, "N-Nova?"

"G-Go..." they replied, "I...can only buy you...a-a-all so much time." their eyes flickered on again, "T-thank you for e-e-everything, Nolen."

The man winced as another loud bang could be heard from outside. But...but now he could care less. Right now he had to pay attention to these last few words...

"Can...I be s-s-s-elfish and ask for o-one more favor...Nolen?"

"Anything."

"I...need you to f-find Clank." they said, "I need you to tell him that...I'm sorry. For everything. I-I never meant to..." but their voice started to fade away, "Nevermind...j-just...tell him thank you, for me. E-Even if he doesn't want to hear it."

"Of course, Nova." Nolen held them tighter as they shivered, "I'll tell him."

The robot smiled painfully, "A-And...thank you for everything, Nolen."

...

"N-No need to thank me, Nova." he reached forward and gently placed a hand on Nova's shoulder, "I should be thanking you. After all these years of fighting against the robots I...I never believed I would end up being friends with one of them." he chuckled dryly, wiping the corner of his eye, "Let alone take one under my wing....it still shocks me but, but you changed me. You changed Louie. You changed us all." he pat their shoulder gently,

"I...don't know the bad things you've done but...go in peace knowing that it's not going to define you. You just wanted to live the life that you do deserve."

He could have swore he saw a tear fall from Nova's face, but he wasn't sure...

"If robots have any sort of afterlife...I just know you'll have the life you want. Wherever that is in the great beyond or beyond the stars. I promise."

In a surprising show of strength, Nova finally lifted their head, a small smile on their face. They couldn't say anything any longer, but Nolen didn't need words in order to understand what they wanted to convey...

Thank you...Thank you...Thank you...

...

Finally, Nolen stood up. He Looked up to the ceiling and then down to his friend again. With a heavy heart...he took a few more steps back,

"Everyone will be safe, Nova. I promise!"

They stood silent...

"We'll be okay!"

Still nothing...

Nolen took a deep breath-

Everything was so final...

"I-I'll...see you soon, Nova."

See you soon....well, that's better than a goodbye...

The robot's head dropped again, now hanging and leaving them to stare at the floor. Their only objective now...was to painfully keep the shields up until their body fails...

*Boom!*

...or this building caves in!

Nolen finally turned away, running back from where they came, determined to meet his enemies with all the fury he could muster.

This...is for all of us!

...

This...is for Nova!

He pushed the doors open, glass shattering at the force of the swing. He pulled his blaster out and was ready to shoot whatever enemy was out there...

But...there wasn't...

Instead, he looked up to the smokey sky and gasped, faltering a bit as he watched the shield finally flicker on, cutting the smaller warships in half completely as it sliced through the metal like butter...

Yes...nothing gets in...

...

Except-

He took a few more steps back, something...huge. Wait, no! Two huge objects started to descend. Horrific guns and blasters extended from the sides as a vicious cackle echoed across the battlefield...

...

Tachyon...and The Creator...were finally out.

⊱ ────── {⋅. ✯ .⋅} ────── ⊰

[Clank]

They were running out of time.

"Keep going!" he shouted, pushing Hunter forward. The poor boy seemed to be on his last legs but he'd be damned to let him fall behind. Not after all of this...

As they approached the evacuation zone...Clank noted how a large crowd had formed, with many people shouting and shoving past one another but...they didn't seem to be going anywhere.

Where...where's Ratchet? Arthur?

Clank picked up his speed and charged through the crowd, not caring about the shouts or his friends behind him. Once he made his way to the front, he looked upon the scene.

"Arthur! What's going on!?"

"The damned thing isn't working!" he said, "We t-tried but-"

Kaden and Mags both burst from the crowd, immediately rushing over to see the problem. Kaden popped open one of the hatches on the side, shaking his head, "All the-" his voice was drowned out by the crowd, "-It will take a while to fix!"

Clank stepped forward on auto-pilot, gently pushing Kaden aside to see what was wrong.

Wires were disconnected, and it looked like one of the circuit boards was out of place....nothing he couldn't fix.

He reached in, scanning the whole Dimensionator as he did so. He crudely plugged the wires back in and...well he admits he placed the circuit board back half-assed but...well, it'll work if it's not jostled much.

"Best I can do!" he handed it to Mags, "Don't drop it. Try not to shake it.

"We built this thing like a tank." Mags smirked, "We got this!"

At this, Kaden finally stepped forward to help the man, nodding at Clank in thanks. The robot smiled,

Great...now that they are distracted I can slip away and help...

He turned around to find Oliver and Arthur in a tight embrace. He approached them, "Where is Lucas?"

"H-He went to join the fight." Oliver said between tears, "Now...we have to find our Mom and-"

Clank blinked....easy.

He pointed to the left, "Here. Straight ahead, to the left."

Arthur finally pulled back from Oliver, "Thanks but...what about you? You're still-"

"I must help Ratchet." the robot replied, "Our enemies are slowly gaining on us so...we can hold them off."

Oliver looked alarmed, "But it's dangerous!"

Clank shook his head, "Please, we don't have time for this!" he started pushing them back towards the crowd, "I'll see you after this is all over! Just-oof!"

He was cut off when Oliver decided to bolt forward and hug him. The boy squeezed him,

"Please...promise you'll come back."

He couldn't really...

...

But damn...he knew Oliver wouldn't let him go otherwise...

"Ratchet and I have been through worse. We'll be okay."

"I said promise!"

....

"I promise."

With that, Arthur separated them. He looked Clank in the eyes,

"Stay safe." he smiled, "See you soon."

Clank nodded back and watched the two brothers fade into the crowd. He snuck another look at Kaden and Mags, now joined by Phoebe. He was surprised he wasn't approached by them yet but...it was a good thing. Maybe they were still irked by the fact that he created Nova in the first place but...well, he couldn't go back and fix his mistakes. No matter how much he wanted to...

...

It was time to go.

He started weaving through the crowd now, getting as far away from the scene as possible. Now to join-

"Whoa! Look up! The shields!" someone called out from the crowd. Clank paused, looking up as...well, yeah...those were the shields.

Who put them up?

....

He shook his head. There was no time! Right now he had to find Ratchet and help him! Wherever he is...

But...there was one issue...

*BOOM!*

He faltered, watching as a ship was sliced in half like it was nothing, crashing to the ground in flames. While that was all good...there was an even bigger problem.

Two large figures started to descend, and the closer Clank got, the more it felt like the air was being squeezed out from him. As if in a trance, he couldn't take his eyes off the sky.

He also ignored the fact that he kept taking steps forward....

Come....

His vision flashed as he stumbled forward. Faintly he could hear the blaster fires and clashes against metal. He could hear some shouts and the whirring of machinery, but the only thing he could truly see...was his own vision starting to glitch.

No...not again!

He grits his teeth, clutching the sides of his face.

Get a hold of yourself! Now! Don't let this-

[Scanning [F0REIGN 0BJECT]]

...

No...No this couldn't be happening! Not now! H-He had to help Ratchet! He had to-

...

What did he...have to do again?

[Scan Complete!]

[ACCESS GRANTED!]

Next thing he knew, his hands were flat on the ground as he had collapsed to his knees. He could feel a few pebbles around his hands shake and jump slightly due to heavy impacts and steps from their enemies. But then his vision blackened around the edges, flashing red...and then green...and then red again...

Listen...

Get out of my head!

Clank started to claw at the back of his neck, unknowingly denting the steep and almost managing to tear the protective plate off. A few drops of oil dropped to the ground as he held in a sob.

Stop it...stop it...stop it I-I can't just-

Obey...

He growled under his breath, feeling his fingers finally poking through the steel on the back of his neck, sparks-

[Syst3m 0v3rrid3 In Pr0g3ss. . .]

...

All the error messages started to be replaced by ominous lines of code that he didn't have the capacity to read. It felt like everything was shutting down within him, being taken over by...

by...The Creator.

...

He couldn't let this happen!

He blinked rapidly, trying to get a possible grip on reality and fight back as hard as his systems could, but it was obvious that he was far too late for that...

He...couldn't keep going like this!

With a weak little whimper, his hands finally relaxed, falling back down to the ground. His fingertips were covered in oil, and it also ran down his neck. His shoulders slumped, and his whole body threatened to fall forward.

His eyes, now red, looked up as The Creator touched down, his systems automatically performing a scan to highlight the tyrant's presence on the battlefield.

It's time....

While his body pushed itself up, Clank was stuck in the back of his head with nothing left to do but watch. He couldn't control anything any longer...

He was hopeless...no...now he was useless! He was a danger to everyone and he couldn't stop it!

...

Against all his wishes, his consciousness started to fade and his mind too, was now taken over. Before the darkness closed in...he hoped he was stopped before he could do any harm...

...

So he let himself go. Powerless against the grip The Creator had on him.

....

One message was broadcasted into his brain, the three words repeating like a mantra, flashing in his vision.

Kill them all.

⊱ ────── {⋅. ✯ .⋅} ────── ⊰

Not gonna lie...this made me tear up a few times 😥 but what did you think? I hope it was worth the wait! Thank you all for being so patient!

I promise the next wait won't be as long. This time I was just held back by a lot of things and had no time. Also...this was a heavy chapter, so writing it took a lot of effort on my part! I hope it turned out well! What do you think will happen next?

I don't have much else to say, so I'll leave it at that! I hope you all enjoyed this!

See you all next time! ❤