Regless: Wassup all? I'm back. Someone mentioned they were confused by
all the Hazards so here it, put simply. (I hope). There's still some bits
of it I want to leat out in the story though, so bear that in mind. Oh and
I'm new to this Fanfic thing so could anyone tell me how to erase extra
reviews? It says put in the review ID but... WHAT THE HELL IS THAT?
*^*
The Pieces: When Beelzemon defeated Megidramon his power was split into 5 pieces which turn up as different colored Symbols which where acquired to the people who were caught in Megidramon's explosion. They are Black (Zhuqiaomon), Red (Takato), Blue (Rika), Green (Henry), and White (Beelzemon). All Hazards try to take over their host and so far, the black one has not been stopped and the Red hasn't even awakened.
Infected: If your infected with the Hazard you become under it's control and the symbol appears somewhere on you (Usually the hand) Each piece has different goals. Green wants to take the power of the other Hazards to become complete, that's why Henry wanted to kill Takato when his finally awakened. While Rika's wanted only to destroy it's host.
Black Hazard: Zhuqiaomon is sending his creations after the tamer to try and retake they other pieces and destroy humanity. Regardless of this fact, Hazard Caturamon and the Megidramon from last chapter were NOT the real threat. Zhuqiaomon is.
Black: Shut up, your talking too much.
Regless: Sorry, sorry! On with the fic.
Black: You forgot to mention to R&R please and this moron doesn't own digimon."
Regless: Where the love?
Black: Wherever you hid my wallet.
{Regless sweatdrops} "Oh yeah, I forgot about that."
******^******
Perfect Hazard - Chapter 13 - Crutches and Crushed
******^******
Black Zhuqiaomon **Hmm, first Caturamon then my Megidramon copy. They are proving harder to dispatch than I thought. No matter. I will crush them, it's only a matter of time... The woman digimon defeated my last pet... I will need some more information on her, Then maybe I can... Yes, yes that should leave the Keeper of the Hazard with his hands full as well. How delightful.**
***^***
Rika open one eye groggily. She hadn't slept well since she was forced to do so on the couch. It may have been softer, but that didn't make it any more comfortable. Also, the fact that she had slept in her clothes didn't help. She had been thinking about the new symbols that snaked their way up her arm the same way Takato's did. The only definable difference was that hers were blue while Takato's were red. And hers didn't go across her chest the way Takato's did.
Rika **Oh crap, I forgot about the homework for school today. Oh well.**
She sighed looking around for a clock so she could see the time. It had been two days since the copy of Megidramon had reared it's ugly head. Her grandmother had suggested sleeping in the same room as Takato to keep him company, but there was no way that was going to happen. She had turned red and shrugged it off, trying to avoid the stares and grins of the other kids. Kazu and Terriermon seemed especially amused with massive grins that stretched from ear to ear.
Rika yawned sleepily **...I might have said yes if there weren't so many people around.** "Oh man, is there a clock anywhere?"
Takato "It's about 7:00 am"
Rika looked up recognizing the voice instantly. It was Takato, he was leaning to his left on a crutch while holding out a plate of eggs, sausages and some other things she didn't recognize. He had his usual clothes on plus his trademark goggles, as well as... a backpack? He had the same oversized grin he always, did. Apparently he had forgotten the talk a couple nights ago. Rika smiled knowing this was the perfect time to mess with his head, but first.
Rika "Gogglehead, what are you doing walking around? You ought to be sleeping like me and I should be the one bring you the food."
Takato "Well, I usual have to wake up earlier to get to school and old habits die hard, so I figured I'd use the extra time to make breakfast."
Rika sat up rolling her eyes and put on her violet shades. Her hair was still in a ponytail, basically the only thing that different was the fact that she looked to tired to kill any body... for the moment anyway. She took the plate and rested it on her lap, fighting off a blush at all the bedside manner.
Rika "Umm, thanks Gogglehead. Uhh... Do... you remember what you said a couple nights ago?"
Takato thought about it for a second before his face went redder than the time he accidentally mistook the girls washroom for the guys.
Takato "I, uh- I"
Takato was putting extra pressure on the crutch now and it finally gave out, send him straight into the ground. Rika ignored him and picked up the fork, smiling. That was even more fun than she thought it would be. She looked at Takato on the floor, he hadn't bothered to get up and was staring at her intently wondering if what he said last night was too much or not. Rika seemed to read his mind.
Rika offered him her hand "Don't worry about, Gogglehead. I took it as a compliment."
Takato was pulled back to his feet by Rika, who was surprisingly strong. She helped him with his crutch before heading to her room.
Rika turned before entering the door "Come in here, and I'll bury you alive."
Takato sweatdropped "R-right."
Mrs. Makino "I think she likes you."
Takato turned to see Rika's grandmother, who was smiling gently as always. "What makes you say that?"
Mrs. Makino "She helped you up, she never helped anyone before she went to the digital world."
Takato "Tell me about it."
Mrs. Makino looked shocked slightly "You were there?"
Takato "...How much do you know about me?"
Mrs. Makino "Only that you appeared in Rika's dream before the real world."
Takato "I was in the real world before that, I kinda wiped myself out... it's complicated."
Mrs. Makino nodded understanding Takato's unwillingness to push the subject "Sit and eat something. Today's your first day of school so had best keep your strength up."
Takato nodded and sat down at the table where Mrs. Makino had put his food. Rika's mother had pulled some strings to put Takato in school. She was temporarily taking care of Takato as though he were her own son, until he got better. They would decide what to do about him after he was fully healed. Jeri and Henry had come over to see him in the last few days hoping to talk with him but he was always asleep, or at a doctors appointment. Today would be first day he actually saw them face to face in what seemed like forever.
Rika walked back out of the room, after she finished making sure she didn't look as bad as she felt. All night with no sleep can do that to a person. She sat down next to Takato and ate without saying a word. She was so tired she didn't even notice the young Gogglehead keep giving her quick glances. He finally stopped after he finished his meal and his thoughts trailed off to school and his dragon type partner.
Takato **I wonder what Guilmon's doing.**
***^***
Renamon "Say it!"
Guilmon "That's no fair."
Renamon "SAY IT!"
Guilmon "Awww fine... You win."
Renamon hoped off Guilmon. The conflict had all started nearly an hour earlier when Guilmon surprised her by pushing her out of her tree. (Don't ask me how Guilmon got up there, I don't know) She landed on her feet but was still less than pleased with Guilmon's actions. She chased him down grabbed him when he spun around and tackled her again. Apparently the baby dragon was playing tag, without Renamon knowing of course. When she finally did realize what he was doing, she was still 'it' and was not about to lose to Guilmon on anything. Thus the two ended up playing together till long after sunrise.
Guilmon "That's not how you play."
Renamon "Who cares? I won!"
Guilmon "...What do you want to play now?"
Renamon "Your not tired?"
Guilmon "Nope. What do you want to play now?"
Renamon "Nothing, I was going to read my book."
Guilmon "Read? Takato told me about that once but I don't know how to read."
Renamon chuckled "It's easy. Come here and I'll read it too you."
Guilmon "Okee-Dookie."
Guilmon sat down below Renamon who was already back in her tree as she began reading. Guilmon listened happily totally focused on what she was saying after the first syllable came out of her mouth.
***^***
Takato **Please don't be Ms. Asagi! Please don't be Ms. Asagi.**
Takato had been chanting in the back of his head since he got into the car with Rika. His old school was considerably father away from Rika's house and Takato couldn't ride his bike, not that he even had one anymore. Rika seemed flustered the entire way. She didn't want the other kids to think she was just some rich girl. She had noticed Takato seemed to be on edge too. Seeing the way he was feeling kind of relaxed her, she found it amusing whenever he panicked or froze and became embarrassed. It just made her want to smile at the boy's odd antics.
The car finally stopped and the two got out leaving the chauffeur to drive off. He would be back to pick them up when school ended.
Takato **Just like I remembered it.** "Uhh, Rika?"
Rika turned. She still had her shades on "What is it Gogglehead?"
Takato "Do you know who my teacher is?"
Rika "Well, your in the same class as me so that would be Ms. Asagi."
Takato **Awww nuts, exactly like I remembered it.**
Rika "Bring your sword?"
Takato "No, why?"
Rika "Pity! That would have made a memorable impression."
Takato sweatdropped as he started off towards school "It's too heavy for me when I'm like this. You wouldn't want me to fall over in the middle of class would you?."
Rika "...Actually..."
Takato "Nevermind."
***^***
Rika **Where's gogglehead? We split up when we entered the school so Takato could find his locker but he should be here by now, class started five minutes ago.**
Ms. Asagi "Alright class we should have a new student... Oh it seems he's not here yet. Oh well, I'll just introduce him when he gets here." **And give him a thousand lines of "I will not be late for class for the rest of the year."** (A/N: If only she knew)
Takato hobbled into the room finally grinning sheepishly. Ms. Asagi was staring at him in a way that made him feel uncomfortable.
Ms. Asagi **I know I've seen him before.**
Takato bowed his head "Sorry I'm late. I, umm, fell down the stairs."
The class erupted in laughter but Ms. Asagi silenced them "Is that why you have the crutches?"
Takato "Nope, other way around. I wouldn't have fallen down if these crutches weren't in the way."
Ms. Asagi "...Alright then. Why don't you introduce yourself."
Takato nodded and turned to the class "Hi everyone. I'm Takato and I'm a foreign exchange student even though my parents are both Japanese. I'm living at Rika's house for the time being."
Rika **Did he 'have' to say that last part?**
Everyone turned to Rika in disbelief. In the short time she had attended the school she became very well known for her violent streak. Now a kid that was living in her house showed up looking like his legs were broken. Naturally, this was going to cause a lot of rumors, and problems for Rika.
Rika **Your dead, Gogglehead.**
Takato "Any questions?"
Neither Rika or her 'friends' raised their hand. They had all worked on the foreign student lie together. The other students, though were still curious.
Girl #1 "Where do you come from?"
Takato began to sweat nervously "Uh, Guam!"
Rika **Guam? Is that even a real place? Oh just kill me now.**
Guy #1 "How did you get injured?"
Takato "Uhh... Got hit by a truck, no car, no person riding a bike... Yeah that's it."
Henry sweatdropped **He's really bad at lieing.**
Guy #2 "Is Rika really as violent as they say?"
Takato smiled, this question was easy "I'd tell you but she's kill me."
Rika "Damn straight!"
Girl #2 "What's with those symbols on you arm?"
Takato "They're... native tattoos."
Girl #2 "Are the ones on Rika's arm tattoos too?"
Rika "Oh no you don't. Keep me out of this!"
To bad Takato was already in mid-sentence and it was too late to stop him. It's also to bad Takato spoke before he actually thought about what he was saying "Uhh, those are just a rash... She's allergic... to uh, people." **...I...am...so...dead...**
Everyone looked at Rika and moved away a bit while the poor girl was red with embarrassment. "...goggleHEAD!!!"
Takato "No, wait, Rika, please!"
Takato backed up and began flailing one of his arms wildly as he put his weight on the other side of his body. The rest of the class seemed almost as scared as Takato was at that moment. The boy continues trying to ward Rika off as she got up from her seat. Then thing went from bad to worse as Takato backed up a bit to much and his hand knocked over the teachers coffee which had been sitting, innocently, on the edge of her desk. It spilt all over the papers and files while Ms. Asagi pushed off the desk with her feet, hoping to avoid staining her skirt and blouse.
Takato "ACK! I'm so sorry! Here, lemme help you with that."
Takato reached for the tipped-over mug with both hands, which would normally be a good thing in this situation... Too bad his legs weren't strong enough to support him and he end up doing a face plant right into the teacher's desk. The class burst out laughing, even Henry and Jeri... who had, up until this point only shown concern. Rika hopped over her desk in one fluid motion and was lunging for Takato's neck. Ms. Asagi was desperately trying to restore order, but when Rika got started, she was damn near impossible to stop.
Takato **School is dangerous...**
***^***
Takato's eyes bolted open. He wasn't in school, he was floating above a beach bathed in a place of everlasting darkness. How he had gotten there was anyone's guess. He looked around, the floating feeling was same as the time he saw Rika in a dream, but there scenery this time was definitely different. It looked like it was almost straight out of a TV show, his favorite TV show in fact. It looked like he was in the Dark Ocean.
Takato "Am- Am I dreaming again."
Takato was able to see a small figure in the distance. It was too small to make out from where he was now, but when he squinted his eyes and focused on, he found himself being drawn to it... until he was just a few feet away. The figure shocked him, it was Daemon, and he was mumbling something.
Daemon "Blasted girl, this complicates things. She'll have to be done away with as well... but it'll much harder now that both must die. This is not good, not good."
Takato **That voice is kinda familiar** "Umm, Excuse me. Where am I?"
Daemon lifted his head slowly, like he knew who was behind him. He turned and faced the boy. Takato knew Daemon from the series, but the thought of being destroyed by a cartoon character had only just occurred to him when he saw the Dark Overlord's glare. Daemon folded his arms and began to speak.
Daemon "Alright, this should be good. How did you get here, to the Dark Ocean of all worlds?"
Takato "I've got no idea... Umm is this the same Dark Ocean that Ken and Kari trapped you in?"
Daemon "Are there any others?"
Takato "Good point. It's just this place isn't real so it's kinda confusing."
Daemon floated over and leered at the boy "What makes you so sure it's not real?"
Takato stuttered "Uh-uh-uh."
Daemon "Speak up! Boy!"
Takato gulped "Well it's just that this is just a TV show so none of it can be real, right?"
Daemon's lips curled into a sneer "Let me tell you a little something about the quadrants... Huh?"
Takato's form had begun to dissipate as Daemon was talking. Now not much of him remained. After the boy had seemingly dissolved into nothing Daemon went back to his thoughts, deeply amused by this latest encounter. He wasn't at all concerned about the boy's power to move into other worlds through his dreams, he had known about it for quite some time. And that power was going to help Daemon escape one day.
Daemon **I guess I should find out what he overheard. But then again, I don't want him to recognize my voice... I suppose I'll just leave him for now.**
***^***
Takato's eyes bolted open the same way as before. He wasn't in the dark Ocean he was in a white room line with beds and cabinets.
Takato **Well it's not my class but at least it's closer. Wait. What am I doing here?** His eyes went to the form in front of him, a girl about his age, Rika.
Rika used her best baby voice "Awww. Poor baby having bad dreams about bad digimon?"
Takato "...Actually... Yes."
Rika "...Oh... Anyway, I brought you your lunch." She held out a small bag
Takato took he bag grinning widely "Thanks Rika, that was nice of you."
Rika "Teacher asked me to."
Takato's grin faded a bit "Figures. Hey Rika?"
Rika "Yeah?"
Takato "Did I really made a complete fool out of myself on the fist day or was that just part of the nightmare?"
Rika "Stupid Gogglehead. Of course it was real. What gave you the right to say this damn thing on my arm was a rash anyway?"
Takato looked at his hands "Sorry... I didn't think fast enough."
Rika "...Anyway, it was still funny when you smacked your head into the desk."
Takato smiled at her again "Glad you enjoyed it."
Rika gained a bit more color in her cheeks as she took a seat on Takato's bed. She was kind of tired after she had gotten lost looking for the nurses room. She hadn't been there before so it took quite a while for her to find the room. The next few moments were spent in an awkward silence. Rika was leaning against the wall. She seemed quite comfortable considering the room she was in.
Takato "...Sorry."
Rika turned to him a little surprised "For what?"
Takato "Well, you probably want to be outside with your friends, but instead your in here babysitting me... Then there's still the rash thing."
Rika "Don't worry about it. I'd rather be in here than outside contending with Ryo, Kazu, and Terriermon. And besides, what's done is done. Do It again though, and I'll give more than just a concussion."
Takato smiled seemingly unintimidated "Sounds fair."
Rika **Does this kid ever stop smiling?**
Rika looked at him for a moment then went back to looking at the floor as a group of other kids made their way into the room and stopped in front of Takato. It was his other friends, Jeri, Henry, Ryo, Kazu and Kenta... Nope, just Kazu. Takato assumed Kenta was busy taking care of Marine Angemon since he wasn't here. Rika began to look nervous but Takato could only guess as to why.
Kazu "What's up Chumly?"
Takato "Chumly?" **Darn it, not again.**
Jeri "We came here to see you since-"
Kazu "-Rika schooled you. No pun intended."
Ryo "Speaking of which, Rika what are you doing here?"
Takato "Rika just stopped by to-" CRACK "AHHH!!!"
{Rika was till sitting but had her arm jabbed into one of Takato's legs}
Rika "Whoops, my bad. I came here to get away from you, Ryo."
Ryo **Ouch.** "Whatever."
Takato **Why'd she do that? She must still be ticked off about earlier, I'll have to find a way to make it up to her.**
Henry raised his hand "Anyway, we were also hoping you could clear a few things up about this symbol."
Takato "Well, I'll answer what I can... Rika you can stop crushing my leg now."
Rika "Huh?" The girl looked down to see she still had her arm jabbed into Takato's leg. She withdrew it immediately blushing slightly "Sorry about that."
Everyone ... **Did Rika just apologize?**
Rika "...What?"
Everyone spoke in unison "Nothing" then they looked at each other and exchanged glances.
Kazu "Riiight. So, who or what are you?"
Takato "Takato Matsuki. I'm a human, Duh!"
Henry "What does this symbol mean?"
Takato "It means 'The Hazard'. Basically it destroys stuff."
Henry "Is that why I tried to kill you a couple notes ago night?"
{The group was surprised at Henry's bluntness but he didn't care.}
Takato "...You did what?"
Henry **You gotta be kidding me. All the commotion and he didn't wake up?** ~Sigh~ "Nevermind."
Ryo "What's up with Megidramon?"
Takato looked back down at his hands "Umm, do I have to tell you?"
Everyone nodded except Rika who spoke before Takato got another chance "Relax, Gogglehead. I'll tell them if you want me too."
Takato "You know?"
Rika nodded. Takato was shocked as she began to speak "Megidramon is-"
Takato "Guilmon's corrupt Mega form."
The group gaped at him in surprise. It was hard to believe that sweat little Guilmon could become such a creature. Jeri felt her knees get weak. Even if Guilmon had told her that she was no longer his Tamer she still felt bad for him.
Jeri "You've got to be lieing. Guilmon, would never be like that... ever."
Takato began twiddling his fingers nervously "Your right Jeri. You really are. But I got like that once... I'll tell you how Megidramon showed up, now is as good a time as any."
The Tamers' all back up and took a seat one of the numerous other beds. Ryo was particularly interested. He had heard a lot about the beast from Alice on their little date after the Megidramon copy was defeated. One thing he hadn't heard though, was how such a monster came into existence. Alice had no idea either. It wasn't a natural occurrence, that much was obvious.
Takato "Alright, I guess I'll start from the beginning. I guess it all started a long time ago when I had a dream about Rika."
Everyone turned to Rika who was blushing. Takato realized how that sounded and quickly adjusted his words.
Takato "Well, not a dream exactly. It was more like a vision. I think it was the next day when I found a blue card. I swiped it into my card reader and it turned into a D-Arc. Anyway later that day I swiped a drawing I did of an imaginary digimon. At first nothing happened but then the D-Arc began reading the statistics on it's own."
Rika "I saw that picture. It was in the Matsuki Bakery in Takehiro's study. Renamon found it when she was helping him move some things. But... you weren't real yet, so why did that book stay around?"
Takato shrugged "I honestly have no clue."
Jeri "What does this have to do with Megidramon."
Takato "I'm getting to that. Anyway the next day the digimon I drew, Guilmon, was real. I think that, because I created him, our bond was stronger than most." Takato paused and laughed a bit, looking at Rika. "It's a good thing I made him extra strong for a Rookie, or Renamon would've loaded his data months ago."
Rika "..."
Takato "Anyway, I was friends with all of you, except Ryo of course."
Kazu "Yeah, Guilmon already told us that much."
Takato "Anyway when we went to the Digital World to get Calumon, we eventually met Beelzemon. Impmon was our friend too... But he was willing to give everything he had for power. We were all doing our best to defeat him. But no matter how many of us there were... Beelzemon was just to strong."
Jeri "Yeah... He was a monster."
Takato looked down as a wave of sadness washed over him remembering what happened next "Not as much as I was apparently."
Rika "..." **...Why would say that after all you've done... Was it that bad for you?**
Takato "Jeri... You said Guilmon would never become like that, and you were right. I was one who starting acting out of control. I lost my head for just a minute... And when I... Guilmon was... bigger. We could feel each others pain, and each others hatred too it seems... It's ironic when you think about it. I used to get worried about Guilmon when he digivolved because I wasn't sure I could control him... but in the end I was the one who ended up going out of control."
Rika **So that's it.** "...What happened next."
Takato "Beelzemon... Well, Makuramon was telling Beelzemon what a weakling he was and he wouldn't accept it. He loaded Makuramon's data, then used his attack to load Rapidmon's and Taomon's data. He fought off Megidramon and attacked him in the chest... There was a big explosion and when I woke up I didn't quite exist anymore." **And you were right next to me trying to help me up... Rika.**
Kazu "Intense stuff."
Ryo nodded "How did you get back to this dimension."
Takato "Well I decided to watch over all of you. Even if I couldn't be seen, heard, felt or anything else I could still do my best. Then I found out I could influence things like dreams and those orbs of spare data, I was even able to merge with the Arc. The more I did stuff like that the closer I cam to being real. Hazard Caturamon was the last step."
Henry "Well... That clears a lot up. Just one more thing."
Takato "Shoot."
Henry "Was that rash thing the best explanation you could come out with?"
Rika "Drop it."
Everyone started to laugh. It was a good way to break the tension that Takato's story had accumulated. After a few moments Takato finally looked up at the rest of the tamers.
Takato "So anyone know where Kenta went?"
Kazu "He's probably looking for Marine Angemon again."
Takato "Again?"
Henry "Yep he disappears at least once every day and Kenta goes to look for him."
Takato "Umm, then shouldn't we help him."
Kazu "Hmm. Help... Him... Now there's a thought."
Jeri "I think that's a good idea. After all we don't want a repeat of yesterday."
Takato "Yesterday?"
Rika "The little fish got caught in the microwave."
Ryo "He had to use his attack to avoid getting nuked."
Takato "Yikes, then maybe we should split up to find him faster."
Kazu's eyes beamed at that statement "I'm with Ryo, I'm with Ryo."
Ryo **Damn**
Henry "I'll go with Takato since I got a few more questions I want to ask him."
Takato "Oh! Alright."
Jeri "Well Rika, looks like it's just you and me."
Rika ~Sarcasm~ "Oh goodie."
The three groups took off after they all figured out which floor they were going to take. Rika had to be dragged since she really wasn't looking forward to walking around looking for someone else's digimon. Jeri, on the other hand, was practically jumping for joy. She was just glad she didn't get teamed up with Kazu. Takato and Henry took the bottom floor since Henry remembered what Takato said about falling down the stairs. Kazu and Ryo took the middle floor for no particular reason which left Rika and Jeri with the roof.
***Takato and Henry***
Takato "So where should look for Marine Angemon?"
Henry "Let's try the café first."
Takato started on his crutches "Sounds good. Oh and you said you still had more questions for me?"
Henry "Well yeah, but first I wanted to tell you something else. I remember both timelines."
Takato looked back in surprised at that statement. His lack of attention to what he was doing caused him to slip and fall again.
Henry ~Sigh~ "You need to stay focused on what your doing Takato, or else the simplest things will get you and you'll miss out. Big Time."
Takato was smiling from his position on the ground "Wise words to live by."
***Rika and Jeri***
Two figures stood on the roof of the building. The rim was fenced and the air was fresh. No one else was around. Jeri was in the middle taking in the fresh air, while Rika stood behind craning her head left and right. Unfortunately there was no sign of Marine Angemon. Rika wasn't exactly happy about being in the open. On her way up she had heard numerous rumors about herself and Gogglehead.
***Flashback***
"I heard that boy isn't really an exchange student, that he gets paid to act like her friend."
"Really? I heard she locks him up at night, and that she broke his legs to make it harder for him to escape"
"Your both wrong. She's the daughter of some high official of the government and the boy is a genetic experimentation of theirs" (A/N: So far that closest j/k)
"I heard that they're lovers!"
***End Flashback***
Rika had beaten every single one of those kids up in the hall. It wasn't that hard, they had no idea how to fight and Rika got some good practice as Sakuyamon. She still felt angry about it though, angry that such thoughts would continue no matter how many time she crippled the idiots.
Rika **Stupid Gogglehead**
Jeri "The air is so refreshing up here!"
Rika "Whatever, let's just find the fish and head back."
Jeri "Hold it, there something I wanted to ask you..."
Rika narrowed her eyes behind her violet shades "Alright. What is it."
Jeri looked down at her feet "Well, it's just that you and Henry have been Tamers longer then I have... So I was just wondering..."
Rika "What? You need digimon tips for when you get your next partner?"
Jeri began to turn red "It's not that... Umm..."
Rika leaned over in the direction of her friend "Come on, I don't have all day."
Jeri held her sock puppet up and spoke in a higher voice "Do-you-know-what- Henry-likes-in-a-girl? ...Ruff"
Rika "Huh? ...Did you just ask me... No! Why would I?"
Jeri "Well I just thought..."
Rika "Look, if you want to ask anyone you should ask Takato. He knew Henry pretty well before the idiot erased himself."
Jeri "Takato... Alright thanks Rika... Wait you just used his normal name!"
Rika balled up her first and held it in front of Jeri's face menacingly "Pardon?"
Jeri took off for the staircase "Uh, er. Nothing."
Rika "Wait we haven't found... Oh whatever." Rika raced after her
***Back to Takato and Henry***
The best friends had finally made their way to the café. Takato had tripped and nearly broken something two more times but he was grinning like an idiot the way he always did when he entered through the double door. It was great finally having someone you could talk too about everything that had happened. Granted Takato had Guilmon but he didn't always make the most intelligent conversation.
Henry "Alright, next question. When I woke up I saw this huge knight digimon leaning over me. Do have any idea who that was?"
Takato shifted his eyes upward and tilted his head "Doesn't ring a bell, sorry. I was sleeping right until you guys came into Rika's room so there a lot of that stuff that I wouldn't know. Did you find any other trace of it?"
Henry "Nothing. Mabey it's connected to Renamon's new Mega form."
Takato "Renamon's got a Mega form? Since when."
Henry "Since Megidramon. She's really pretty; long white hair, gold fox helmet, brass staff. Kinda like the priestesses you read about in books."
Takato **Sounds kinda like my dream. Oh well, it's probably nothing** "Alright, my turn. How did you guys get Hazard Caturamon off of me?"
Henry shifted uncomfortable "Beelzemon knocked him off and Rika pulled you to safety. Beelzemon was..."
Takato "...Was what? ...OH" Takato finally realized what Henry was getting at "...I see. Rest in Peace Impmon, wherever you are." (A/N: If he only knew)
Henry waited silently for a moment with eyes closed, to show respect. Then he opened them leaned over to Takato "Alright my turn. Do you still like Jeri?"
Takato stepped back at Henry's closeness... right before he fell again **I really suck at this walking thing, don't I?** "Uh, Well..." **Huh, before, when I thought about her I got all nervous and stuff... but it feels so casual now.** "No. I've hardly even talked to her since Megidramon."
Henry breather a sigh of relief "That's goo- I mean. Good for you Takato."
Takato "Good for me? What are you talking about."
Takato suddenly became very aware of the rosy color in his friends face. And the fact that Jeri was jogging behind him holding her sock puppet proudly. a thought came to Takato as Henry still didn't realize she was there
Takato **Henry's normally pretty confident but not when it comes this kind of stuff... Maybe I can help him out with that. Yes I got an idea. Oh this'll work out perfect... I hope. If it doesn't I'm in trouble**
Takato continued speaking softly and solemnly so noone else other than himself, Henry and Jeri could hear "Wait you mean to say you like me?"
Jeri froze at in her place those words. Takato was looking very serious on this outside but inside he was smiling as he was smart enough to figure out what the reaction would be. And the reaction would be just what he and she wanted.
Henry "WHAT? No you fool, I like JERI... A LOT"
Takato **bulls-eye.**
Henry continued on still not having figured out Takato was messing him on purpose "What are yo-"
He stopped as soon as he noticed Takato was pointing behind him. He turned slowly to see Jeri with one arm behind her back and the other holding up the infamous sock puppet. She was blushing bright red and grinding the ball of her foot into the floor nervously.
Jeri's Sock-Puppet "Ruff. Did you mean what you said about Jeri? Ruff."
Henry nodded stupidly he was at a complete loss for words in this situation.
Jeri "I- I... I think we should talk about this somewhere where there aren't so many people."
Henry looked around becoming suddenly aware that this was all occurring in the café at lunch time. Jeri grabbed his hand and led him out the large white double-doors. Takato was still trying to get back to his feet when he was pulled up by someone or something that could probably bench press him a hundred times and not even break a sweat. He sweatdropped when he realized that person was Rika.
Rika "What is it Gogglehead? Not happy to see me?"
Takato "I'm always happy to see you. Wait I mean uh, I."
Rika "Whatever."
Takato began to fidget around as his face started turning red. It was a good things Rika's shades were violet or she would have easily noticed. She handed him his crutches and was smiling about something. When she gave them back to Takato she brought her face dangerously close to his.
Rika "That was a nice match-maker move with Henry there. I must say I'm impressed."
Takato began blushing again at the complement. **Why can't I stop myself from doing that?** "Uh thanks Rika."
Rika "What, not talking as much. That's a sham-I mean a blessing. Anyway, my point is, if you try anything like that on me and Ryo, I'm going to bury you and Guilmon, alive."
Takato twitched nervously as Rika turned walked off. He could easily picture himself trying to claw his way out a coffin 6 feet under. When she was out of sight he breathed a sigh of relief. But his thoughts went back to his actions when Rika was around only a few seconds earlier and the statement about Ryo that caused him to cringe inwardly.
Takato **You and Ryo? I think I'd die before I let that happen... Wait what am I thinking. I feel kind queasy. Maybe I'm just not feeling well. Yeah... That's probably it.**
To Be Continued...
******^******
Regless: Well there ya go, I managed to give Daemon a part and did a lot of the romance stuff. Less than half of what I wanted. But it was long enough so I figured I'd put the rest in another chapter.
Black: Smooth move what he did with Jeri. Why can't I ever be that smooth.
Regless: Beats me I'll ask the real you when I see him.
Black: The rumors were good too.
Regless: Thanks I'm setting up a scene with more of them including... well I'll just keep that to myself. Anyway it's Friday so I'll probably upload a couple of chapter or two of Viral State. Now time to address everyone individually again. Cracks his knuckles.
***^***
To Digidestined Of Courage And His Evil Companion Black Terriermon-
First off, one of you should get a shorter name. Next glad you liked the last chapter, this one doesn't have as much fighting in it but I'm hoping it's still interested. Thank for the review.
To D3Fan-
I doubt that'll happen in the next chapter. Something I like to do is drag secrets out as long as I can. The best part the Hazard become well known as a source of disarray, so what do you think is gonna happen if they see a knight digimon with that symbol on it? Well see ya.
To Sugah High-
Thankies. I've seen some of your other reviews so I think we got similar tastes. Ciao.
To Firehedgehog-
Arigato (Hope I spelt that right) I'm glad to see the two chapter you put up on your catalyst of light series as well. Mmm Davis Pancakes. Oh and which couple do you like better Davis/Kari or Davis/Yolie? I'm gonna put one of them in my other fic.
To Digifan-
Yep No one yet knows about Takato's ability to Biomerge. Even Takato. The mystery part of that is Alice never turned him back into data. I'll probably have to explain that later but for now... It's my little secret.
To Animefan-
I answered your confusion at the top (I hope). If you got anymore questions, lemme know. And, as always, thanks for the review.
To Energy-
Feel free to gush on and on, I love compliments. ^_^ . Hope you enjoy this chapter. C'ya.
To (X4)-
Thanks for have the easiest name to spell ever. LOL. Anyway, the hazard does give Takato abilities, some of which include things he's already done and some that have yet to come out. But he won't be going Super Saiyan anytime soon if that's what you mean. I going to keep it so is that he has more practical skills such as. Thanks for the review.
To Peter Kim-
How's that? He's suppose to be largely a secret so I don't want to put him in yet. Plus there's also Black Zhuqiaomon, the D-Reaper, and the Hazard itself as an antagonist so... Anyway hope you enjoyed the chapter. C'ya.
To Dalero-
Two words: Thank you.
I look forward to future reviews (Sorry about the lack of originality here but I'm kinda tired.)
*^*
The Pieces: When Beelzemon defeated Megidramon his power was split into 5 pieces which turn up as different colored Symbols which where acquired to the people who were caught in Megidramon's explosion. They are Black (Zhuqiaomon), Red (Takato), Blue (Rika), Green (Henry), and White (Beelzemon). All Hazards try to take over their host and so far, the black one has not been stopped and the Red hasn't even awakened.
Infected: If your infected with the Hazard you become under it's control and the symbol appears somewhere on you (Usually the hand) Each piece has different goals. Green wants to take the power of the other Hazards to become complete, that's why Henry wanted to kill Takato when his finally awakened. While Rika's wanted only to destroy it's host.
Black Hazard: Zhuqiaomon is sending his creations after the tamer to try and retake they other pieces and destroy humanity. Regardless of this fact, Hazard Caturamon and the Megidramon from last chapter were NOT the real threat. Zhuqiaomon is.
Black: Shut up, your talking too much.
Regless: Sorry, sorry! On with the fic.
Black: You forgot to mention to R&R please and this moron doesn't own digimon."
Regless: Where the love?
Black: Wherever you hid my wallet.
{Regless sweatdrops} "Oh yeah, I forgot about that."
******^******
Perfect Hazard - Chapter 13 - Crutches and Crushed
******^******
Black Zhuqiaomon **Hmm, first Caturamon then my Megidramon copy. They are proving harder to dispatch than I thought. No matter. I will crush them, it's only a matter of time... The woman digimon defeated my last pet... I will need some more information on her, Then maybe I can... Yes, yes that should leave the Keeper of the Hazard with his hands full as well. How delightful.**
***^***
Rika open one eye groggily. She hadn't slept well since she was forced to do so on the couch. It may have been softer, but that didn't make it any more comfortable. Also, the fact that she had slept in her clothes didn't help. She had been thinking about the new symbols that snaked their way up her arm the same way Takato's did. The only definable difference was that hers were blue while Takato's were red. And hers didn't go across her chest the way Takato's did.
Rika **Oh crap, I forgot about the homework for school today. Oh well.**
She sighed looking around for a clock so she could see the time. It had been two days since the copy of Megidramon had reared it's ugly head. Her grandmother had suggested sleeping in the same room as Takato to keep him company, but there was no way that was going to happen. She had turned red and shrugged it off, trying to avoid the stares and grins of the other kids. Kazu and Terriermon seemed especially amused with massive grins that stretched from ear to ear.
Rika yawned sleepily **...I might have said yes if there weren't so many people around.** "Oh man, is there a clock anywhere?"
Takato "It's about 7:00 am"
Rika looked up recognizing the voice instantly. It was Takato, he was leaning to his left on a crutch while holding out a plate of eggs, sausages and some other things she didn't recognize. He had his usual clothes on plus his trademark goggles, as well as... a backpack? He had the same oversized grin he always, did. Apparently he had forgotten the talk a couple nights ago. Rika smiled knowing this was the perfect time to mess with his head, but first.
Rika "Gogglehead, what are you doing walking around? You ought to be sleeping like me and I should be the one bring you the food."
Takato "Well, I usual have to wake up earlier to get to school and old habits die hard, so I figured I'd use the extra time to make breakfast."
Rika sat up rolling her eyes and put on her violet shades. Her hair was still in a ponytail, basically the only thing that different was the fact that she looked to tired to kill any body... for the moment anyway. She took the plate and rested it on her lap, fighting off a blush at all the bedside manner.
Rika "Umm, thanks Gogglehead. Uhh... Do... you remember what you said a couple nights ago?"
Takato thought about it for a second before his face went redder than the time he accidentally mistook the girls washroom for the guys.
Takato "I, uh- I"
Takato was putting extra pressure on the crutch now and it finally gave out, send him straight into the ground. Rika ignored him and picked up the fork, smiling. That was even more fun than she thought it would be. She looked at Takato on the floor, he hadn't bothered to get up and was staring at her intently wondering if what he said last night was too much or not. Rika seemed to read his mind.
Rika offered him her hand "Don't worry about, Gogglehead. I took it as a compliment."
Takato was pulled back to his feet by Rika, who was surprisingly strong. She helped him with his crutch before heading to her room.
Rika turned before entering the door "Come in here, and I'll bury you alive."
Takato sweatdropped "R-right."
Mrs. Makino "I think she likes you."
Takato turned to see Rika's grandmother, who was smiling gently as always. "What makes you say that?"
Mrs. Makino "She helped you up, she never helped anyone before she went to the digital world."
Takato "Tell me about it."
Mrs. Makino looked shocked slightly "You were there?"
Takato "...How much do you know about me?"
Mrs. Makino "Only that you appeared in Rika's dream before the real world."
Takato "I was in the real world before that, I kinda wiped myself out... it's complicated."
Mrs. Makino nodded understanding Takato's unwillingness to push the subject "Sit and eat something. Today's your first day of school so had best keep your strength up."
Takato nodded and sat down at the table where Mrs. Makino had put his food. Rika's mother had pulled some strings to put Takato in school. She was temporarily taking care of Takato as though he were her own son, until he got better. They would decide what to do about him after he was fully healed. Jeri and Henry had come over to see him in the last few days hoping to talk with him but he was always asleep, or at a doctors appointment. Today would be first day he actually saw them face to face in what seemed like forever.
Rika walked back out of the room, after she finished making sure she didn't look as bad as she felt. All night with no sleep can do that to a person. She sat down next to Takato and ate without saying a word. She was so tired she didn't even notice the young Gogglehead keep giving her quick glances. He finally stopped after he finished his meal and his thoughts trailed off to school and his dragon type partner.
Takato **I wonder what Guilmon's doing.**
***^***
Renamon "Say it!"
Guilmon "That's no fair."
Renamon "SAY IT!"
Guilmon "Awww fine... You win."
Renamon hoped off Guilmon. The conflict had all started nearly an hour earlier when Guilmon surprised her by pushing her out of her tree. (Don't ask me how Guilmon got up there, I don't know) She landed on her feet but was still less than pleased with Guilmon's actions. She chased him down grabbed him when he spun around and tackled her again. Apparently the baby dragon was playing tag, without Renamon knowing of course. When she finally did realize what he was doing, she was still 'it' and was not about to lose to Guilmon on anything. Thus the two ended up playing together till long after sunrise.
Guilmon "That's not how you play."
Renamon "Who cares? I won!"
Guilmon "...What do you want to play now?"
Renamon "Your not tired?"
Guilmon "Nope. What do you want to play now?"
Renamon "Nothing, I was going to read my book."
Guilmon "Read? Takato told me about that once but I don't know how to read."
Renamon chuckled "It's easy. Come here and I'll read it too you."
Guilmon "Okee-Dookie."
Guilmon sat down below Renamon who was already back in her tree as she began reading. Guilmon listened happily totally focused on what she was saying after the first syllable came out of her mouth.
***^***
Takato **Please don't be Ms. Asagi! Please don't be Ms. Asagi.**
Takato had been chanting in the back of his head since he got into the car with Rika. His old school was considerably father away from Rika's house and Takato couldn't ride his bike, not that he even had one anymore. Rika seemed flustered the entire way. She didn't want the other kids to think she was just some rich girl. She had noticed Takato seemed to be on edge too. Seeing the way he was feeling kind of relaxed her, she found it amusing whenever he panicked or froze and became embarrassed. It just made her want to smile at the boy's odd antics.
The car finally stopped and the two got out leaving the chauffeur to drive off. He would be back to pick them up when school ended.
Takato **Just like I remembered it.** "Uhh, Rika?"
Rika turned. She still had her shades on "What is it Gogglehead?"
Takato "Do you know who my teacher is?"
Rika "Well, your in the same class as me so that would be Ms. Asagi."
Takato **Awww nuts, exactly like I remembered it.**
Rika "Bring your sword?"
Takato "No, why?"
Rika "Pity! That would have made a memorable impression."
Takato sweatdropped as he started off towards school "It's too heavy for me when I'm like this. You wouldn't want me to fall over in the middle of class would you?."
Rika "...Actually..."
Takato "Nevermind."
***^***
Rika **Where's gogglehead? We split up when we entered the school so Takato could find his locker but he should be here by now, class started five minutes ago.**
Ms. Asagi "Alright class we should have a new student... Oh it seems he's not here yet. Oh well, I'll just introduce him when he gets here." **And give him a thousand lines of "I will not be late for class for the rest of the year."** (A/N: If only she knew)
Takato hobbled into the room finally grinning sheepishly. Ms. Asagi was staring at him in a way that made him feel uncomfortable.
Ms. Asagi **I know I've seen him before.**
Takato bowed his head "Sorry I'm late. I, umm, fell down the stairs."
The class erupted in laughter but Ms. Asagi silenced them "Is that why you have the crutches?"
Takato "Nope, other way around. I wouldn't have fallen down if these crutches weren't in the way."
Ms. Asagi "...Alright then. Why don't you introduce yourself."
Takato nodded and turned to the class "Hi everyone. I'm Takato and I'm a foreign exchange student even though my parents are both Japanese. I'm living at Rika's house for the time being."
Rika **Did he 'have' to say that last part?**
Everyone turned to Rika in disbelief. In the short time she had attended the school she became very well known for her violent streak. Now a kid that was living in her house showed up looking like his legs were broken. Naturally, this was going to cause a lot of rumors, and problems for Rika.
Rika **Your dead, Gogglehead.**
Takato "Any questions?"
Neither Rika or her 'friends' raised their hand. They had all worked on the foreign student lie together. The other students, though were still curious.
Girl #1 "Where do you come from?"
Takato began to sweat nervously "Uh, Guam!"
Rika **Guam? Is that even a real place? Oh just kill me now.**
Guy #1 "How did you get injured?"
Takato "Uhh... Got hit by a truck, no car, no person riding a bike... Yeah that's it."
Henry sweatdropped **He's really bad at lieing.**
Guy #2 "Is Rika really as violent as they say?"
Takato smiled, this question was easy "I'd tell you but she's kill me."
Rika "Damn straight!"
Girl #2 "What's with those symbols on you arm?"
Takato "They're... native tattoos."
Girl #2 "Are the ones on Rika's arm tattoos too?"
Rika "Oh no you don't. Keep me out of this!"
To bad Takato was already in mid-sentence and it was too late to stop him. It's also to bad Takato spoke before he actually thought about what he was saying "Uhh, those are just a rash... She's allergic... to uh, people." **...I...am...so...dead...**
Everyone looked at Rika and moved away a bit while the poor girl was red with embarrassment. "...goggleHEAD!!!"
Takato "No, wait, Rika, please!"
Takato backed up and began flailing one of his arms wildly as he put his weight on the other side of his body. The rest of the class seemed almost as scared as Takato was at that moment. The boy continues trying to ward Rika off as she got up from her seat. Then thing went from bad to worse as Takato backed up a bit to much and his hand knocked over the teachers coffee which had been sitting, innocently, on the edge of her desk. It spilt all over the papers and files while Ms. Asagi pushed off the desk with her feet, hoping to avoid staining her skirt and blouse.
Takato "ACK! I'm so sorry! Here, lemme help you with that."
Takato reached for the tipped-over mug with both hands, which would normally be a good thing in this situation... Too bad his legs weren't strong enough to support him and he end up doing a face plant right into the teacher's desk. The class burst out laughing, even Henry and Jeri... who had, up until this point only shown concern. Rika hopped over her desk in one fluid motion and was lunging for Takato's neck. Ms. Asagi was desperately trying to restore order, but when Rika got started, she was damn near impossible to stop.
Takato **School is dangerous...**
***^***
Takato's eyes bolted open. He wasn't in school, he was floating above a beach bathed in a place of everlasting darkness. How he had gotten there was anyone's guess. He looked around, the floating feeling was same as the time he saw Rika in a dream, but there scenery this time was definitely different. It looked like it was almost straight out of a TV show, his favorite TV show in fact. It looked like he was in the Dark Ocean.
Takato "Am- Am I dreaming again."
Takato was able to see a small figure in the distance. It was too small to make out from where he was now, but when he squinted his eyes and focused on, he found himself being drawn to it... until he was just a few feet away. The figure shocked him, it was Daemon, and he was mumbling something.
Daemon "Blasted girl, this complicates things. She'll have to be done away with as well... but it'll much harder now that both must die. This is not good, not good."
Takato **That voice is kinda familiar** "Umm, Excuse me. Where am I?"
Daemon lifted his head slowly, like he knew who was behind him. He turned and faced the boy. Takato knew Daemon from the series, but the thought of being destroyed by a cartoon character had only just occurred to him when he saw the Dark Overlord's glare. Daemon folded his arms and began to speak.
Daemon "Alright, this should be good. How did you get here, to the Dark Ocean of all worlds?"
Takato "I've got no idea... Umm is this the same Dark Ocean that Ken and Kari trapped you in?"
Daemon "Are there any others?"
Takato "Good point. It's just this place isn't real so it's kinda confusing."
Daemon floated over and leered at the boy "What makes you so sure it's not real?"
Takato stuttered "Uh-uh-uh."
Daemon "Speak up! Boy!"
Takato gulped "Well it's just that this is just a TV show so none of it can be real, right?"
Daemon's lips curled into a sneer "Let me tell you a little something about the quadrants... Huh?"
Takato's form had begun to dissipate as Daemon was talking. Now not much of him remained. After the boy had seemingly dissolved into nothing Daemon went back to his thoughts, deeply amused by this latest encounter. He wasn't at all concerned about the boy's power to move into other worlds through his dreams, he had known about it for quite some time. And that power was going to help Daemon escape one day.
Daemon **I guess I should find out what he overheard. But then again, I don't want him to recognize my voice... I suppose I'll just leave him for now.**
***^***
Takato's eyes bolted open the same way as before. He wasn't in the dark Ocean he was in a white room line with beds and cabinets.
Takato **Well it's not my class but at least it's closer. Wait. What am I doing here?** His eyes went to the form in front of him, a girl about his age, Rika.
Rika used her best baby voice "Awww. Poor baby having bad dreams about bad digimon?"
Takato "...Actually... Yes."
Rika "...Oh... Anyway, I brought you your lunch." She held out a small bag
Takato took he bag grinning widely "Thanks Rika, that was nice of you."
Rika "Teacher asked me to."
Takato's grin faded a bit "Figures. Hey Rika?"
Rika "Yeah?"
Takato "Did I really made a complete fool out of myself on the fist day or was that just part of the nightmare?"
Rika "Stupid Gogglehead. Of course it was real. What gave you the right to say this damn thing on my arm was a rash anyway?"
Takato looked at his hands "Sorry... I didn't think fast enough."
Rika "...Anyway, it was still funny when you smacked your head into the desk."
Takato smiled at her again "Glad you enjoyed it."
Rika gained a bit more color in her cheeks as she took a seat on Takato's bed. She was kind of tired after she had gotten lost looking for the nurses room. She hadn't been there before so it took quite a while for her to find the room. The next few moments were spent in an awkward silence. Rika was leaning against the wall. She seemed quite comfortable considering the room she was in.
Takato "...Sorry."
Rika turned to him a little surprised "For what?"
Takato "Well, you probably want to be outside with your friends, but instead your in here babysitting me... Then there's still the rash thing."
Rika "Don't worry about it. I'd rather be in here than outside contending with Ryo, Kazu, and Terriermon. And besides, what's done is done. Do It again though, and I'll give more than just a concussion."
Takato smiled seemingly unintimidated "Sounds fair."
Rika **Does this kid ever stop smiling?**
Rika looked at him for a moment then went back to looking at the floor as a group of other kids made their way into the room and stopped in front of Takato. It was his other friends, Jeri, Henry, Ryo, Kazu and Kenta... Nope, just Kazu. Takato assumed Kenta was busy taking care of Marine Angemon since he wasn't here. Rika began to look nervous but Takato could only guess as to why.
Kazu "What's up Chumly?"
Takato "Chumly?" **Darn it, not again.**
Jeri "We came here to see you since-"
Kazu "-Rika schooled you. No pun intended."
Ryo "Speaking of which, Rika what are you doing here?"
Takato "Rika just stopped by to-" CRACK "AHHH!!!"
{Rika was till sitting but had her arm jabbed into one of Takato's legs}
Rika "Whoops, my bad. I came here to get away from you, Ryo."
Ryo **Ouch.** "Whatever."
Takato **Why'd she do that? She must still be ticked off about earlier, I'll have to find a way to make it up to her.**
Henry raised his hand "Anyway, we were also hoping you could clear a few things up about this symbol."
Takato "Well, I'll answer what I can... Rika you can stop crushing my leg now."
Rika "Huh?" The girl looked down to see she still had her arm jabbed into Takato's leg. She withdrew it immediately blushing slightly "Sorry about that."
Everyone ... **Did Rika just apologize?**
Rika "...What?"
Everyone spoke in unison "Nothing" then they looked at each other and exchanged glances.
Kazu "Riiight. So, who or what are you?"
Takato "Takato Matsuki. I'm a human, Duh!"
Henry "What does this symbol mean?"
Takato "It means 'The Hazard'. Basically it destroys stuff."
Henry "Is that why I tried to kill you a couple notes ago night?"
{The group was surprised at Henry's bluntness but he didn't care.}
Takato "...You did what?"
Henry **You gotta be kidding me. All the commotion and he didn't wake up?** ~Sigh~ "Nevermind."
Ryo "What's up with Megidramon?"
Takato looked back down at his hands "Umm, do I have to tell you?"
Everyone nodded except Rika who spoke before Takato got another chance "Relax, Gogglehead. I'll tell them if you want me too."
Takato "You know?"
Rika nodded. Takato was shocked as she began to speak "Megidramon is-"
Takato "Guilmon's corrupt Mega form."
The group gaped at him in surprise. It was hard to believe that sweat little Guilmon could become such a creature. Jeri felt her knees get weak. Even if Guilmon had told her that she was no longer his Tamer she still felt bad for him.
Jeri "You've got to be lieing. Guilmon, would never be like that... ever."
Takato began twiddling his fingers nervously "Your right Jeri. You really are. But I got like that once... I'll tell you how Megidramon showed up, now is as good a time as any."
The Tamers' all back up and took a seat one of the numerous other beds. Ryo was particularly interested. He had heard a lot about the beast from Alice on their little date after the Megidramon copy was defeated. One thing he hadn't heard though, was how such a monster came into existence. Alice had no idea either. It wasn't a natural occurrence, that much was obvious.
Takato "Alright, I guess I'll start from the beginning. I guess it all started a long time ago when I had a dream about Rika."
Everyone turned to Rika who was blushing. Takato realized how that sounded and quickly adjusted his words.
Takato "Well, not a dream exactly. It was more like a vision. I think it was the next day when I found a blue card. I swiped it into my card reader and it turned into a D-Arc. Anyway later that day I swiped a drawing I did of an imaginary digimon. At first nothing happened but then the D-Arc began reading the statistics on it's own."
Rika "I saw that picture. It was in the Matsuki Bakery in Takehiro's study. Renamon found it when she was helping him move some things. But... you weren't real yet, so why did that book stay around?"
Takato shrugged "I honestly have no clue."
Jeri "What does this have to do with Megidramon."
Takato "I'm getting to that. Anyway the next day the digimon I drew, Guilmon, was real. I think that, because I created him, our bond was stronger than most." Takato paused and laughed a bit, looking at Rika. "It's a good thing I made him extra strong for a Rookie, or Renamon would've loaded his data months ago."
Rika "..."
Takato "Anyway, I was friends with all of you, except Ryo of course."
Kazu "Yeah, Guilmon already told us that much."
Takato "Anyway when we went to the Digital World to get Calumon, we eventually met Beelzemon. Impmon was our friend too... But he was willing to give everything he had for power. We were all doing our best to defeat him. But no matter how many of us there were... Beelzemon was just to strong."
Jeri "Yeah... He was a monster."
Takato looked down as a wave of sadness washed over him remembering what happened next "Not as much as I was apparently."
Rika "..." **...Why would say that after all you've done... Was it that bad for you?**
Takato "Jeri... You said Guilmon would never become like that, and you were right. I was one who starting acting out of control. I lost my head for just a minute... And when I... Guilmon was... bigger. We could feel each others pain, and each others hatred too it seems... It's ironic when you think about it. I used to get worried about Guilmon when he digivolved because I wasn't sure I could control him... but in the end I was the one who ended up going out of control."
Rika **So that's it.** "...What happened next."
Takato "Beelzemon... Well, Makuramon was telling Beelzemon what a weakling he was and he wouldn't accept it. He loaded Makuramon's data, then used his attack to load Rapidmon's and Taomon's data. He fought off Megidramon and attacked him in the chest... There was a big explosion and when I woke up I didn't quite exist anymore." **And you were right next to me trying to help me up... Rika.**
Kazu "Intense stuff."
Ryo nodded "How did you get back to this dimension."
Takato "Well I decided to watch over all of you. Even if I couldn't be seen, heard, felt or anything else I could still do my best. Then I found out I could influence things like dreams and those orbs of spare data, I was even able to merge with the Arc. The more I did stuff like that the closer I cam to being real. Hazard Caturamon was the last step."
Henry "Well... That clears a lot up. Just one more thing."
Takato "Shoot."
Henry "Was that rash thing the best explanation you could come out with?"
Rika "Drop it."
Everyone started to laugh. It was a good way to break the tension that Takato's story had accumulated. After a few moments Takato finally looked up at the rest of the tamers.
Takato "So anyone know where Kenta went?"
Kazu "He's probably looking for Marine Angemon again."
Takato "Again?"
Henry "Yep he disappears at least once every day and Kenta goes to look for him."
Takato "Umm, then shouldn't we help him."
Kazu "Hmm. Help... Him... Now there's a thought."
Jeri "I think that's a good idea. After all we don't want a repeat of yesterday."
Takato "Yesterday?"
Rika "The little fish got caught in the microwave."
Ryo "He had to use his attack to avoid getting nuked."
Takato "Yikes, then maybe we should split up to find him faster."
Kazu's eyes beamed at that statement "I'm with Ryo, I'm with Ryo."
Ryo **Damn**
Henry "I'll go with Takato since I got a few more questions I want to ask him."
Takato "Oh! Alright."
Jeri "Well Rika, looks like it's just you and me."
Rika ~Sarcasm~ "Oh goodie."
The three groups took off after they all figured out which floor they were going to take. Rika had to be dragged since she really wasn't looking forward to walking around looking for someone else's digimon. Jeri, on the other hand, was practically jumping for joy. She was just glad she didn't get teamed up with Kazu. Takato and Henry took the bottom floor since Henry remembered what Takato said about falling down the stairs. Kazu and Ryo took the middle floor for no particular reason which left Rika and Jeri with the roof.
***Takato and Henry***
Takato "So where should look for Marine Angemon?"
Henry "Let's try the café first."
Takato started on his crutches "Sounds good. Oh and you said you still had more questions for me?"
Henry "Well yeah, but first I wanted to tell you something else. I remember both timelines."
Takato looked back in surprised at that statement. His lack of attention to what he was doing caused him to slip and fall again.
Henry ~Sigh~ "You need to stay focused on what your doing Takato, or else the simplest things will get you and you'll miss out. Big Time."
Takato was smiling from his position on the ground "Wise words to live by."
***Rika and Jeri***
Two figures stood on the roof of the building. The rim was fenced and the air was fresh. No one else was around. Jeri was in the middle taking in the fresh air, while Rika stood behind craning her head left and right. Unfortunately there was no sign of Marine Angemon. Rika wasn't exactly happy about being in the open. On her way up she had heard numerous rumors about herself and Gogglehead.
***Flashback***
"I heard that boy isn't really an exchange student, that he gets paid to act like her friend."
"Really? I heard she locks him up at night, and that she broke his legs to make it harder for him to escape"
"Your both wrong. She's the daughter of some high official of the government and the boy is a genetic experimentation of theirs" (A/N: So far that closest j/k)
"I heard that they're lovers!"
***End Flashback***
Rika had beaten every single one of those kids up in the hall. It wasn't that hard, they had no idea how to fight and Rika got some good practice as Sakuyamon. She still felt angry about it though, angry that such thoughts would continue no matter how many time she crippled the idiots.
Rika **Stupid Gogglehead**
Jeri "The air is so refreshing up here!"
Rika "Whatever, let's just find the fish and head back."
Jeri "Hold it, there something I wanted to ask you..."
Rika narrowed her eyes behind her violet shades "Alright. What is it."
Jeri looked down at her feet "Well, it's just that you and Henry have been Tamers longer then I have... So I was just wondering..."
Rika "What? You need digimon tips for when you get your next partner?"
Jeri began to turn red "It's not that... Umm..."
Rika leaned over in the direction of her friend "Come on, I don't have all day."
Jeri held her sock puppet up and spoke in a higher voice "Do-you-know-what- Henry-likes-in-a-girl? ...Ruff"
Rika "Huh? ...Did you just ask me... No! Why would I?"
Jeri "Well I just thought..."
Rika "Look, if you want to ask anyone you should ask Takato. He knew Henry pretty well before the idiot erased himself."
Jeri "Takato... Alright thanks Rika... Wait you just used his normal name!"
Rika balled up her first and held it in front of Jeri's face menacingly "Pardon?"
Jeri took off for the staircase "Uh, er. Nothing."
Rika "Wait we haven't found... Oh whatever." Rika raced after her
***Back to Takato and Henry***
The best friends had finally made their way to the café. Takato had tripped and nearly broken something two more times but he was grinning like an idiot the way he always did when he entered through the double door. It was great finally having someone you could talk too about everything that had happened. Granted Takato had Guilmon but he didn't always make the most intelligent conversation.
Henry "Alright, next question. When I woke up I saw this huge knight digimon leaning over me. Do have any idea who that was?"
Takato shifted his eyes upward and tilted his head "Doesn't ring a bell, sorry. I was sleeping right until you guys came into Rika's room so there a lot of that stuff that I wouldn't know. Did you find any other trace of it?"
Henry "Nothing. Mabey it's connected to Renamon's new Mega form."
Takato "Renamon's got a Mega form? Since when."
Henry "Since Megidramon. She's really pretty; long white hair, gold fox helmet, brass staff. Kinda like the priestesses you read about in books."
Takato **Sounds kinda like my dream. Oh well, it's probably nothing** "Alright, my turn. How did you guys get Hazard Caturamon off of me?"
Henry shifted uncomfortable "Beelzemon knocked him off and Rika pulled you to safety. Beelzemon was..."
Takato "...Was what? ...OH" Takato finally realized what Henry was getting at "...I see. Rest in Peace Impmon, wherever you are." (A/N: If he only knew)
Henry waited silently for a moment with eyes closed, to show respect. Then he opened them leaned over to Takato "Alright my turn. Do you still like Jeri?"
Takato stepped back at Henry's closeness... right before he fell again **I really suck at this walking thing, don't I?** "Uh, Well..." **Huh, before, when I thought about her I got all nervous and stuff... but it feels so casual now.** "No. I've hardly even talked to her since Megidramon."
Henry breather a sigh of relief "That's goo- I mean. Good for you Takato."
Takato "Good for me? What are you talking about."
Takato suddenly became very aware of the rosy color in his friends face. And the fact that Jeri was jogging behind him holding her sock puppet proudly. a thought came to Takato as Henry still didn't realize she was there
Takato **Henry's normally pretty confident but not when it comes this kind of stuff... Maybe I can help him out with that. Yes I got an idea. Oh this'll work out perfect... I hope. If it doesn't I'm in trouble**
Takato continued speaking softly and solemnly so noone else other than himself, Henry and Jeri could hear "Wait you mean to say you like me?"
Jeri froze at in her place those words. Takato was looking very serious on this outside but inside he was smiling as he was smart enough to figure out what the reaction would be. And the reaction would be just what he and she wanted.
Henry "WHAT? No you fool, I like JERI... A LOT"
Takato **bulls-eye.**
Henry continued on still not having figured out Takato was messing him on purpose "What are yo-"
He stopped as soon as he noticed Takato was pointing behind him. He turned slowly to see Jeri with one arm behind her back and the other holding up the infamous sock puppet. She was blushing bright red and grinding the ball of her foot into the floor nervously.
Jeri's Sock-Puppet "Ruff. Did you mean what you said about Jeri? Ruff."
Henry nodded stupidly he was at a complete loss for words in this situation.
Jeri "I- I... I think we should talk about this somewhere where there aren't so many people."
Henry looked around becoming suddenly aware that this was all occurring in the café at lunch time. Jeri grabbed his hand and led him out the large white double-doors. Takato was still trying to get back to his feet when he was pulled up by someone or something that could probably bench press him a hundred times and not even break a sweat. He sweatdropped when he realized that person was Rika.
Rika "What is it Gogglehead? Not happy to see me?"
Takato "I'm always happy to see you. Wait I mean uh, I."
Rika "Whatever."
Takato began to fidget around as his face started turning red. It was a good things Rika's shades were violet or she would have easily noticed. She handed him his crutches and was smiling about something. When she gave them back to Takato she brought her face dangerously close to his.
Rika "That was a nice match-maker move with Henry there. I must say I'm impressed."
Takato began blushing again at the complement. **Why can't I stop myself from doing that?** "Uh thanks Rika."
Rika "What, not talking as much. That's a sham-I mean a blessing. Anyway, my point is, if you try anything like that on me and Ryo, I'm going to bury you and Guilmon, alive."
Takato twitched nervously as Rika turned walked off. He could easily picture himself trying to claw his way out a coffin 6 feet under. When she was out of sight he breathed a sigh of relief. But his thoughts went back to his actions when Rika was around only a few seconds earlier and the statement about Ryo that caused him to cringe inwardly.
Takato **You and Ryo? I think I'd die before I let that happen... Wait what am I thinking. I feel kind queasy. Maybe I'm just not feeling well. Yeah... That's probably it.**
To Be Continued...
******^******
Regless: Well there ya go, I managed to give Daemon a part and did a lot of the romance stuff. Less than half of what I wanted. But it was long enough so I figured I'd put the rest in another chapter.
Black: Smooth move what he did with Jeri. Why can't I ever be that smooth.
Regless: Beats me I'll ask the real you when I see him.
Black: The rumors were good too.
Regless: Thanks I'm setting up a scene with more of them including... well I'll just keep that to myself. Anyway it's Friday so I'll probably upload a couple of chapter or two of Viral State. Now time to address everyone individually again. Cracks his knuckles.
***^***
To Digidestined Of Courage And His Evil Companion Black Terriermon-
First off, one of you should get a shorter name. Next glad you liked the last chapter, this one doesn't have as much fighting in it but I'm hoping it's still interested. Thank for the review.
To D3Fan-
I doubt that'll happen in the next chapter. Something I like to do is drag secrets out as long as I can. The best part the Hazard become well known as a source of disarray, so what do you think is gonna happen if they see a knight digimon with that symbol on it? Well see ya.
To Sugah High-
Thankies. I've seen some of your other reviews so I think we got similar tastes. Ciao.
To Firehedgehog-
Arigato (Hope I spelt that right) I'm glad to see the two chapter you put up on your catalyst of light series as well. Mmm Davis Pancakes. Oh and which couple do you like better Davis/Kari or Davis/Yolie? I'm gonna put one of them in my other fic.
To Digifan-
Yep No one yet knows about Takato's ability to Biomerge. Even Takato. The mystery part of that is Alice never turned him back into data. I'll probably have to explain that later but for now... It's my little secret.
To Animefan-
I answered your confusion at the top (I hope). If you got anymore questions, lemme know. And, as always, thanks for the review.
To Energy-
Feel free to gush on and on, I love compliments. ^_^ . Hope you enjoy this chapter. C'ya.
To (X4)-
Thanks for have the easiest name to spell ever. LOL. Anyway, the hazard does give Takato abilities, some of which include things he's already done and some that have yet to come out. But he won't be going Super Saiyan anytime soon if that's what you mean. I going to keep it so is that he has more practical skills such as. Thanks for the review.
To Peter Kim-
How's that? He's suppose to be largely a secret so I don't want to put him in yet. Plus there's also Black Zhuqiaomon, the D-Reaper, and the Hazard itself as an antagonist so... Anyway hope you enjoyed the chapter. C'ya.
To Dalero-
Two words: Thank you.
I look forward to future reviews (Sorry about the lack of originality here but I'm kinda tired.)