Okay another random project.

Let's just get into it rather than explain it.

Disclaimer: I don't own Digimon.

Chapter 1

Two kids were playing around on a beach.

The majority of the area looked be colored purple, Black, and other Darker colors. There was a cliff nearby and on it was a Lighthouse. One problem.

The Light it was shining was Black. Almost Dark in Nature.

The kids ignored this, however.

Even though neither knew that the area was really the Physical Representation of Darkness: The Dark Ocean.

Back to the kids, both had Dark Brown Hair, Chocolate Brown eyes, and were about 6 or 7 years old. One was male, the other female.

The girl wore a White and Yellow short sleeve shirt and blue shorts.

The boy wore a Blue T-shirt and Tan pants.

The girl was named Hikari Kamiya.

The boy: Takato Matsuki.

They'd been doing this for over a month now. Every other day, they'd find their way here and start playing with each other without fail.

The locals just watched them while hiding. All of them were surprised that the two got there without help, or being pulled in. Three locals always watched them while they were there, but nothing had ever been found as to how they could get there.

Until today, that is.

The three on duty were very much surprised with a Divermon showed up, and threw a Harpoon at Takato.

The Locals were about to stop it, but Takato had pushed Kari out of the way before managing to dodge the harpoon, though barely. Kari was surprised, and so was Takato for a different reason. "How did I..." He whispered, before he felt another tingle, and dove to the right, before rolling and looking at the offender. It looked like a Bipedal fish, with a grey diving tank and a Harpoon in hand.

But since he didn't understand that, he just thought it was a walking fish that wanted to hurt him.

Kari notice this, too, and was scared. "Takato... I'm scared."

He heard this and then glared at the offender. "You want something from us?"

The Divermon chuckled. "I want your deaths."

Deaths.

As in: More than one.

Takato knew what that meant. He glanced at Kari. "Kari... I will protect you." He told her.

After that, everything was a blur to Takato. But not to Kari.

No, Kari saw everything. The red glow on Takato's hand, that fact that he sent the creature flying with one punch, and then threw even more Red Energy at it causing it to burst into Black Particles.

However, after that, Takato just looked at Kari with a smile before collapsing into the sand.

"Takato!" She ran up to him, her body glowing, as she grabbed him.

Then she saw the glow around her, because it transferred to him. "Takato, please! Don't leave me!" She was starting to cry.

She heard a groan. "Kari...?"

"Takato!" She hugged him and helped him sit up.

"What happened?" He asked when he was on his butt, and she was looking at him. "All I remember is that Fish thingy... I said something, but... I can't remember what I said, or what happened after that, and... Are you glowing?" He asked, still confused.

She nodded at the question. "I am, but..." She then described what she saw.

They both looked at his hand and saw a Hazard Mark glowing red. "What's this thing?" Takato asked.

"Dunno. It was glowing and you threw that red thing at the Fish."

The light faded from Kari, and the mark faded from Takato's hand. This confused them both. "Lets figure it out later. Maybe the answer will find us."

The locals, however, knew what they were now.

The girl was the Child of Light, and the boy was the Guardian of the Hazard.

The next time they came, they were greeted by a Shadow Being. "Greetings, Children of Light and the Hazard."

The confusion on their faces were evident. "Judging by your confusion, I'd say you don't know what I'm talking about." They both managed a nod. "For you," He pointed at Takato. "You are what is known as the Guardian of the Digital Hazard. And you," He pointed at Kari. "Are the Child of Light. Both of you have a connection to the Digital World. Do you know what that is?"

They both shook their heads no. "Then you have a lot to learn young ones. Come with me. My friends can show you how to use your power... while we figure out why two Humans have such power in them."

"My mommy said not to trust strangers." Kari replied.

"You trusted me when we met." Takato replied. "Besides, last time I saw you I thought that it'll come to us sooner or later. That's what's going on... Right?" He asked the creature, who nodded. "He can tell us why we have these super powers, and maybe help us use them."

Kari thought for a moment and nodded. "Alright, but my mom would be worried if I'm not back by a certain time."

"My mom too." Takato added.

"As long as you're here, my friends and I will train you as best as we can. We will help you, too." The being stated. "As long as you help us afterwards."

The two thought about it and looked at each other before looking back at the Shadow Man and nodding. "We'll do it!"

"Excellent. Now, we should get away from the water. We don't want anyone else knowing about you two." The being led them away from the water and into the forests, before they ended up at a log cabin. They went inside, and sat them down at a table.

He then began to explain the role of the two positions he mentioned. "Light, however, is incomplete. Light and Dark must work together to be complete. It's called Balance." was how he finished with the Child of Light.

After he explained the Hazard, he commented on it. "As dangerous as it sounds, the Hazard is not only for destruction. The full usage of it is only known to a select few, and none of them are around any longer."

"Where are they?" Takato asked, curious. Somehow, he understood all of what was said, as did Kari.

"They... passed on. No one with the Digital Hazard has been seen in a long time. In fact, you are the first one to be seen in... I don't know how long."

Takato nodded, though a little sad. "I can teach you what I know about it, but from there you'll have to figure it out on your own. As the Child of Light is much more known, and easily found in the Digital World, I know more about that, even though I can't use either, I can help you understand your gifts."

The two looked at each other and nodded. They understood all of it, but it confused them.

For the next two years, Kari and Takato grew closer together. They trained together, played together and studied together.

Kari told Takato about her family and friends and Takato did the same. Both also thought that Takato was a lot like Tai, Kari's brother, in personality.

It had taken a year for the Shadow Man to figure out what caused them to have their abilities, and the result surprised him.

Kari had Magnadramon's Data in her. How, he didn't know, but it was nothing compared to Takato. He had Megidramon's Data in him.

He then explained it to them, and who the two were. Magnadramon and Megidramon were two of the Four Holy Dragons, though Megidramon was far from Holy.

After a month of training in drawing on their Digimon forms, they managed it, but when they reverted back, they passed out. When they woke up, they understood it, and their bond.

It wasn't just the Data of the two, either.

They found memories of a Past Life, causing Major understanding from them both. They explained it to the Shadow Man, who was understandably surprised.

From then on, he watched as they either played around, or trained themselves in the abilities of their past life.

Another point that was found out was that they had two forms to draw on: One Beast and One Human.

Kari could become Ophanimon or Magnadramon, while Takato could become Gallantmon or Megidramon.

Takato had also gotten into drawing during this time. Apparently, drawing edged off the cravings he got while he was Megidramon.

However, now, Kari hadn't shown up recently. Normally, they get together every other day, but it had already been two weeks since she was last there. Naturally, this had him worried.

Shadow Man wasn't explaining, either. He just knew that something big happened in the East Quadrant, but he didn't know what happened, who caused it, and why. He also noticed that he couldn't track Kari's whereabouts like he usually could.

"Please... is there some trace of Kari?"

"I'm sorry, Takato. There's no trace of her, and I can't seem to make a connection to the East Quadrant, whether the Real World, or the Digital World to search them. My guess is she's in one of those two, but if I send you there I won't be able to bring you back."

"Can you send me to a certain place in the Real World there? I'd be able to find my way back, you know that. The hazard would let me open a portal to here, so I can find her there, and let her know that I was worried."

"What about your family?" Shadow asked.

"I... I guess... They don't know where I've been going, and I haven't told them about Megidramon, Gallantmon, or Digimon in general. She knows I've been playing with a friend that's misunderstood and doesn't really trust adults, but they trust me. I made sure that they know not to follow me, so I can keep their trust, and they saw that my friend needed someone there for them, and let it go."

Shadow hummed. "I can probably get you there, but until I can reestablish a connection, I don't know how accurate I can get it."

"Just the general area should be fine." He then gave a street address, and Shadow sent him out.

-East Quadrant, Real World-

Takato appeared out of a Red glow next to a dumpster.

He knew that he had made it, and looked into the area. 'This is the right place. Okay... time to head to Kari's apartment.'

He made his way to the Seventh floor, and found the right apartment number, before knocking on the door.

A tall woman answered the door. "Hello there. I'm sorry, but Taichi isn't here."

"Sorry, but I'm actually here to see Hikari." Takato replied in a Young boy voice.

"Oh? Any reason why?" She asked.

"I've just been worried about her. I haven't heard from her in a couple weeks, and we've seen each other almost every day for a while." Takato explained.

"Oh... I see. Well, come on in." She led him in, and he saw Kari sitting on the couch, looking depressed. "Kari?" He started, causing her to stiffen, and look at him.

"Takato?" She asked, almost scared.

He nodded. "I was worried about you, you know?"

She looked down. "I'm sorry..."

He put a hand on her shoulder, and made her look at him. "What's wrong?"

She held up her Digivice, causing his eyes to widen. "What happened?"

She then began to explain what happened in the Digital World. Kari's mother listened in from nearby, but stayed out of the conversation. She settled for watching and listening, but what surprised her was that Takato, as Kari called him, was not surprised, nor was he calling her crazy.

"Huh. So that's what happened." Takato mused. "Makes sense, I guess. It'll probably take a while to finish, but Shadow is trying to reconnect to the East Quadrant, which is here. Apparently, I live in the South Quadrant."

"Don't you get it, Takato? I can't go back there because I don't have my crest."

Takato sighed, before meeting her eyes. "Kari, did you forget what we are?"

"No, but..."

"Magnadramon, Ophanimon, Megidramon and Gallantmon could access other Quadrants somehow. I think Shadow's home is part of it. It's probably how he knows so much about them." Takato explained. "If that's the case, then why can't you?"

Kari blinked at that. "I never thought about that."

Takato nodded. "Try and find your Inner Light, just like we did with Shadow. If it's still there, then you can still go back."

Kari nodded and closed her eyes. When she found it, she saw it was locked again, so she merely released the lock, causing her to glow slightly. Her eyes then snapped open, and she pulled it back in, and sent a smile at him. "Thank you, Takato."

"Your welcome, Kari. We're friends right? That's what friends do." Takato returned the smile.

"But what about your parents? Aren't they worried about you?"

"They know I'm with a friend that doesn't exactly get around much. They haven't asked me about you for some time."

Kari nodded. "That's true. I really don't."

"We gotta give Shadow a little credit. Without him I wouldn't have been able to get them off my case without lying. Really, I suck at it."

Kari giggled. The two continued talking about random stuff since then. What's happened, weird things, and Takato's new friends, Hirokazu Shioda, or Kazu, and Kenta Kitagawa.

Kari's mother just watched as the two just talked like they were old friends. She even caught a few subtle hints given from both of them, which she didn't fully understand, but she knew without a doubt the two knew exactly what the other meant.

She also knew what all of those facts combined meant. Kari and Takato were a lot closer than just friends. It was almost as if the two were... She shook her head out of that thought. It was absurd.

But the fact remains that they were close. She also knew that Kari was depressed ever since she got back from the Digital World, which she figured was because of Gatomon.

If letting Takato be around her daughter got her out of the Depression, then she'd let them be as close as they want... within reason, of course.

The sun was setting now, and the front door opened, revealing another male a few years older than the two, and both looked at him.

Takato knew him by description alone. "So, you're Tai?"

He blinked. "Who are you?"

"Takato Matsuki." He held out his hand. "I'm a friend of Kari's. She's told me a lot about you."

He gripped it, and they shook. "Funny, she never mentioned you."

"My choice, actually. From one Angel to a Knight, we kept each other's secrets."

"Takato!" Kari whined.

"What? You didn't expect me to never meet your family, did you?" He grinned at her. 'You know I've been wanting to do this.' He thought, which was the unsaid message.

"No, but you could've been a bit more subtle about that." Kari told him.

"I guess you also know about her... problem?" Tai whispered.

Takato raised an eyebrow. "Which one?"

"Well, for one, she's been depressed lately."

"Knew that, fixed it." Takato countered.

"Huh? How?"

"I'm here, for one." He admitted. "She can never stay down with me around."

"Huh. Do you know about that Glowing thing? She never explained it, and... well, I'm still curious."

"She didn't say, neither will I." Takato shrugged as he sat down next to Kari. "But just so you know, yes I know what caused it."

"Kari, why would you tell him and not your own brother?" Tai asked.

"Because he was there when I found out." Kari answered. "Oh yeah. Takato, you made me miss out on Camp."

"Wait, what?" Takato was now confused.

"If you didn't dunk me back then, I would've been able to go. Mom mistook it for a fever, and said I couldn't go." Kari pointed out.

Takato blinked. "Oh. Sorry, I didn't know. So, how was the Eastern Digiworld?"

"It was a little tough adjusting, but I managed. It feels different from where we usually meet. But it just felt... wrong. Like the balance had shattered, or something."

"You think that's why Shadow Couldn't find you or contact anyone in the East?"

Kari thought about it, and nodded. "Would make sense, I guess." She noticed the sunset out of the window. "It's getting late, shouldn't you be getting home soon?"

Takato blinked. "You're right. Good to know you're safe, though. I was worried."

"You don't have to, Geeze. You know I can take care of myself." Kari retorted, a little annoyed.

Takato simply chuckled. "Alright, work on the connection, and I'll be there once a week. Just ask Shadow how long its been when you finally reconnect. I'll be waiting!" He walked out the door, and jumped over the railing.

"Wait!" The mother shouted, as he jumped over. When she looked over the railing, he was gone. No splat, no blood, no scream, no body. "What the..." Kari walked up and looked over as well.

She sighed and shook her head. "Show off..." She muttered. "Don't worry mom, he'll be fine."

It only took her another week to reconnect to the Dark Ocean. When she did, the first person she saw was Takato, and they both smiled at each other and hugged.

"Kari... I'm glad your back."

"Me too, Takato. Me too." She replied.

Shadow cleared his throat, earning their attention. "Since you're both here, I believe I should let you know, that someone else is trying to access here. We'll need you both ready at a moment's notice." he explains.

"Who else could get here?"

Shadow shook his head. "They're coming from the North Quadrant, but that's not the major problem. It's that the power of these beings have awoken Dragomon here, and that is the problem."

"Dragomon?" Takato asked.

"I've never heard of him." Kari added. "I could ask Izzy, though. He probably knows, or he could find out."

"Dragomon is an Ultimate level. At best, I'd rank Champion." Shadow answered. "Dragomon also runs this area. The entire area. The problem with this is, he's the reason this place has pretty much gone to shit until you two came along. But now that he's waking up, we don't have much time until he gets rid of everyone here. I'll keep you updated, but he must not win. When I said I would help you with your abilities as best as I can in return for your help, Dragomon is who I meant. The Dark Ocean will become barren of all life if Dragomon were to have his way. The problem is, regardless of his Rank, he's also powerful enough to rival a Low Mega, and his skill could allow him to match a Royal Knight, and possibly win."

Takato's eyes widened. "Then... We'd lose?"

"But what can we do?" Kari asked.

"Alone, not much. He'd have enough power to eliminate one of you... but perhaps together you could take him out." Shadow admitted. "It's a long shot, but it's possible."

Takato and Kari looked at each other with determination and nodded. "We said we'd help, and we will. Just let us know when he's about to break out. We'll make our way here and fight him off. If I can get my friends to come with me they'll be able to help." An 8 Old Year old Kari replied.

"I'd appreciate that. Now, what happened in the East Quadrant? Takato said it'd be better if you tell me, as you were there."

Hikari then explained it from her point of view. "I can't explain their first trip, because of Takato dunking me in the Ocean the day before. Seriously, Takato, I missed out on camp because of that."

Takato rubbed the back of his head. "Sorry..." They looked at Shadow. "Something else is wrong, isn't it?"

"Yes, there is." Shadow continued. "The problems in the North should be stopped soon. However, some more trouble will be brewing in the South soon. From what I gather, it'll take a few years before it rears its head, but it's still coming."

Takato sighed. "I was afraid that would happen."

"Be on the lookout for Digimon in the Real World, Takato. It'll be up to you until some children are chosen with a Digivice."

Takato nodded. "But if that happens, what about Kari?"

"I may be able to send her to a specified area in the South, but, as with you, I doubt I'd be able to bring her back." Shadow admitted. "Be on the lookout, Takato. And stay safe. The longer the South stays ignorant of the Digital World, the better."

Takato nodded. "Got it. Anything else?"

Shadow shook his head. "I've got nothing else. Kari, make sure you can still use your abilities. Other than that, you're pretty much good to go."

Kari nodded. "I can still use them. In fact, they're easier now, even though I no longer have my Crest. Maybe the Crest of Light limited my power, and with it gone..."

"You have space to expand." Takato realized.

Kari nodded. "They're easier to control, and more powerful too."

Shadow nodded. "I'd get to work then."

Kari shook her head. "I've got a week until School, and my mom said I could go meet Takato's Parents, as long as I'm back before school starts."

Takato blinked, then explained what he told his parents. Kari nodded, understanding the situation.

They both glowed and went into the South Quadrant.

-Shinjuku Park, Abandoned Shed-

Takato and Kari showed up in a slight glow, which revealed them. "Come on, Kari, my mom is probably still wondering who my friend is, so why not show her?"

She nodded, and they walked out of the Shed and down the stairs before walking around the park.

He continued to explain the area, and then he bragged about the fact that he drew an accurate Map of the Park they were in while he was blindfolded. She giggled. "I was more accurate than the Maps in the Park. I know it better than the officials."

"That's pretty good." She said.

However, he didn't escape notice by two particular boys. "Takato!"

The two stopped and looked at the incoming males. Kari noticed their attire and figured that they were Kazu and Kenta. "Who's the girl?" The one she thought was Kazu asked.

"Kazu, I've been friends with her longer than I've known you." Takato replied.

"Then how come I've never seen her?" Kazu questioned. "Besides, she'll probably cramp our style."

Takato shook his head. "Nah, she's a lot more like me than you think. This is also the first chance she has to meet my parents. Her mother is more of a chicken than Kenta's."

Kenta blinked. "That bad, huh?" He asked, before holding out a Hand. "Kenta Kitagawa. Friend of Takato." The glasses wearing kid said.

"Hikari Kamiya. Long time friend of Takato's." Kari replied. "My friends call me Kari, though."

"Hirokazu Shioda. Guys call me Kazu, though." Kazu replied. "So, we all gonna head over to your house?"

Kari looked at Takato. "I've been wanting to meet your parents, and I've got a week until I have to go home. I hope your mother doesn't mind. It took my brother's argument to get her to agree... and I still don't know how he did that. I also don't know how he got dad to agree, and I figured that would've been even harder."

Takato blinked. "If you ask me, Tai probably knew something that they didn't, or he just pointed out something glaringly obvious that they both overlooked. I mean, in his place that's what I would've done."

Kari thought about it and shrugged. "I'll ask when we get back."

"Good idea. So, we gonna go to my place?" Takato asked, earning a round of nods.

They walked through the park, Kazu and Kenta asking questions that Kari managed to dodge without any suspicion.

They soon reached the Matsuki Bakery. "This is the place. Come on, we'll enter on the side."

The four went in, with Takato's father, Takehiro, right there. "Takato, I wasn't expecting you back. Kazu, Kenta, good to see you again..." He noticed Kari. "I don't believe we've met."

"I told you about her. She's the friend that mom's been curious about." Takato explained.

Takehiro's eyes widened slightly, before a smile appeared on his face. "And you've managed to keep your lady friend secret from us for this long? Sounds like you've been doing something with her."

"Mostly making sure she can live life." Takato shrugged. "But hey, who am I to judge?"

"Mie, Takato's home, and he brought his Secret friend!" Takehiro called out.

"Let them in!"

"We'll be in the Living Room, dad. We've got time, but she has permission to stay here for a week."

"That's strange... Why would her parents allow her to stay at a boy's house without first meeting the parents of said boy?" Takehiro asked, with a raised eyebrow.

"Because she trusts me." Takato smiled. "So..."

"She gets your bed." Takehiro stated.

Takato smiled. "Thanks dad!"

The four walked into the living room, and saw a TV with an N64 connected, and game inside.

More specifically: Super Smash Brothers.

Kari smirked. "Count me in."

Takato smirked as well.

"Girls can't play video games. This'll be an easy win." Kazu boasted.

Kenta nodded in agreement. Takato held back his Insane Cackle. "Prepare to eat your words, guys." He commented.

They set it as Stock, with 5 lives each. Takato chose Kirby, Kari chose Peach, Kazu chose Captain Falcon, and Kenta chose Fox.

Within 5 minutes, Kenta was eliminated, Kari had 4 lives, Takato had 5, and Kazu only had one. Kazu, being surprised, was hit by Takato and taken out by the time 5:30 came around. Takato then fell off the screen on purpose, as did Kari. Takato did it again to even out their lives at 3, and then they started.

This time, it took 10 minutes before it became 1 life each.

Kazu and Kenta were surprised at the level the two were playing. "This is impossible..." Kazu breathed.

"I don't believe it. I see it but I don't believe it..." Kenta commented.

Takehiro looked into the room, and saw what happened. Peach finally knocked Kirby out, and the game was over. Takato snapped his finger. "Man, I never get that good of a challenge out of both Kazu and Kenta combined. You're better than I thought."

"Yeah... So is Tai. He and I are pretty much equal in skills in this game. He prefers Samus, though." Kari commented.

"Huh. Should've expected that." Takato mused. "We doing this like we used to?"

Kari shrugged. "Why not? Another round?"

"You guys up for it?" Takato asked.

"She probably can't beat us in the Digimon Card game!" Kazu countered. Takato and Kari blinked. 'Card game?'

"Back up, I don't remember there being a Card game like that."

"Oh yeah. It only hit stores 4 months ago. You probably weren't listening when I told you, though."

Takato shrugged. "Probably not. So, mind teaching us?"

Kazu shrugged. "Eh, why not?"

He then explained the rules, and how to play. Kari and Takato nodded as they understood them.

Kazu and Kenta didn't have many cards, but some other things that they knew wouldn't be known came up, mostly Digimon.

The Kazu had his Deck ready and gave them time to make another deck for each of them.

Kari and Takato made their decks, Takato using mostly Virus Types, since Kazu would never use them, and Kari going all around.

Kazu faced off with Kari, while Takato faced off with Kenta. Funny thing?

Kari and Takato won their matches. Kazu and Kenta just gaped. "A girl is better than us in something that's still new?!" Kazu gripped his head.

"Kari, what do you say you face me?"

"Let's see how you do, then. This is actually a fun game." Kari commented, before Takato and Kari started up again. Kazu and Kenta just watched as the two went back and forth, somehow equal in skill. Regardless of their less than balanced decks, they managed to make due.

In the end, Takato lost while Kari had 300 Data Points left. "That was a close game." Kari admitted. "Kenta and Kazu were pretty easy compared to you."

"I blame the Gallant Hazard." Takato shrugged. "Thanks for helping us with the cards guys." The two handed the cards back.

Kazu and Kenta left, but Kari stuck around, and they began to talk with Mie and Takehiro about their relationship so far. When they were finished, Mie frowned. "I guess with what you told me, she actually has a reason for not getting around much. But how did she get her mother and father to agree to this?"

"My brother did. I still don't know how, but I'm gonna ask when I get back. I've got a week." Kari explained.

Takehiro nodded. "So, you've got clothes, right?"

Takato pointed at a Backpack leaning on the wall. "They're right there." He stated.

"Huh. So, where do you plan to sleep, Takato? She's getting your bed."

"I don't mind, and my mother didn't when he passed out at my place. My brother had picture of it, though. I sleep in the same room as him, and have been for years. Takato acts a lot like my brother, so as long as nothing happens, I'll be fine."

"Nothing happens?" Mie frowned.

"That's just what my mom said. I didn't understand, though." Kari frowned in confusion. "I still don't get it."

Mie didn't like it, so she'd keep an eye on them. "Alright..."

"Honey, I'll talk with Takato about this. You mind explaining it to Kari?"

Mie nodded, as Takehiro and Takato were taken into another room. "Takato, there's more to this than she's putting out."

Takato nodded. "I knew you'd see it."

"Your mother is worried about her. You know that, right?"

"Dad... I've known her for 3 years, now. I know her better than her own mother does, and that's saying something." Takato countered.

"Really? You know a secret she hides from her mother?"

"Yeah, I do. It's because she trusts me that I know... that and I was there when she found out." Takato stated. "Her mother has met me, and trusts me enough that she knows that Kari will be safe as long as I'm around."

"Do you know what it means to be this close to a girl, Takato?"

"Girlfriend?" Takato guessed.

Takehiro blinked but nodded. "Yeah, how did you figure it out?"

"Kari's brother, Tai." Takato explained. "He's the one that explained it to me... and his friend Sora helped out there. They explained it to us both."

During the week, Kari had gotten to know Takato's family, and Mie had gotten to know Kari quite well.

However, it was now Saturday, the day that Kari had to go home. She was going to leave in the Afternoon, and was offered a ride, which she declined.

Takato and Kari looked at each other before asking his parents for a private conversation. During said conversation, Takato explained how he truly met Kari. And then the abilities they had. "Shadow helped us control them, so they don't control us. During these lessons, well, we got close. Closer than most would expect." Takato finished.

"Then where's this symbol?" Mie questioned. "I have never seen it."

Takato held up his right hand, clenched it and the Hazard Symbol appeared on the back of it. "Right here. After a few years of training it, I can control it, but not to the fullest. I'm far from mastering it, but at the very least I can use it to protect her."

"But if its that dangerous..."

"If I don't learn to control it, and I draw on too much, there's no telling just how much damage would come out of it. I may not even survive. That's why I've been training to control it. If I don't, I could end up destroying half of Tokyo in about 10 seconds, and I don't want that. I have this power, so I'm gonna use it to protect everyone and everything I can." Takato finished. "If I use it, it's dangerous. If I don't, it's even more dangerous. It's the lesser of two evils, as the saying goes. At least if I can control it, I don't hurt someone I don't want to."

"And my powers over Light can help, too. What he hurts, I can help. What he breaks, I can fix." Kari added. "All those years of training together helped us both. It's also these abilities that let us see each other."

"Does you brother have these abilities?" Takehiro asked.

Kari shook her head. "No, he doesn't. I don't even know what he'd have if he did."

Takato nodded. "If not for our abilities leading us to each other, she'd probably never learn about them, and I'd probably destroy myself if I got angry enough to draw on it unprepared. It's better this way. Please don't separate us."

Mie didn't like it, but with what she just heard, she knew what he was saying was true. "So... as long as you control it, you won't hurt anyone?"

Takato nodded. "No one else can know either mom. If the government finds out, they'll try to take me away from you, and extract it for their own use. If that happens, not only will I die, but so will anyone else they give the ability. Only certain people can use it with side effects. I'm the only Human alive that can use it without side effects. There's also two other beings that can use it without killing themselves, and they are not even human. Anything else will either kill itself automatically, or over time. The last human to try and use it had his body implode."

"Then why..."

"Because, like I said, I'm the only known human to be able to use it without side effects. I've been using it for years, trying to learn how to control it."

"What's more is, if He's not kept calm, he could snap. Without me there, no one can calm him down when he gets that way and even I have a hard time calming him down in that situation. His Anger is even more dangerous because of this because of the fact that the Hazard responds to his emotions. I can keep him calm, and just by being near me, his Anger dissolves. I'm his safety line." Kari explained. "As long as he isn't forced into using it, he should be okay, but we're not sure. As long as we can see each other, and I have enough time to help him through his anger, everyone will be safe. And that's something we both want."

Takehiro sighed. "Alright. I don't like it, but I see your point."

"Takehiro!"

"Honey, you know that they're doing what they have to in order to help us. They didn't have to tell us, either." He explained. Mie didn't like it, and her face showed it. "Takato, why did you tell us this?"

"Because I got word that something will be coming soon... They'll be coming here. We don't know what, but I was asked to keep an eye out for something. I have the ability to slow it down, or even stop it. But no one knows what it is, so I have to keep a lookout for something. If this thing succeeds, then we can say goodbye to this world. Now that I know, I can prepare for it."

Kari put a hand on his shoulder. "You've got our help if you need it. Just say the word, and I'll be there. With or without the others."

Takato nodded with a smile. "Anyway, I should probably get going. Good luck, Takato. And be careful. I don't want you going out just yet... that would totally suck." She grimaced at the image in her head.

Takato chuckled. "Kari, you know as well as I do, I'm too stubborn to die... You saw that against the Divermon years ago. Remember how I caught his Harpoon?"

Kari nodded. "I remember how you crushed it in your hand. Seriously, with the Hazard you're stronger than you look."

Takato chuckled. "Yeah... Compression does wonders for that, huh?"

Kari giggled. "I know, Light's the same way. Anyway, I need to get home soon."

"Come on, I'll lead you to the waypoint." Takato said, getting up. "I'll be right back, mom. Shouldn't be more than an hour."

"Be careful sweetie." Mie said.

Takato nodded. "I always am."

He led her back to the Shed and she opened the portal. "See you next week?"

Takato nodded. "Write notes in Digitext. Any other ideas, put them in Digitext if you don't want them out. Remember that, and we'll compare notes then. If you find something, just send a note, okay?"

Kari nodded, said "Good luck, Takato." and went through.

Takato sighed.

A few more years passed, and not much else happened.

Kari reached 11 years old, and Takato was 12. He remembered Kari's 11th birthday, and chuckled.

He gave her a Vaccine Deck that revolved around the Gatomon line. She took it home with her. His Virus Deck was a powerful one, and had counters for Vaccines, Data, and easily overpowered most other Viruses.

Then there were the Turnaround cards that he used a few times. He just walked around quite a bit, but now, he noticed a Data Digimon in the area. His eyes shot to the roof of a building, and saw a Yellow bipedal fox. 'A Renamon, huh? That's a speed and evasion Digimon. Normally employ Hit and run tactics...' He sent his gaze along the ground, and saw someone that had a Digivice on their waist.

He took careful note of the attire and features. 'Orange Hair with blonde streaks, Purple eyes, White and purple T-shirt... Female, obviously a tomboy... likes music, a little sneaky, plays the Card game if the Deck Box is any indication. White and Purple Digivice.' He then started following her, walking while writing down notes in a Notepad. He was writing down details in Digitext, knowing this would be important. He used a currently dead Dialect of Digitext, so no Digimon from the last 5 or 600 Digiyears would be able to read it.

After following for about 5 blocks, he knew that the Renamon picked up on his presence stalking the girl, but he walked to right next to her at the street corner, not even looking at her. They crossed the street, and walked a bit further, but separated later on.

The Renamon was suspicious of him now, but had no proof. He went over the notes he made, and the Renamon followed the girl around.

They crossed paths about 30 minutes later, but only the Renamon noticed. Takato was just walking around now. They just walked by each other another 3 times, and Takato noticed each time due to Renamon. 'Okay, I've had enough of this.' He tapped into the Hazard slightly, and made a Mental Link with the Renamon. "Renamon, can you hear me?"

"Who is this?"

"I keep passing this girl and you're always in the area, so I figure you'd know something. This is, like, the fifth time in the last two hours I've been walking around randomly that I've passed her." Takato told her.

"Wait, you are the Brown haired male in a Blue sweater with a hood?" Renamon questioned.

"If she asks whether or not I'm stalking her, please tell her no. I have no idea as to why, but something or someone is having us find each other. I don't know if she realized it, but I see her and I feel you, so I figure she's your partner. Am I right?"

"You are."

"Okay, good. At least I'm not going crazy. If she needs to talk to someone, I have a history with Digimon, so just tell her to look me up. I've been told I'm a good listener. What's her name?"

"Why don't you ask her yourself?"

"And risk sounding like a stalker? Not a chance. Besides I already have a girlfriend, and if this girl thinks that I like her like that, my girl would probably fire a beam of superhot light at her. So no. Not gonna happen."

"Then I will give you an alias of hers. Digimon Queen. Look it up if you wish to know."

"Huh. Okay, then I'll tell you my title: Guardian of the Digital Hazard. The last one was alive around 6 or 700 Digital Years ago over in the West Quadrant."

"That's absurd, the Guardian of the Digital hazard must be a Digimon, not a human... You're in disguise." It wasn't a question.

"Actually, I am a human. I'm also the only human that has any chance of using it like I have been for the last 7 years." Takato retorted.

"This is so wrong..."

"Welcome to my screwed up world." Takato replied. "Anyway, I'll have to head home. If you want to talk about what a Partnership is supposed to be like, follow me and drop by... Scratch that. Bioemergence. I'll handle it." Takato cut out and ran off, before turning into a Red blur.

He stopped at a Park Clearing before a fog came out of the ground, and a Goblimon showed up in the fog as he looked around. "Hmm... Goblimon, eh? Piece of cake."

The Goblimon swung his club, which Takato grabbed, before crushing it in his hand, turning it into Data particles. The Goblimon was understandably surprised, so he couldn't be blamed when he was kicked in the nads, causing him to drop, and Takato to crush his head like he had done to so many others. He burst into Data particles, but the fog didn't lift.

He closed his eyes, looking for any sign of another Digimon. Just then, two others entered the Fog, a Human and a Rookie Digimon.

He knew this to be the girl and Renamon. "Stay on guard. There's at least one more here."

"Who are you, and where's your Digimon?" The girl questioned.

Takato didn't answer, but turned his head to the right, his eye zeroing in on his target. "Found you..." He found two others, all Flymon. "Renamon, you want the two on the left while I get the one to the right?"

"You think you can handle a Digimon? Renamon, show him how it's done." The girl ordered.

"As you wish." Renamon jumped up and called out her attack. "Diamond Storm!" She deleted the two Flymon in the group, but the third was charging him.

He reared his fist back. "You want proof of my earlier statement, well here it is." He threw it forward, and called out. "Hazard Joust!" A beam of red Digital Energy flew out and pierced the last Flymon, surprising both human and Digimon. He looked at the girl as the Fog started to lift.

"So, Miss. May I know you name?" He asked.

"How the heck did you do that?" She questioned, her eyes narrowed.

"Name first. Then answers." Takato pointed.

"Rika Nonaka. Now answer my question!" She nearly yelled.

He looked at Renamon. "Your partner knows. For the record my name is Takato "The Typhoon" Matsuki. Until later." He turned, took one step and left in a Red blur.

Renamon was surprised, while Rika was confused. "Renamon, what the hell was he talking about?"

"He was right... that was Digital Energy..." Renamon whispered. "I will explain later, Rika. We should get out of here first."

"Fine." She growled out.

-Matsuki Bakery-

Takato walked in. "Mom, I'm home!"

"Takato! What took you so long?"

"Rookie, and 3 bugs. Not a scratch." Takato replied.

"Did they hit you?"

"The Rookie got one attack out, but it missed. The bugs couldn't do a thing." He answered.

"Thank god..." Mie and Takato had been doing this pretty much everyday. If he was held up by a Digimon he named either their level or what they looked like. Ever since Digimon started to cross over, he made a mental note of strengths and weaknesses of them for later use.

He sat down at a table. "Oh, and I found a Digimon Pair, too."

This earned Mie's attention. "Another one like you?"

Takato shook his head, now that his mother was sitting at the table. "No, a Human and Digimon partnership. The girl is Rika Nonaka, the Digimon Queen. Her Digimon Partner is Renamon."

"Its a Fox Type, right?" Mie asked. She had long since looked into Digimon, since she knew her son was dealing with them.

"Yeah, Rookie level, Data type, most likely."

"Did this one attack you?"

"No, but she was surprised when I took out a Flymon with a Hazard Joust." He had also described most of his moves using the Hazard, and what he did before using them, mostly as a formality.

"I guess that's no surprise. I mean, you're my son, and I was surprised when you actually showed me that one." Mie admitted. "A Digimon would be even more surprised."

"Yeah... I got a little brutal with the Goblimon, though."

"Scale?"

"6.2, I think. Face Crush."

Mie flinched. "That's got to hurt."

Takato shrugged. "It did the job. Hopefully it'll be reborn as a better Digimon."

She nodded. "That's good that you let the Data Get away."

Takato shrugged. "I'm not that heartless, mom. Anyway, there's another Local Tournament coming up soon. I want to look into it. Plus, I've gotta meet Kari tomorrow. Might want to reconfigure my deck. I'm pretty much the best in my school. Every player in my class wants me in this one to get to the Regional. I'm the Virus Emperor of the Card Game. My entire grade wants me to represent my School."

"What does it cost?"

"Nothing but transportation. This is a Tiered Tournament, unlike the one a month ago. The first round is a District, then a Regional, then National. Someone thought the current champion cheated somehow, so they're a shoe in for the Nationals. There's 15 other Regions, and a total of 16 slots in the Nationals. I intend to be one of those 15."

"So, you gonna walk to it, or do you want a ride?" Yes, she also knew of his body enhancement ability of the Hazard.

"I can walk. I'll let you know about Regionals when they come around." Takato explained.

Mie nodded. It made sense, and he's been more honest lately since she found out the truth of the Hazard. "Okay, you going to call Shadow?" Yes, she knew about him too.

"Might as well. I just found out about the first partnership in the city. I figure the threat he told me about all those years ago is coming up soon." Takato replied.

Mie nodded, and got started on dinner. "Shadow, it's Takato."

Something wrong?

"Maybe. I ran into the first of the Partnerships... I also passed the the Human 5 times in 3 hours."

I see... We may have less time than I thought. Shadow replied. I'd estimate maybe a year until the threat breaks loose, but I still don't know what it is.

"I understand. Kari should be coming over here tomorrow. Let her know?"

Will do. Oh, and Takato, I've got a Gatomon here in the Dark Ocean. She's tied to the Crest of Light, I can tell. Shadow replied.

Takato's eyes widened. "Tell Kari, and have the two meet before she comes over. Something tells me the Gatomon is there for a reason."

If she's awake by then, why not? Shadow replied. Takato got the distinct impression that he was shrugged. Anyway, I'm out. Later. Shadow Hung up.

Takato sighed and hung up on his end.

The next day, Kari came into the Bakery pretty early. There was also a Gatomon playing like a domesticated Cat in her arms.

"Hello, Ms. Matsuki. Is Takato awake?"

"Ah, Kari. He's in the shower now. You can wait in the living if you want. Is that your Partner?" The Gatomon meowed.

"It's fine Gatomon. She knows about Digimon."

"Oh thank god." Gatomon breathed. "Seriously, though. Why does she know?"

"My son fights off Digimon in the city." Mie replied. "I kind of have to know."

"He hasn't been injured, has he?" Kari asked.

"No, he hasn't. The last one had a Goblimon and 3 Flymon, apparently. There was a small mark on his right hand, but nothing notable. It was a Face Crush, I think."

"Oh... That's kind of brutal." Kari pointed out.

"So he said." Mie stated. "Make yourself at home until he's ready."

Kari nodded, and led Gatomon to a couch. "So, Kari, why are we here?"

"I want you to meet my real boyfriend." Kari answered. "I've got another gogglehead after me, but this one got me before I met you. He risked a Permanent Digital Quadrant change just to make sure I was okay after you were left in the Digital World."

It was about 10 minutes before Takato came down in a Blue Hoodie, Dark brown shorts, yellow wrist bands and Gold trimmed oval goggles. "Trying to copy my brother, Takato?" She teased.

"Ever since he came up on the show I had a viable reason to." Takato retorted. "Apparently, the first season started this past week, with Summer camp. Shadow created a company that's producing the first adventure, and is finally pushing it on the air. First episode aired 2 days ago. So, shall we get going? I've got a Tournament tomorrow, so I was hoping to revamp my deck."

"Oh. Mind if I help?"

Takato nodded. "I was just about to ask." She smiled and the three walked out, Gatomon resuming the Cat Act. They got to the Park, and saw Kazu and Kenta in a Playground area with a Purple dinosaur.

"Hey, Chumley! About time! Kari?" Kazu blinked as he saw Kari. "Okay, you come too!" He had long since figured that Kari outshines him pretty much everywhere.

Takato pulled out a Box. "So, you planning to face us both?"

"Actually, I'm trying to revamp my Deck for the Tournament."

"Dude, you don't need to Revamp it. It's better than any other deck I've seen!" Kenta countered.

"Kenta, my goal in this tournament is the National Finals, where I'll face the previous Champion. That is where I plan to win." Takato retorted.

"You're after the Digimon Queen, then?" Kazu asked, causing Takato to stiffen, though only Kari noticed.

"I guess. If the Digimon Queen was accused of Cheating by five players."

"Yup, that's her. No one knows who she is, or where she lives. You might need to up your game, if she's your target." Kazu admitted.

Kari thought about it. "You have anything on her normal style of play?"

Kazu and Kenta shook their heads.

Takato sighed. "I'll have to look it up. I'll also have to add in Data and Vaccine Types, or make a new Deck with all three."

"I'd suggest the new deck." Kari pointed out. "I'll help, since I use an All-rounder deck. I can teach you how it plays, and give you tips."

Takato nodded. "Thanks Kari. I owe you for this."

She shook her head. "Okay, let's see what you got." They spent the next 30 minutes getting cards and putting them together.

After that, he went two on one with Kazu and Kenta. Kari's advice helped immensely, as his Deck responded to his wishes just like his usual deck.

The next one was a 3v1 handicapped match, no DP difference. Takato still won. He grinned like a Cheshire cat. "Oh yeah. That'll definitely do it." 'I feel the heartbeat of this one... same as I did my last one.' he added as an afterthought.

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Chapter Complete!