I'll Protect You
A chance to protect what is most dear: a crucial opportunity, indeed.

Summary: When Kouji protects Takuya from a fatal blow, he begins to question whether his feelings for the boy are purely platonic.

SPOILER WARNING: this mostly takes place post Digimon Frontier.

BRIEF CHARACTER BIOGRAPHIES:

Takuya: Warrior of Flame. Alongside Kouji, the only one able to Double Spirit and Hyper Spirit Evolve. Often referred to as a brunette in this due to his hair of that colour.

Kouji: Warrior of Light. Lone wolf character, especially in the beginning of Frontier. Twin to Kouichi.

Kouichi: Warrior of Darkness. Was Cherubimon's slave for the majority of Frontier. Ultimately revealed to be Kouji's previously unknown twin.

Izumi: Warrior of Wind. Sole girl of the Legendary Warriors. Suggested crush on Takuya.

Tomoki: Warrior of Ice. Youngest of the Legendary Warriors. Refers to Takuya as his older brother, hence the use of 'onii-chan'. Purely using that suffix due to its authenticity.

Junpei: Warrior of Thunder. Has a crush on Izumi. Is the oldest of the Legendary Warriors, so often feels responsible.

Bokomon / Neemon: Two of the ultimate three Digimon companions to the Legendary Warriors. Bokomon is very intelligent, and refers to everyone with the 'han' suffix, to exemplify acquaintanceship and / or respect and / or formality. Neemon is less intelligent and is often made known for this, particularly with Bokomon's 'rubber snap' technique, and usage of the form of address, 'idiotmon'; 'bakamon' in the original.

Patamon: Was once Seraphimon, one of the Three Great Angel Digimon. Bokomon took care of him as an egg.

Warrior Ten: All of the Legendary Warriors (including the ones who were Cherubimon's slaves).

WARNING:

Rated M for precaution's sake. This chapter is more light-hearted than others.

BL. This is a male x male; please no flames if you don't like BL. If you don't like BL, then this isn't for you; simple as that. For those who do like BL: welcome!

You have been warned.

I'm excited! Let's get started! After you've read, how about a review? I love reviews, including constructive criticism (I like any review, bar flames).

Happy reading!

Disclaimer: I don't own Digimon.

Chapter I: Broken Spirit
Falling: at least, this is what it feels like – what it must feel like.

'Takuya, watch out!' Kouji screamed. Hurtling towards the Warrior of Flame was an enormous ice-boulder. This ball of ice, considering the region of the Digital World the Legendary Warriors were presently sited in – one filled with millennia-old ice – was deathly hard. Even worse about the situation was that the artillery had been sent by the Royal Knights, who Takuya was presently fighting against, though finding them difficult adversaries.

Whilst Lord Knightmon would usually be the opponent of Kouji, the boy had already been defeated, collapsing as soon as he landed harshly on the ground, having plummeted from the sky above.

The other Legendary Warriors, despondent that they couldn't do much more in the fight than watch and cheer, were taking care of Kouji to the best of their abilities.

Kouichi, having only recently realised his affiliation with Kouji, was particularly concerned. He was cheerful when his brother regained consciousness, though it was only momentarily, and solely to scream a warning at Takuya.

Heeding the warning, Takuya shot his friend a concerned glance, then dodged the ice-boulder. Unfortunately, he hadn't noticed that the weaponry was accompanied by Lord Knightmon's fist, whilst Dynasmon observed, cackling wickedly.

Takuya couldn't avoid the blow, so grimaced, clutching his abdomen – where he had been hit brusquely – and, similarly to Kouji, plummeted from the sky.

But, that wasn't the start of the day's happenings. Rather, the Legendary Warriors had been relaxing; a rare opportunity, indeed. Following frequent Royal Knight offensives, the group, the second it arose, grabbed the chance to rest and recuperate.

'Kouji, come on, we're all waiting on you,' Takuya called from where he was situated: resting on a tree. 'Besides, your brother desires to speak with you. You've only just connected; you should take advantage of your time together!'

Providentially, the Legendary Warriors had discovered an idyllic forest area – a rare area since the Royal Knights commenced their attack. The area in which the group presently resided in was directly adjacent to an icy sector of the Digital World. Why two directly contrasting areas would exist next to each other was a mystery, but, hey, the Digital World had all sorts of those.

'Fine,' Kouji grunted, meandering reluctantly from the depths of the forest. He could only marvel at his rival's extraordinary ability to sense his presence.

'Come on, then, slowpoke,' Takuya whined. With a mischievous smirk, he leapt forward, so as to meet Kouji half-way, and clutched his arm.

'H-Hey, Takuya, what do you think you're doing?' Kouji yelped.

Takuya's smirk widened. ''Think'? How about: what I am doing?'

As much as Kouji tried to deny it, he couldn't: a growing blush was marvellously prominent on his features.

'Aw, is Kou-chan blushing?' Takuya sniggered.

'Wh-What? No! Let's just get back to camp, already,' Kouji sighed, disgruntled. He affirmed mentally, that it wasn't like he had feelings for Takuya, or anything.

Finally reaching camp, Takuya vociferated, 'We're here~! Though, Kou-chan took an awfully long time to agree to join me.'

'Takuya, would you stop– Oh, hi, everyone.' Kouji halted in his scolding of Takuya, abashed – he still wasn't comfortable with Takuya's nickname for him, even if it was infrequently used – and combed the camp; namely, the sniggers he was being given from everyone, bar – aha: his hero – Kouichi. Safe to say, Kouji swiftly headed for his brother, dismissing all of the coy glances sent his way en route.

Observing Kouji walk towards his brother, Takuya pouted. 'And here I thought he would want to spend some time with me. Ah, he never changes.'

Tomoki advanced; Izumi by his side, 'Takuya onii-chan, would you like to join me and Izumi?'

'Sure, Tomoki, Izumi,' he nodded in their direction. Pausing, he pondered, 'What's Junpei doing, anyway?'

Izumi publicised, 'Oh, he's sulking; I've no idea why. Bokomon, Neemon and Patamon are with him.'

Junpei hollered, 'Hey, I heard that! And, for the record, I'm keeping an eye out for our enemies; you know, being cautious? – I'm the only one doing that! Besides– Oh, hey, what?'

'What?' Takuya asked.

'They're here, is what!' Junpei exclaimed wildly. 'Takuya, Kouji: evolve, quickly! The Royal Knights are here!'

Takuya groaned, 'And here I thought we may get some time to relax . . . In any case: Hyper Spirit Evolution! . . . Kaiser Greymon!

Kouji similarly shouted his evolution, and Takuya ordered, 'You guys: get somewhere safe! Kou-chan and I have some business to take care of.'

'Takuya, must you– Whoa!' Kouji narrowly dodged a kick from Lord Knightmon.

'You should be more attentive to the battle, little boy,' the evil Digimon jeered.

'Huh? Come on, then!' Kouji provoked.

'I shall,' Lord Knightmon avowed. 'Urgent Fear!' Calling the attack, he swiftly moved into point-blank range of Kouji, shooting shock waves at him.

The boy cried out in pain, prior to hastily recovering. He moved upward into the sky, beckoning his adversary to join him, which the Royal Knight did. 'Aero Magna Blade!' He shouted. 'Ha! Take that, Royal Knight-scum!'

'Take what now?' the evil Digimon mocked. 'Try hitting me, first.'

'Huh?' Kouji searched the area – they had moved into the ice area, by now – but found himself unable to locate the Knight.

'Try behind you!' Lord Knightmon roared. 'Spiral Masquerade!'

'A-Argh!' Kouji couldn't handle the pain of the blades he was being hit with.

Meanwhile, Takuya was having just as, if not an even harder time fighting Dynasmon.

'Heh, you think that will hurt me? You're nothing but a weakling,' Dynasmon ridiculed.

Takuya gritted his teeth. He had finally hit his enemy with his Ryūgonken, after four misses, but the Royal Knight hadn't felt a thing! Takuya grunted, 'Try this, then!' He readied his weapon into position. 'Flame Dragon Strike!'

The fire hit, but the Royal Knight just rolled his eyes. ''The pain!' – Is that what you were expecting me to say?'

Takuya offered no response, miffed that his strike had done no damage.

Dynasmon said slyly, 'If you daren't honour me with any form of retort, I'll take the initiative: 'Breath of Wyvern!'

'I shall chaperone that!' Lord Knightmon appeared from behind Takuya. 'Spiral Masquerade!'

'Takuya!' Kouji couldn't abide witnessing his friend getting mauled. 'Starlight Velocity!' Speeding through the air, he blocked the blades with his own. Dynasmon's roar missed by a hairs-width. Kouji smirked at the miss, that is, until he comprehended the true intention.

'Takuya, watch out!' Hurling the boy from the immediate vicinity, Kouji submitted to taking the blow from the avalanche of ice. Dynasmon released a consecutive ability, 'Dragon Collider!'

'Kouji!' Takuya could do nothing but watch his friend getting battered from all angles. He thought with frustration, that the hit had been meant for him. When the assault on Kouji had finished, he began falling from the sky, already unconscious, having a severe lack of energy, consequent of such brutality. Lord Knightmon sped up his fall with an austere kick to the abdomen – with Kouji's lack of armour, following his preceding move, he felt the kick that much more.

'Kouji!' Takuya cried out in fear. He narrowed his eyes at the Royal Knights. 'You'll pay for that, bastards!'

'Hoh, really?' Dynasmon taunted, his fellow offender sneering in the background.

'Damn right, you will!' Takuya snarled. 'Nine-headed Dragon Formation!' Identifying the cloud of dust that had formed from the force of the blow, he celebrated, 'Finally, a hit!' His grin remained until the cloud of dust dissipated, to reveal two very healthy-looking Royal Knights. He cursed, 'Dammit! Why are you two so difficult to hurt, let alone defeat?!'

'We need not deign you with an answer,' Lord Knightmon sneered. Petting down their worn armour, the Knight complained, 'My, my, would you look at all these scratches on my armour!'

Dynasmon laughed at the Pink Knight's misery, then proclaimed, 'Now, for Lord Lucemon: Dragon's Roar!' The roar, not only holding vast power – energy shots with attributes equal to those of the Warrior Ten, to be precise, knocked a precariously placed ice boulder on the flanking mountain into submission.

Kouji had momentarily regained consciousness, only to scream a warning at Takuya. Heeding the warning, the boy shot his friend a concerned glance, then dodged the ice-boulder. Regrettably, he hadn't noticed that the weaponry was accompanied by Lord Knightmon's fist, whilst his fellow Knight observed both that, and his own roar, cackling wickedly.

Takuya took the full force of the violent acts. Grimacing, he clutched the sore region where he had been hit brusquely, and, similarly to Kouji, plummeted from the sky.

The second before Takuya could hit the ground in a cacophonous heap, Kouji, having regained consciousness anew – he was somewhat flitting between that and oblivion – dove from Kouichi's caring arms, in Takuya's direction. To the relief of everyone, the half-conscious boy successfully caught his friend. Coddling Takuya in his arms, Kouji gently delineated his locks – this sort of care and affection was rare, coming from Kouji, Kouichi noted. Tomoki neared his figurative older brother, but was stopped short when Kouji growled, shooting the youth a glare. The same happened for anyone else who tested the waters.

Lord Knightmon finally interrupted the otherwise tranquil scene. 'Well, whilst this is a wonderful scene, I think it's best if Dynasmon and I take the Digi-Code! Oh, a little hint for you weaklings, as I'm feeling rather lovely today: when I say Digi-Code, I mean the entire area – the forest and ice sector, in actuality, are entirely connected! Best get moving whilst you can! Oh, don't be too upset – it's only natural that you lose to us Knights; I can't fathom why you'd bother challenging us again – I wouldn't, if I were you. Bye, now!'

The group hurriedly collected themselves, coercing Kouji into joining their venture, the injured and barely conscious boy somehow carrying Takuya, and hurried onto a thankfully placed Trailmon. 'All aboard,' the train Digimon invited. 'Quickly! This area won't last much longer!'

The Legendary Warriors couldn't particularly enjoy the brief respite they were given – they were far too sorrowful at the loss of yet another area of the Digital World. 'Why? Why can't we beat them?' Izumi queried hopelessly. Nobody answered – they couldn't.

For the course of the journey, Kouji remained awake, seemingly for the sole purpose of caring for Takuya; never permitting the boy to leave his hold.

Following the devastating failure of a defence against the Royal Knights, the Legendary Warriors swore to not allow the menacing pair to gain another area. It was easier said than done, though.

The next day, Kouji was training; considering his lack of training partner, the task wasn't easy. He had endeavoured persuading Takuya to train with him, but the boy had refused; courtesy of the chagrin he was currently encompassed by.

Kouji had stressed with vexation, 'Takuya, how can we beat the Royal Knights if you refuse to train with me? We're nowhere near their level of power, as of now. You're the only one who can equal me in power!'

Takuya riposted solemnly, 'If I fight, you'll get hurt . . . Therefore, I don't wish to fight.'

Kouji could not comprehend Takuya's reasoning, but there was nothing he could think of to coax Takuya into evolving – he could be severely stubborn when he wanted to be.

The training session was fated to be disrupted.

'Oh? Do we only get one defender as our opponent, for today's battle?' Dynasmon probed.

Kouji replied shortly, 'So what if it's just me? I can beat you!'

The Knight laughed, 'If you say so. I doubt Lord Knightmon will even need to contribute – I can take you on by myself!'

Meanwhile, the rest of the good-doers were making an effort to cajole Takuya into defending the area alongside Kouji. They weren't having much luck, unfortunately, as he was adamant in his belief: that he would be nothing but a burden to Kouji.

'I can finish this in one strike!' Dynasmon boasted. 'Dragon Collider!' The phantom dragons steadily approached.

Lord Knightmon escorted, 'Urgent Fear!' Same with the dragons, the shock waves descended upon Kouji hazardously.

Kouji made a final bid, 'Takuya, please! I really need your help! I swear: your helping me won't hurt me – I just . . . had to protect you– It was my own fault that I got hurt! It wasn't your fault! Seriously!' He could only pray that his words hit home.

Until then, he was fully aware that he would have to fight as well as he could – with or without his fellow Hyper Spirit Warrior's assistance. Kouji used a desperate move – desperate, as whilst powerful, it was sacrificial. 'Machine-Gun Destroy!' All of his various rockets and guns fired, as well as beams from his chest, forgoing his armour detaching itself. Deplorably, his arms botched; only demolishing a third of the phantom dragons, and none of the impending shock waves.

Takuya understood that there was no way that Kouji would survive the blow, so resolved to support. He struggled to evolve, 'Come on, evolve, already! Why won't you evolve . . . Dammit!'

Lord Knightmon took the chance to belittle, not even bothering to watch Kouji's extermination. 'Oh, what a shame. The pathetic child can't evolve and fight.'

Takuya muttered with dread, 'Why? . . . I can fight, can't I?' With a start, he recalled Kouji's maltreatment. 'Kouji!'

He was answered with a cry of pain and a figure plunging from the sky.

'That was almost too easy,' said Lord Knightmon. 'Run along, now. This area's Digi-Code is Lord Lucemon's.'

From the shell-shocked state they were in, the group gathered themselves, and hauled the unconscious Kouji and ashamed Takuya onto the Trailmon, who didn't even spare them a glance; regretful as it was, of the pitiful display that was the annihilation of the defenders of justice.

Several days later, and the group was stumped. They'd had to bear witness to the Royal Knights swiping the Digi-Code from various regions, with no ability to defend – Kouji was still out-for-the-count and Takuya finding evolving into Kaiser Greymon difficult, and, as to the rest, well, they didn't have the Spirits to fight – not on equal terms, at least.

The Warriors and Digimon were sick of losing, and severely worried about Kouji, who had yet to wake up. Izumi figured, that the last attack on the Warrior must have been lethal. She and the others could only pray he woke up soon. Takuya felt especially guilty; he considered Kouji's downfall to be his fault.

En route, when trekking through the Forest Terminal, the Burgermon Village was spotted, so entered. The Burgermon were joyous to see their saviours once more, so threw a honourary celebration.

Izumi, Tomoki and Junpei mingled; Bokomon, Neemon and Kouichi watched over Patamon, and Takuya stayed by Kouji's side, much like how the now unconscious boy had recently done for him.

The night passed, and soon the Sun arose for the morning. The humans, bar the Double-Spirit holders, awakened with the arrival of the morn. Not having knowledge of the location of the other two, they searched – Tomoki, Junpei and Kouichi in the central plaza, and Izumi in the infirmary.

And that was how she discovered Takuya – lying slumped over the bed which held Kouji. The boy appeared to be in a restless sleep, and Izumi couldn't stand to see him in such an agitated state, so shook him by the shoulders in an endeavour to wake him.

That, she did; unfortunately, his instantaneous action wasn't so pretty.

He grasped her wrist – a strong enough hold to form a light bruise – and forced her away from Kouji's body; this was accompanied with a wild cry of, 'Get away from Kouji, you brute! You'll just hurt him again – I won't allow that!'

Izumi gasped, 'Takuya, it's me: Izumi!'

The commotion drew the attention of the other Spirit holders, who rushed to the infirmary to investigate, and intervene if need be.

Junpei decreed, 'Takuya, release Izumi-chan this instant!' Tomoki and Kouichi gaped in horror at Takuya's actions.

Takuya's eyes flitted between the trio wildly. That was when Kouichi had a spark of inspiration. He approached Takuya, seeking to appease him. The rest were wary – they were unsure of Kouichi's choice in movement, given Takuya's current state.

Providentially, the Warrior of Darkness' bid was successful. The shadow of fear that had consumed Takuya's usually friendly and inviting orbs was gone, replaced with a hint of adoration. 'Kouji, you're okay! . . . Wait, you're not Kouji?'

Kouichi was quick with his riposting, 'No, I'm not. I'm Kouichi. Kouji is lying right by you,' he gestured to the motionless boy. He then asserted, 'Now, tell me this: why did you attack Izumi?'

Takuya glanced at Izumi, then unsurely moved his gaze down her arm until it settled on his hand, gripping her wrist tightly. He then exchanged eye contact with her. Her oculi weren't resentful, but they were seeking explanation. With a barely audible apology, Takuya released Izumi from her constraint, and proceeded to do as she requested silently.

'I'm sorry, everyone. I . . . I was having a nightmare – one, involving the Royal Knights . . . I
. . . They were hurting Kouji – I couldn't tolerate that . . . I'm sorry.'

Izumi's smile was warm and comforting. 'Takuya, it's fine.' She hushed Junpei, sensing his protest. 'Nothing is your fault – it's those blasted Royal Knights – them and their ironic title
. . . You were concerned for Kouji; that's understandable – we all are. There's nothing to worry about, though – not here, at least. The Burgermon have a surprisingly exceptional medical service. They'll ensure Kouji recovers.' She ordered, 'Now, come out of this room, and relax for just a moment! God knows we all need it!'

Takuya followed – albeit reluctantly – Izumi, Tomoki and Junpei out of the room leaving Kouichi to watch over his twin.

The day passed slowly for the Warriors. Without the adrenaline that came with fighting the Royal Knights; the lack of blood pumping, they were somewhat sluggish with their movements – that's how they felt, at least. In the evening, a festival was held – another to celebrate the heroes' return to the village. Izumi and Junpei danced, much to the latter's delight, and Tomoki, with a Burgermon. Takuya stood by the side, alone, observing the events with a wan smile. Izumi noticed this, and much to Junpei's chagrin, departed from the older boy's hold – a hold excused by the dancing – and headed for Takuya.

Subsequent to an inaudible conversation between the two, Takuya left, and Izumi re-joined Junpei, her visage glum. 'Takuya has to go back to Kouji . . . I was worried enough about Kouji, but now I'm even more worried: Takuya's really not coping well,' she murmured, melting into the warm embrace that Junpei offered. Junpei resolved to assist with the situation – he couldn't handle any of the team being anything less than happy, especially Izumi. He examined the area. He pondered, with relief, that at least Tomoki was having a good time; dancing with the Burgermon. The young boy couldn't be happier, in fact – well, that's what the questionable – in its authenticity – smile on his face suggested.

Regarding Takuya, the Holder of the Spirits of Flame ambled to the infirmary – he was barely staying awake at this stage.

Arriving at the infirmary, he paused for a moment, grasping onto the decorative pole, outside, and heaved for breath. He considered that the extreme unease in his heart must be affecting his metabolism.

Gathering what he could of his strength, Takuya entered the infirmary room. Inside, he perceived Kouichi's motionless form – it seemed he had fallen asleep whilst watching over Kouji. Takuya suddenly realised, with a panic, that he couldn't identify the injured boy. His discernible scuffling woke the Warrior of Darkness and the dark-haired boy wearily beckoned the brunette over, then pointed at Kouji, adjacent to him.

Spotting his friend, Takuya exhaled, relieved. Only then did he notice Kouichi's red-rimmed eyes. It was now that the Warrior of Flame recognised, with a start, that everyone was hit hard by Kouji's state – not solely him.

He walked towards Kouichi cautiously. When he was close, the other boy smiled tiredly. Silent communication ensued. The resolution was that Takuya would watch over Kouji for the night and Kouichi would rest.

Once his other company had left, Takuya sighed. As much he abhorred admitting this, he sought to be alone with Kouji – he felt far too guilty to not be the one to stay by the boy's side.

Takuya remained silent, consumed by feelings of culpability. Around an hour passed; Izumi joined Takuya, and enquired if they should take on shifts to watch over Kouji. Takuya stubbornly refused. Submitting to his demands, Izumi left dejectedly; she couldn't bear to see Takuya destroy himself, nor could she endure being further subject to his penetrating aura of melancholy.

Succeeding Izumi's departure, Takuya gazed at Kouji forlornly. He muttered with regret, 'K-Kou-cha– K-Kouji, what can I do? . . . I hate my presence being lugubrious; unbearable, and more than anything . . . K-Kouji, I–' Takuya's voice broke. He sniffled, pent-up tears finally dripping. 'I–I'm sorry, Kouji. It's my fault you're like this . . . You probably don't want anything to do with me anymore . . . I–I have to leave . . . I don't want to leave you, but I can't stay with you . . . Not like this.'

Retreating from the infirmary, Takuya spotted Bokomon, so hobbled towards him. A brief conversation resulted in Bokomon temporarily taking on role of Kouji's guardian.

With that sorted, Takuya meandered in the direction of his friends; he could ascertain their voices and the general direction they were in. When he neared them, he halted. He was unsure whether his company would be appreciated or scorned. Unluckily, during his progress, he wasn't quiet, having ruffled about in the surrounding foliage. Not a great sneak attack, if it came to that.

Tomoki couldn't take it any longer. He guffawed, 'Takuya onii-chan, come on out.' His laughter blew into unrestrained bursts when he discerned Takuya's appearance. The others, also noticing, acted similarly.

Takuya steadily grew peeved, until he could control himself no longer. He exploded, 'Is my appearance really that hilarious?!'

Izumi apologised, 'I'm – We're sorry, Takuya. We all just needed some stress relief, I suppose, and this was perfect – Uh, I mean–'

Junpei took over, 'What Izumi-chan meant to say was: well, take a look at your new style. Here–' He sent Izumi a deliberate wink.

Izumi sheepishly trundled over to Takuya and held up a convenient hand-held mirror. The Warrior of Flame absorbed what he saw: his hair was entirely scuffled to the side – it was a major case of bed hair – even if that wasn't where he'd been – there was soil scattered across his features, and there were even a few twigs sticking out of his hair, quite like accessories! He presumed that his scuffling in the foliage had been cause of this new appearance.

Even Takuya couldn't contain himself – he commenced chuckling. The group was silent, and Takuya caught onto this; his chuckling died down. He took time to stare down each individual in the group; in his bid, he only received shocked expressions, though, they morphed into beams. Takuya began to enquire what the reaction was for, but was cut off by Izumi. 'We're just so relieved to see you happy again. You haven't been yourself these past days, you see?'

Takuya formed a small smile of his own. 'I see.'

A peaceful quiet encompassed the group. With a start, Junpei realised, 'Wait . . . If you're here, then who in the heck is watching over Kouji? Izumi inhaled sharply and Tomoki winced.

Takuya took a few moments to take in their responses, before choking out amusedly, 'You should see the look on your faces!'

Junpei jumped straight to outcry, 'Takuya, hey, we have every right to be annoy–!'

Takuya cut him off, 'Do you seriously believe I'd leave Kouji on his own?' He proceeded to explain further, 'I encountered Bokomon and asked him to be a temporary guardian – until I return, of course, which shall be very shortly.'

As if on cue, Bokomon came running up. Junpei greeted, 'Hey, we were just talking about– Wait, what's wrong?'

Bokomon screamed with a panic-stricken face, 'It's Kouji-han! He woke up!'

Junpei sought clarification, 'But, that's good news, surely?'

Bokomon said with a fury, 'You didn't let me finish, Junpei-han! . . . Kouji-han woke up, but left immediately – I couldn't stop him!'

Neemon spoke up, 'If Kouji's gone, then why is he over there?' He pointed randomly.

Bokomon shrieked, 'Idiotmon! Rubber Snap!' As result of the attack, Neemon rubbed his waist sorely. 'Ouchi! Meanie, Bokomon.'

Having entirely disregarded the silly scene, Junpei's mouth fell open. 'Oh.'

'Yeah: oh.'

Izumi tilted her head. 'Who was– That sounded like . . . Kouji? Kouji, what are you doing there?!'

Tomoki reiterated, 'Kouji?'

Kouji wheezed from where he was resting against a tree, 'What a lovely welcome. Particularly from Takuya over here.'

Takuya, hearing his name, perked up some. He instantly deflated, however, mumbling his concerns over Kouji.

At that moment, Kouji stumbled . . . Right onto Takuya. 'It's me, idiot . . .'

Takuya took a minute to process. 'K-Kouji? . . . Kouji!'

'Took you long enough . . . Anyway, I need to speak to you. Privately,' he stressed the order.

'You're in no condition to–'

'Now.'

Takuya lifted his head warily. 'L-Looks like Kouji wants to speak to me privately . . .'

Izumi, guessing what his intention could be, granted one of her usual warm smiles. 'Okay, well, make sure to come back soon, understand?' She directed her gaze at Kouji, 'Don't be too harsh, Kouji.'

'T-Tch, I know what I'm doing,' Kouji stammered. He turned his attention to Takuya, 'Hurry, Takuya . . . I want to sleep.' The last portion of Kouji's utterance was barely audible – presumably intended only for Takuya – and the boy, concerned, followed a barely conscious Warrior of Light into the depths of the forest.

Trekking through the trees, silence overcame the two – not a companionable silence, either – no, it was unbearable. Takuya couldn't take it any longer, 'Kouji–'

'Quiet, you fool.' Kouji held up a hand in front of Takuya to stop him. Sensing Takuya's indignant reply, Kouji elucidated, 'I heard something suspicious . . . I don't want you to get hurt.'

'K-Kouji . . .' Takuya was in awe of his friend. He shook himself out of his admiration, 'No, Kouji, you can't do that!'

Kouji sent him a half-lidded scrutiny, 'Why ever not?'

'B-Because . . . Look, I don't want you to get hurt protecting me again, alright?!'

Kouji regarded Takuya's complexion solemnly, then released a short laugh which rapidly developed into a full-blown one.

'. . . I-I couldn't handle seeing you hurt agai– Hey, Kouji! Why are you laughing?! It's not funny!' Takuya was furious.

Kouji chuckled, 'Sorry, it's just: you were so serious! I can take care of myself, you know? I'm not dependent.'

Takuya's rage-filled voice turned bitterly mocking, 'Yeah, I can see that. That must be why you got hurt . . . Because you can protect yourself, huh?' Takuya choked, '. . . And I'm too weak– too useless to do anything about it.'

'T-Takuya, I–' Kouji was stunned. He hadn't predicted this sort of reaction from the boy, and was now struggling with what to say to alleviate it.

'N-No, save it, Kouji. I– Oh, dammit!'

'Takuya . . .' The Holder of the Spirits of Light couldn't comprehend how to cheer his companion up, who was currently a mass of crying directly in front of him.

'K-Kouji, I just wanted to– K-Kou–'

Kouji took the initiative to intervene. Embracing the boy tightly, Kouji murmured, 'Takuya, I'm sorry . . . I was wrong.' Kouji stroked Takuya's brown locks. 'Here, cheer up . . . You can have a lollipop, if you do.'

Takuya broke off from the hug and scowled at Kouji. 'Just how old do you think I am?'

'Well . . .'

'Don't you dare finish.' Takuya gritted his teeth.

'Heh, well, are you going to stop blaming yourself, then?'

'. . . Only if you stop mocking me.'

'It's a deal. Oh, and I've been meaning to ask: what happened to calling me 'Kou-chan?''

'K-Kouji, now is not the time! Seriously, why would you–'

The duo made their way back to camp. Perceiving their presence, Junpei moaned, 'Could you have taken any longer? We're bored – provide us with some entertainment!'

Kouji shot the older boy a glare and Izumi slapped him on the arm, scolding him.

'Hey, I was only kidding,' Junpei insisted.

Izumi cut in, 'How did it go? Is everything sorted?'

Takuya vociferated, 'Yeah, Kou-cha–'

'-Takuya, don't call me that . . . In front of others,' Kouji ended quietly.

Takuya grinned widely, gripping Kouji tightly, 'Okay, okay.'

As per usual, the relaxing scene was fated disruption. 'Well, well, what do we have here? The pathetic duo is back again?' Lord Knightmon applauded.

Izumi swivelled harshly, growling, 'Can't you bastards leave us alone for one second?!'

Tomoki whistled, 'Never thought I'd hear Izumi say something like that.'

Beside him, Junpei lamented, 'My precious Izumi-chan has been tainted . . .'

Izumi just about turned on them; Kouji got there first. 'Guys, come on. Be serious.' He directed the next part at Takuya, 'Takuya, are you ready to defend this area?'

'I thought you'd never ask, Kou-chan,' Takuya replied sweetly.

In unison, they exclaimed, 'Hyper Spirit Evolution!' And the battle began.