Scenario:Nicholas - Making Memories

Making Memories

One night, Nicholas reads a picture book to Tobias about a robot made of cans named Canka. Tobias is completely absorbed by the story, but his face falls when it ends with Canka sacrificing himself for the children who created him. Realizing his son is too distraught to sleep, Nicholas begins to tell him a sequel of his own creation.

---

Nicholas: Canka the Candroid

Nicholas: "Please throw this away," said Tom's mother to her son.

Nicholas: "Okay," answered Tom, "but you owe me a rupie." And so Tom picked up the empty oil can and left to throw it on the scrap iron pile.

Nicholas: The can was large, heavy, and shaped like a box. "Heave-ho," grunted Tom as he carried it along.

One night, Nicholas sits beside Tobias in his bed, reading him a picture book to lull him to sleep.

Bundled up in a thick, fluffy blanket, Tobias listens intently to his father's gentle voice as he tells the story.

Tom arrived at the scrap iron pile to see his friend Remy. Remy had come to throw away two empty paint cans.

When Tom saw the paint cans side by side, he had an idea. He set the oil can on top of them and said...

Tom: "This oil can body has two paint can legs! If we give it a head and arms, we can make a super strong robot!"

Tobias: Bwoh!

Tobias squeals happily, reaching toward the unfinished robot in the book.

Nicholas: I see. Cans are made from sheet metal, but the ridges make them pretty strong. And they're light too—perfect for a powerful robot!

Tom and Remy hurried to their secret base on the edge of town, carrying the empty cans.

The secret base had a broken mast for a roof and was filled with things they had collected, like bent screws and gears.

Tom and Remy used screws and wire to connect can arms and can legs to the oil can body. "Clatter, clatter," went the cans.

Remy: "These cans are all empty. He must be a very hungry robot."

Tom: "Then let's give him a great, big mouth so he can eat his fill!"

Remy nodded, and they set to work putting the robot together.

Tom: "There! It's done!"

Tom pulled the lever on the body, and the robot started to move.

Tom: "You're made from cans, so your name is Canka. Do you understand, Canka?"

Canka: "Canka! I'm Canka!"

Tobias: Grgh?

Nicholas: Haha. Neat, huh? It talked!
"Tom and Remy were very surprised to hear the robot answer them."

Nicholas reads the picture book to Tobias in a kindly voice, sprinkling in some personalized comments along the way.

Thanks to his engaging method of storytelling, Tobias seems to somewhat grasp the contents of the tale.

Nicholas: (Man, I haven't heard this story since I was a kid. I remember being excited when Canka started talking too.)

Nicholas: (But I don't think I read this book that many times. I wonder why?)

Canka: "Canka is hungry!"

Saying this, Canka started eating all sorts of things around the secret base, like screws and gears.

Canka: "Canka is strong! And eating lots will make Canka even stronger!"

Nicholas: (Oh yeah. He keeps eating everyone's things until no one likes him anymore...)

Just as Nicholas had remembered, Canka begins indiscriminately consuming toys and screws around the secret base.

Canka: "Give Canka screws and toys! Then Canka will be even stronger!"

After doing as he pleases with no regard for the children's feelings, Canka ends up friendless and hated by everyone.

Nicholas: "You're mean! I don't want to be your friend!" shouted Tom's friend Ivan, angrily throwing a rock at Canka.

Tobias: Mrgh...

Nicholas: What a shame... He was too selfish and ended up all alone. How can he make friends now?

Tobias: Goo!

Nicholas: Yeah, I can't wait to find out either. Let's see what happens next.

One day, the children went outside the city to explore. Canka followed after them.

When Ivan saw Canka, he became angry. "Go away!" he yelled. But Canka wouldn't leave.

Suddenly, a monster appeared. "Roar!" it thundered. The children were so scared they couldn't move.

Canka: "Look out!"

Canka ran over to face the monster.

Canka: "Canka is strong!"

Canka's hand grew pointy and turned into a huge drill, even bigger than a tree.

Thanks to all the toys and gears in his belly, Canka could use them to change his shape.

Tobias: A-bo!

Nicholas: "Hey, monster! Go away!" Canka shouted. The monster was scared of Canka. "Eep!" it yelped, and ran away.

Tobias: Goo-gah! Ba-ba!

Nicholas: Pretty cool how strong he is, huh? I used to love this scene when I was a kid too!

After Canka drives away the monster, he reconciles with the children, and they gradually become friends.

Eventually the ever-strong Canka becomes an indispensable member of the children's expeditions.

Remy: "Canka the Candroid! Strongest of the strong!"

Tom: "He's our friend! And a hero too!"

Canka and the children loved to sing as they explored every day. But one day...

A great storm struck the island while the children were out on an expedition. Worried, they tried to hurry home.

But when they reached the bridge to the city, they found it had sunk. Unable to cross, they fled to the secret base.

The secret base was in bad shape. The mast roof had blown away in the wind, and the sheet metal walls had broken.

Canka: "Come on, everyone! Under me!"

Canka stood on his hands and knees, growing bigger and bigger. Once he was big enough, he invited to children to take cover beneath him.

With his arms and legs stretched out, Canka was as big as a house and as sturdy as a fortress.

Canka: "Is everyone okay?"

Remy: "We're fine. Thanks, Canka."

Canka smiled. The rubble blowing in the wind hit his back, again and again.

Creak, squeak. Bang, clatter, wham. Canka's back hurt, and his arms and legs groaned in the rain. But still he smiled and asked...

Canka: "Is everyone okay?"

Tom: "Yeah. Because you're protecting us."

Seeing Canka's bright smile, the children weren't the least bit scared.

"Hang in there, Canka!"

"You're so strong, Canka!"

Thanks to the children cheering him on, Canka was able to stay standing.

Finally the stormy night passed, and the children peeked out from under Canka. They saw a clear, blue sky above them.

Ivan: "Look, Canka! There's a rainbow!"

But there was no answer. The children turned to look at Canka and shouted in surprise.

There in Canka's place was a giant rock on all fours. The light shining on its jagged surface made it look like it was smiling.

The children named the rock "Canka Rock" and decided to tell the story of their brave friend Canka to everyone they met.

Canka Rock became a beloved playground for children of all ages, and a source of cheerful laughter for years to come.

Nicholas: The end.

Tobias: Guh...

Nicholas: Yeah. Pretty sad story, huh?

Nicholas: (I remember now. The ending made me so upset, I never read it again.)

Tobias: Mrgh...

Nicholas: Well, I can't exactly tell you to go to sleep now, can I? There, there.

Seeing the Grand God Kaiser and Zogora toys next to the bed, Nicholas is suddenly struck with inspiration and claps his hands together.

Nicholas: Hey, Toby. There's actually a second part to this story. Wanna hear it?

Tobias: Bwuh?

Nicholas sets the picture book down on the blanket and sits up a little straighter, gearing up to continue the tale.

Nicholas: Canka bravely protected the children and transformed into a silent rock.

Nicholas: But the story doesn't end there! A year later, something happened that triggered a miracle!

Making Memories: Scene 2

The city in Nicholas's story is attacked by an enormous monster called Zomora, but Canka comes back to life thanks to a miracle caused by the children. Surrounded by Zomora's flames, their friendship sparks another miracle, transforming Canka into Grand God Kaiser to defeat the beast.

---

Tom: B-bad news, guys! There's a pack of monsters headed for the village!

Remy: Oh no! But why?

Ivan: Revenge. I bet they're mad about Canka beating them and are coming to attack us!

One day, the city is suddenly attacked by a horde of monsters.

Normally the knights of the city would protect them, but this time things are different.

Giant Monster: Groooooar!

Tom: It's huge!

Ivan: So that's the legendary monster boss, Zomora. We sure picked the wrong enemy to mess with.

Remy: I'm scared! Let's run for it!

Tom: No! Zomora's trying to break Canka Rock! I won't leave him behind!

Ivan: Let's fight! We're Canka's friends, right?

Remy: Yeah, you're right. We made these badges so we'd never forget him!

This calls for an explanation!

After Canka became a rock, the children made three badges out of gears and screws they picked up from underneath their robot friend.

These "Canka Badges" serve as an everlasting symbol of the friendship between the children and Canka!

Tom: Even if Canka's not around anymore, we can still defend ourselves! That's why I've practiced with my sword every day!

Tom: Now's the time to fight! This time we'll be the ones to protect Kanka!

Remy & Ivan: Yeah!

The children draw their weapons to fight against the approaching swarm of monsters.

Tom's sword, Remy's slingshot, and Ivan's spear make quick work of the monsters. However...

Zomora: Groooooar!

Tom: Cough, cough... It's no use. That thing's so big, our attacks can't reach it!

Ivan: At this point, it's all or nothing! We'll have to climb Canka Rock and take it on from there!

Using a secret path to get to Canka Rock, the children climb on top of their old friend and shout at Zomora.

Tom: Hey, jumbotron! If you wanna mess with Canka, you'll have to go through us first!

Remy: We won't run or hide! So bring it on!

Zomora: Groooar!

Ivan: Here it comes! Once it gets close enough, we'll use our special attack!

Zomora: Groooar!

Ivan: Now!

Children: Little Trio Attack!

The children unleash a powerful combo attack, strong enough to knock out a normal monster in one blow! But... it doesn't work on Zomora!

Zomora is already right next to them. With a glint in its eye, it takes aim and brings down its foul claws!

Ivan: Oww... You guys okay?

Remy: Yeah. But...

Zomora is already right next to them. With a glint in its eye, it takes aim and brings down its foul claws!

Tom: ...!
S-somebody help!

The children steel themselves for certain death. But then... it happens!

Tom: Gasp! Our Canka Badges are glowing!

The Canka Badges on the children's chests begin to shine, until the glow reaches all the way to Canka Rock.

Rock fragments fall from Canka's form like a layer of crumbling rust. Then a massive shadow rises from within the light...

Zomora: Grah?

Tom: Canka!

The children watch as Zomora is laid out by a single powerful blow. And there before their eyes is none other than Canka, his fist thrust high into the air!

Thanks to the strong bond between Canka and the children, a miracle occurred! Canka rises to stand with the children once again!

Tobias: Kah! Tee-hee-hee!

Nicholas: "Groooar!" roars Zomora. But Canka shows no fear!

Nicholas continues his off-the-cuff story, using the drawing of Canka on the cover of the book and the toy Zogora to act out the scenes.

Nicholas: "Your fight is with me!" shouts Canka, slamming his mighty fist into the beast's flabby belly!

Nicholas: Bam! Thud! Ker-pow! Zomora is unable to move in the face of Canka's fierce attacks!

Tobias: Pah!

Nicholas: "You can do it, Canka!"

"Get 'im, Canka!"

The children cheer Canka on as he fights!

Nicholas: But Zomora is a formidable foe. It plays dead, all the while waiting for a chance to attack.

Nicholas: "Groooooar!"

Tobias: Eep!

Nicholas: This roar is even more earsplitting than the last! Enough to shatter the windows of the city! Canka is so surprised, he falls on his backside!

Nicholas: "Mororororo!" Oh no! Zomora's preparing to attack! What in the skies is that beast going to do next!

Tobias: ...!

Zomora: Graaaaagh!

Canka: ...!

Tom: Urgh... Ow...

Tom: ...!
Canka! Are you okay?

Zomora's flames have made a complete mess of the city.

Canka is looking worse for wear after protecting the children from the blaze. He's even lost his arm, drill and all.

Canka: I'm sorry... everyone...

Tom: Canka!

Ivan: Grr... How dare you do that to Canka!

Remy: Stand up, you guys! We have to protect Canka!

Children: Hyaaah!

Zomora: Groooooar!

Children: Whoooa!

Tom: W-we're no match for that thing!

Zomora: Groooooar!

Canka: It's going to breathe fire again... At this rate, the children...

Canka: No... They're my precious friends, the ones who awakened me from my slumber!

Canka: I won't let anyone hurt them! I'll protect the ones who breathed life into these cans, no matter what!

Tom: Canka!

Canka: Please, give me the power! The power to save my friends!

Zomora: Grah!

At that moment, another miracle happens! Light overflows from Canka and the Canka Badges and merges together!

Out of the light appears a steel warrior, born from their prayers and friendship! Yes—Canka had transformed into Grand God Kaiser!

Tom: We're right here with you, Canka! Together, we'll defeat that thing!

Canka: I can hear your voices within me. Right now, we stand as one!

Tom: Here we go, Canka! You can do this!

Canka: Yeah!

Zomora: Groooooar!

Canka: Hyaaah!

Zomora's flames no longer have any effect! After all, the Kaiser is an invincible giant! That monster is going down!

Canka & Children: Kaiser Canka Smaaaaash!

Zomora: Groooooar!

And so, the city is protected from the villainous monster, thanks to the friendship between Canka and the children!

Making Memories: Scene 3

Marie, Kenji, and Robomi enter the room to reveal they had been listening the whole time. Since Kenji and Robomi have no memories of family, they are delighted to have become a part of Tobias's memories through Nicholas's story, which was based on their experiences together.

---

Nicholas: Thanks to Canka and the gang, the city is saved!

Marie: And they all lived happily ever after.

Nicholas: Whoa! H-how long have you guys been there?

Robomi: Since Zomora appeared in the city, Nicholas.

Nicholas: Ahaha... So you heard the whole thing...

Kenji: Heh. With you shouting so loudly, I'd be surprised if there was a soul on this ship who didn't hear you.

Marie: Why don't we all relocate to the living room? If we're not careful, we'll wake up Toby.

Nicholas: Eh?

Tobias: Zzz...

Nicholas: Huh? When did he fall asleep? I was so caught up in the story I didn't even notice. Haha...

Marie: Hehe. Nice work putting him to sleep. I'll turn off the lights.

Nicholas: Haha... You're all a bunch of jerks, you know that? You could have at least told me you were there.

Robomi: Well...

Robomi: We wanted to know how the story ended, Nicholas.

Kenji: It was pretty entertaining. Including watching you get into the story.

Nicholas: Urk!

Marie: Hehe. I never knew you were such a tease, Kenji.

Nicholas: Sheesh, you said it. Talk about embarrassing.

Kenji: I meant it when I said it was entertaining though. That story really hit home with us. Right?

Robomi: Huh?
Y-yes. We genuinely enjoyed it, Nicholas.

Nicholas: Ahaha... Thanks. Glad to hear it.

As they walk down the hall, the kiln bell rings, signaling the completion of the heat treatment.

Nicholas: Oh, sounds like Robomi's armor plating is ready. I need to cool it before going to bed.

Robomi: I will take care of it. You should retire for the night, Nicholas.

Robomi: Also, I would like to thank you.

Nicholas: Huh? For what?

Robomi: For the story you told.

Nicholas: The one from earlier? I was just rambling on about whatever came to mind... Aaand she's gone.

Kenji: Don't worry, I'll help with the armor plating. Good night.

Nicholas: Th-thanks. Night.

Marie: Good night. Tell Robomi good night from me too, okay?

Kenji: Will do. See you in the morning.

As they watch Robomi and Kenji head off toward the workshop, Marie gently leans her head against Nicholas's shoulder.

Marie: Toby sure is a lucky boy, being loved by so many people.

Nicholas: You got that right. Everyone's always looking out for him.

Marie: Yeah. Robomi and Kenji look at him like he's their own flesh and blood. Or... whatever they're made of.

Nicholas: Now that you mention it, they really do. Those two sure have changed.

Robomi: The armor plating has finished cooling. No defects detected.

Kenji: ...

Robomi: Did you find a crack in the plating?

Kenji: No, the plating's fine.

Kenji: I was just thinking... that story Nicholas told was probably based on our recent battle.

Robomi: Yes, most likely.

Kenji: The earliest autonomous combat units were lost along with their contents, only to be forgotten...

Kenji: But Nicholas's story might leave an impression on that child. And on me too. I'm grateful for that.

Robomi: Yes. That is precisely what I had in mind when I thanked Nicholas.

Kenji: There's no way of knowing what the future holds.

Robomi: Where is this coming from?

Kenji: I guess it must be strange hearing me say things like this. But rest assured there's nothing wrong with my mental circuits.

Kenji: When I was younger, I was jealous of the kids who talked about their family memories like it was the most normal thing in the world.

Robomi: ...

Kenji: That being said, I got to where I could pretend I didn't notice my own feelings.

Kenji: But in the end, I was just making myself numb to them, like with anesthesia. Even if I didn't feel any pain, I was still getting hurt.

Robomi: That... applies to me as well.

Kenji: I see.

Robomi: I can't give you any memories.

Kenji: But I was allowed to be a part of Tobias's.

Robomi: Yes.

Kenji: I feel like something's starting to fall into place, little by little. And it's about time.

Robomi: Does that mean... you were happy too?

Kenji: ...

Kenji: That's right. I was.

After cooling the armor plating, they proceed with the installation.

The conversation between mother and son turns to impersonal shop talk until the procedure is complete.

Kenji: The installation went off without a hitch. And the armor's not interfering with any parts. Let me know if something goes wrong again.

Robomi: Understood. Thank you for assisting with my maintenance.

Kenji: No need to thank me.

Kenji: Well, I have some things to do, but I'll be back in the morning.

Kenji begins initiating the sequence to transfer his consciousness to the digital world, but suddenly stops halfway.

Kenji: Oh, right.

Robomi: ...?

Kenji: There are limits to what I can do, but I'd like to keep helping Nicholas out.

Robomi: Yes... I feel the same way.

Kenji: I didn't work so hard to stick around just so I could help defend against abominations.

Kenji: So let's be here to make memories with Toby for a long time to come.

Kenji: Mom...

Robomi: ...!

Kenji vanishes, as though escaping before Robomi has a chance to respond.

Robomi: Thank you, Kenji...

Countless eras later, her wish to be called "Mom" has finally come true.

Robomi hugs her steel shoulders, relishing the sound that she had once abandoned all hope of ever hearing.