Chapter 3: Secrets and Training
"That's the culture of France," Takato finished as he and Juri sat down.
Everyone in the Socials class clapped and cheered. Juri was popular, that's why, she was sweet and nice and kind…
Rika yawned, sighing, her teacher had chosen everyone to present randomly and she and Ryo were going last. Ryo was immediately happy about that, but Rika thought differently.
"Next, Kazu and Kenta," the teacher announced.
"Kazu's not finished," Kenta whined, "But I did my part."
"Kenta!" Kazu snapped.
"The idea of the project was to work independently as well as cooperatively with your partner," the teacher said, "Next."
Rika stifled another yawn, boy was she so bored. Ryo was restless and nervous beside her.
"Would you settle down?" Rika hissed, slapping Ryo lightly.
"Ow, I'm so nervous, it's been a while since I gave a speech," Ryo muttered.
"Chill out," Rika snapped as the next two presenters came up.
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"That was a good presentation," Juri said to Rika at lunch.
"Thanks, I am the one who made it," Rika said, grinning at Ryo slyly.
Ryo winked in return, his blue eyes sparkling, he was a lot comfortable now that the presentation was over.
Takato and Kazu just came in and sat down across from Rika.
"Hey Ryo," Kazu said, ignoring Rika, "Aren't you glad that the project's done so you won't have to work with Rika anymore?"
"It's wasn't that bad," Ryo said, concentrating on his notes. Rika caught a glimmer of anger in his eyes and closed her mouth.
"Hey Ryo," Kenta said, "Remember how you told me and Kazu that Takato called for us. Well, he said that he never did."
"Yeah," Takato said, "I never called you Ryo. Henry, Juri and I were playing Monopoly."
"It was sort of strange," Henry said thoughtfully, "It might have been a prank."
"It wasn't us," Takato snorted, "I was winning and then Kazu showed up."
"Hey chumley," Kazu chimed in, "It wasn't me or Kenta, we were perfectly happy, we were going to show Ryo our combos."
"It wasn't me," Ryo stammered, "I was…uh…um…ecstatic to see what…uh…Kazu and Kenta came up with." Rika stifled a giggle, both she and Ryo were immensely glad to get rid of the two other guys.
"That's leaves you," Kenta said nervously to Rika, he looked as if he would take back his words if he could at Rika's glare.
"Yeah, Rika," Kazu said, "Was it you?"
"What!" Rika shouted, "It wasn't me. Why would I do that?"
"Well, I can't say you've been normal since you came back," Henry said, "You're a little fidgety, and jumpy, and nervous."
Rika stared at Henry in astonishment, "You're accusing me?"
"No…well…you've been away a lot. If I haven't known better, I would've said that you were ignoring me on purpose," Henry said in an equally hurt voice.
"Oh, it's nothing," Rika said, "I couldn't have known that Kazu and Kenta were at his house, I'd have to be there, and that'd be the absolutely last place where I'd want to be."
Everyone shrugged and let it pass. Kazu blabbed on endlessly while Takato and Juri chatted, Rika and Ryo both sighed and let the day pass on.
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"I can teach you any night," Ryo said.
Rika and Ryo were at the park and trying to set up a good time so Rika could get some assistance with her longbow.
"Yeah, well unfortunately I'm not as free as you are," Rika said dryly, sitting on the swing sullenly.
"Well, any night," Ryo persisted, "Your choice."
Rika thought about it, "Well, not tonight, Mom and Grandma are both home. Tomorrow night is booked, we have a meeting. The day after, Grandma will never let me out without asking. Hey, how about Friday night? My mom's boyfriend is coming over for, ugh, dinner. Mom will be so wrapped up that she won't notice me and Grandma's always busy when we have a guest. I can take a slip, okay?"
"Sure," Ryo said, "Sounds great to me."
"You know, this is really driving me crazy." Rika said, standing up.
"Me too," Ryo agreed, smiling at her, "But that's just life now."
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"Rika dear," Ms.Nonaka gushed, "Come meet my boyfriend."
Rika groaned and quickly hopped inside her room, slamming the door angrily. *Who does Mom think she is? She's not supposed to have a boyfriend, how old does she think she is? All her boyfriends are bigger losers than Kazu is.*
"Rika!" Ms.Nonaka's sweet voice rang up.
Rika heard a silence and some giggles and laughter, "Great now she's practicing mouth-to-mouth with him." Rika peeked out and indeed, they were kissing. Rika studied her mom's new boyfriend and made a face, it was the same guy that tried to take photos of her in that disgusting dress. Then Ryo came along, busted the electricity, and rescued her.
"Rika, don't you think you should say hello?" Renamon asked.
"Why bother?" Rika asked, sneering, "They're sooo wrapped up in each other. Anyways, tonight, after dinner I'm going to slip out to the park to meet Ryo. You want to come?"
"So you have a date too?" Renamon inquired, raising her eyebrow.
"It's not a date," Rika protested, feeling herself go red, "It's more like a..um...uh...I don't know! It's not a date."
"If you say so," Renamon replied, "What are you going to do?"
"Well Ryo's going to help me with my longbow firing," Rika said, "We are going to the Digital World soon."
"Maybe I will tag along," Renamon said, "Unless I plan on spending to night chasing Lopmon and Terriermon around."
"Sure," Rika said with a laugh, "Now I have a problem and it's Henry."
"Henry is very observing," Renamon said, "But, I must say, with the way you've been acting. I'm surprised no one else noticed."
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Rika groaned softly as she sat at the dinner table, watching her mom and her boyfriend flirt and talk. Rika poked at her dinner, she didn't have much of a appetite. After taking a few bites, Rika excused herself, rather stiffly, and fled out of the house.
"Aren't you hungry?" Renamon inquired, appearing beside Rika.
"Not really," Rika answered, "If I do get hungry, I'll just drag Ryo off to get a bite to eat."
"And what if you run into the other Tamers?" Renamon asked.
"I'll say Ryo's stalking me," Rika joked, "But let's not think about that, I'm not in the mood."
Rika and Renamon walked to the park, it was deserted and kind of dark. The two strolled into a shaded area, intent on not being seen.
"No one comes here after dark," Rika said, "I wonder how Ryo plans on teaching me."
"I'm sure he'll think of something," Renamon said dryly, a hint of amusement in her eyes, "I'm going to tour the city, I'll be back later. Have fun."
"You too," Rika said in an equally dry tone.
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After a half an hour, Ryo still hadn't showed up. Rika was getting mad and steamed. "Where the hell is that jerk? He better had not stood me up because-"
"Rika!" Ryo called, dashing towards her.
Rika stared, there was Ryo all right, cute and handsome. "Where were you?" Rika demanded angrily. She would've whacked him with her longbow, but she was afraid the wood would be fragile enough to snap.
Ryo held his hands up in a gesture of peace, he was too out of breath to speak. His hair was a mess and he looked as if he had just thrown his jacket on.
"Did you just wake up?" Rika asked, she still sounded angry, but on the other hand, Ryo looked so cute.
Ryo shook his head, "No...I...just came...out! Kazu...and Kenta...dropped by..." Ryo sank on the ground, lying on the grass, "Phew!"
"What, Kazu and Kenta?" Rika asked, sitting down beside Ryo, her anger dissolving.
"Yeah, I was coming out and then Kazu and Kenta dropped by and wanted to show me what they didn't finish on Saturday." Ryo explained, draping his arm around Rika's shoulders. "I couldn't make them leave and I couldn't tell them that I was meeting you."
"No kidding," Rika said, giving Ryo was friendly push. She smiled, "It's a good thing you didn't tell them, or I would've killed you."
Ryo grinned, his blue eyes glittering maliciously, "I was afraid you would've left."
"I was considering it," Rika teased, sighing in content as Ryo slipped his arms tightly around her waist, "I thought you stood me up."
"Not a chance," Ryo replied in a low voice, looking deep into Rika's violet eyes.
Rika sighed in pleasure .as Ryo leaned in and kissed her, forgetting all her troubles. After a while Rika pushed Ryo away, "Quit it, you're supposed to be helping me with my longbow."
"I will, I will," Ryo said, laughing, "All right. Let's get down to business."
Rika took out her longbow and quiver, "I'm not even sure how to hold this thing, I was going to hit you with this, but I decided that you might break it."
"Hey!" Ryo protested, taking the quiver and strapping it around Rika, "Wear this like this." Rika stood still as Ryo fastened the belt. "How's that?"
"Okay," Rika replied, "I just thought of something, what will I say when the others ask me where I got this?"
"We'll cross that river when we get to it," Ryo replied, grinning, "Now stop worrying. Take an arrow and put it in."
Rika slipped the arrow in and pulled it back unsteadily.
"Hey, relax," Ryo said, trying not to laugh, "Don't jerk the poor thing around."
Rika glared at Ryo, "Ryo Akiyama, you better not be laughing at me or when I learn how to shoot this thing right I'll be sure to save you an arrow."
"Sorry," Ryo said, trying to keep a straight face. He slipped one arm around her waist and steadied her arm with his other hand, "Don't move it, steady now. Okay, now focus on that tree ahead and when you let go try to aim for the centre."
Rika bit her lip nervously and released the arrow. It whizzed along and hit the tree on the side.
"That's pretty good for the first time," Ryo praised, keeping his steady hold on her wrist, "Let's try again."
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After a while………………………
"I'll run out of arrows," Rika protested, "Before I even enter the battle field."
Ryo burst into laughter, "No you won't, the Ancient Magic keeps your arrows abundant."
Rika smacked Ryo on the head, "Well, now you tell me! Thanks a whole bunch! I don't know anything about this Ancient Magic stuff, okay?"
"Okay, okay," Ryo said, grinning sheepishly and rubbing his head, "Sorry. Let's keep practicing."
"I can't see anymore," Rika complained, "We need a light or something."
Ryo flipped his backpack open, "Luckily for us I'm always prepared." He took out a lantern and lit it carefully.
"Ryo, you're so old-fashioned," Rika teased, "Who uses a lantern these days?"
"Hey, it came in handy in the Digital World, my flashlights all burned out," Ryo said, "Besides, if I put out a flashlight it can't light the whole area."
"And of course, you're always right," Rika added, smiling.
"That's right," Ryo said, grinning back, "You'd better believe it."
"Oh I don't believe you!" Rika shouted, laughing, pushing Ryo back, "You are so fake!"
"Come on, Rika," Ryo pleaded, "I have a few day to teach you before we tackle the Digital World, can't you stay still and listen?"
"What about you?" Rika demanded, "Everytime you get close to me you just have to kiss me."
"Very funny," Ryo retorted, blushing furiously, "Excuse me for ruining your concentration."
Rika made a face at Ryo and fired again, this time the arrow hit the mark without any assistance.
"Bingo!" Rika exclaimed, "How's that?"
"You're great actually," Ryo said, "I've never seen anyone learn so fast. You're as good as me with my sword."
"Oooh, did Ryo Akiyama just give someone besides himself a compliment?" Rika teased.
"Very funny," Ryo said dryly.
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Ryo helped Rika practice until it was almost eleven, Rika had improved drastically and was totally an expert.
"I'll beat," Ryo said, "I have no energy left."
Rika laughed, sitting down and ignoring the mess of arrows she made, "I don't know how to thank you Ryo, I don't think that I could've done this alone."
Ryo sat up, grinning slyly, "I can think of a way. Easy." Ryo leaned over and kissed her warmly, slipping his arms tightly around her. Rika giggled softly, melting under the passion. They were locked under the same kiss for a long time until
They both heard someone come up.
"Holy cow!" the voice exclaimed, "Rika what are you doing?"
Rika and Ryo both gasped and broke off their kiss, they jumped about a foot apart.
Rika saw Henry, his face a picture of disbelief, "Hen-Henry, I-I can explain."
Ryo sighed in relief, "Oh, it's only you."
Henry sat down, "Good, an explanation is definitely necessary."
"What you saw wasn't that important," Rika said quickly, "Ryo and I were just fooling around, well, actually we were together since we returned from England. It was just an accident, I never meant to lie and sneak behind your back, it's just that-"
Henry waved his hand in the air, interrupting her, "Not that, the arrows, what's up with all that?"
Rika and Ryo both sweatdropped, they had both thought that Henry was indicating their kissing. *It figures that Henry would notice the violence first than our kissing,* Rika thought, shaking her head.
Ryo and Rika both took turns telling their story with Henry listening.
"So you two have been meeting each other all over the place so Kazu and the other guys wouldn't find out?" Henry demanded. "I knew you were the ones who set up Takato's phone call. Why don't you just tell us?"
"Kazu will never stop making fun of me," Rika rolled her eyes, "And I'm warning you Henry Wong, you had better not tell anyone or I will kill you."
"I won't, I won't," Henry said, "But you do know that they'll find out sooner or later."
"Later is good," Rika said with Ryo's approval.
"I'm still not sure about the weapon," Henry said strainly, "I mean, it's not safe."
"It's perfectly safe," Ryo put in, "You should've seen Rika, she was amazing."
Henry didn't look too happy about that, he just crossed his arms, "You're not actually going to use that against the Darkness are you?"
"Why not?" Ryo asked, swinging his sword expertly while Henry backed away, frowning. Ryo twirled his sword around and caught it back, grinning at Rika.
"Show off," Rika smirked, feeling her heart flutter a little.
"I wasn't asking you," Henry said in an annoyed voice, "Rika, take this seriously!"
Rika sighed, "I am! But I want to keep this weapon, then I can actually help Renamon instead of cheering on her like Juri and Gogglehead."
"You could get killed," Henry protested.
"I won't," Rika said indignantly, "Who do you think I am? Juri? I've been practicing all night! Even ask Ryo, I can ace this thing!"
"I'm not going to ask Ryo," Henry shot back, "He'll probably just agree so you two can kiss later!"
Ryo blushed, "Hey!"
"Henry Wong, don't you dare say that!" Rika exclaimed.
Henry looked sulky, "This isn't safe, why won't you two listen to me for once?!"
"We always do," Ryo said, "But this is our fight too, not just our Digimon's."
"Besides," Rika added, "We'll be really careful, honest."
"It doesn't look like that I can do anything to stop you two," Henry muttered, "But keep your promises. And where did you get that weapon anyways?"
"Ryo gave it to me…for my birthday," Rika said softly, blushing a bit.
"You know, the others never knew," Henry said.
"I don't care," Rika said, "It was still the best birthday that I could ever get."
Henry gave both of them the LOOK that they both knew so well, "What are you going to tell the others?"
"Nothing!" Ryo said in an alarmed voice.
"What?!" Henry gasped, "You two are going to go around behind their backs? They'll find out about the weapons next time you use'em."
"Henry," Rika snapped, "If you have a girlfriend would you let the whole world know?"
"I don't know," Henry said bluntly, "Considering that I don't have a girlfriend. Even though, it's still not the whole world, just us Tamers."
"Yeah, considering that Kazu had the world's biggest mouth, the universe should know in about 5 seconds flat." Rika said in the utmost sarcastic voice.
"Besides," Ryo added, "We don't want this to effect anyone else, it's just between me and Rika. It's not their problem."
Henry didn't look very happy, "I guess, that's the way you want it. I won't open my mouth as along as you don't drag me into one of your plans of action. You're sure lucky Terriermon decided to stay home and rescue Lopmon in case Suzy wanted to dress them up."
"Just pretend that you didn't see anything," Rika said nervously, wondering if Henry will remember to shut up.
"Yeah right, this is just great. I caught Takato and Juri kissing, now I caught you two. Why am I always in the wrong place at the wrong time? I'll have that image stuck in my mind for at least a month," Henry slipped away, "See you later guys, it's kinda late, shouldn't you been getting home?"
Rika swore, "Oh man, I totally forgot to get home in time, what if Mom finds out I'm missing?"
Ryo put his arms around her shoulders, "Don't worry, let's hurry."
The two rushed to Rika's house and much to their relief the living room light was still on, that meant company was still there.
Ryo gently gave Rika a shove, "Go on."
Rika was staring at the shadows, "Oh no Ryo, it's their time of making out."
Ryo snatched Rika's arm and yanked her away, "Well don't watch!"
"I don't want to go in there," Rika said stubbornly, "Mom's going to squeal and giggle and it's so gross."
Ryo grinned at her, "You kissed me."
"Oh shut up!" Rika snapped, glaring at the arrogant boy beside her, "You have some nerve Ryo! It's different, they kiss for hours and hours, and they French kiss! I hate that, especially if they keep their hands going everywhere." Rika shivered.
"Well, then, come on," Ryo said.
"Where are we going?" Rika asked in disbelief.
"To my house," Ryo replied simply, "You can spend the night."
"But," Rika said hesitatedly, "What will my mom or grandma say if they found out?"
Ryo grabbed her hand, grinning wickedly, "Do you really care? Come on!" He pulled Rika away with her protesting.
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"Rika, would you please stay awake?" Takato demanded, he looked ticked.
Rika groaned, she had trouble keeping her eyes open after last night. After she and Ryo went to his house, the two had shot a few aliens on Ryo's computer, putting their bedtime to about three in the morning. *Oh man, Gogglehead sounds as boring as my Science teacher.*
Ryo caught her eye and grinned slyly. Rika made a face at him, Ryo hadn't changed a bit and in a way she was glad. He was still annoying, adventurous, and…attractive. Ryo was staring into space, he was sooo bored.
Henry was still uncomfortable with the whole secret thing, but he was still pretty cool with it.
"Hello!" Takato shouted, losing his patience and getting everyone's attention, "Would you guys listen?!"
"Takato," Juri said sweetly, "Calm down."
"We'll listening Gogglehead," Rika stifled a yawn, "Keep your goggles on, would you hurry up? This is a major bore."
Takato looked upset, "Usually both of you are so into this, why now?"
"Listen Gogglebrain," Rika snarled, giving a good impression of her old self, "If you don't want to get killed right now you had better not compare me to him!"
Kazu was shuffling his cards, "Anyone up for a battle."
"Would you guys all just listen to Takato?" Henry said in a loud voice, "This won't take very long if you guys all listen."
"Okay," Takato said importantly, "First of all, we need to go back to the Digital World-"
"I've got a comment, oh-boss-of-the-world," Rika sneered sarcastically, "When we go there, can we stay for a couple days, not just a couple of hours."
"Rika's got a point," Ryo put in, "Everytime we go, we'll only accomplish so little if we don't keep at it. The Darkness will heal its troops by the time we return, what good will that do? We'll never defeat him in two hours."
"But what will we tell our parents?" Henry asked, "Dad won't be happy."
"We can get Terriermon and Lopmon to go tell them," Suzy said happily.
"No, not a good idea," Henry shook his head.
"Tell them you're going camping on a school trip," Rika said, laughing. When she returned in the morning her mom had given her such a yell it was almost funny.
"That's not a bad idea," Juri said.
"Not a bad idea," Henry echoed, "Only my parents would never fall for it."
Ryo folded his arms behind his head, "Only I don't have to worry 'cause my parents aren't here."
"I can get away with it," Kazu said, "My parents are cruising down to Hawaii tomorrow, they say they need break. Why do they get a break, I'm the one who goes to school and does work."
"Yeah?" Rika snorted, "With a son like you anybody would need a break, I'll bet the only time you shut up is when you sleep."
"Actually," Guardramon said, "He even talks in his sleep."
"Ugh!" Rika made a face, "Just find a way, people. We're going right after school this Friday. Christmas vacation starts then, it'll be perfect. Make up some excuse! For God's sake people!"
"Wait," Ryo said, "I have something to say." Following that, Ryo told them the whole story about the Ancient Magic.
"Whoa…" Kazu breathed, "How cool is that? This is great, I need a weapon now!"
"Give me a total break!" Rika laughed cruelly, "What an idiot!"
"I have a story to tell too," Lopmon said.
"Really Lopmon?" Suzy asked, "How come you didn't tell me before? I love stories."
"When I used to work for the Soveign," Lopmon started, "He told me something about the Ancient Monsters who were loyal servants of the Darkness. Those monsters trashed everything on his command, they included Orcs, Femirs, Ghosts, and many, many more. They destroyed many worlds for the Darkness. I think that the Orcs are them. Many years ago when all the DigiDestined ruled the Kingdoms and locked the monsters away, all was peaceful. But the day of destruction came and none was the same. It's terribly sad, everything was tried to restore the Kingdoms but all failed. No one is left, no one who remembers the terrible times, only the four Soveigns. That's how I knew this story, from them. Everyone else was killed and since the reborn-by-DigiEggs is failing, no one can be reborn. Primary Village is gone and those who die don't return, that's why no one knows about the Dark times."
"Wait a minute," Rika said, "If no one knows about this history then how did you tell me Ryo?"
"What?! He told you?!!!!!!" Kazu exclaimed, "And not me?!!!?!?!!"
Rika swore, *Oh no, I forgot about not talking to Ryo…* "I…uh…" Rika stammered, "I blackmailed him into telling me."
Kazu didn't look convinced and Takato and Juri looked confused.
"Something's going on here," Takato announced.
Rika thrusted her fist in Takato's face, "Hey Gogglehead, why don't you try to find out what it is?"
Takato backed away, "Uh…that's okay…that won't be necessary…"
"Yeah, how do you know anyways?" Kenta asked Ryo.
"Cyberdramon told me," Ryo replied.
"Then maybe Cyberdramon lived through the Dark times!" Kazu said excitedly.
"No way," Ryo said, "I've never asked him who told him, but I will. I didn't think that it'd be important, I thought many people knew."
"Hey, there's one more thing," Rika said calmly, taking out her longbow, "Don't freak if you see me with this."
"What is it?!" Kenta jumped back nervously.
"You have a weapon!" Kazu yelled, "No fair!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
"Where did you get it?" Takato asked over Kazu's wailing.
"Did Ryo give it to you?" Kenta asked timidly.
"NO!" Rika snapped. *How does Kenta guess so correctly? But he's so unsure of his own answers.*
"Renamon did. Now I'm going home, so I'll see you all next week, be sure to come prepared, we'll be on the road!"
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Thanx for all your opinions on who should get weapons. Despite it all, I decided to give all the Tamers weapons so there'll be more action. I understand that most of you want Ryo and Rika to stand out, so I'll figure something special for them only. So Henry's the first one to find out, who will be next? I know the Tamers aren't dense, and that they'll figure it out soon. But some things go on behind our backs and we don't even know, beware… ^_~. Oh, please review and be sure to specify if you don't understand something.
"That's the culture of France," Takato finished as he and Juri sat down.
Everyone in the Socials class clapped and cheered. Juri was popular, that's why, she was sweet and nice and kind…
Rika yawned, sighing, her teacher had chosen everyone to present randomly and she and Ryo were going last. Ryo was immediately happy about that, but Rika thought differently.
"Next, Kazu and Kenta," the teacher announced.
"Kazu's not finished," Kenta whined, "But I did my part."
"Kenta!" Kazu snapped.
"The idea of the project was to work independently as well as cooperatively with your partner," the teacher said, "Next."
Rika stifled another yawn, boy was she so bored. Ryo was restless and nervous beside her.
"Would you settle down?" Rika hissed, slapping Ryo lightly.
"Ow, I'm so nervous, it's been a while since I gave a speech," Ryo muttered.
"Chill out," Rika snapped as the next two presenters came up.
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"That was a good presentation," Juri said to Rika at lunch.
"Thanks, I am the one who made it," Rika said, grinning at Ryo slyly.
Ryo winked in return, his blue eyes sparkling, he was a lot comfortable now that the presentation was over.
Takato and Kazu just came in and sat down across from Rika.
"Hey Ryo," Kazu said, ignoring Rika, "Aren't you glad that the project's done so you won't have to work with Rika anymore?"
"It's wasn't that bad," Ryo said, concentrating on his notes. Rika caught a glimmer of anger in his eyes and closed her mouth.
"Hey Ryo," Kenta said, "Remember how you told me and Kazu that Takato called for us. Well, he said that he never did."
"Yeah," Takato said, "I never called you Ryo. Henry, Juri and I were playing Monopoly."
"It was sort of strange," Henry said thoughtfully, "It might have been a prank."
"It wasn't us," Takato snorted, "I was winning and then Kazu showed up."
"Hey chumley," Kazu chimed in, "It wasn't me or Kenta, we were perfectly happy, we were going to show Ryo our combos."
"It wasn't me," Ryo stammered, "I was…uh…um…ecstatic to see what…uh…Kazu and Kenta came up with." Rika stifled a giggle, both she and Ryo were immensely glad to get rid of the two other guys.
"That's leaves you," Kenta said nervously to Rika, he looked as if he would take back his words if he could at Rika's glare.
"Yeah, Rika," Kazu said, "Was it you?"
"What!" Rika shouted, "It wasn't me. Why would I do that?"
"Well, I can't say you've been normal since you came back," Henry said, "You're a little fidgety, and jumpy, and nervous."
Rika stared at Henry in astonishment, "You're accusing me?"
"No…well…you've been away a lot. If I haven't known better, I would've said that you were ignoring me on purpose," Henry said in an equally hurt voice.
"Oh, it's nothing," Rika said, "I couldn't have known that Kazu and Kenta were at his house, I'd have to be there, and that'd be the absolutely last place where I'd want to be."
Everyone shrugged and let it pass. Kazu blabbed on endlessly while Takato and Juri chatted, Rika and Ryo both sighed and let the day pass on.
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"I can teach you any night," Ryo said.
Rika and Ryo were at the park and trying to set up a good time so Rika could get some assistance with her longbow.
"Yeah, well unfortunately I'm not as free as you are," Rika said dryly, sitting on the swing sullenly.
"Well, any night," Ryo persisted, "Your choice."
Rika thought about it, "Well, not tonight, Mom and Grandma are both home. Tomorrow night is booked, we have a meeting. The day after, Grandma will never let me out without asking. Hey, how about Friday night? My mom's boyfriend is coming over for, ugh, dinner. Mom will be so wrapped up that she won't notice me and Grandma's always busy when we have a guest. I can take a slip, okay?"
"Sure," Ryo said, "Sounds great to me."
"You know, this is really driving me crazy." Rika said, standing up.
"Me too," Ryo agreed, smiling at her, "But that's just life now."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
"Rika dear," Ms.Nonaka gushed, "Come meet my boyfriend."
Rika groaned and quickly hopped inside her room, slamming the door angrily. *Who does Mom think she is? She's not supposed to have a boyfriend, how old does she think she is? All her boyfriends are bigger losers than Kazu is.*
"Rika!" Ms.Nonaka's sweet voice rang up.
Rika heard a silence and some giggles and laughter, "Great now she's practicing mouth-to-mouth with him." Rika peeked out and indeed, they were kissing. Rika studied her mom's new boyfriend and made a face, it was the same guy that tried to take photos of her in that disgusting dress. Then Ryo came along, busted the electricity, and rescued her.
"Rika, don't you think you should say hello?" Renamon asked.
"Why bother?" Rika asked, sneering, "They're sooo wrapped up in each other. Anyways, tonight, after dinner I'm going to slip out to the park to meet Ryo. You want to come?"
"So you have a date too?" Renamon inquired, raising her eyebrow.
"It's not a date," Rika protested, feeling herself go red, "It's more like a..um...uh...I don't know! It's not a date."
"If you say so," Renamon replied, "What are you going to do?"
"Well Ryo's going to help me with my longbow firing," Rika said, "We are going to the Digital World soon."
"Maybe I will tag along," Renamon said, "Unless I plan on spending to night chasing Lopmon and Terriermon around."
"Sure," Rika said with a laugh, "Now I have a problem and it's Henry."
"Henry is very observing," Renamon said, "But, I must say, with the way you've been acting. I'm surprised no one else noticed."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Rika groaned softly as she sat at the dinner table, watching her mom and her boyfriend flirt and talk. Rika poked at her dinner, she didn't have much of a appetite. After taking a few bites, Rika excused herself, rather stiffly, and fled out of the house.
"Aren't you hungry?" Renamon inquired, appearing beside Rika.
"Not really," Rika answered, "If I do get hungry, I'll just drag Ryo off to get a bite to eat."
"And what if you run into the other Tamers?" Renamon asked.
"I'll say Ryo's stalking me," Rika joked, "But let's not think about that, I'm not in the mood."
Rika and Renamon walked to the park, it was deserted and kind of dark. The two strolled into a shaded area, intent on not being seen.
"No one comes here after dark," Rika said, "I wonder how Ryo plans on teaching me."
"I'm sure he'll think of something," Renamon said dryly, a hint of amusement in her eyes, "I'm going to tour the city, I'll be back later. Have fun."
"You too," Rika said in an equally dry tone.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
After a half an hour, Ryo still hadn't showed up. Rika was getting mad and steamed. "Where the hell is that jerk? He better had not stood me up because-"
"Rika!" Ryo called, dashing towards her.
Rika stared, there was Ryo all right, cute and handsome. "Where were you?" Rika demanded angrily. She would've whacked him with her longbow, but she was afraid the wood would be fragile enough to snap.
Ryo held his hands up in a gesture of peace, he was too out of breath to speak. His hair was a mess and he looked as if he had just thrown his jacket on.
"Did you just wake up?" Rika asked, she still sounded angry, but on the other hand, Ryo looked so cute.
Ryo shook his head, "No...I...just came...out! Kazu...and Kenta...dropped by..." Ryo sank on the ground, lying on the grass, "Phew!"
"What, Kazu and Kenta?" Rika asked, sitting down beside Ryo, her anger dissolving.
"Yeah, I was coming out and then Kazu and Kenta dropped by and wanted to show me what they didn't finish on Saturday." Ryo explained, draping his arm around Rika's shoulders. "I couldn't make them leave and I couldn't tell them that I was meeting you."
"No kidding," Rika said, giving Ryo was friendly push. She smiled, "It's a good thing you didn't tell them, or I would've killed you."
Ryo grinned, his blue eyes glittering maliciously, "I was afraid you would've left."
"I was considering it," Rika teased, sighing in content as Ryo slipped his arms tightly around her waist, "I thought you stood me up."
"Not a chance," Ryo replied in a low voice, looking deep into Rika's violet eyes.
Rika sighed in pleasure .as Ryo leaned in and kissed her, forgetting all her troubles. After a while Rika pushed Ryo away, "Quit it, you're supposed to be helping me with my longbow."
"I will, I will," Ryo said, laughing, "All right. Let's get down to business."
Rika took out her longbow and quiver, "I'm not even sure how to hold this thing, I was going to hit you with this, but I decided that you might break it."
"Hey!" Ryo protested, taking the quiver and strapping it around Rika, "Wear this like this." Rika stood still as Ryo fastened the belt. "How's that?"
"Okay," Rika replied, "I just thought of something, what will I say when the others ask me where I got this?"
"We'll cross that river when we get to it," Ryo replied, grinning, "Now stop worrying. Take an arrow and put it in."
Rika slipped the arrow in and pulled it back unsteadily.
"Hey, relax," Ryo said, trying not to laugh, "Don't jerk the poor thing around."
Rika glared at Ryo, "Ryo Akiyama, you better not be laughing at me or when I learn how to shoot this thing right I'll be sure to save you an arrow."
"Sorry," Ryo said, trying to keep a straight face. He slipped one arm around her waist and steadied her arm with his other hand, "Don't move it, steady now. Okay, now focus on that tree ahead and when you let go try to aim for the centre."
Rika bit her lip nervously and released the arrow. It whizzed along and hit the tree on the side.
"That's pretty good for the first time," Ryo praised, keeping his steady hold on her wrist, "Let's try again."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
After a while………………………
"I'll run out of arrows," Rika protested, "Before I even enter the battle field."
Ryo burst into laughter, "No you won't, the Ancient Magic keeps your arrows abundant."
Rika smacked Ryo on the head, "Well, now you tell me! Thanks a whole bunch! I don't know anything about this Ancient Magic stuff, okay?"
"Okay, okay," Ryo said, grinning sheepishly and rubbing his head, "Sorry. Let's keep practicing."
"I can't see anymore," Rika complained, "We need a light or something."
Ryo flipped his backpack open, "Luckily for us I'm always prepared." He took out a lantern and lit it carefully.
"Ryo, you're so old-fashioned," Rika teased, "Who uses a lantern these days?"
"Hey, it came in handy in the Digital World, my flashlights all burned out," Ryo said, "Besides, if I put out a flashlight it can't light the whole area."
"And of course, you're always right," Rika added, smiling.
"That's right," Ryo said, grinning back, "You'd better believe it."
"Oh I don't believe you!" Rika shouted, laughing, pushing Ryo back, "You are so fake!"
"Come on, Rika," Ryo pleaded, "I have a few day to teach you before we tackle the Digital World, can't you stay still and listen?"
"What about you?" Rika demanded, "Everytime you get close to me you just have to kiss me."
"Very funny," Ryo retorted, blushing furiously, "Excuse me for ruining your concentration."
Rika made a face at Ryo and fired again, this time the arrow hit the mark without any assistance.
"Bingo!" Rika exclaimed, "How's that?"
"You're great actually," Ryo said, "I've never seen anyone learn so fast. You're as good as me with my sword."
"Oooh, did Ryo Akiyama just give someone besides himself a compliment?" Rika teased.
"Very funny," Ryo said dryly.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Ryo helped Rika practice until it was almost eleven, Rika had improved drastically and was totally an expert.
"I'll beat," Ryo said, "I have no energy left."
Rika laughed, sitting down and ignoring the mess of arrows she made, "I don't know how to thank you Ryo, I don't think that I could've done this alone."
Ryo sat up, grinning slyly, "I can think of a way. Easy." Ryo leaned over and kissed her warmly, slipping his arms tightly around her. Rika giggled softly, melting under the passion. They were locked under the same kiss for a long time until
They both heard someone come up.
"Holy cow!" the voice exclaimed, "Rika what are you doing?"
Rika and Ryo both gasped and broke off their kiss, they jumped about a foot apart.
Rika saw Henry, his face a picture of disbelief, "Hen-Henry, I-I can explain."
Ryo sighed in relief, "Oh, it's only you."
Henry sat down, "Good, an explanation is definitely necessary."
"What you saw wasn't that important," Rika said quickly, "Ryo and I were just fooling around, well, actually we were together since we returned from England. It was just an accident, I never meant to lie and sneak behind your back, it's just that-"
Henry waved his hand in the air, interrupting her, "Not that, the arrows, what's up with all that?"
Rika and Ryo both sweatdropped, they had both thought that Henry was indicating their kissing. *It figures that Henry would notice the violence first than our kissing,* Rika thought, shaking her head.
Ryo and Rika both took turns telling their story with Henry listening.
"So you two have been meeting each other all over the place so Kazu and the other guys wouldn't find out?" Henry demanded. "I knew you were the ones who set up Takato's phone call. Why don't you just tell us?"
"Kazu will never stop making fun of me," Rika rolled her eyes, "And I'm warning you Henry Wong, you had better not tell anyone or I will kill you."
"I won't, I won't," Henry said, "But you do know that they'll find out sooner or later."
"Later is good," Rika said with Ryo's approval.
"I'm still not sure about the weapon," Henry said strainly, "I mean, it's not safe."
"It's perfectly safe," Ryo put in, "You should've seen Rika, she was amazing."
Henry didn't look too happy about that, he just crossed his arms, "You're not actually going to use that against the Darkness are you?"
"Why not?" Ryo asked, swinging his sword expertly while Henry backed away, frowning. Ryo twirled his sword around and caught it back, grinning at Rika.
"Show off," Rika smirked, feeling her heart flutter a little.
"I wasn't asking you," Henry said in an annoyed voice, "Rika, take this seriously!"
Rika sighed, "I am! But I want to keep this weapon, then I can actually help Renamon instead of cheering on her like Juri and Gogglehead."
"You could get killed," Henry protested.
"I won't," Rika said indignantly, "Who do you think I am? Juri? I've been practicing all night! Even ask Ryo, I can ace this thing!"
"I'm not going to ask Ryo," Henry shot back, "He'll probably just agree so you two can kiss later!"
Ryo blushed, "Hey!"
"Henry Wong, don't you dare say that!" Rika exclaimed.
Henry looked sulky, "This isn't safe, why won't you two listen to me for once?!"
"We always do," Ryo said, "But this is our fight too, not just our Digimon's."
"Besides," Rika added, "We'll be really careful, honest."
"It doesn't look like that I can do anything to stop you two," Henry muttered, "But keep your promises. And where did you get that weapon anyways?"
"Ryo gave it to me…for my birthday," Rika said softly, blushing a bit.
"You know, the others never knew," Henry said.
"I don't care," Rika said, "It was still the best birthday that I could ever get."
Henry gave both of them the LOOK that they both knew so well, "What are you going to tell the others?"
"Nothing!" Ryo said in an alarmed voice.
"What?!" Henry gasped, "You two are going to go around behind their backs? They'll find out about the weapons next time you use'em."
"Henry," Rika snapped, "If you have a girlfriend would you let the whole world know?"
"I don't know," Henry said bluntly, "Considering that I don't have a girlfriend. Even though, it's still not the whole world, just us Tamers."
"Yeah, considering that Kazu had the world's biggest mouth, the universe should know in about 5 seconds flat." Rika said in the utmost sarcastic voice.
"Besides," Ryo added, "We don't want this to effect anyone else, it's just between me and Rika. It's not their problem."
Henry didn't look very happy, "I guess, that's the way you want it. I won't open my mouth as along as you don't drag me into one of your plans of action. You're sure lucky Terriermon decided to stay home and rescue Lopmon in case Suzy wanted to dress them up."
"Just pretend that you didn't see anything," Rika said nervously, wondering if Henry will remember to shut up.
"Yeah right, this is just great. I caught Takato and Juri kissing, now I caught you two. Why am I always in the wrong place at the wrong time? I'll have that image stuck in my mind for at least a month," Henry slipped away, "See you later guys, it's kinda late, shouldn't you been getting home?"
Rika swore, "Oh man, I totally forgot to get home in time, what if Mom finds out I'm missing?"
Ryo put his arms around her shoulders, "Don't worry, let's hurry."
The two rushed to Rika's house and much to their relief the living room light was still on, that meant company was still there.
Ryo gently gave Rika a shove, "Go on."
Rika was staring at the shadows, "Oh no Ryo, it's their time of making out."
Ryo snatched Rika's arm and yanked her away, "Well don't watch!"
"I don't want to go in there," Rika said stubbornly, "Mom's going to squeal and giggle and it's so gross."
Ryo grinned at her, "You kissed me."
"Oh shut up!" Rika snapped, glaring at the arrogant boy beside her, "You have some nerve Ryo! It's different, they kiss for hours and hours, and they French kiss! I hate that, especially if they keep their hands going everywhere." Rika shivered.
"Well, then, come on," Ryo said.
"Where are we going?" Rika asked in disbelief.
"To my house," Ryo replied simply, "You can spend the night."
"But," Rika said hesitatedly, "What will my mom or grandma say if they found out?"
Ryo grabbed her hand, grinning wickedly, "Do you really care? Come on!" He pulled Rika away with her protesting.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
"Rika, would you please stay awake?" Takato demanded, he looked ticked.
Rika groaned, she had trouble keeping her eyes open after last night. After she and Ryo went to his house, the two had shot a few aliens on Ryo's computer, putting their bedtime to about three in the morning. *Oh man, Gogglehead sounds as boring as my Science teacher.*
Ryo caught her eye and grinned slyly. Rika made a face at him, Ryo hadn't changed a bit and in a way she was glad. He was still annoying, adventurous, and…attractive. Ryo was staring into space, he was sooo bored.
Henry was still uncomfortable with the whole secret thing, but he was still pretty cool with it.
"Hello!" Takato shouted, losing his patience and getting everyone's attention, "Would you guys listen?!"
"Takato," Juri said sweetly, "Calm down."
"We'll listening Gogglehead," Rika stifled a yawn, "Keep your goggles on, would you hurry up? This is a major bore."
Takato looked upset, "Usually both of you are so into this, why now?"
"Listen Gogglebrain," Rika snarled, giving a good impression of her old self, "If you don't want to get killed right now you had better not compare me to him!"
Kazu was shuffling his cards, "Anyone up for a battle."
"Would you guys all just listen to Takato?" Henry said in a loud voice, "This won't take very long if you guys all listen."
"Okay," Takato said importantly, "First of all, we need to go back to the Digital World-"
"I've got a comment, oh-boss-of-the-world," Rika sneered sarcastically, "When we go there, can we stay for a couple days, not just a couple of hours."
"Rika's got a point," Ryo put in, "Everytime we go, we'll only accomplish so little if we don't keep at it. The Darkness will heal its troops by the time we return, what good will that do? We'll never defeat him in two hours."
"But what will we tell our parents?" Henry asked, "Dad won't be happy."
"We can get Terriermon and Lopmon to go tell them," Suzy said happily.
"No, not a good idea," Henry shook his head.
"Tell them you're going camping on a school trip," Rika said, laughing. When she returned in the morning her mom had given her such a yell it was almost funny.
"That's not a bad idea," Juri said.
"Not a bad idea," Henry echoed, "Only my parents would never fall for it."
Ryo folded his arms behind his head, "Only I don't have to worry 'cause my parents aren't here."
"I can get away with it," Kazu said, "My parents are cruising down to Hawaii tomorrow, they say they need break. Why do they get a break, I'm the one who goes to school and does work."
"Yeah?" Rika snorted, "With a son like you anybody would need a break, I'll bet the only time you shut up is when you sleep."
"Actually," Guardramon said, "He even talks in his sleep."
"Ugh!" Rika made a face, "Just find a way, people. We're going right after school this Friday. Christmas vacation starts then, it'll be perfect. Make up some excuse! For God's sake people!"
"Wait," Ryo said, "I have something to say." Following that, Ryo told them the whole story about the Ancient Magic.
"Whoa…" Kazu breathed, "How cool is that? This is great, I need a weapon now!"
"Give me a total break!" Rika laughed cruelly, "What an idiot!"
"I have a story to tell too," Lopmon said.
"Really Lopmon?" Suzy asked, "How come you didn't tell me before? I love stories."
"When I used to work for the Soveign," Lopmon started, "He told me something about the Ancient Monsters who were loyal servants of the Darkness. Those monsters trashed everything on his command, they included Orcs, Femirs, Ghosts, and many, many more. They destroyed many worlds for the Darkness. I think that the Orcs are them. Many years ago when all the DigiDestined ruled the Kingdoms and locked the monsters away, all was peaceful. But the day of destruction came and none was the same. It's terribly sad, everything was tried to restore the Kingdoms but all failed. No one is left, no one who remembers the terrible times, only the four Soveigns. That's how I knew this story, from them. Everyone else was killed and since the reborn-by-DigiEggs is failing, no one can be reborn. Primary Village is gone and those who die don't return, that's why no one knows about the Dark times."
"Wait a minute," Rika said, "If no one knows about this history then how did you tell me Ryo?"
"What?! He told you?!!!!!!" Kazu exclaimed, "And not me?!!!?!?!!"
Rika swore, *Oh no, I forgot about not talking to Ryo…* "I…uh…" Rika stammered, "I blackmailed him into telling me."
Kazu didn't look convinced and Takato and Juri looked confused.
"Something's going on here," Takato announced.
Rika thrusted her fist in Takato's face, "Hey Gogglehead, why don't you try to find out what it is?"
Takato backed away, "Uh…that's okay…that won't be necessary…"
"Yeah, how do you know anyways?" Kenta asked Ryo.
"Cyberdramon told me," Ryo replied.
"Then maybe Cyberdramon lived through the Dark times!" Kazu said excitedly.
"No way," Ryo said, "I've never asked him who told him, but I will. I didn't think that it'd be important, I thought many people knew."
"Hey, there's one more thing," Rika said calmly, taking out her longbow, "Don't freak if you see me with this."
"What is it?!" Kenta jumped back nervously.
"You have a weapon!" Kazu yelled, "No fair!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
"Where did you get it?" Takato asked over Kazu's wailing.
"Did Ryo give it to you?" Kenta asked timidly.
"NO!" Rika snapped. *How does Kenta guess so correctly? But he's so unsure of his own answers.*
"Renamon did. Now I'm going home, so I'll see you all next week, be sure to come prepared, we'll be on the road!"
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Thanx for all your opinions on who should get weapons. Despite it all, I decided to give all the Tamers weapons so there'll be more action. I understand that most of you want Ryo and Rika to stand out, so I'll figure something special for them only. So Henry's the first one to find out, who will be next? I know the Tamers aren't dense, and that they'll figure it out soon. But some things go on behind our backs and we don't even know, beware… ^_~. Oh, please review and be sure to specify if you don't understand something.