DR: Whoo-hoo! Chapter four already! It's time to ruin Takato's and Rika's friendship!
Takato: Hey! That's mean!
DR: Heh, I know! I don't own Digimon, and BlackTerriermon in a creation of Digidestined of Courage, all rights reserved. I'm using him with his permission, so there. Anything else? Hmm…oh, yeah! I don't own "Slash!" from the Digimon Tamers OST.
Terriermon: Where's my dark counterpart?
DR: Hehe, I guess he doesn't want to see what happens. So, let's go to chapter 4, where Takato goes one on one against Rika, BlackTerriermon realizes his mission, another 02 cameo, and a final surprise for all of you Rukato fans! (DC is soooo gonna kill me after this…)
"FORGET THE Y2K, THIS IS MADNESS!!!"
Chapter 4
Takato V.S. Rika: To Be A Tamer
Ruki, we have to do something!
Takato impatiently tapped the floor with his right foot, while he watched the immense screen in front of him. It displayed Renamon, who was just about to battle BlackTerriermon. If I don't do something, she's gonna kill him! He still remembered the Triad's words.
"One of our friends is on the way there. He'll give you more details about this new threat. He is a little rookie, but he might be of help. Good luck!"
It is him. It has to be him. How could he possibly help me if he gets killed!? I have to stop Rika somehow! Gosh, she can be stupid at times… However, Takato was heavily guarded. With Jeri to his left and Guilmon to his right, Takato wouldn't be able to leave unnoticed. Besides, his body still ached a lot. Come on, Gogglehead, think! Ruki, any ideas?
Don't ask me! I'm busy enough wondering where Dumb and Dumber are…
That's it! Ruki, I love you!
Stop it! You're making blush!
Ruki, you're red. Black and red, remember?
Oh, yeah, right……heh…
Takato looked at Jeri, who looked at him with a smile. "Everything's gonna be okay. Rika and Henry can handle that little Rookie, right?"
"Hmm, right." Takato replied. "Jeri, you know, I'm very worried about Kazu and Kenta. I haven't seen them in a while, you know? And I'm sure they'd like to watch this…"
Jeri's looked changed to one of concern. "Actually, I think you're right. No one's seen them in a while. I guess I'd better go look for them. Who knows what they could do in a place like this. Elecmon, let's go!"
Takato smiled as he watched his friend leave the room. He looked at Guilmon. "Guilmon, let's go."
"Huh? Where? Are we going to play, Takato?"
Takato sweatdropped. "…yes, we're going to play!"
"Yay! Let's go!"
And so, Takato and Guilmon left the building……very slowly. Monodramon watched the two abandon the room, and told his Tamer. "Ryo, Takato and Guilmon are leaving."
"……I know."
"So? Aren't we going to stop him?"
"…why? This could be very interesting." Ryo said, his eternal smirk growing even bigger.
*****Rika's Yard*****
"Diamond Storm!"
The battle had begun. BlackTerriermon easily evaded it with a back-flip. As he reached the ground again, Renamon charged with her right fist. The black Digimon, being smaller, moved aside to avoid it, and counter with an ear smash to the fox's face. Renamon retreated a few steps, her left hand covering the bruised cheek, and BlackTerriermon took the opportunity to attack with a headbutt. Renamon, fearing what those horns could do to her, moved aside. BlackTerriermon fell back to the ground, just to charge again.
"Dark Tornado!"
Renamon had to jump high in the air to avoid the black vortex, which was just what BlackTerriermon expected. Suddenly stopping his spinning, the Virus/Data used his long-range technique.
"Crimson Blast!"
However, what BlackTerriermon didn't expect was that, as soon as Renamon made contact with the house's ceiling, she disappeared in her trademark fashion.
"Hey! That's definitely not fair!" the dark Digimon complained. Rika replied with a smirk. Henry and Terriermon looked quite concerned, while Rika's grandmother cheered her granddaughter, of course. Rika gave her next instruction, as the time she slashed a card.
"Digi-Modify! Offense Plug-In C, activate! Renamon, destroy him!"
"Hey, that's not very nice of a girl to say-whoa!" BlackTerriermon could barely avoid Renamon's attack, as she reappeared right next to him. However, Renamon struck him with a roundhouse kick that lifted him to the air. But Renamon wasn't done. "Power Paw!" She struck the dark animal while in mid-air, sending him straight to the walls again! Renamon looked at his opponent, her body tired from the constant battling. Breathing heavily, she looked at her Tamer, who smiled in return. As long as Rika were happy, Renamon would keep fighting. To death, if necessary.
"Ow, ow, ow, ow…jeez, foxymon, that really hurt!" BlackTerriermon remained his cool personality in the outside, but he was feeling true pain in the inside.
I can't lose against this girl, not before I give my message to the Takato guy…jeez, I'd kill to be back on DC's bed right now…for my Tamer, I can't lose…
"I CAN'T LOSE!!!" he shouted as he began his next strike, taking Renamon by surprise. His small paws could do some good damage, as he started with them, hitting Renamon's bigger body, falling to the floor, BlackTerriermon continued with his right ear, hitting Renamon's left ankle, making her lose her balance. Renamon tried counterattacking with a low kick, but BlackTerriermon simply jumped and continued his strike in mid-air.
"Dark Tornado!"
A successive barrage of hits did enormous damage to Renamon, forcing her to retreat a few steps. BlackTerriermon was not done, though, as he used his long ears, pushing them against the ground, to gain enough momentum to deal a powerful kick, strong enough to send Renamon flying several meters away, landing on the street outside.
"Renamon, get up and fight!" Rika ordered. She wouldn't allow any mistakes. Besides, she couldn't believe such a little rookie was giving Renamon so many problems. Meanwhile, the vulpine Digimon was making a huge effort just to get up. BlackTerriermon had damaged her more than what she expected. But Rika had a card ready for her.
"Digi-Modify! Reload Plug-In Q, activate!"
Renamon instantly felt the effects of the card, recovering her energy and preparing herself to battle. But there was something she wouldn't admit: she didn't want to battle anymore. Looking at the enemy's eyes, she realized there were no dark intentions in them. Actually, he seemed very tired, too. He knew he would lose as long as Rika kept recharging Renamon. However, BlackTerriermon wouldn't go down without a fight.
"Crimson Blast!"
BlackTerriermon wasn't finished shouting the attack's name when Renamon had already jumped aside to evade it. However, neither Digimon expected Rika's mother to step below the doorframe in that precise second.
"Whoa, there's a lot of people in-ahh!!!!"
Time froze for an instant. The Crimson Blast was already on its way, while their unexpected target froze in terror. Renamon was still moving in the opposite direction, and Terriermon was too far away to do something. Rika's eyes widened in fear, as she saw BlackTerriermon's attack directed straight to her mother. Everything seemed lost, until a savior arrived.
"Talisman Spell!"
A shield surrounded the blonde woman, protecting her from the rookie's attacks. Unable to understand what had just happened, Rika and the others look at the door, at the same moment Guilmon stepped inside, sniffing the air and recognizing the environment. Takato walked right behind Guilmon, a Taomon card being held by his left hand. "I guess I made it just in time."
As the other two Nonaka women joined together to avoid further shocks, Rika growled under her breath. Takato was, once again, the day's hero. It was becoming so usual it was annoying. But if there was something he wouldn't ruin, it would be her battle against the wild Digimon.
"Stay back, Gogglehead! You had your fun today, let me handle this one!"
Takato simply shook his head, any trace of happiness leaving his expression. Rika ignored him and ordered Renamon to attack.
"Renamon, finish the job!"
Ruki…
BlackTerriermon selected as main partner.
The light emitted from one card, oh…
Tells of this story's beginning, oh…
Takato looked at BlackTerriermon, and saw true fear in his eyes. For a second, the Tamer saw beyond the small Digimon, and discovered the truth behind that look. And Takato knew he couldn't let that small Digimon die. For a moment, Takato knew that little Digimon would play an immense role in his future, as he, just like Takato himself, was not fighting for himself, but for another one. Someone was waiting for him, somewhere, and Takato would make sure BlackTerriermon would return safely to his home.
"Digi-Modify! High Speed Plug-In T, activate!"
BlackTerriermon didn't know how it happened. Actually, he didn't really care! But he didn't waste any time, and used his new powers to move away just in time, right before Renamon reduced him to data. The yellow Data Digimon stopped right where BlackTerriermon had stood a second before, shooting a confused look at Takato. Rika was simply shooting daggers at the Goggle-headed Tamer.
"Gogglehead, what's your problem!?" Henry had to back away before Rika released her anger on him. Takato looked at Rika with the same emotionless look he had kept since he arrived there. It pained him to do what he was about to do, especially since he knew exactly how Rika would react.
"Rika, I can't allow you to kill this Digimon."
BlackTerriermon sighed in relief. "At least, someone with common sense."
Terriermon chuckled. "No, it's someone with enough guts to challenge Rika."
"Terriermon!"
Rika was practically fuming. "You just want him to yourself, don't you!? The whole hero façade, just to look good in front of everyone! Is that it, Takato!?"
BlackTerriermon looked at the newcomer with bigger interest. Takato? THE Takato? And it was in that moment when he recognized the people in front of him. Takato! From that Digimon show DC likes so much! Oh my God! And that's the Digimon Queen, Rika Nonaka! And that's…that's…what was his name again?
Takato was looking at Guilmon, who seemed visibly confused. "Why don't you go play with Terriermon for a while? I have some things I must settle with Rika." The reptile Digimon happily obeyed, joining Henry and Terriermon in the "audience". Takato walked next to BlackTerriermon and looked at him with yet the same cold eyes he had kept the whole time. "We'll talk later, okay?" Takato said softly. The Virus/Data hybrid nodded.
You guys are already the heroes, alright?
Get up'n fight! Holy up your Arcs…
"Renamon! Go get him!" Rika demanded angrily.
"No!" Takato shouted, his commanding voice instantly freezing Renamon. The vulpine Digimon was in a dilemma. Her Tamer meant everything to her, as Rika was her best friend. However, she just couldn't ignore an order from the Omni-Tamer himself. Takato tried to convince Renamon not to attack.
"Renamon, if you attack BlackTerriermon, I'll be forced to do something I'll regret later."
"Shut up, Gogglehead! Renamon, attack!"
"Rika, this Digimon is here for me! He's here to talk to me, and I won't allow you to interrupt us!"
It was then when Renamon understood. BlackTerriermon wasn't just another wild one. He had been sent by her superiors, the Triad, to deliver an important message to the Omni-Tamer. Yet she was being forced to fight him… Rika, please calm down…please, stop this madness…I beg you…
But Rika wouldn't calm down. "RENAMON, ATTACK NOW!"
Takato's eyes met Renamon's, and the Data Digimon whispered a simple sentence, barely audible to Takato's ears. "I'm sorry."
Takato shook his head. He didn't really want to do it, but Rika wouldn't leave him any other choice. "No…I'M sorry." He emphasized. Takato immediately slashed a card. "Reload Plug-In Q, activate!"
Things were back to zero. Both Digimon were at full strength. It was time to prepare the challenge. "So be it, Rika. You and me, one on one, all cards allowed! Your Renamon against BlackTerriermon! Is that okay with you!?"
Realize your courage, so much that blows the gauge,
When you evolve, you're a Tamer…
*****Hypnos!*****
"I…I can't believe it…" Jeri said as she fell down to her knees. It was inadmissible that two of her best friends were about to fight each other. Kazu and Kenta, who had joined Ryo in front of the huge screen, watched the scene with obvious excitement.
"Alright! Digimon Queen V.S. Chumly, place your bets!"
"All my money on Rika!" Kenta shouted excitedly. Ryo simply shook his head. Monodramon was very curious about his Tamer's reaction.
"Ryo, what are you thinking?"
Ryo walked closer to the screen, next to Daneel, who examined the projection from his seat in front of the computers. "Takato…he seems too calm about this, too confident. This is definitely not the Takato I used to know." What happened to him in the Digital World? But I shouldn't be surprised, that place does strange things to people… Ryo thought as his head was filled with reminiscences of the past.
*****Rika's!*****
Henry was shocked. He was about to witness an incredible battle, yet there was no excitement within him. But his body was frozen, so he couldn't complain. He realized it was better to let things work by themselves. There was too much energy and anger in that place, and he didn't wan to mess with such an unstable combination. Terriermon had already chosen a side. "Go, go, Gogglehead, go!"
"Terriermon!"
Takato didn't want to admit it, but his body was shaking. If he was going to do it, he would do it as fast as possible. "BlackTerriermon, just do as I say, and we'll be just fine. Got it?"
"Got it, buddy!"
Takato slashed his first card a millisecond after Rika.
"Digi-Modify! Strength Plug-In O, activate!"
"Ruki, get ready! Digi-Modify! Sakuyamon!"
Renamon jumped high and prepared her first attack. "Diamond St-"
"Amethyst Mandala!"
Before Renamon could attack, the entire field was covered with Sakura leaves, giving the yard a pretty pink color, and making BlackTerriermon completely invisible. But Renamon could hear Rika's voice as she slashed another card.
"Renamon, burn the entire field if necessary! Zhuquiaomon!"
"Rika, are you going to ruin your own yard!? Black Wings, activate!" Takato complained as he slashed his second card.
Slash the life! Give them power…
Slash the life! For friendship…
Slash the life! You guys can become invincible partners…
Renamon couldn't react when BlackTerriermon appeared from below the mass of pink leaves, a set of dark wings now adorning his back. He swiftly slammed his body against Renamon, sending her back to the ground, where the Sakura leaves began to disappeared, as the card's effect faded away. BlackTerriermon landed without any problems, the wings disappearing as soon as he made contact with the ground.
"Renamon, get up! We have to win this!" Rika shouted; more in demand that in concern.
"You can't win, Rika." Takato concluded. "Cards only restore strength, but the damage is done. Renamon's too tired after today's battles. Don't force her to fight, she won't last much longer."
"Shut up, Gogglehead! You're underestimating us!"
No, Rika, you're underestimating me… "BlackTerriermon, stay alert!"
"Alright!" The dark Digimon agreed. It felt great to fight with a Tamer again, even if it wasn't his Tamer. And he was winning, to make things better. But Takato wasn't enjoying it at all. Watching Renamon's titanic efforts to get up was nothing but painful to him. But his moment of distraction helped Rika get the advantage.
"Digi-Modify! High Speed Plug-In H, activate!"
Damn! "BlackTerriermon!"
But it was too late. Not prepared to the sudden change of pace, neither Tamer nor Digimon expected Renamon sudden attack, which sent the dark animal Digimon up high. Renamon jumped up and spun around several times before slashing BlackTerriermon's face with her claws. Renamon's chaotic pattern told Takato she was not using any strategy anymore. She just wanted to end that battle as soon as possible. Takato slashed a new card. "Digi-Modify! Rapidmon!"
Renamon was suddenly slashing the air, as BlackTerriermon had used his recently acquired speed to warp away. He immediately prepared a new attack.
"Golden Triangle!"
However, the golden beam was much slower than Renamon, who simply dashed out of the way, and got right behind BlackTerriermon.
"Power Paw!" And not even Rapidmon's speed helped BlackTerriermon that time, as he ended up crashing against a nearby wall, for like the third time that afternoon. Takato remained silent, analyzing the situation. Renamon breathed heavily from exhaustion, and Takato knew Rika wouldn't admit that.
"Rika, we have to stop this! You're killing Renamon!"
"Chickening out, Goggles?"
"Dammit, Rika!" Takato was abandoning his lack of emotion, to be replaced with a powerful anger. Rika, why are you doing this!?
Rika answered Takato's question without being asked. "I am the strongest Tamer, Gogglehead, and I won't stop until you admit your defeat!"
Takato lowered his head in disbelief. He was…disappointed. The battle reached a hiatus for a minute, while Takato realized the stupidity of that situation.
"Is that it, Rika?" Takato said softly. "Is this just about a pathetic rivalry? Just to see who's better that who? Rika, I thought you were more mature…"
And that's when it happened. Humans and Digimon alike, they all felt the huge waves of darkness emanating from Takato's soul. Takato was angry, and we all know the consequences of that. Takato continued speaking, his voice getting louder with every word. He was about to unleash his fury on the person he cared the most for.
"Rika, you're immature, pathetic, AND WEAK! AND I'M JUST ABOUT TO SHOW YOU HOW WEAK YOU ARE!"
Three beeps filled the yard with noise, as the two D-Arks and the Omnivice displayed the Digital Hazard symbol in unison. Renamon was just about to enter a losing battle.
If your dream loses, oh…
It will just change into noise and be snatched away, oh…
*****Hypnos!*****
I can't believe this! Digital levels increasing! The code is corrupted! It's growing like the plague!
Daneel watched astonished how Takato's power seemed to increase as his dark, violent side took over. He was witnessing the power of the Digital Hazard. Jeri, on the other side, shivered in true fear. "I thought it was over! I thought Takato had dealt with that side of himself! I don't understand, Takato is a nice person!"
Ryo simply shook his head. "Even the nicest person has a dark side, Jeri. The problem with Takato is that his dark side is a little too stronger than the usual."
Elecmon agreed, even if Ryo's choice of words wasn't the most accurate. Jeri had told him what happened after his, well…death. Kazu and Kenta were dumbstruck, unable to comment on the scenery displayed on the screen in front of them. Yamaki seemed to be flicking his lighter at a faster pace, while Riley and Talley simply watched the display with cold faces. Silence filled the crowded room for a few seconds, until Takato interrupted them.
"BlackTerriermon, direct attack, now!"
"Digi-Modify!" Rika's voice reached the distant audience. The final round had just begun.
*****Rika's!*****
If you grasp the desire to protect, ready?
Get up'n fight! Now slide it through the slot!
BlackTerriermon charged in a straight path towards Renamon, who simply jumped aside to evade it.
"Don't let her escape!" Takato ordered, and his partner immediately obeyed. BlackTerriermon's only chance is direct combat and Takato knows that. Henry pondered. Terriermon look up to meet his Tamer's eyes. "Henry, what are you thinking?"
"I still don't know who's gonna win."
"Takato's gonna win, Henry."
"Why are you that sure about it?"
"Rika doesn't have a chance against him. He's a completely different person."
"Yeah, he's changed quite a bit since that trip to the Digi-World."
"That's not what I meant, Henry." Terriermon commented, so seriously it was almost scary.
"So, what did you mean?"
"Just look at him. In the heat of battle…he's a completely different person."
Henry looked at Takato, who was too busy giving instructions to BlackTerriermon. "That's the difference…" Henry said to no one in particular, but Terriermon heard. The small animal Digimon continued his analysis. "While Takato gives fully detailed instructions to BlackTerriermon, who follows them without any complains; Rika simply watches the battle, slashing a card every now and them, expecting Renamon to do the job. This is not an equal battle. Renamon is fighting both BlackTerriermon AND Takato and the same time, while Takato is not really worried about Rika at all. As long as he takes care of Renamon, the battle is won."
A quick analysis of Terriermon's words revealed the shocking truth to Henry. Rika doesn't have a chance…when did Takato…become so strong?
WHAM! A loud thud interrupted Henry's thoughts. BlackTerriermon had finally succeded, sending Renamon back to the ground, where the vulpine Digimon tried to get up with immense effort. Henry watched how Takato smirked. He's actually enjoying it… he thought as he looked at the Digital Hazard symbol on his green D-Power's screen. Then, he saw how Takato picked three cards from his deck. Oh my God…
"A card combo…" Terriermon finished the thought. "This battle is over."
Rika had seen Takato, too. "Renamon, keep your guard."
I don't need a Tamer to know that! Renamon thought. Takato slashed the first card. "Digi-Modify! Snimon!"
Believing in tears in the real world,
Feeling the Digital World through numbers,
You run through the two fields…
Renamon knew of that card's effects, as she had experienced them before. The night she had evolved to Kyuubimon for the first time. She watched how BlackTerriermon's ears became a pair of long, sharp blades. "Rika, slash the speed card again!"
Rika didn't waste a second, but neither did BlackTerriermon. Moving his head as if there were no tomorrow, the small Digimon slashed and stabbed, while Renamon dodged as best as he could. Rika prepared the card once again, but not before looking at Takato, who had replaced his serious look with an evil smirk.
"Digi-Modify! High-Speed Plug-In H, activate!" Both Tamers chorused at the same time. Both Digimon experienced a dramatic speed boost at the same time, so everything remained pretty much the same. Rika was falling into desperation. Takato had obviously predicted that move. Meanwhile, the Goggle-headed Tamer kept his confident smirk. I won…
"Renamon, retreat and use you Diamond Storm!" Rika ordered, trying to alter BlackTerriermon's rhythm. But Rika realized she had made a terrible mistake the moment she looked at Takato. His expression of triumph stated the obvious: Rika had fallen right into his trap.
"Takato won." Terriermon concluded. Henry silently nodded. Rika's family was extremely confused, so they simply watched. Given Renamon's excessive speed, it was easy to retreat for a second to prepare her attack. Renamon struck at the same moment Takato slashed the third and final card.
"Diamond Storm!"
"Digi-Modify!"
Slash the life! Wild instinct awakens!
Wild one! A hidden energy…
Slash the life! Take your hand and grab hold of your future…
The sharp crystals were launched at an insane speed towards BlackTerriermon, who didn't even bother to evade them, receiving the full impact of Renamon's attack. Rika silently celebrated her victory, but there was something that bothered her. Why does Gogglehead have that stupid smirk?
Just then, Takato revealed the third card to everyone. "Alias!"
"No!!!!" Rika shouted in frustration. Renamon simply looked behind her, where she met a smiling BlackTerriermon, who had already prepared his attack.
"Twin Sickles!" He said as he slashed the air twice. Renamon had no way to avoid the attack, which hit her with unbelievable force for a rookie. It was Takato's and BlackTerriermon's power combined which finally defeated her. The powerful blow sent her to the ground for the last time, as she wouldn't get up again. Rika was too shocked to move. Henry was simply impressed. And he wasn't the only one.
*****Hypnos, again*****
"That. Was. Awesome." Ryo concluded, Kazu and Kenta nodding right behind him. Jeri could understand them, as her card knowledge was enough to recognize an excellent card combo. However, she was a little more worried about what Takato's victory would imply. "Guys……"
Everyone (Hypnos crew included) looked back to see Jeri's worried expression. Fear and anguish were present as she said the words that put everyone in the room to think.
"What now?"
Slash the life! Give them power!
Card Slash! For friendship!
Slash the life! You guys can become invincible partners…
Slash the life! Wild instinct awakens!
Wild one! A hidden energy…
Slash the life! Take your hand and grab hold of your future…
****Guess where!?*****
I…won…..
BlackTerriermon couldn't believe it. He had actually won. He had defeated Rika Nonaka and her Renamon. Wait 'till DC hears about THIS!
Not hiding his happiness, he cheered all the way back to his temporary Tamer, Takato Matsuki. "That was awesome, buddy! How did you think of……buddy?"
Takato stared blankly at Renamon's unconscious body, paying special attention to the multiple wounds and bruises he had helped cause. He could tell Renamon was on the verge of deletion as she faded for instants. What…what did I do? Renamon is my friend and I did this to her……I'm……I'm a terrible person……
Then, he looked at Rika, and his worries increased exponentially. She was obviously in a shock, unable to believe what had just happened. She stared at her defeated Digimon, a mixture of worry, disappointment and disgust. Takato slowly walked next to her, hoping that Rika had learned the lesson he had wanted her to understand…that is, before he lost control of his emotions. He looked at the Omnivice. The Digital Hazard symbol was gone. He would worry about Ruki later. Rika was the priority right now.
"Rika, your bond with you're your partner can be stronger. That's why you lost. Renamon is your friend, then your battle partner. That's the right order. Never forget that."
Takato needed to make sure Rika had listened to him. Her fists were clenched in anger, and Takato feared she would break the D-Power. However, Rika's reaction sent Takato over the edge.
"Renamon……get up! This isn't over! This CAN'T be over!!!!"
Renamon didn't respond, of course. Everyone else watched how Takato lost control again. "Don't be stupid! Renamon can't fight anymore!"
But Rika wouldn't accept that, "SHUT UP, GOGGLEHEAD!"
Normally, the force of that sentence would have forced Takato to retreat, but that day Rika's anger was nothing compared to Takato's. Rika continued her rambling. "I won't allow you to insult me anymore, Gogglehead. I can't let you win. I've been a Tamer for longer, and there's no way I'm going to let a pathetic baby like you to-!!!!!!!!"
Rika never expected it. She ignored how Takato's anger increased to dangerous levels. There was no way she could have been prepared for it. Takato focused his strength and delivered a powerful punch straight to Rika's stomach, forcing her lungs to release the air they held. To make things worse, Takato's punch was strong enough to send Rika straight to the world of unconsciousness. Takato caught her before she fell to the floor, and took her to her mother, who was simply in shock. Rika's grandmother silently received Rika from Takato's hands, and the OmniTamer walked next to Renamon, who still fought hard to stay alive. Ruki…
Renamon selected as partner…
"Seed of Health, activate."
Renamon's wounds were slowly healed thanks to Takato's card, and the vulpine Digimon got up relatively easy. Immediately looking for her Tamer, Renamon found Rika in her mother's arms, unconscious.
"Take care of your Tamer, Renamon. Right now she needs you the most." Takato said softly. Renamon slowly nodded, and joined the Nonaka family. Takato walked to the main entrance. "BlackTerriermon?"
"Yes?"
"Right now I just want to go home and rest. Do you mind if we talk later?"
"Nope, not at all!"
"Thanks."
And Takato left the house.
Slash the life! Give them power!
Card Slash! For friendship!
Slash the life! You guys can become invincible partners…
*****Somewhere beyond the Tamers' World. A completely different plane of reality*****
The man struggled with the multiple bags he carried, while he looked for the keys in his pocket. He had decided to give a surprise to his wife and buy some stuff in the supermarket before returning home. He knew the fridge was getting kind of empty, after all. Especially after the baby's arrival. The bay had been a surprise. A very pleasant one, though. The idea of starting a family filled him with a feeling of happiness he wasn't able to describe, considering his darkened past. After finding redemption, he had begun to see the world in a much better way, and realized that life was really worth living. Thank God he wasn't alone.
The man was able to find the key and open the door in the record time of five minutes. He used his right foot to open the door with a kick, and hurried to place the bags in the kitchen. After he was done, he breathed in relief. He was exhausted. Job at the police station had been a marathon that day. But he was back home, the only place where he could forget about Odaiba's slowly increasing crime rates, and simply relax with his ever-loving wife and his incredibly active one-year-old daughter.
"I'm home!"
No answer. Weird… he thought. He was already used to being pinned to the world by his wife, and make out as if there were no tomorrow. And he didn't complain. It was good that the fire hadn't weakened after five years of marriage. With college finished at his 17, graduated with the highest honors at his 21, married with his high-school sweetheart one year later……Ken Ichijouji had lived a fantastic life. And he was making sure that wouldn't change anytime soon. The best thing was that his life had never reached a state of boredom. After the fall of MaloMyotismon, Yolei and his career as a detective had made his life interesting enough.
"Yolei……"
"Ken?" Yolei Ichijouji finally replied from somewhere further inside. By the source of the voice, Ken easily realized that his wife was using the computer. I guess some things never change…… But he wasn't surprised. She needed a way to entertain herself after all the housework. She was probably chatting online with her best friend, Mimi Tachikawa, or maybe checking the stocks. She had some investments on Pinapple Communications, and Koushiro had never let her down. Ken finally reached the PC and greeted his wife with a gentle kiss on her forehead. Yolei didn't bother to look back, her eyes fixed on the screen.
"How's our money, sweetheart?" Ken asked. Yolei finally looked back and replied with a wink.
"It keeps going up and up!"
"Guess we should thank Izzy for it, you know. Do you think he would mind if we bought him a 'thank you' present?""
"Yes, he would. He's just doing his work anyway. Us getting filthy rich is just an added bonus!"
Ken laughed for a while, admiring his wife's straightforwardness. That's probably why he loved her the most. "Where's she?" Ken asked.
"Sleeping, so you better stop laughing like that. It took me ages to get her to sleep."
"She'll grow to be just like you, Yolei."
"Poor us."
Ken nodded in agreement, forcing Yolei to elbow him below the ribcage. Ken grimaced in response, to which Yolei giggled in response. "Not so tough anymore, Mister Top Detective of the Year, huh?"
"Shut up." Ken replied, making his best Digimon Emperor Impersonation. It was pretty good, considering that he was the original Emperor. "Where are the hawk and the worm?"
"They're with her, sleeping, too." Yolei replied. They remained silent for a minute, enjoying each other. "What?" Yolei finally asked.
"Nothing…nothing at all." Ken said softly, while Yolei slowly closed her eyes, eagerly waiting for her husband's lips. And Ken didn't disappoint her.
A flash emitted by the screen interrupted the romantic scene. "What the!?" Yolei cried as the couple watched how the web page displayed had gone crazy. The stock number changed in a chaotic pattern, and the graphic faded in and out. Yolei checked other web pages, to find the same results. The Internet had gone insane. "What's going on!?" She cried in the way only Yolei can do it.
"Do you think it's a virus?" Ken wondered.
"God, no! I think it's a general failure!"
The ringing of the video-telephone confirmed their suspicions. Ken immediately pushed the button to reveal the face of Koushiro Izumi. Ken immediately could see Izzy was in a state of shock. It was easy to understand, though. Izzy, being a scientist, preferred things in order and manageable. And that situation, whatever were the cause, was beyond the redhead's control. "Ken…is your computer…"
"Yes, it is."
"Damn!"
Ken couldn't believe Koushiro had just said what he had just said. It was the first time he had head Izzy use that word. Ever. Suddenly, the PC screen went black. Ken ignored Yolei's crying and complaining, and fixed his eyes on the screen. On the other side of the line, Izzy was looking at his own computers with the same concerned look. And everywhere else, millions of people all around the world looked at their computer screens, and the message written on them.
Ta………ka………to………
***** Whoo! Creepy! Ahem…anyway, back to the Tamers' World! Hypnos, to be more precise! *****
What is THAT!?
Daneel tried to regain control of the Hypnos system, but it was useless. The screens remained black, displaying the same message, which had crossed the dimensional barriers, affecting every computer in every plane of reality. Someone or something was in control of the Internet.
Ta…………ka…………to…………
"What now?" Yamaki wondered. Daneel shrugged.
"Well, I don't see any other choice. Let's call the Tamers."
Yamaki growled under his breath, while he impatiently fidgeted with his lighter. He didn't like relaying on the young Tamer that much, but he would have to agree with the rookie for once. "Riley, contact the Tamers."
"It's past midnight!" Riley complained. "They're probably sleeping. Don't you think they need a little resting after……everything?"
Daneel sighed. Riley was right about something. The Tamers needed to rest. Especially Takato, who was yet to recover from the battle against Piedmon, and Rika, who hadn't woken up since the moment Takato had knocked her unconscious. But this was critical. "Look, this thing also woke us up. This is an emergency. We've been informed that this…message is being displayed all over the world. It is a matter of time before everyone realizes who this message is referring to. We've reached a level where this world economical stability depends on the global connection of computers all around the world. If we stay disconnected more than 24 hours, who knows what might happen. It would be the fall of Wall Street, for example."
"And New York doesn't need any more falls."
"TERRIERMON!"
Daneel, Yamaki and Riley looked back, where Janyuu Wong was entering the room, followed by Henry and Terriermon. They had obviously experience the same problems everyone else had suffered with their computers.
"So…any clues?" Janyuu asked the young man in front of the computer.
"Besides the fact that it's looking for Takato? Nope…" Daneel replied. Henry sighed. Why does everything happen to you, Takato?
"What the hell's going on!?" A female voice echoed from outside the room. It wasn't long before Rika Nonaka and her entire family entered the room, too.
"Glad to know you finally woke up, Rika." Terriermon said, chuckling. Rika clenched her fist, and Terriermon knew he had to shut up. Henry and the other remained silent, as they could practically feel the burning anger growing inside of the redhead. Daneel knew that keeping Takato and Rika in the same room would be a potentially dangerous situation, but it had to be done.
"Well, I guess I better call…" Daneel thought twice before using the T-word. "…him."
"That won't be necessary! The T-man is here!" BlackTerriermon said cheerfully as he entered the room. Rika growled in response, but calmed down instantly. She had no desire to get the dark Digimon's data anymore. Renamon appeared from her hiding place in the darkness, knowing that Takato was right behind the door. And, indeed, Takato Matsuki walked inside the main room, followed by his loyal partner, Guilmon. But Henry barely recognized his best friend. He was wearing his usual clothes (and goggles), but a black sweater covered protected him. But the worst were his eyes. Henry could see malice in them.
"Takato, are you okay?"
"Hmm…Henry…" Terriermon said softly, pointing at Takato's Omnivice. Henry, and pretty much everyone else, could see the Digital Hazard symbol on the black screen, glowing with a menacing crimson. Takato's dark side was still in control. That could mean trouble. Yamaki was the first to speak.
"Takato, how did you-"Yamaki stopped in mid-sentence when he realized Takato was completely ignoring him. His blank stare was fixed on Rika Nonaka, who challenged him with a deadly glare. For a second, Takato's nice, caring side took over.
"Are you okay?"
Rika couldn't take it anymore. How dares he!? Before Takato or Renamon could react, Rika punched Takato's face. "I want you out of my life, Gogglehead!" She said before storming out of the room, Renamon and her family soon following her. Takato simply moved up his left hand, feeling the trail of blood going down one side of his mouth.
Why do I even bother……?
Ignoring the Digital Hazard symbol, which had gained even more intensity, Takato walked next to Daneel, to explain him the situation. "BlackTerriermon believes he knows the source of this strange phenomenon."
BlackTerriermon, who had been pondering the recent events in absolute silence, finally looked up. "Yep! It has to be the Blob!"
"The…Blob?" Janyuu was the first to ask.
"It's the name he's chosen for a strange form he met in the Digital World, right before emerging in this world. After listening to him, my guess would be that we're dealing with an extremely dangerous computer virus, or maybe even D-Reaper leftovers."
"WHAT!?" Henry shouted in disbelief. Janyuu shook his head.
"That's not possible. After D-Reaper was defeated, we spent months looking for what you call 'leftovers'. We're positive that D-Reaper is completely gone."
Takato nodded in understanding. "Well, I guess that possibility is discarded. So, what about the virus theory?"
Everyone looked at Janyuu once again. "Well, it's possible, even though I haven't heard of a virus capable of this."
Terriermon chuckled. "Yeah, especially since it's after you, Takato."
Takato sighed. He knew he would have to deal with it alone. It was what the Triad had said, anyway. What is it, anyway?
"Well, I think this…thing deserves a better name than 'The Blob'." Daneel commented. "Any suggestions?"
"Well, it's intelligent…" Yamaki suggested.
"Annoying…" Terriermon added.
"Black, nasty, hideous, scary, disgusting, and a lot other things I can't think of right now." BlackTerriermon said. "So, what is it?"
Takato looked up at the black screen with the message that summoned him.
"It's……the Nightmare."
************************************************************************
************************************************************************
End of chapter 4…
Takato: What……did…….you…….JUST MAKE ME DO!?
DR: Hmm…what?
*Takato grabs DR and tries to strangle him* Takato: I order you to correct that RIGHT NOW!
DR: Geez, be patient, Gogglehead. You know I only write happy endings!
Terriermon: Yeah, right. Anyway, since DR is being asphyxiated right now, I guess it's my turn to talk. The answers for the past trivia (lots of people answered it correctly, yay!) were Gulfmon and Anubismon. This time it's only one question. I find it pretty complicated. It's about Justimon and his attacks. How many does he have, anyway? Count them and name them, if you can! And don't forget to Momentai!
DR: And…*ack, cough*…please review! Takato!!!!!! *cough, hack*
Next Chapter: Now that Takato and Rika are officially over (not that they actually started in the first place…), Takato is completely focused in the task at hand. How will he face this new threat that is after him? Will he be able to get any help from his Tamer friends? What revelations will Renamon get after Tamer and Digimon talk about a certain Gogglehead? And how's BlackTerriermon's Tamer handling the Digimon attacks WITHOUT A PARTNER!? Black jelly, Rukato, DC and more! All that in the next chapter of "Forget the Y2K, This is Madness!!!": Welcome To The Nightmare.
Daneel Rush (daneel_ff@hotmail.com)