Regless: Damn. I was going for an outpouring of sympathy for poor Takato but it seems I rushed the chapter to much. This is an example of what happens when you try to do everything at once. I re-read the chapter and I agree with shadow, it does suck (Even though I was really pissed when I first read the review, LOL. I'm glad someone told me). I found way to many inconsistencies such as: Why would Takato take the subway when he has Grani? And stuff. Anyway I've decided to redo the chapter and include the funny parts in THIS one. That way I won't mess up the pace by going directly to extremely serious to funny and back and so on. Anyway this should be better all around. Won't bother replying to the reviews though, that'll be done in the next one. Okay? Okay! And don't feel obliged to reply to this one.
Black: Alright, one more chapter and this'll be done. For future note. Jeri is going to be used differently than before. She is going to actually BE the D-Reaper for the purpose that 'You can't fight friends' Have a nice week all.
Regless: And someone mentioned the stabbing thing with Jeri in the old chapter 23 being cruel... It's suppose to be. I'm trying to make CG as evil as possible. The final battle should be good but anyway... See ya.
" = Dialogue
** = Thoughts
******^******
Perfect Hazard - Chapter 18 - Gathering Hope
******^******
Just on the outskirts of the city, multiple green tents had been pitched and soldiers in tacky green outfits scattered everywhere. The army had been called in to help get rid of the purple substance. They had also been asked to cooperate with the Tamers, something which did not turn out as well as it could've. While the military had received help from Ryo, Alice, Cyberdramon and Dobermon, Sakuyamon had led their choppers around with seemingly no purpose before disappearing. Takato and Guilmon had also gone into hiding. The commander was just now seeing the various newscasts about Takato and his alleged attack. The armies objective was simple. Evacuate the designated area and destroy all hostile objects that come out of the portal in the sky... However they had yet to see any hostile objects. The commander sighed to himself, thinking about how useful Yamaki's help would be right now... but that wasn't going to happen. Yamaki and his closest associates had all disappeared.
The Commander sighed **Guess it'll be another long day**
***Meanwhile: Matsuki Bakery***
It was night, cold and quiet. The worst part was that the Tamers were stuck doing nothing until Shibumi finished his work on the Red Card, something that was becoming a great source of stress on everyone. Kenta and Kazu were still out 'hunting' Takato and/or Guilmon while Suzy and Henry were still at the hospital with their partners and siblings. There had been a sympathetic newscast about an hour ago and Henry was receiving support to recover from all over Japan, a thought that eased Takato slightly. Takato was also receiving a lot of publicity but not in a good way. Apart from the attempted murder and assault of various people, he was now charged with kidnapping Rika by... Rika's mother, who else? Rika considered coming forward to explain everything... but her mother had a habit of not listening to anyone. Plus that might also give away Takato's location. Ryo and Alice had left for a while, to keep Kazu and Kenta off of Takato's trail as well as monitor the D-Reaper. It was getting bigger and was now able to hold it's liquid form. It was evolving incredibly fast. Rika and Ruki were in the main room of the bakery, it had closed only half an hour ago.
Ruki was sitting on the counter with a solemn look on her face "He... he wasn't to happy about what happened to Henry, was he?"
Rika "That's an understatement. You know, I've seen him sad, happy, frustrated... But never mad."
Ruki "I can't hear his footsteps anymore, you think he stopped pacing upstairs and went to sleep?"
Rika gave Ruki a partial glare "Why should you care, I thought you were going to leave him alone."
Ruki glanced back looking visibly hurt "M-Maybe I should... but... Even if I can't have him all to myself... I just don't want to see him get hurt. You know."
Rika "..."
Ruki "This probably makes no sense to you, it's really confusing to me. I just want to stay near him a little longer. Is that alright?"
Rika "...NO...Not really... but then again, I guess Gogglehead could use all the help he can get. Henry was... is his best friend." **And I'll bet part of that was because he remembered both time-lines.**
Ruki smiled innocently "Thanks... You know, you can actually be almost nice when you want to be."
Rika frowned "Shut up."
Ruki "And what's up with your mom, I heard she got a restraining order on Takato."
Rika "She's... uhh, how do I put it?"
Ruki got a sly smile again "Nuts?"
Rika paused for a moment glaring at her counterpart, right before she broke out laughing "Actually, I think that's exactly what I'd call her."
Ruki hopped off the counter and started towards the stairs "I'm gonna check on Takato, wanna stay here?"
Rika frowned again, but it seemed more of a joke this time rather than actually dislike. "...And leave you and Gogglehead in a room together, I think not."
The Digimon Queen and her counterpart reached the top of the stairs as usual and opened the door. Rika stepped in first, followed by Ruki. Takato was at the window looking off into the distance. Rika walked up beside him with Ruki on her heels. Takato didn't even seem to notice the two had entered the dreary room.
Rika blushed slightly realizing she'd have to start the conversation this time, something she was precisely good at. "So... umm, where's Guilmon?"
Takato turned looking slightly stunned at his friends sudden voice "Huh? Oh, Rika! Uh, I think he's on the roof with Renamon."
Ruki stuck her face between Rika's and Takato's "Doing what?"
Takato stumbled back and blushed visibly "Err, just... enjoying the view. Yeah, that's it."
Ruki smiled again at Takato, while Rika was trying to move the Mega out of the way from behind "That's nice. Can I enjoy the view with you?"
Takato blushed deeper as Ruki's forwardness continued to leave him backing up. "Uhhh~"
Rika finally shoved Ruki out of the way "NO! I mean... uhhh." Rika shifted her gaze from Ruki to Takato, and blushed.
Ruki bursted out laughing "Hey! How come your always turning red when your around him?"
Rika grumbled towards her counterpart "Shut it, before me and Renamon load your data."
At that moment Yamaki and Shibumi entered the room. Shibumi was holding an odd item in his hand so the Tamers couldn't see it while Yamaki flicked his lighter open and shut, a sure sign something was up. Shibumi had his usual expression as he finally opened his hand revealing... a red card?
Shibumi "It's finished."
Takato sweatdropped slightly. "Umm... What's finished?"
Shibumi frowned and motioned to the red card "This!"
Rika cut in "We can see that but what does it do, knucklehead?"
Ruki glanced at Rika "...Do you have nicknames for everyone?"
Shibumi shrugged off the comment "The D-Reaper is a data clean-up program that destroys everything that goes over the specific requirements... which is every digimon there is at this point."
Ruki "Wait, I'm gonna be fighting something I can't touch?"
Yamaki shifted his glance from behind his shades to Ruki "Why would you be fighting? Your just a human with no partner."
Ruki sweatdropped "Uhh, nevermind."
Yamaki "..."
Takato stifled a laugh before turning back to Shibumi "So does that card have something to do with that?"
Rika **Nice to see him smile again.**
Shibumi nodded "Yes, this algorithm will make it so that you won't be decompiled. Think of it as an Hepatitis C shot without the needle.
Takato shuddered "Good, I hate needles."
Ruki ran over and pounced Shibumi with all her might (A/N: That's a lot of might too) "WOOHOO. Way to go Shiboomy, you're the man of the hour. Just wait till I get my hands on the D-Reaper thing. I'll punch it, kick it, strangle it... (She goes on like this)"
Yamaki "...Weird girl..."
Takato "That's great, how does it work?"
Shibumi got up causing Ruki to roll backwards off his chest and end on in the same sitting position she was in a second ago, still calling out what she was going to do to the D-Reaper "It's Shibumi... and it's simple, slide it through your D-Arc, and that's it."
Ruki suddenly stopped "D-Arc? No, I don't have one..." A thought suddenly crossed her mind as did a sly smile "Oh Takato..."
Takato backed up a bit, the way she said those words sent chills up his spine "Uh yes Ruki?"
Ruki pounced Takato hard enough to slam him into a wall and leave their indentation there "Would you be so kind as to be my Tamer?"
Yamaki **...Kids... Their growing up faster and faster...**
A new voice entered the conversation, saving Takato from answering a question that would probably get him hurt no matter how he answered. It was vaguely recognizable as Dobermon's and was coming from outside the window "Takato, Rika. You should leave, Kazu and Kenta have finally lost patients and are coming here to take a rest. If they see you..."
Rika finished the sentence "... then we're screwed."
Takato "I'll call Grani. But where are we going?"
Ruki "I'm coming too. Hey, Takato. Your still worried about Henry right?"
Takato nodded dumbly "Uh, yeah."
Ruki "Then let's go see him."
Yamaki "Wait it's not a good idea for a human with no partner to go there."
Takato's Hazard flashed green, signaling Grani had been summoned "Won't the security or Henry's family stop us."
Yamaki frowned as Takato ignored his comment "Hey, are you listening to me?"
Rika and Ruki each knocked on their side of Takato's head "Hello, you have us and Grani. Getting in there through the window should be no problem."
Yamaki nodded and turned towards downstairs sighing "Whatever you do is fine with me. It's not like I could stop you at this point even if I tried... Just stop that damn Jello thing from devouring everything."
Shibumi handed the Red Card to Takato before following Yamaki "Good luck to you all."
Ruki smiled and waved goodbye "Thanks Shiboomy!"
The Monster Maker sweatdropped and glanced back at Ruki muttering to himself "Weird girl."
Takato jumped out the window followed by Rika and Ruki. Grani come up from under them and made a quick stop at the roof to pick up Renamon and Guilmon. The two seemed to be transfixed on each other and Renamon was blushing. Guilmon could've been doing the same but his red skin hid it well and Takato made a mental note to ask Guilmon about what he was doing later.
*^*
One hour later the group of five hovered just outside Henry's window. (A/N: If your wondering, Dobermon gave them the room location which he got from Alice.) It was easy to give Kazu and Kenta the slip. He was reluctant to believe the Takato he knew would do such a thing. Takato, Rika, and Kuzuhamon hopped in through the window, which was conveniently left open. Takato practically tripped over his sword while the other two landed gracefully.
Rika smirked and spoke sarcastically "Smooth Gogglehead, very smooth."
Takato looked turned back but didn't have time to reply as a glowing green projectile headed towards him. Kuzuhamon yanked the boy out of the way just in time, then glared back at whoever shot the annoying little ball of energy. Her eyes rested on Terriermon, looking sternly at all three of them.
Terriermon "Come back to finish him off? Well I won't let ya. Even though I'm not looking forward to fighting foxy-mon or the Mr. Mean Knight or... Hey you helped us defeat Hazard Zhuqiaomon. What are you doing with 'him'"
Kuzuhamon "Takato is innocent. He was framed by a copy of himself."
Terriermon rolled his eyes skeptically "Yeah sure, and Henry thinks of Jeri as 'just friends'"
Henry woke up as his partner uttered that last comment "Terriermon!"
Terriermon immediately shifted his attention to his bed-ridden Tamer "Momentai Henry. I'll get'em."
Henry tried to get a better look at his partner "That's what I mean, don't."
Terriermon paused for a moment "I must be hearing things. I could've sworn I heard you say, don't"
Henry "You heard me just fine."
Terriermon "Then you must be delusional from all the meds the doctors gave you."
Henry frowned at the rabbit's attempt at Humor as he sat up in his bed. The gown he was given hid the scar in his chest and the pain from the new position caused him to wince until he got used to it "I'm fine. The meds wore off a while ago, plus Marine Angemon keeps stopping by. I couldn't even talk before a little while ago."
Takato "Excuse me... Henry?"
Henry smiled at his friend "Yes. I'll let you speak first because I have got quite a few questions for you."
Takato nodded. Seeing his friend smile made him feel much more relaxed "I'm sorry for starters."
Henry "...I still don't understand what's going on, but I'm sure it wasn't your fault."
Terriermon grimaced "Yeah, all you did was stab Henry and kidnap Jeri, what's wrong with that?"
Kuzuhamon pounced the rabbit and began throttling/choke him "You better say your sorry before I'm finished with you."
Henry smiled at the two digimon, it looked like he was having trouble staying awake. "You're the one that helped us with that corrupt sovereign. Glad to see your doing well."
Kuzuhamon looked up and smiled "Yep, I'm here to stay."
Henry "So... what attacked the dance, if you don't mind my asking?"
Kuzuhamon raised her hand and began hopping up and down "I know! I know! Pick me."
Rika finally cut back into the conversation. She was leaning against the wall next to the window "You were attack by a clone of Takato made by Zhuqiaomon and the Black Hazard."
Henry "...? Is that true?"
Takato nodded while Rika continued "He was one of two clones. The second is over by Terriermon, she's a clone of me."
Terriermon gasped for breath as he tried to vacate the premises "That explains the violent streak."
Henry paused for a moment deep in thought "So then you can both Biomerge?"
Rika nodded "I merge with Renamon to become Sakuyamon, and Gogglehead with Guilmon to become Gallantmon... a WHITE knight."
Kuzuhamon stopped chasing Terriermon for a moment and turned to Henry "ChaosGallantmon was that beam of light that destroyed Zhuqiaomon and loaded his data afterwards. He's focused, has Takato's luck, and Zhuqiaomon once told me that he can match Takato in every way."
Henry "So he's the real enemy, huh? Alright, but I got three more questions."
Takato "Shoot."
Henry turned to the black and blue priestess "How come your on our side?"
Terriermon "Yeah, what made you turn on Big Bird. Wait let me guess, you saw what Takato looked like as a digimon and switched sides to be with him?"
Terriermon made kissing sounds causing him and his Tamer to laugh. A few seconds later they noticed Takato blushing, Kuzuhamon looking normal and serious, and Rika gritting her teeth. Terriermon gasped and moved back in shock.
Terriermon "Are you serious?"
Kuzuhamon **Well it had more to do with his saving me but...** "...Well basically, yeah. Why? Is there something funny about?"
Rika **Her data is mine!**
Henry held back another laugh... laughing hurt. He forced a serious express upon his face before he asked the next question "...Where's Jeri?"
The atmosphere in the room darkened quickly, Takato spoke first "We don't know. We think it has something to do with the D-Reaper coming to this world."
Henry looked puzzled "D-Reaper? Oh right, Ryo mentioned that... Takato..."
Takato "Yes?"
Henry "Where are you going now?"
Takato shrugged, he had no idea where he was going from here so Rika took over "Were heading to the school, it should be safe and evacuated. We can rest there before attacking the D-Reaper in the morning."
Henry nodded "Can I ask you a favor?"
Takato "Sure, anything."
Henry began reaching for something to stable himself with "Let me come with you."
Takato frowned "Except that."
Henry "Come on, I can still help with Terriermon."
Terriermon ran over and hopped into his Tamer's lap "Yeah we'll knock the blobs block off."
Rika used her trademark smirk "Are you kidding Brainiac? Your having enough trouble moving."
Ruki **She really does have nicknames for everyone... I wanna nickname!**
Henry looked at his partner "That's true but, I don't want to spend time sitting in bed doing nothing while Jeri's being held captive by that... monster."
Takato "I can understand how you feel Henry. But you won't do anyone any good if you get hurt... more."
Henry looked up at his Goggleheaded friend "But, PLEASE Takato? You'd do the same in my position."
Takato frowned "No I wouldn't."
Everyone turned to the Gogglehead, staring him down "Oh yes you would."
Takato sweatdropped "Rika, Kuzuhamon, your not helping."
Kuzuhamon "But it's true. You fought off Daemon to save me without your partner and while your legs were still recovering."
Henry arched a brow and looked at his friend, Rika did the same "Oh, really? Well that settles it, I'm coming."
Takato "But-"
Rika "Save it Gogglehead. It's obvious your not going to win this one."
Takato "...Oy, I bet I'll be charged with kidnapping Henry too... but alright. Is that it with the questions."
Henry "Well, I do have one more."
Takato paused "And what would that be?"
Henry broke into a smile "What's up with that hair?"
Takato sweatdropped as he began explaining his new look while Kuzuhamon stealthily retrieved the blue haired boy's clothes. Shortly afterwards, the Tamers and digimon hopped back outside to Grani who was waiting for them. Guilmon smiled at his Tamer while Renamon turned away, hiding the blush on her face. Again, Takato made a mental note to ask Guilmon what they were talking about.
***One Hour Later: The School***
The Tamers arrived to the evacuated district. The buildings were torn by fighting. Bullets embedded into cement walls while some buildings had all but collapsed on top of each other. Though Takato and the others had no idea who would be fighting here. They had yet to learn of the D-Reapers combat agents. Grani landed outside in the courtyard as was done before, but this time there were no children gathering around Oooing and Awwing. The place seemed dead and deserted, almost like a haunted house. Windows were shattered and rocks from the field cluttered everywhere. Inside wasn't much better. Severe cracks in the floor and broken lockers caused the party to watch their step. The lights were mostly broken and some weren't even attached to the roof at this point, and there were spots where the walls and been completely destroyed.
Takato "Well... we're here."
Ruki stepped in the decaying building "What a dump. So what now?"
Henry "Well, I'm kinda tired. How bout we rest for a while."
Terriermon "And save Jeri tomorrow. After all, we won't do any good if we're all exhausted."
Renamon "Sounds good. Guilmon, may I speak with you alone."
Guilmon "...? Okay."
Rika "I could use a shower, it's been forever since I had one."
Ruki "Shower? What's that?"
Rika cringed "Come with me. You could probably use one too."
The group dispersed leaving Takato in the hallway. Everyone seemed to have something to do except him. So he did the only thing that he could, walk around aimlessly, trying desperately to kill time. He saw Henry sleeping in one of the classrooms but Terriermon wasn't with him, a fact that left the young Gogglehead a little edgy. There was no telling where the bunny was or what kind of trouble he was most likely cause. A small while later he ended up on the roof, where Guilmon stood staring at the sky. His acute senses alerted him to his Tamers presence.
Guilmon "Takatomon? What are you doing here?"
Takato shrugged as he walked over to his partner "Just killing time. Where's Renamon?"
Guilmon turned back to the stars "She disappeared when we were done talking."
Takato "Oh? What were you talking about?"
Guilmon "Renamon was wondering about some things."
Takato became more curious "What kind of things?"
Guilmon "Lots of things. The D-Reaper, ChaosGallantmon, Ruki, and me."
Takato "That makes sense. A lot has happened, hasn't it."
Guilmon just nodded before Takato continued "After the fight tomorrow... I hope this will all be over."
Guilmon dropped his head from the starlit scenery "Yeah. Hey Takato, we'll be alright, won't we?"
Takato looked his partner in the eyes. "Of course we will. We got our friends, and each other." **Henry...Ruki...and Rika...** "...Anyway, I'm gonna head back. Hey I'll bet the cafeteria is open. Want some Guilmon bread?"
Guilmon began hopping up and down "Guilmon bread Guilmon bread, it's a loaf shaped like my head."
Takato "I'll take that as a yes."
Takato and his partner started back down the stairs, feeling a bit more refreshed. Again, Takato and his Dragon partner were faced with the decrepit school. It was still stunning how fast the place had been destroyed. It almost seemed to foreshadow something, but that's the thing about foreshadowing, you never know it till after it's happened. A sudden loud creaking sound caused the two figures to stop in their tracks.
Takato "Who's there?"
Guilmon "That sounded like it was coming from... beneath us?"
Guilmon jumped to the side expecting his Tamer to do the same, but Takato's reflexes failed him at that moment as the floor fell apart right beneath him and sent him crashing into whatever was below. Fortunately, he wasn't seriously hurt apart from a splitting headache and a few seconds later he began climbing out of the wreckage. Making sure he had his sword, he tried to get a better view of where he currently was. There were tiled walls and floors, lockers, bathrooms... it seemed like he had fallen into the change rooms. Turning completely around, he saw something else... or to be more precise, someone else.
(A/N: You guessed it)
Rika "PERVERT!!!"
One punch from Rika and Takato was out cold. Rika grabbed a towel and soon Guilmon was piggybacking his friend out of the forbidden territory after he made it down the stairs. Ruki stood off to the side and watched curiously since she didn't fully understand all that was happening. It was several hours before Takato awoke the next morning next to Henry. Golden light streamed through the window waking him and his blue haired friend up.
Henry stood up and stretched as best he could "Morning already?"
Takato just opened one eye and tried to roll over "Ugh, my aching head... Hey that's my line."
Ruki bounced into the room with her usual energy "Hey you two. If you don't hurry then there won't be any D-Reaper left for you."
Renamon phased into view, scaring Takato as always. She smiled at that before addressing the red haired girl "...But Ruki, you can't come. You don't have a partner."
Ruki "Yeah, Rika explained it to me last night. But I'll still be routing for you Takato. Oh and the rest of you as well."
Ryo, Monodramon, Alice and Dobermon also entered the room. Ryo had his usual charisma while Alice seemed upset... well, more upset.
Ryo "Alright everyone, let's role."
Alice "Be careful, all of you."
Henry "Huh? Your not coming with us?"
Alice shook her head "No, Dobermon is a close friend... But he is not my partner since I am not a Tamer so he can't go beyond his champion form. If we went with you, we'd just slow you down."
Takato nodded "Don't worry, we'll be all right."
Finally everyone left to join the rest of their friends who were waiting with Grani. Terriermon was smiling widely at Takato, he knew what happened the last night with Takato and Rika.
Terriermon "Hey Goggles. How was the view last night."
Takato blushed and muttered to himself "It was.. mmghmmgh" The end of the sentence was too low for anyone to hear.
Rika on the other hand was trying to avoid eye contact with the Gogglehead. A moment later Henry, Rika, Ryo, Takato, and their respective partners were boarding the metallic dragon. It was difficult, but they managed to fit everyone on Grani and soon they were taking off towards the hole in the sky, still dripping out red liquid. It was odd though. Even though they could've been flying towards their death, their spirits were higher than ever.
Ryo "Alright everyone."
Rika "This is it."
Henry "For Jeri"
Renamon "For our friends."
Guilmon "For Guilmon Bread and the fate of the world."
Takato "For everyone. Let's go!"
Terriermon finished as Grani took took, clinging to his partners head for dear life "And don't forget to Momentaaaaiiiiiii."
******^******
Black: Alright, one more chapter and this'll be done. For future note. Jeri is going to be used differently than before. She is going to actually BE the D-Reaper for the purpose that 'You can't fight friends' Have a nice week all.
Regless: And someone mentioned the stabbing thing with Jeri in the old chapter 23 being cruel... It's suppose to be. I'm trying to make CG as evil as possible. The final battle should be good but anyway... See ya.
" = Dialogue
** = Thoughts
******^******
Perfect Hazard - Chapter 18 - Gathering Hope
******^******
Just on the outskirts of the city, multiple green tents had been pitched and soldiers in tacky green outfits scattered everywhere. The army had been called in to help get rid of the purple substance. They had also been asked to cooperate with the Tamers, something which did not turn out as well as it could've. While the military had received help from Ryo, Alice, Cyberdramon and Dobermon, Sakuyamon had led their choppers around with seemingly no purpose before disappearing. Takato and Guilmon had also gone into hiding. The commander was just now seeing the various newscasts about Takato and his alleged attack. The armies objective was simple. Evacuate the designated area and destroy all hostile objects that come out of the portal in the sky... However they had yet to see any hostile objects. The commander sighed to himself, thinking about how useful Yamaki's help would be right now... but that wasn't going to happen. Yamaki and his closest associates had all disappeared.
The Commander sighed **Guess it'll be another long day**
***Meanwhile: Matsuki Bakery***
It was night, cold and quiet. The worst part was that the Tamers were stuck doing nothing until Shibumi finished his work on the Red Card, something that was becoming a great source of stress on everyone. Kenta and Kazu were still out 'hunting' Takato and/or Guilmon while Suzy and Henry were still at the hospital with their partners and siblings. There had been a sympathetic newscast about an hour ago and Henry was receiving support to recover from all over Japan, a thought that eased Takato slightly. Takato was also receiving a lot of publicity but not in a good way. Apart from the attempted murder and assault of various people, he was now charged with kidnapping Rika by... Rika's mother, who else? Rika considered coming forward to explain everything... but her mother had a habit of not listening to anyone. Plus that might also give away Takato's location. Ryo and Alice had left for a while, to keep Kazu and Kenta off of Takato's trail as well as monitor the D-Reaper. It was getting bigger and was now able to hold it's liquid form. It was evolving incredibly fast. Rika and Ruki were in the main room of the bakery, it had closed only half an hour ago.
Ruki was sitting on the counter with a solemn look on her face "He... he wasn't to happy about what happened to Henry, was he?"
Rika "That's an understatement. You know, I've seen him sad, happy, frustrated... But never mad."
Ruki "I can't hear his footsteps anymore, you think he stopped pacing upstairs and went to sleep?"
Rika gave Ruki a partial glare "Why should you care, I thought you were going to leave him alone."
Ruki glanced back looking visibly hurt "M-Maybe I should... but... Even if I can't have him all to myself... I just don't want to see him get hurt. You know."
Rika "..."
Ruki "This probably makes no sense to you, it's really confusing to me. I just want to stay near him a little longer. Is that alright?"
Rika "...NO...Not really... but then again, I guess Gogglehead could use all the help he can get. Henry was... is his best friend." **And I'll bet part of that was because he remembered both time-lines.**
Ruki smiled innocently "Thanks... You know, you can actually be almost nice when you want to be."
Rika frowned "Shut up."
Ruki "And what's up with your mom, I heard she got a restraining order on Takato."
Rika "She's... uhh, how do I put it?"
Ruki got a sly smile again "Nuts?"
Rika paused for a moment glaring at her counterpart, right before she broke out laughing "Actually, I think that's exactly what I'd call her."
Ruki hopped off the counter and started towards the stairs "I'm gonna check on Takato, wanna stay here?"
Rika frowned again, but it seemed more of a joke this time rather than actually dislike. "...And leave you and Gogglehead in a room together, I think not."
The Digimon Queen and her counterpart reached the top of the stairs as usual and opened the door. Rika stepped in first, followed by Ruki. Takato was at the window looking off into the distance. Rika walked up beside him with Ruki on her heels. Takato didn't even seem to notice the two had entered the dreary room.
Rika blushed slightly realizing she'd have to start the conversation this time, something she was precisely good at. "So... umm, where's Guilmon?"
Takato turned looking slightly stunned at his friends sudden voice "Huh? Oh, Rika! Uh, I think he's on the roof with Renamon."
Ruki stuck her face between Rika's and Takato's "Doing what?"
Takato stumbled back and blushed visibly "Err, just... enjoying the view. Yeah, that's it."
Ruki smiled again at Takato, while Rika was trying to move the Mega out of the way from behind "That's nice. Can I enjoy the view with you?"
Takato blushed deeper as Ruki's forwardness continued to leave him backing up. "Uhhh~"
Rika finally shoved Ruki out of the way "NO! I mean... uhhh." Rika shifted her gaze from Ruki to Takato, and blushed.
Ruki bursted out laughing "Hey! How come your always turning red when your around him?"
Rika grumbled towards her counterpart "Shut it, before me and Renamon load your data."
At that moment Yamaki and Shibumi entered the room. Shibumi was holding an odd item in his hand so the Tamers couldn't see it while Yamaki flicked his lighter open and shut, a sure sign something was up. Shibumi had his usual expression as he finally opened his hand revealing... a red card?
Shibumi "It's finished."
Takato sweatdropped slightly. "Umm... What's finished?"
Shibumi frowned and motioned to the red card "This!"
Rika cut in "We can see that but what does it do, knucklehead?"
Ruki glanced at Rika "...Do you have nicknames for everyone?"
Shibumi shrugged off the comment "The D-Reaper is a data clean-up program that destroys everything that goes over the specific requirements... which is every digimon there is at this point."
Ruki "Wait, I'm gonna be fighting something I can't touch?"
Yamaki shifted his glance from behind his shades to Ruki "Why would you be fighting? Your just a human with no partner."
Ruki sweatdropped "Uhh, nevermind."
Yamaki "..."
Takato stifled a laugh before turning back to Shibumi "So does that card have something to do with that?"
Rika **Nice to see him smile again.**
Shibumi nodded "Yes, this algorithm will make it so that you won't be decompiled. Think of it as an Hepatitis C shot without the needle.
Takato shuddered "Good, I hate needles."
Ruki ran over and pounced Shibumi with all her might (A/N: That's a lot of might too) "WOOHOO. Way to go Shiboomy, you're the man of the hour. Just wait till I get my hands on the D-Reaper thing. I'll punch it, kick it, strangle it... (She goes on like this)"
Yamaki "...Weird girl..."
Takato "That's great, how does it work?"
Shibumi got up causing Ruki to roll backwards off his chest and end on in the same sitting position she was in a second ago, still calling out what she was going to do to the D-Reaper "It's Shibumi... and it's simple, slide it through your D-Arc, and that's it."
Ruki suddenly stopped "D-Arc? No, I don't have one..." A thought suddenly crossed her mind as did a sly smile "Oh Takato..."
Takato backed up a bit, the way she said those words sent chills up his spine "Uh yes Ruki?"
Ruki pounced Takato hard enough to slam him into a wall and leave their indentation there "Would you be so kind as to be my Tamer?"
Yamaki **...Kids... Their growing up faster and faster...**
A new voice entered the conversation, saving Takato from answering a question that would probably get him hurt no matter how he answered. It was vaguely recognizable as Dobermon's and was coming from outside the window "Takato, Rika. You should leave, Kazu and Kenta have finally lost patients and are coming here to take a rest. If they see you..."
Rika finished the sentence "... then we're screwed."
Takato "I'll call Grani. But where are we going?"
Ruki "I'm coming too. Hey, Takato. Your still worried about Henry right?"
Takato nodded dumbly "Uh, yeah."
Ruki "Then let's go see him."
Yamaki "Wait it's not a good idea for a human with no partner to go there."
Takato's Hazard flashed green, signaling Grani had been summoned "Won't the security or Henry's family stop us."
Yamaki frowned as Takato ignored his comment "Hey, are you listening to me?"
Rika and Ruki each knocked on their side of Takato's head "Hello, you have us and Grani. Getting in there through the window should be no problem."
Yamaki nodded and turned towards downstairs sighing "Whatever you do is fine with me. It's not like I could stop you at this point even if I tried... Just stop that damn Jello thing from devouring everything."
Shibumi handed the Red Card to Takato before following Yamaki "Good luck to you all."
Ruki smiled and waved goodbye "Thanks Shiboomy!"
The Monster Maker sweatdropped and glanced back at Ruki muttering to himself "Weird girl."
Takato jumped out the window followed by Rika and Ruki. Grani come up from under them and made a quick stop at the roof to pick up Renamon and Guilmon. The two seemed to be transfixed on each other and Renamon was blushing. Guilmon could've been doing the same but his red skin hid it well and Takato made a mental note to ask Guilmon about what he was doing later.
*^*
One hour later the group of five hovered just outside Henry's window. (A/N: If your wondering, Dobermon gave them the room location which he got from Alice.) It was easy to give Kazu and Kenta the slip. He was reluctant to believe the Takato he knew would do such a thing. Takato, Rika, and Kuzuhamon hopped in through the window, which was conveniently left open. Takato practically tripped over his sword while the other two landed gracefully.
Rika smirked and spoke sarcastically "Smooth Gogglehead, very smooth."
Takato looked turned back but didn't have time to reply as a glowing green projectile headed towards him. Kuzuhamon yanked the boy out of the way just in time, then glared back at whoever shot the annoying little ball of energy. Her eyes rested on Terriermon, looking sternly at all three of them.
Terriermon "Come back to finish him off? Well I won't let ya. Even though I'm not looking forward to fighting foxy-mon or the Mr. Mean Knight or... Hey you helped us defeat Hazard Zhuqiaomon. What are you doing with 'him'"
Kuzuhamon "Takato is innocent. He was framed by a copy of himself."
Terriermon rolled his eyes skeptically "Yeah sure, and Henry thinks of Jeri as 'just friends'"
Henry woke up as his partner uttered that last comment "Terriermon!"
Terriermon immediately shifted his attention to his bed-ridden Tamer "Momentai Henry. I'll get'em."
Henry tried to get a better look at his partner "That's what I mean, don't."
Terriermon paused for a moment "I must be hearing things. I could've sworn I heard you say, don't"
Henry "You heard me just fine."
Terriermon "Then you must be delusional from all the meds the doctors gave you."
Henry frowned at the rabbit's attempt at Humor as he sat up in his bed. The gown he was given hid the scar in his chest and the pain from the new position caused him to wince until he got used to it "I'm fine. The meds wore off a while ago, plus Marine Angemon keeps stopping by. I couldn't even talk before a little while ago."
Takato "Excuse me... Henry?"
Henry smiled at his friend "Yes. I'll let you speak first because I have got quite a few questions for you."
Takato nodded. Seeing his friend smile made him feel much more relaxed "I'm sorry for starters."
Henry "...I still don't understand what's going on, but I'm sure it wasn't your fault."
Terriermon grimaced "Yeah, all you did was stab Henry and kidnap Jeri, what's wrong with that?"
Kuzuhamon pounced the rabbit and began throttling/choke him "You better say your sorry before I'm finished with you."
Henry smiled at the two digimon, it looked like he was having trouble staying awake. "You're the one that helped us with that corrupt sovereign. Glad to see your doing well."
Kuzuhamon looked up and smiled "Yep, I'm here to stay."
Henry "So... what attacked the dance, if you don't mind my asking?"
Kuzuhamon raised her hand and began hopping up and down "I know! I know! Pick me."
Rika finally cut back into the conversation. She was leaning against the wall next to the window "You were attack by a clone of Takato made by Zhuqiaomon and the Black Hazard."
Henry "...? Is that true?"
Takato nodded while Rika continued "He was one of two clones. The second is over by Terriermon, she's a clone of me."
Terriermon gasped for breath as he tried to vacate the premises "That explains the violent streak."
Henry paused for a moment deep in thought "So then you can both Biomerge?"
Rika nodded "I merge with Renamon to become Sakuyamon, and Gogglehead with Guilmon to become Gallantmon... a WHITE knight."
Kuzuhamon stopped chasing Terriermon for a moment and turned to Henry "ChaosGallantmon was that beam of light that destroyed Zhuqiaomon and loaded his data afterwards. He's focused, has Takato's luck, and Zhuqiaomon once told me that he can match Takato in every way."
Henry "So he's the real enemy, huh? Alright, but I got three more questions."
Takato "Shoot."
Henry turned to the black and blue priestess "How come your on our side?"
Terriermon "Yeah, what made you turn on Big Bird. Wait let me guess, you saw what Takato looked like as a digimon and switched sides to be with him?"
Terriermon made kissing sounds causing him and his Tamer to laugh. A few seconds later they noticed Takato blushing, Kuzuhamon looking normal and serious, and Rika gritting her teeth. Terriermon gasped and moved back in shock.
Terriermon "Are you serious?"
Kuzuhamon **Well it had more to do with his saving me but...** "...Well basically, yeah. Why? Is there something funny about?"
Rika **Her data is mine!**
Henry held back another laugh... laughing hurt. He forced a serious express upon his face before he asked the next question "...Where's Jeri?"
The atmosphere in the room darkened quickly, Takato spoke first "We don't know. We think it has something to do with the D-Reaper coming to this world."
Henry looked puzzled "D-Reaper? Oh right, Ryo mentioned that... Takato..."
Takato "Yes?"
Henry "Where are you going now?"
Takato shrugged, he had no idea where he was going from here so Rika took over "Were heading to the school, it should be safe and evacuated. We can rest there before attacking the D-Reaper in the morning."
Henry nodded "Can I ask you a favor?"
Takato "Sure, anything."
Henry began reaching for something to stable himself with "Let me come with you."
Takato frowned "Except that."
Henry "Come on, I can still help with Terriermon."
Terriermon ran over and hopped into his Tamer's lap "Yeah we'll knock the blobs block off."
Rika used her trademark smirk "Are you kidding Brainiac? Your having enough trouble moving."
Ruki **She really does have nicknames for everyone... I wanna nickname!**
Henry looked at his partner "That's true but, I don't want to spend time sitting in bed doing nothing while Jeri's being held captive by that... monster."
Takato "I can understand how you feel Henry. But you won't do anyone any good if you get hurt... more."
Henry looked up at his Goggleheaded friend "But, PLEASE Takato? You'd do the same in my position."
Takato frowned "No I wouldn't."
Everyone turned to the Gogglehead, staring him down "Oh yes you would."
Takato sweatdropped "Rika, Kuzuhamon, your not helping."
Kuzuhamon "But it's true. You fought off Daemon to save me without your partner and while your legs were still recovering."
Henry arched a brow and looked at his friend, Rika did the same "Oh, really? Well that settles it, I'm coming."
Takato "But-"
Rika "Save it Gogglehead. It's obvious your not going to win this one."
Takato "...Oy, I bet I'll be charged with kidnapping Henry too... but alright. Is that it with the questions."
Henry "Well, I do have one more."
Takato paused "And what would that be?"
Henry broke into a smile "What's up with that hair?"
Takato sweatdropped as he began explaining his new look while Kuzuhamon stealthily retrieved the blue haired boy's clothes. Shortly afterwards, the Tamers and digimon hopped back outside to Grani who was waiting for them. Guilmon smiled at his Tamer while Renamon turned away, hiding the blush on her face. Again, Takato made a mental note to ask Guilmon what they were talking about.
***One Hour Later: The School***
The Tamers arrived to the evacuated district. The buildings were torn by fighting. Bullets embedded into cement walls while some buildings had all but collapsed on top of each other. Though Takato and the others had no idea who would be fighting here. They had yet to learn of the D-Reapers combat agents. Grani landed outside in the courtyard as was done before, but this time there were no children gathering around Oooing and Awwing. The place seemed dead and deserted, almost like a haunted house. Windows were shattered and rocks from the field cluttered everywhere. Inside wasn't much better. Severe cracks in the floor and broken lockers caused the party to watch their step. The lights were mostly broken and some weren't even attached to the roof at this point, and there were spots where the walls and been completely destroyed.
Takato "Well... we're here."
Ruki stepped in the decaying building "What a dump. So what now?"
Henry "Well, I'm kinda tired. How bout we rest for a while."
Terriermon "And save Jeri tomorrow. After all, we won't do any good if we're all exhausted."
Renamon "Sounds good. Guilmon, may I speak with you alone."
Guilmon "...? Okay."
Rika "I could use a shower, it's been forever since I had one."
Ruki "Shower? What's that?"
Rika cringed "Come with me. You could probably use one too."
The group dispersed leaving Takato in the hallway. Everyone seemed to have something to do except him. So he did the only thing that he could, walk around aimlessly, trying desperately to kill time. He saw Henry sleeping in one of the classrooms but Terriermon wasn't with him, a fact that left the young Gogglehead a little edgy. There was no telling where the bunny was or what kind of trouble he was most likely cause. A small while later he ended up on the roof, where Guilmon stood staring at the sky. His acute senses alerted him to his Tamers presence.
Guilmon "Takatomon? What are you doing here?"
Takato shrugged as he walked over to his partner "Just killing time. Where's Renamon?"
Guilmon turned back to the stars "She disappeared when we were done talking."
Takato "Oh? What were you talking about?"
Guilmon "Renamon was wondering about some things."
Takato became more curious "What kind of things?"
Guilmon "Lots of things. The D-Reaper, ChaosGallantmon, Ruki, and me."
Takato "That makes sense. A lot has happened, hasn't it."
Guilmon just nodded before Takato continued "After the fight tomorrow... I hope this will all be over."
Guilmon dropped his head from the starlit scenery "Yeah. Hey Takato, we'll be alright, won't we?"
Takato looked his partner in the eyes. "Of course we will. We got our friends, and each other." **Henry...Ruki...and Rika...** "...Anyway, I'm gonna head back. Hey I'll bet the cafeteria is open. Want some Guilmon bread?"
Guilmon began hopping up and down "Guilmon bread Guilmon bread, it's a loaf shaped like my head."
Takato "I'll take that as a yes."
Takato and his partner started back down the stairs, feeling a bit more refreshed. Again, Takato and his Dragon partner were faced with the decrepit school. It was still stunning how fast the place had been destroyed. It almost seemed to foreshadow something, but that's the thing about foreshadowing, you never know it till after it's happened. A sudden loud creaking sound caused the two figures to stop in their tracks.
Takato "Who's there?"
Guilmon "That sounded like it was coming from... beneath us?"
Guilmon jumped to the side expecting his Tamer to do the same, but Takato's reflexes failed him at that moment as the floor fell apart right beneath him and sent him crashing into whatever was below. Fortunately, he wasn't seriously hurt apart from a splitting headache and a few seconds later he began climbing out of the wreckage. Making sure he had his sword, he tried to get a better view of where he currently was. There were tiled walls and floors, lockers, bathrooms... it seemed like he had fallen into the change rooms. Turning completely around, he saw something else... or to be more precise, someone else.
(A/N: You guessed it)
Rika "PERVERT!!!"
One punch from Rika and Takato was out cold. Rika grabbed a towel and soon Guilmon was piggybacking his friend out of the forbidden territory after he made it down the stairs. Ruki stood off to the side and watched curiously since she didn't fully understand all that was happening. It was several hours before Takato awoke the next morning next to Henry. Golden light streamed through the window waking him and his blue haired friend up.
Henry stood up and stretched as best he could "Morning already?"
Takato just opened one eye and tried to roll over "Ugh, my aching head... Hey that's my line."
Ruki bounced into the room with her usual energy "Hey you two. If you don't hurry then there won't be any D-Reaper left for you."
Renamon phased into view, scaring Takato as always. She smiled at that before addressing the red haired girl "...But Ruki, you can't come. You don't have a partner."
Ruki "Yeah, Rika explained it to me last night. But I'll still be routing for you Takato. Oh and the rest of you as well."
Ryo, Monodramon, Alice and Dobermon also entered the room. Ryo had his usual charisma while Alice seemed upset... well, more upset.
Ryo "Alright everyone, let's role."
Alice "Be careful, all of you."
Henry "Huh? Your not coming with us?"
Alice shook her head "No, Dobermon is a close friend... But he is not my partner since I am not a Tamer so he can't go beyond his champion form. If we went with you, we'd just slow you down."
Takato nodded "Don't worry, we'll be all right."
Finally everyone left to join the rest of their friends who were waiting with Grani. Terriermon was smiling widely at Takato, he knew what happened the last night with Takato and Rika.
Terriermon "Hey Goggles. How was the view last night."
Takato blushed and muttered to himself "It was.. mmghmmgh" The end of the sentence was too low for anyone to hear.
Rika on the other hand was trying to avoid eye contact with the Gogglehead. A moment later Henry, Rika, Ryo, Takato, and their respective partners were boarding the metallic dragon. It was difficult, but they managed to fit everyone on Grani and soon they were taking off towards the hole in the sky, still dripping out red liquid. It was odd though. Even though they could've been flying towards their death, their spirits were higher than ever.
Ryo "Alright everyone."
Rika "This is it."
Henry "For Jeri"
Renamon "For our friends."
Guilmon "For Guilmon Bread and the fate of the world."
Takato "For everyone. Let's go!"
Terriermon finished as Grani took took, clinging to his partners head for dear life "And don't forget to Momentaaaaiiiiiii."
******^******