{Walks into the room with a smashed up alarm clock}
Regless: Wonder why I didn't wake up
Black: Mabey you got a slight concussion
Regless: Whatever
{Regless walks over to the computer, misses, walks outside and over the balcony}
Black: Mabey a big concussion. Hey Regless get yer arse back up here.
Regless: Momentai
And thanks for your reviews everyone. I'll check that site out when I get the chance. RUKATO FOREVER and you know the rest.
Regless: You should know the drill by now but here it is anyway.
**Thoughts**
{Actions}
"Dialogue"
(Whispers)
******^******
Perfect Hazard - Chapter 8 - Dream Weaver
***^***
??? "Ryo."
Ryo whirled around at the mention of his name. Behind him was a girl in dressed in a black dress with a cross around her neck. She has blond hair in pigtails and two of the creepiest light blue eyes you ever saw. Cyberdramon was growling at her until Ryo calmed him down.
Ryo "So who are you? are you with those other kids I met earlier?"
Alice "No, I'm Alice, and I've been sent here to talk with you..."
***Meanwhile***
Azulongmon "I have returned. Have you unearthed any new happenings?"
Zhuqiaomon "Yes, Beelzemon met up with the tamers and, some interesting things happened..."
Azulongmon "Such as?"
Zhuqiaomon "That symbol corrupted Beelzemon and led to his demise, the tamers managed to escape with the catalyst."
Azulongmon "I warned you not to underestimate them."
Zhuqiaomon "This was just a fluke!"
Azulongmon "This was no fluke, the symbol appears and changes things every time the tamers and their digimon are in trouble. If you keep up the way you have you will follow Beelzemon's fate."
Zhuqiaomon "Then I shall go and destroy them myself!"
Azulongmon "NO! There are more important things to be done, the Chaos is gaining ground rapidly, we must prepare for when it reaches this Tower."
{Zhuqiaomon Growls} "Fine, first we'll deal with the Chaos, then the humans, then that symbol."
Azulongmon "There, now you are thinking rationally. I will inform the other sovereigns, await my return."
***Meanwhile***
The entire group was setting up camp. Henry had returned from getting the water and was now sitting silently looking at the fire. Kazu and Calumon were eyeing the fish getting ready to fight for it at any second. Rika had gone off for a walk, Renamon was hiding in one of the many trees that surrounded them, while Kenta, Gardromon, Suzie, and Lopmon were setting up a place to sleep. Jeri was talking to Yamaki on the communicator. Guilmon had fallen asleep while his wound were being dressed, Renamon noted he seemed to have lost his youthful exuberance again.
Yamaki "...anyway the data streams more troublesome than we'd thought they'd be. The Arc won't be there until sometime tomorrow."
Jeri "That's fine, we could use the extra time anyway. To relax, I hope."
Yamaki "By the way, Did you find everyone."
Jeri "Yep, everyone except Ryo."
Yamaki "If he isn't there tomorrow, leave him. No sense in losing all of you over one kid."
Jeri **I don't want to leave anyone behind... but Ryo's been surviving here for months and I'm kinda eager to go home. I think everyone else feels the same way.**
Jeri "Uh, Okay...There's something else."
Yamaki "What is it?"
{Jeri showed Yamaki the symbol on Guilmon's chest}
Jeri "Have you even seen this before?"
Yamaki "No, what is it."
Jeri "That's what I'd like to know... Well thank you anyway."
Jeri ended the communication and looked back at Henry. Kazu and Calumon each had a piece of the same fish in their mouth and were fight over the rest of it, right next to Henry. But he didn't seem to care, he just stared at the fire continually. Jeri was surprised when Terriermon landed on her head and stuck his face right in front of her upside-down.
Terriermon "Don't worry about him Jeri, he just needs to do some thinking."
Jeri "Terriermon? Do you know what's wrong with him?"
Terriermon "Yep. And no, I can't tell you. Just give him time and it'll be alright."
Jeri "...Okay. Thanks Terriermon."
Terriermon "Momentai"
Kenta and everyone else were also concerned about Henry. Suzie had never seen her brother like this. Or if she did she didn't remember.
Kenta "I wonder what's wrong with Henry? He was getting along fine with Jeri till the fight with Beelzemon."
Gardromon "Perhaps the fight has shaken him up a bit."
Kenta paused "No, I think it's more than that. He would still be able to talk to Jeri about how he was feeling if it was just that. It's like he's scared of something."
Renamon called downward startling Kenta "You have good observational skills. I agree, and Rika's been acting the same way. It has me worried"
Suzie "Don't wowwy Wenamon Henwy and Rika are both stwong."
{Renamon let a slight smile cross her lips}
Renamon "Your right. There's nothing to worry about..."
Renamon ** ....I hope...**
***Meanwhile***
Rika walked through the forest lightly, looking at the back of her balled up fist. A small blue Hazard symbol greeted her. She had told the others earlier that she was just going for a walk, but she wasn't so sure she wanted to go back. The symbol always appeared when weird things happened be they good or bad. She didn't want to others to see her as a freak or even as someone in trouble. Her thought's trailed off to Beelzemon and his mode change. She knew worry was a sign of fear but she couldn't seem to help herself regardless.
Rika ** I don't want to end up like that. I don't want to die or go insane. I don't want to lose Renamon either. What goo is power if you can't use it? Until I know what this damn symbol does... I better avoid everyone I can. I need to know what this symbol does now, and there only one person I can think of who knows. Beelzemon saw him too.**
Rika "... Stupid Gogglehead"
Rika continued walking and, after a couple more hours, a wave of darkness washed over the forest. It was night and Rika was already tired from the fight. She realized she wasn't going to find the boy from her dreams today. He just seemed to show up by chance or when something important happened. And with that she lied down against a tree trunk. She was so exhausted from the walking she didn't notice her Hazard flashing slowly.
***Back at camp***
Everyone had huddled around the fire eating some of the dessert-like berries Kenta found. Everyone, that is, except for Guilmon who was still sleeping like a brick. There an air of silence like when the first met up. It was aggravating beyond belief until, finally, Kazu decided to speak first since noone else was talking.
Kazu "Hey Henry, what with you being so quiet all of a sudden? You haven't said anything since the fight with Beelzemon."
Henry "Uh, it's nothing. Don't worry about it."
Kazu " Kay. Hey anyone know what's up with that damn symbol. It shows up wherever something happens."
{Henry nearly choked on a berry. Kazu seemed to be inadvertently saying exactly what was on Henry's mind.}
Jeri "Tell me about it, first Guilmon, then Beelzemon, and finally Hazard Leomon..."
Henry **And finally me.**
Renamon "I bet if Guilmon was awake we could get some answers out of him." {She eyed the dragon carefully}
Gardromon "I don't understand it. The symbol seemed to save Rika... but when Beelzemon tried to use it... He exploded. It doesn't seem to add up.
Kenta " Speaking of Rika, she's been gone for a while."
Renamon " Hmmm, I agree. I'm going to go and look for her, don't wait up."
{Renamon phased out}
Kazu "I wonder why Guilmon called Hazard Leomon, Takatomon."
Suzie "This is confusing"
Lopmon "I'm still getting over the shock that Takatomon isn't a figment of Guilmon imagination."
Kazu "I second that. I think the talking-dino was off his rocker."
Henry **Takatomon... Could he know what this symbol on my hand means?**
Jeri "I don't want to wake Guilmon up now, we can ask him about tomorrow."
Henry **Darn, I want to find out as soon as I could.**
Everyone agreed and soon they all joined Guilmon sleeping soundly. Apart from Renamon of course who was having considerable difficulty locating Rika.
***Elsewhere in the forest***
Impmon walked through the woods with his arms folded behind his in a sort of carefree manner. You wouldn't be able to tell how nervous he was at seeing everyone again despite the fact that was invisible and intangible. Takato was dragging behind with the sword slowing him down. Even if it was light, the pressure was prolonged by the long walk and it was finally wearing him out. Impmon decided to do something to break the silence, saying the first thing that came to mind.
Impmon "Hey Gogglehead! how come you got that symbol on your hands?"
Takato "It's Takato, and I don't know why, or how exactly."
Impmon "Alright then, why does pineapple head have that symbol on him?"
Takato "It's Guilmon, and he has that symbol on him because that's how I drew him."
Impmon looked back skeptically "Drew him? Whaddaya mean by that"
Takato "Exactly what it sounds like, I drew him, then he was real"
Impmon "Yeah, right, whatever."
Impmon **Drew him? Does he mean he created him or what? Weird kid.**
Takato stopped walking when a red flashing caught his attention. He looked down at his hands to see his Hazard signs had activated. Quickly, he pulled out his D-Arc. It was displaying neither the Hazard Sign or Takato's Levels, but instead a compass that pointed to an area off to the side. Impmon turned around seeing his companion had stopped moving.
Impmon "Don't tell me you need a break again."
Takato "Nope, my digivice is acting up."
Impmon "Whaddaya mean acting up?"
Takato "Is pointing me in a different direction... I'm going to follow it."
Impmon "Hey, wait for me."
Takato began walking off to the side through the dense brush with Impmon close on his heels. Not existing certainly had it's advantages when it came to travel. It wasn't long before he found what had been attracting him. Rika lie unconscious against a tree trunk. She seemed peaceful so Takato and Impmon thought she was sleeping.
Takato "Wow she must of really been tired. Hey Impmon, can you look for others I wanna stay here so I can warn her about any digimon that might show up."
Impmon "Say what? How ya suppose to warn her if you be seen or heard?"
Takato "Don't worry about how, I doubt you would believe me anyway. Just watch out for Guilmon he can see me perfectly so he might be able to see you as well."
Impmon "Anyone else I need to watch out for?"
Takato "Yeah Kazu, he's an idiot and I don't want him to hurt himself so could you make sure he's alright?"
Impmon "Alright, guess I'll leave you two... alooone"
Takato "Huh? How come you said it like that?"
Impmon smirked and trotted away in his usually manner leaving Takato standing a couple feet away from the unconscious Rika. He walked over and plumped himself down next to her. He couldn't help wondering why she wasn't with everyone else. His mind told him that she was just getting used to having friends and needed a break, but something else told him otherwise. Renamon wasn't around either. A voice shattered his thoughts and echoed through his mind. It was the same one that told him he couldn't help his friends during the fight with Megidramon. It was also the one that spoke to him in Impmon's dream.
Voice **Impmon isn't the only one that needs saving Takato. Think for once.**
Takato **Why are you still here? I thought you were my own self doubt but you keep coming back even when there isn't a reason.**
Voice **There is a reason, you just need to figure it out.**
Takato **What do you mean?**
Takato's thoughts met an eerie silence. What did the voice mean. He looked at Rika again.
Takato **Does she need me? If so, why? Why isn't Renamon here guarding her? Should I go into her dream? She looks nice when she isn't trying to kill me**
Takato blushed. The last thought slipped into his mind without him realizing it. He got up and stepped away figuring he should scout around for evil digimon to clear his mind but his D-Arc beeped at him, stopping him in his tracks. He looked at the device remembering it was still directing him to Rika and walked back. He hunched over bringing his face near to hers.
Takato **this thing's gotta be point me to her for some reason**
Looking closer Takato noticed Rika seemed red and was breathing heavily. Takato narrowed his eyes and realized her hair seemed matted and there were small beads of sweat on her forehead, she was starting a fever! He looked around for help when a small blue light coming from Rika's hand caught his attention. It was the Digital Hazard and it was flashing at a moderate pace. Panic raced through Takato when he realized what this meant. In the two days he had been forced to rely on the Digital Hazard he had come to a very simple conclusion. The Digital Hazard was power, and even if it can be used for good, power corrupts and destroys things.
Takato **I've got to wake her up somehow or... NO! I will not let it get that far! Rika, hang on**
And with that Takato dove into her dream. He could feel something was wrong when he did so. He hadn't fully thought through what he was doing. All he knew is that a friend was in danger and he would do whatever it took to help her.
Rika was standing still in darkness. There was nothing distinguishable, not even the ground. In front of her, the fight between Beelzemon: Hazard Mode was taking place like an old movie rerun. But it was different this time. Everything seemed slower and the fight was happening differently. Beelzemon was doing much better. Rika watched herself and the other tamers fight Beelzemon from the side with an emptiness that took away her will to move or even think. The Hazard was weakening her even at that moment. Just about all that was left was Regret and fear, the two emotions that seemed to portray Rika the least. Takato could see all of this as the light began to clear away he prepare to enter Rika's dream. When it was gone completely, Takato noticed he wasn't in Rika's dream. He was in a place of potent darkness same as Rika, standing on a blue Hazard sign. It was the only thing other than the blackness that he could see.
Takato "What the...?"
As if in response the Hazard symbol began to glow brightly and chains shot out from the darkness binding Takato still. He could no longer move but he could see the dream again, only now it only taunted him not being to do anything about it. Rika was so close, right in front of him, watching from within the blackness next to Takato like a drive in movie theatre. She was staring blankly ahead like a doll. Takato feared he might have to watch her like this for who knows how long. The blue Hazard sign began to glow brighter and his emotions began to shift and conform to resemble Rika's a tear streamed down his cheek as the belief that he couldn't do anything entered his mind.
Takato **It can't end like this, Guilmon... I need you**
***Back at the encampment***
Renamon had returned a short while ago being unable to find Rika. It was odd since her senses were well trained. It was like something was deliberately stopping her from finding her tamer. She was the only one awake. Even Gardromon shut down for a change, though he didn't really need to. She was lost in thought about Rika, and Guilmon. Recently she had trouble keeping the big red lug out of her thoughts. She looked over to him but her eyes rested on Jeri. Her D-Arc was displaying Guilmon's levels again. Renamon teleported to the tree above Jeri to get a better view.
******^****** GUILMON ******^******
***^*** Level Gained ***^***
Rejuvination: 2
Digivolve: 2
Tamer 2/1
Hazard:0
******^******
Renamon **I wonder why he has two numbers for his Tamer Level**
Guilmon's eyes slammed open revealing two rabid, golden, marbles that intrigued Renamon. Guilmon jumped to his feet in a way that left no evidence that he was ever hurt or tired, and dashed into the woods.
Renamon **Now where is he going?**
Renamon took off after Guilmon with another small intangible figure behind her.
Impmon **Now where's she goin?**
Impmon took off after Renamon.
***Back to Rika***
After a significant amount of running, Renamon had finally caught up to Guilmon, who was hunched over Rika sniffing her. Renamon landed behind Guilmon and walked up to him.
Renamon "So this is where she was. Guilmon, thank you... But how did you find..."
Guilmon cut her off"...Rika's dying, and Takatomon with her."
{Renamon blinked in shock, surprised by the level of urgency in Guilmon's voice.}
Renamon "What? We have to save her somehow."
Guilmon "I know but... I can't do it by myself."
Renamon stepped up beside Guilmon "Don't worry, I'll help out too. She is my tamer after all"
Guilmon placed his hand on Rika's forehead tying to take her temperature. Her palms are sweaty but she felt ice cold. **Please Takatomon, tamer, help me."
***In Rika's Dream***
Takato's D-Arc flashed. Even if he couldn't see it, he could feel it and he knew something important was happening.
******^******
***Level Gained***
Influence Level: 2
Merge Level: 2
Digivolve Level: 1
Hazard Level: 1
***Combination unlocked***
Influence Level: 2
Merge Level: 2
_____________
Dream Walker ----- Dream Weaver
******^******
Takato looked ahead as two new figures joined the battle: A Taomon and a Wargrowlmon had made it all the way into Rika's dream without being stopped by whatever sort of Hazard Takato was trapped by. They were outside the darkness fighting with everyone else against Beelzemon. They couldn't see the blackness where Takato was being held but they could see a psychotic Beelzemon in front of them which was, seemingly, a more urgent matter. Taomon looked Wargrowlmon over once, impressed with his new form, before engaging in the fight. The fight remained one side but even though they were still losing, they seemed to get up no matter how many times they were knocked down. Takato watched them and realized they were doing what he should be, not giving up. Takato's Hazard sign began to glow and felt his confidence return to him. The blue Hazard Sing grew brighter trying to get rid of Takato's confidence.
Takato **So what if I'm being held in someone else's dream against my will...
So what if where losing by a landslide to a degenerated freak of nature...
So what if our best chance of getting out of here seems to be an empty shell of a person ...
So what if I keep messing up at crucial moments, I learn from my mistakes, and I get up again. Just like Guilmon and Renamon are doing now. I will find a way to get out of here and save you Rika, I will NOT stay down...
Takato felt the chains tighten squeezing his arms against his back, but it brought to his attention something he had forgotten... He still had Leomon's sword. He fumbled until he grasped the handle, tugged it out of it's sheath slightly and began to slowly cut through the chains. Leomon's sword was sharper than Takato gave it credit for as It sawed through the first set of chains in a minute, and with the added movement he broke the rest off in seconds.
With the chains flying to his sides, Takato rose the sword above his head and plunged it downward into the menacing blue Hazard symbol. It began to crack and Rika fall over backwards like as though she was just beginner to feel her own weight pull down on her. Takato moved to catch her and did so with great ease. He looked back at the fight, the dream was rapidly disappearing but another second was all Beelzemon needed to delete Taomon and Wargrowlmon. He stood with his guns at their heads and a menacing smile as always. Thankfully, he never got that second...
??? "CORONA BLASTER"
Several massive orbs of energy collided with Beelzemon: Hazard Mode from behind deleting him instantly. Takato looked to see who fired but the figure had disappeared from sight into the dissipating dream. Takato could've sworn he heard that voice before. Rika woke up in his arms. She didn't like being a damsel in distress and quickly got out of his grip with Takato blushing furiously. Rika was currently fighting the urge to beat the crap out of her savior.
Rika "Look, tell before the dream ends, Who are you?"
Takato spoke with his usual goofy smile "Takato Matsuki, and you don't have to worry about the Hazard Symbol anymore. I took care of it."
Rika "Hazard?, Wait I got more questions for you."
This that light washed over the both of them, ending the dream.
***Out of The Dream***
Takato woke up next to Rika with his arms wrapped around her. When he realized what an awkward position he was in he pulled away blushing like crazy. Golden sunlight greeted him through the trees. Rika was still exhausted from the sickness so Renamon took her into her arms and "tried" to carry her back but Rika fought her off and started walking on her own again. Takato hung back with Guilmon by his side. He was still coming to grips with what happened.
Takato **How come Rika had a Hazard sign? It felt... different than mine. I can't wait till tomorrow night. Mabey I'll get the chance to actually talk with her and not have to worry about getting deleted or anything.**
Guilmon interrupted his thought "I thought... You were my tamer again."
Takato "Yeah, it certainly felt like it."
Guilmon "Darn, maybe next time."
Takato "For sure."
Guilmon "Takato, your side is flashing."
Takato "Huh, oh the D-Arc."
******^******
***Level Gained***
Influence Level:2
Merge Level:2
Digivolve Level:1
Hazard Level:2
***Ability Unlocked***
Influence Level :2
Merge Level :2
Hazard Level:2
_____________
Nightmare Maker
******^******
Takato **Again the Hazard got stronger? Why? I haven't lost control once. I've been acting really good. And Nightmare Maker? Who would want a skill like that?**
Voice **Very amusing. Your performance was commendable but your intelligence is still lacking severely**
Takato **You again? Who are you?**
Voice **......**
Takato sighed when the voice did not answer "...Guilmon, it's been a long night. Let's head back and get you some food."
Guilmon yipped happily at the mention of food. He had to make up for that last couple days of not eating ten times his own body mass.
***Over to Rika***
Renamon "Are you sure your alright Rika?"
Rika "I'm fine. Sorry for bailing on you earlier"
Renamon "Don't worry about I can understand how that symbol would... give you something to think about"
Rika "That's and understatement... I met that boy again."
Renamon "Oh, did you ask him anything?"
Rika "His name was Takato... I think"
{Renamon arched a brow at the name and was about to ask if was the same as Takatomon but said something else instead}
Renamon let out a small chuckle "Actually I meant about the Symbol."
{Rika Blushed and looked at the back of her hand} "He said it meant... Hazard. He also said he took care of it."
Renamon "How...Becoming"
***Over to Impmon***
Impmon had hidden in the brush after destroying his dream counter- part. He didn't want people to know he could reach Mega Level and that he had a new mode...yet.
Impmon **Gogglehead better figure out what's making the Hazard stronger soon...
...After all, I don't wanna face Megidramon again**
******^******
Henry: Another great chapter!
Black: Hey if you like that you should check out Rabbit Games.
Henry: I did, I almost stopped come here because of it.
Black: Why you little...
Regless: Now, now. No need to resort to violence.
Black: Since when did you ever hold back
Regless: Since I fell off the balcony kicking and screaming in agony... Why didn't you help me?
Black: I went out to get a new alarm clock, the last one disappeared.
Regless: Uhh yeah! Disappeared. That's right. {Tries throwing the broken alarm clock out an open window, misses and hits Black in the head}
Black: Son of a.... {Loads his Shotgun}
Henry: I think I better leave.
Regless: Thankies everyone. I might veg out for a while since I miss doing that so the next chapter might take a couple days. Gotta play Wild Arms three and all that. Anyway see ya
Black: Mabey you got a slight concussion
Regless: Whatever
{Regless walks over to the computer, misses, walks outside and over the balcony}
Black: Mabey a big concussion. Hey Regless get yer arse back up here.
Regless: Momentai
And thanks for your reviews everyone. I'll check that site out when I get the chance. RUKATO FOREVER and you know the rest.
Regless: You should know the drill by now but here it is anyway.
**Thoughts**
{Actions}
"Dialogue"
(Whispers)
******^******
Perfect Hazard - Chapter 8 - Dream Weaver
***^***
??? "Ryo."
Ryo whirled around at the mention of his name. Behind him was a girl in dressed in a black dress with a cross around her neck. She has blond hair in pigtails and two of the creepiest light blue eyes you ever saw. Cyberdramon was growling at her until Ryo calmed him down.
Ryo "So who are you? are you with those other kids I met earlier?"
Alice "No, I'm Alice, and I've been sent here to talk with you..."
***Meanwhile***
Azulongmon "I have returned. Have you unearthed any new happenings?"
Zhuqiaomon "Yes, Beelzemon met up with the tamers and, some interesting things happened..."
Azulongmon "Such as?"
Zhuqiaomon "That symbol corrupted Beelzemon and led to his demise, the tamers managed to escape with the catalyst."
Azulongmon "I warned you not to underestimate them."
Zhuqiaomon "This was just a fluke!"
Azulongmon "This was no fluke, the symbol appears and changes things every time the tamers and their digimon are in trouble. If you keep up the way you have you will follow Beelzemon's fate."
Zhuqiaomon "Then I shall go and destroy them myself!"
Azulongmon "NO! There are more important things to be done, the Chaos is gaining ground rapidly, we must prepare for when it reaches this Tower."
{Zhuqiaomon Growls} "Fine, first we'll deal with the Chaos, then the humans, then that symbol."
Azulongmon "There, now you are thinking rationally. I will inform the other sovereigns, await my return."
***Meanwhile***
The entire group was setting up camp. Henry had returned from getting the water and was now sitting silently looking at the fire. Kazu and Calumon were eyeing the fish getting ready to fight for it at any second. Rika had gone off for a walk, Renamon was hiding in one of the many trees that surrounded them, while Kenta, Gardromon, Suzie, and Lopmon were setting up a place to sleep. Jeri was talking to Yamaki on the communicator. Guilmon had fallen asleep while his wound were being dressed, Renamon noted he seemed to have lost his youthful exuberance again.
Yamaki "...anyway the data streams more troublesome than we'd thought they'd be. The Arc won't be there until sometime tomorrow."
Jeri "That's fine, we could use the extra time anyway. To relax, I hope."
Yamaki "By the way, Did you find everyone."
Jeri "Yep, everyone except Ryo."
Yamaki "If he isn't there tomorrow, leave him. No sense in losing all of you over one kid."
Jeri **I don't want to leave anyone behind... but Ryo's been surviving here for months and I'm kinda eager to go home. I think everyone else feels the same way.**
Jeri "Uh, Okay...There's something else."
Yamaki "What is it?"
{Jeri showed Yamaki the symbol on Guilmon's chest}
Jeri "Have you even seen this before?"
Yamaki "No, what is it."
Jeri "That's what I'd like to know... Well thank you anyway."
Jeri ended the communication and looked back at Henry. Kazu and Calumon each had a piece of the same fish in their mouth and were fight over the rest of it, right next to Henry. But he didn't seem to care, he just stared at the fire continually. Jeri was surprised when Terriermon landed on her head and stuck his face right in front of her upside-down.
Terriermon "Don't worry about him Jeri, he just needs to do some thinking."
Jeri "Terriermon? Do you know what's wrong with him?"
Terriermon "Yep. And no, I can't tell you. Just give him time and it'll be alright."
Jeri "...Okay. Thanks Terriermon."
Terriermon "Momentai"
Kenta and everyone else were also concerned about Henry. Suzie had never seen her brother like this. Or if she did she didn't remember.
Kenta "I wonder what's wrong with Henry? He was getting along fine with Jeri till the fight with Beelzemon."
Gardromon "Perhaps the fight has shaken him up a bit."
Kenta paused "No, I think it's more than that. He would still be able to talk to Jeri about how he was feeling if it was just that. It's like he's scared of something."
Renamon called downward startling Kenta "You have good observational skills. I agree, and Rika's been acting the same way. It has me worried"
Suzie "Don't wowwy Wenamon Henwy and Rika are both stwong."
{Renamon let a slight smile cross her lips}
Renamon "Your right. There's nothing to worry about..."
Renamon ** ....I hope...**
***Meanwhile***
Rika walked through the forest lightly, looking at the back of her balled up fist. A small blue Hazard symbol greeted her. She had told the others earlier that she was just going for a walk, but she wasn't so sure she wanted to go back. The symbol always appeared when weird things happened be they good or bad. She didn't want to others to see her as a freak or even as someone in trouble. Her thought's trailed off to Beelzemon and his mode change. She knew worry was a sign of fear but she couldn't seem to help herself regardless.
Rika ** I don't want to end up like that. I don't want to die or go insane. I don't want to lose Renamon either. What goo is power if you can't use it? Until I know what this damn symbol does... I better avoid everyone I can. I need to know what this symbol does now, and there only one person I can think of who knows. Beelzemon saw him too.**
Rika "... Stupid Gogglehead"
Rika continued walking and, after a couple more hours, a wave of darkness washed over the forest. It was night and Rika was already tired from the fight. She realized she wasn't going to find the boy from her dreams today. He just seemed to show up by chance or when something important happened. And with that she lied down against a tree trunk. She was so exhausted from the walking she didn't notice her Hazard flashing slowly.
***Back at camp***
Everyone had huddled around the fire eating some of the dessert-like berries Kenta found. Everyone, that is, except for Guilmon who was still sleeping like a brick. There an air of silence like when the first met up. It was aggravating beyond belief until, finally, Kazu decided to speak first since noone else was talking.
Kazu "Hey Henry, what with you being so quiet all of a sudden? You haven't said anything since the fight with Beelzemon."
Henry "Uh, it's nothing. Don't worry about it."
Kazu " Kay. Hey anyone know what's up with that damn symbol. It shows up wherever something happens."
{Henry nearly choked on a berry. Kazu seemed to be inadvertently saying exactly what was on Henry's mind.}
Jeri "Tell me about it, first Guilmon, then Beelzemon, and finally Hazard Leomon..."
Henry **And finally me.**
Renamon "I bet if Guilmon was awake we could get some answers out of him." {She eyed the dragon carefully}
Gardromon "I don't understand it. The symbol seemed to save Rika... but when Beelzemon tried to use it... He exploded. It doesn't seem to add up.
Kenta " Speaking of Rika, she's been gone for a while."
Renamon " Hmmm, I agree. I'm going to go and look for her, don't wait up."
{Renamon phased out}
Kazu "I wonder why Guilmon called Hazard Leomon, Takatomon."
Suzie "This is confusing"
Lopmon "I'm still getting over the shock that Takatomon isn't a figment of Guilmon imagination."
Kazu "I second that. I think the talking-dino was off his rocker."
Henry **Takatomon... Could he know what this symbol on my hand means?**
Jeri "I don't want to wake Guilmon up now, we can ask him about tomorrow."
Henry **Darn, I want to find out as soon as I could.**
Everyone agreed and soon they all joined Guilmon sleeping soundly. Apart from Renamon of course who was having considerable difficulty locating Rika.
***Elsewhere in the forest***
Impmon walked through the woods with his arms folded behind his in a sort of carefree manner. You wouldn't be able to tell how nervous he was at seeing everyone again despite the fact that was invisible and intangible. Takato was dragging behind with the sword slowing him down. Even if it was light, the pressure was prolonged by the long walk and it was finally wearing him out. Impmon decided to do something to break the silence, saying the first thing that came to mind.
Impmon "Hey Gogglehead! how come you got that symbol on your hands?"
Takato "It's Takato, and I don't know why, or how exactly."
Impmon "Alright then, why does pineapple head have that symbol on him?"
Takato "It's Guilmon, and he has that symbol on him because that's how I drew him."
Impmon looked back skeptically "Drew him? Whaddaya mean by that"
Takato "Exactly what it sounds like, I drew him, then he was real"
Impmon "Yeah, right, whatever."
Impmon **Drew him? Does he mean he created him or what? Weird kid.**
Takato stopped walking when a red flashing caught his attention. He looked down at his hands to see his Hazard signs had activated. Quickly, he pulled out his D-Arc. It was displaying neither the Hazard Sign or Takato's Levels, but instead a compass that pointed to an area off to the side. Impmon turned around seeing his companion had stopped moving.
Impmon "Don't tell me you need a break again."
Takato "Nope, my digivice is acting up."
Impmon "Whaddaya mean acting up?"
Takato "Is pointing me in a different direction... I'm going to follow it."
Impmon "Hey, wait for me."
Takato began walking off to the side through the dense brush with Impmon close on his heels. Not existing certainly had it's advantages when it came to travel. It wasn't long before he found what had been attracting him. Rika lie unconscious against a tree trunk. She seemed peaceful so Takato and Impmon thought she was sleeping.
Takato "Wow she must of really been tired. Hey Impmon, can you look for others I wanna stay here so I can warn her about any digimon that might show up."
Impmon "Say what? How ya suppose to warn her if you be seen or heard?"
Takato "Don't worry about how, I doubt you would believe me anyway. Just watch out for Guilmon he can see me perfectly so he might be able to see you as well."
Impmon "Anyone else I need to watch out for?"
Takato "Yeah Kazu, he's an idiot and I don't want him to hurt himself so could you make sure he's alright?"
Impmon "Alright, guess I'll leave you two... alooone"
Takato "Huh? How come you said it like that?"
Impmon smirked and trotted away in his usually manner leaving Takato standing a couple feet away from the unconscious Rika. He walked over and plumped himself down next to her. He couldn't help wondering why she wasn't with everyone else. His mind told him that she was just getting used to having friends and needed a break, but something else told him otherwise. Renamon wasn't around either. A voice shattered his thoughts and echoed through his mind. It was the same one that told him he couldn't help his friends during the fight with Megidramon. It was also the one that spoke to him in Impmon's dream.
Voice **Impmon isn't the only one that needs saving Takato. Think for once.**
Takato **Why are you still here? I thought you were my own self doubt but you keep coming back even when there isn't a reason.**
Voice **There is a reason, you just need to figure it out.**
Takato **What do you mean?**
Takato's thoughts met an eerie silence. What did the voice mean. He looked at Rika again.
Takato **Does she need me? If so, why? Why isn't Renamon here guarding her? Should I go into her dream? She looks nice when she isn't trying to kill me**
Takato blushed. The last thought slipped into his mind without him realizing it. He got up and stepped away figuring he should scout around for evil digimon to clear his mind but his D-Arc beeped at him, stopping him in his tracks. He looked at the device remembering it was still directing him to Rika and walked back. He hunched over bringing his face near to hers.
Takato **this thing's gotta be point me to her for some reason**
Looking closer Takato noticed Rika seemed red and was breathing heavily. Takato narrowed his eyes and realized her hair seemed matted and there were small beads of sweat on her forehead, she was starting a fever! He looked around for help when a small blue light coming from Rika's hand caught his attention. It was the Digital Hazard and it was flashing at a moderate pace. Panic raced through Takato when he realized what this meant. In the two days he had been forced to rely on the Digital Hazard he had come to a very simple conclusion. The Digital Hazard was power, and even if it can be used for good, power corrupts and destroys things.
Takato **I've got to wake her up somehow or... NO! I will not let it get that far! Rika, hang on**
And with that Takato dove into her dream. He could feel something was wrong when he did so. He hadn't fully thought through what he was doing. All he knew is that a friend was in danger and he would do whatever it took to help her.
Rika was standing still in darkness. There was nothing distinguishable, not even the ground. In front of her, the fight between Beelzemon: Hazard Mode was taking place like an old movie rerun. But it was different this time. Everything seemed slower and the fight was happening differently. Beelzemon was doing much better. Rika watched herself and the other tamers fight Beelzemon from the side with an emptiness that took away her will to move or even think. The Hazard was weakening her even at that moment. Just about all that was left was Regret and fear, the two emotions that seemed to portray Rika the least. Takato could see all of this as the light began to clear away he prepare to enter Rika's dream. When it was gone completely, Takato noticed he wasn't in Rika's dream. He was in a place of potent darkness same as Rika, standing on a blue Hazard sign. It was the only thing other than the blackness that he could see.
Takato "What the...?"
As if in response the Hazard symbol began to glow brightly and chains shot out from the darkness binding Takato still. He could no longer move but he could see the dream again, only now it only taunted him not being to do anything about it. Rika was so close, right in front of him, watching from within the blackness next to Takato like a drive in movie theatre. She was staring blankly ahead like a doll. Takato feared he might have to watch her like this for who knows how long. The blue Hazard sign began to glow brighter and his emotions began to shift and conform to resemble Rika's a tear streamed down his cheek as the belief that he couldn't do anything entered his mind.
Takato **It can't end like this, Guilmon... I need you**
***Back at the encampment***
Renamon had returned a short while ago being unable to find Rika. It was odd since her senses were well trained. It was like something was deliberately stopping her from finding her tamer. She was the only one awake. Even Gardromon shut down for a change, though he didn't really need to. She was lost in thought about Rika, and Guilmon. Recently she had trouble keeping the big red lug out of her thoughts. She looked over to him but her eyes rested on Jeri. Her D-Arc was displaying Guilmon's levels again. Renamon teleported to the tree above Jeri to get a better view.
******^****** GUILMON ******^******
***^*** Level Gained ***^***
Rejuvination: 2
Digivolve: 2
Tamer 2/1
Hazard:0
******^******
Renamon **I wonder why he has two numbers for his Tamer Level**
Guilmon's eyes slammed open revealing two rabid, golden, marbles that intrigued Renamon. Guilmon jumped to his feet in a way that left no evidence that he was ever hurt or tired, and dashed into the woods.
Renamon **Now where is he going?**
Renamon took off after Guilmon with another small intangible figure behind her.
Impmon **Now where's she goin?**
Impmon took off after Renamon.
***Back to Rika***
After a significant amount of running, Renamon had finally caught up to Guilmon, who was hunched over Rika sniffing her. Renamon landed behind Guilmon and walked up to him.
Renamon "So this is where she was. Guilmon, thank you... But how did you find..."
Guilmon cut her off"...Rika's dying, and Takatomon with her."
{Renamon blinked in shock, surprised by the level of urgency in Guilmon's voice.}
Renamon "What? We have to save her somehow."
Guilmon "I know but... I can't do it by myself."
Renamon stepped up beside Guilmon "Don't worry, I'll help out too. She is my tamer after all"
Guilmon placed his hand on Rika's forehead tying to take her temperature. Her palms are sweaty but she felt ice cold. **Please Takatomon, tamer, help me."
***In Rika's Dream***
Takato's D-Arc flashed. Even if he couldn't see it, he could feel it and he knew something important was happening.
******^******
***Level Gained***
Influence Level: 2
Merge Level: 2
Digivolve Level: 1
Hazard Level: 1
***Combination unlocked***
Influence Level: 2
Merge Level: 2
_____________
Dream Walker ----- Dream Weaver
******^******
Takato looked ahead as two new figures joined the battle: A Taomon and a Wargrowlmon had made it all the way into Rika's dream without being stopped by whatever sort of Hazard Takato was trapped by. They were outside the darkness fighting with everyone else against Beelzemon. They couldn't see the blackness where Takato was being held but they could see a psychotic Beelzemon in front of them which was, seemingly, a more urgent matter. Taomon looked Wargrowlmon over once, impressed with his new form, before engaging in the fight. The fight remained one side but even though they were still losing, they seemed to get up no matter how many times they were knocked down. Takato watched them and realized they were doing what he should be, not giving up. Takato's Hazard sign began to glow and felt his confidence return to him. The blue Hazard Sing grew brighter trying to get rid of Takato's confidence.
Takato **So what if I'm being held in someone else's dream against my will...
So what if where losing by a landslide to a degenerated freak of nature...
So what if our best chance of getting out of here seems to be an empty shell of a person ...
So what if I keep messing up at crucial moments, I learn from my mistakes, and I get up again. Just like Guilmon and Renamon are doing now. I will find a way to get out of here and save you Rika, I will NOT stay down...
Takato felt the chains tighten squeezing his arms against his back, but it brought to his attention something he had forgotten... He still had Leomon's sword. He fumbled until he grasped the handle, tugged it out of it's sheath slightly and began to slowly cut through the chains. Leomon's sword was sharper than Takato gave it credit for as It sawed through the first set of chains in a minute, and with the added movement he broke the rest off in seconds.
With the chains flying to his sides, Takato rose the sword above his head and plunged it downward into the menacing blue Hazard symbol. It began to crack and Rika fall over backwards like as though she was just beginner to feel her own weight pull down on her. Takato moved to catch her and did so with great ease. He looked back at the fight, the dream was rapidly disappearing but another second was all Beelzemon needed to delete Taomon and Wargrowlmon. He stood with his guns at their heads and a menacing smile as always. Thankfully, he never got that second...
??? "CORONA BLASTER"
Several massive orbs of energy collided with Beelzemon: Hazard Mode from behind deleting him instantly. Takato looked to see who fired but the figure had disappeared from sight into the dissipating dream. Takato could've sworn he heard that voice before. Rika woke up in his arms. She didn't like being a damsel in distress and quickly got out of his grip with Takato blushing furiously. Rika was currently fighting the urge to beat the crap out of her savior.
Rika "Look, tell before the dream ends, Who are you?"
Takato spoke with his usual goofy smile "Takato Matsuki, and you don't have to worry about the Hazard Symbol anymore. I took care of it."
Rika "Hazard?, Wait I got more questions for you."
This that light washed over the both of them, ending the dream.
***Out of The Dream***
Takato woke up next to Rika with his arms wrapped around her. When he realized what an awkward position he was in he pulled away blushing like crazy. Golden sunlight greeted him through the trees. Rika was still exhausted from the sickness so Renamon took her into her arms and "tried" to carry her back but Rika fought her off and started walking on her own again. Takato hung back with Guilmon by his side. He was still coming to grips with what happened.
Takato **How come Rika had a Hazard sign? It felt... different than mine. I can't wait till tomorrow night. Mabey I'll get the chance to actually talk with her and not have to worry about getting deleted or anything.**
Guilmon interrupted his thought "I thought... You were my tamer again."
Takato "Yeah, it certainly felt like it."
Guilmon "Darn, maybe next time."
Takato "For sure."
Guilmon "Takato, your side is flashing."
Takato "Huh, oh the D-Arc."
******^******
***Level Gained***
Influence Level:2
Merge Level:2
Digivolve Level:1
Hazard Level:2
***Ability Unlocked***
Influence Level :2
Merge Level :2
Hazard Level:2
_____________
Nightmare Maker
******^******
Takato **Again the Hazard got stronger? Why? I haven't lost control once. I've been acting really good. And Nightmare Maker? Who would want a skill like that?**
Voice **Very amusing. Your performance was commendable but your intelligence is still lacking severely**
Takato **You again? Who are you?**
Voice **......**
Takato sighed when the voice did not answer "...Guilmon, it's been a long night. Let's head back and get you some food."
Guilmon yipped happily at the mention of food. He had to make up for that last couple days of not eating ten times his own body mass.
***Over to Rika***
Renamon "Are you sure your alright Rika?"
Rika "I'm fine. Sorry for bailing on you earlier"
Renamon "Don't worry about I can understand how that symbol would... give you something to think about"
Rika "That's and understatement... I met that boy again."
Renamon "Oh, did you ask him anything?"
Rika "His name was Takato... I think"
{Renamon arched a brow at the name and was about to ask if was the same as Takatomon but said something else instead}
Renamon let out a small chuckle "Actually I meant about the Symbol."
{Rika Blushed and looked at the back of her hand} "He said it meant... Hazard. He also said he took care of it."
Renamon "How...Becoming"
***Over to Impmon***
Impmon had hidden in the brush after destroying his dream counter- part. He didn't want people to know he could reach Mega Level and that he had a new mode...yet.
Impmon **Gogglehead better figure out what's making the Hazard stronger soon...
...After all, I don't wanna face Megidramon again**
******^******
Henry: Another great chapter!
Black: Hey if you like that you should check out Rabbit Games.
Henry: I did, I almost stopped come here because of it.
Black: Why you little...
Regless: Now, now. No need to resort to violence.
Black: Since when did you ever hold back
Regless: Since I fell off the balcony kicking and screaming in agony... Why didn't you help me?
Black: I went out to get a new alarm clock, the last one disappeared.
Regless: Uhh yeah! Disappeared. That's right. {Tries throwing the broken alarm clock out an open window, misses and hits Black in the head}
Black: Son of a.... {Loads his Shotgun}
Henry: I think I better leave.
Regless: Thankies everyone. I might veg out for a while since I miss doing that so the next chapter might take a couple days. Gotta play Wild Arms three and all that. Anyway see ya