Finally, Chapter 6. This is another large chapter. I think I e-mailed everyone that wanted me to when I update. If anyone else wants on the list, just let me know. Sorry for not doing it before. Before I start I would like to issue a large can of kudos to Lord Archive for providing me with a great deal of information about the Tamers. Based on his information, I've changed the way each character uses Japanese honorifics from here on out and am in the process of revising previous chapters. No need to re-read anything, only the honorifics will change. On a side note, for this fic, Asanuma Nami, who was Takato's fifth grade teacher, is Takato's Grammar teacher in the eighth grade. Well, this is probably the chapter you were waiting on so read on:

~*~

To be a Tamer

Chapter 6: Discoveries

"Takato. Earth to Takato, wake up," Hirokazu teased his friend.

"Huh, oh yeah I'm here. I just uhh…didn't get much sleep," Matsuda lied.

"Neither did I. I was too busy studying. I swear, who gives a test on Monday?" Kitagawa Kenta, the short, green/black-haired, glasses wearing, friend of Takato said.

Damn it! I totally forgot, "What was the test in again?"

"Grammar. I take it you didn't study," Hirokazu said. Takato blushed a little and shook his head, "Alright! I might actually get a better grade than someone," Hirokazu smirked as the other two boys sweatdropped.

~*~

Renamon approached Guilmon's home slowly. She had spent the entire night thinking, but was no closer to a decision on her feelings. She was only sure of one thing. She had to see Guilmon again. A part of her mind hoped that seeing him, staring into his eyes and once again feeling his muzzle pressed to hers would silence the other portion. As she arrived, an unfamiliar scent filled the air. It was that of a female, but not of her. She peered in to find only a sleeping Guilmon. If another had been here, she was gone now. Although that was not what Renamon was focused on. It was Guilmon. He slept soundly, with the same grin he had when they had…she gasped at the thought.

Guilmon yawned and turned onto his back. Two eyes looked up at Renamon, who appeared only as a blur to the groggy fire lizard, "Pajiramon?"

Renamon grabbed Guilmon by the shoulders, "Who is Pajiramon?"

"Oh, hi Renamon," Guilmon smiled.

"Who is Pajiramon?" Renamon repeated, not swayed any by his smile.

"A really nice digimon. We mated," Guilmon declared proudly, remembering what the sheep had told him.

"What?!"

"I mated with her. It was really fun. Aren't you happy?"

To call Renamon 'angry' would be a dramatic understatement, "Happy?! Why the hell would I be happy?!" Renamon gripped tighter.

"Renamon, you're hurting me. What did I do?"

Renamon released him, "You do not even know, do you?! I thought you cared about me. I was wrong."

Guilmon still didn't understand, "I love you."

"Do you love me, or do you just want to mate with me?"

Guilmon's eyes lit up, "I do love you. Do you want to mate again?" he asked hopefully.

Although she wanted to do more, Renamon slapped Guilmon across the cheek. She looked down at him, now more in heartbreak than anger, "You do not even understand what love means. I cannot believe I actually cared for you."

Guilmon rubbed his cheek, "I don't understand. I love you. I really do," Guilmon voice was starting to tremble.

Renamon sighed, "I want to believe that. I really do, but I do not know. Maybe we just…are not meant for each other," she turned to leave.

Guilmon grabbed her arm gently, "Don't be mad at me. We don't have to mate if you don't want to."

Renamon sighed again, this time in frustration, "I do not want to talk about mating. I need to think. Just…just leave me alone."

"Ok," Guilmon said softly. He watched on as the one he thought was his lover leapt from sight. I don't understand. What did I do? I didn't hurt Renamon. Why is she mad?

"Hi," Culumon said, bounding into the room, "Culu, you don't look so good. Are you sick?"

Guilmon turned to the small white Digimon, "Can I ask you a question?" Culumon nodded, "What is love?"

"Culu?"

"I love Renamon, but she says I don't. How do I love?" Guilmon asked. Culumon sat in total silence, trying to think of something to say. Guilmon realized he really wasn't getting anywhere, "Uhh never mind."

Culumon sighed, relieved he didn't have to answer the question, "Wanna play?"

"No, I just want to be alone," Guilmon said. Culumon looked disappointed, but went off to find a new playmate. Play, the last time I heard that word, it was from Pajiramon. She seemed so nice. She said Renamon would be happy. Why did she do that with me if she knew Renamon would be mad? I need to talk to someone. Takato! No, he would just get mad again. He hated it when he saw Renamon and I together. Takato doesn't even care about me anymore. He just wants to be with Ruki. I make everyone mad. Why does everyone hate me? I try to be nice. Maybe I should just go away. Renamon would be happy. Takato would be happy. I want Renamon and Takato to be happy.

~*~

Ruki could have sworn her heart would burst if it beat any harder as she sat in the waiting room of the doctor's office. Even with her grandmother next to her, she still felt quite uncomfortable. The stares from other patients didn't make her feel any better. Take a picture. It lasts longer. God, I'm thirteen. I should be in school, not at the gynecologist's. I wish Takato were here. At least then I might see him once more before he leaves me. Why shouldn't he? He still has his life, his friends and his future. My life is over. Why should I drag him down with me? Mom didn't allow that man who calls himself a father to drag her down. One thing is for sure, I'll be a lot better mother than she ever was. Bitch. There, I finally said it. This is all her fault. If she had been there for me, I wouldn't even be here. But…if it wasn't for her not being there, I may never have even met Takato. Let alone fallen in love with him. Do I praise her or condemn her? What a choice. No child, no Takato.

"Ruki-chan, do you want to talk?" her grandmother said softly.

"A little late for that, isn't it?"

Seiko sighed, "Yes, I suppose it is."

"Grandma, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to snap. I'm just…kind of stressed."

"I understand."

Ruki looked at her grandmother, "What was it like?"

"What was what like?"

"Being here, with mom."

"Your mother went by herself. I didn't find out until later."

"Oh."

"But, I'm glad I did. If I hadn't, your mother might have had an abortion."

"She would?"

"Possibly, abortions weren't as common then, but Rumiko was never one to do what was common. I put a stop to any of that. You weren't thinking about having one, were you?"

"I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought about it, but…" an abortion. I can't do that. What if mom had had an abortion? I would never have existed. No, I can't do it. I can't take away a human life, even if it destroys mine, "no, I want this baby."

"Your mother was seventeen, but even she never showed as much composure as you are. I'm very proud of you."

"Proud that your thirteen year old granddaughter got herself pregnant," Ruki smiled weakly.

"You knew what I meant."

"Yeah," both laughed softly. A part of Ruki felt as if it would be the last time she would ever laugh again.

~*~

"Matsuda Takato, this is by far the worst score I have ever seen from you. Did you even study?" Asanuma Nami, Takato's brunette Grammar teacher, scolded.

"No Asanuma-sensei, I guess I just…forgot," Takato said sadly.

"Serves you right for not studying," Hirokazu smirked.

Asanuma walked over to Hirokazu's desk, "And you may join Takato in after school studies," she dropped his test on his desk, "Since you managed to get the worst score in the class again."

"Damn it!" Hirokazu swore, he quickly realized his error and looked up at his scowling teacher, "I mean…uhh, jeepers H. crackers," the rest of the class burst out laughing.

Everyone, that is, except Takato, "A-after school studies, but Asanuma-sensei I can't."

"And why is that?"

"I umm…" Great. What am I supposed to say? 'I screwed my girlfriend and just want to go see if she's pregnant.' OK, Takato, think of something, "I have to help my parents in their bakery."

Nami sighed. She knew his parents owned a bakery "Ok, you can come in to my class early tomorrow, but I'm only making this exception because it's your first offense. Don't expect me to do this again."

"Thank you, Asanuma-sensei. It won't happen again. I promise," Wonder how long I can keep that promise.

Nami turned back to Hirokazu, who was doing his best to look innocent, "As for you, Mr. Foul Mouth. You can come in tomorrow early for studies."

"You mean I don't have to stay late?" Shiota asked hopefully.

"Yes, you do, but tonight I'll be teacher you the importance of respect and good manners," she said. Hirokazu groaned and buried his face in his arms.

Juri giggled a little, but her mind was elsewhere. Hey, I know. Dad will be tending bars tonight. That means if I can just sneak Jen up to my room, I'll have him all to myself. Maybe he'll even do that special thing I've wanted to do. Juri smiled at her own fantasies.

~*~

"So, uhh, what's happening?"

Renamon turned around and gave Impmon a curious look, "What do you want?"

"I just, thought you needed some cheering up."

Renamon eyed him cautiously, "How did you know I was upset? Have you been spying on me?"

"No, I just…umm, I was…you looked like…"

"I knew it. You were spying," Renamon grabbed him.

"No I wasn't, and why are you so angry?"

"That it none of your business."

"You know, it helps if you talk about it," Impmon faked sympathy.

"Why should I talk to you?"

"Because I'll listen."

"What do you care?"

Impmon smiled, "More than you think I do."

Renamon's expression suddenly changed, "What are you saying?"

"I saw Guilmon with that other digimon. I know what you are going through."

"How could you?"

"What? You think I've never cared for anyone before!" Impmon scoffed.

"I am sorry. I did not mean it that way."

"It's alright. I'm used to it. I'm the loner. The odd mon out. Everyone thinks I like it. No one stops to think about what I really want."

Renamon had never seen this side of Impmon before. Her present state of mind didn't help her judgment much either, "Tell me."

Impmon started to move closer to her, but suddenly stopped and turned away, "I can't. I just can't say it."

Renamon looked at him, "Say what?"

Impmon sighed, "I told you before. Love is a weakness. I have no weaknesses, but I can't escape what I feel. I think I…"

Renamon covered his mouth, "Please, do not say that. Not now. I am so confused anymore. Just…do not say that."

"So, that's it, huh? I set here and tell you what's bothering me, and you toss my feelings to the side because you're confused. YOU'RE confused. How do you think I feel?" Impmon accused. He answered his own question before she had the chance, "No wait, you didn't think how I would feel, did you? No one ever does. You, stupid humans, my Tamers…" Impmon trailed off, realizing what he had said. His eyes were moist, but he fought back his tears.

Renamon went wide-eyed, "Your Tamers? You have Tamers?"

"HAD. Past tense. I'll never go back to them. Not now, not ever! I'm alone. I thought I might actually have someone else, but no. She was confused," Impmon scoffed, more out of hurt than anger.

"She still cares," Renamon said softly, a part of her knowing all well she shouldn't be doing this.

Impmon looked silently at her. A small tear escaped his defenses, trickling down his cheek. He still had to run her last sentence through his mind, "STILL cares? When did she ever start?"

"A while ago. She was just…"

"Confused." Impmon finished. This time his words were neither sarcastic nor spiteful, moreover they were soft, and words tapped softly at her in a way they never had before, "I'm sorry. I did this to you, didn't I? The other night when we spoke. I don't mean to be like that, I just…"

"Hurt," this time it was her turn to finish. Impmon wrapped his arms around her. Gently, much unlike his previous attempt that eventful night. She didn't resist. Their lips touched for an instant. The height difference made the kiss awkward for Renamon, but no more so than when she kissed…Guilmon! She pulled away, "Impmon no. I cannot do this."

"Why?"

"It is…it is Guilmon. I feel like I am betraying him."

"Betraying? After what he did to you?"

"I understand that. I know I am still in love with you, but I cannot make my feelings for Guilmon go away. He is still my mate. Until that changes, I cannot be with another. Please, do not take this the wrong way," she looked at Impmon, his mouth hung open in amazement, "What is wrong?"

"W-what did you just say?"

"Guilmon is my mate."

"No, before that."

"That I was still in lo…" Renamon gasped and blushed, realizing what she had said.

"Still? You've never said anything. I thought you hated me, like the others. Now you are with someone else, yet you decided it was a great time to tell me you loved me. Why now?"

"I…we…I am sorry. I did not mean to say that."

"But you did. Now answer my question."

I cannot tell him the truth. Talking shadows, my bond with Guilmon, but a part of me secretly loving Impmon. He would never believe me. Guilmon! Why am I doing this to him? I was too harsh. He was with another, but he did not understand what he had done. I do understand, but yet I am still here, "Impmon, I cannot be here. I cannot be doing this," she pushed away.

"Wait! Where are you going? If you aren't going to answer my other questions, at least answer this one. Do you really love me?" his words were of utmost sincerity, stabbing into her like pieces of fine glass.

Renamon turned back to him, purposely avoiding eye contact, and spoke softly, "I cannot say. It would only hurt you. It is best you never know," with that she was gone.

Impmon pounded the ground, "I was so close. Why? Why did she leave?"

"You have no patience. Give her time, she will be yours," an all too familiar voice spoke.

"You lied. You told me she was hurt and vulnerable. That she would practically fall into my arms," Impmon accused.

"She will. I must say your sympathy act was rather convincing. Even I could not detect dishonesty."

"Yeah, I guess so," Impmon looked at the ground.

"You will have her. Then, you will do what I have asked of you, won't you?"

"Yeah, whatever," Impmon huffed.

The silhouette materialized itself in front of Impmon, "You WILL take care of it, or I will have one of my Devas take care of you."

Impmon fell back, "Ok ok, I'll do it. I promise Just…just leave. I want to be alone."

"Very well," the shadow snarled, and vanished as quickly as it had appeared.

When he was sure he was alone. Impmon dropped his act. Letting the very real tears flow down his cheek. It was true, the shadow had told him of Renamon and Guilmon's situation. He had originally intended to take advantage of her vulnerability, but had received far more than he bargained for. He hurt in a way he had never known. Of course he couldn't detect dishonesty. I meant every word of that. I've never told anyone that. Why her? Why now? I love her. I know I do. I've never felt this way before. I want her, but not just physically. I want to be around her. It felt so good just to hold her, to kiss her. Damn it! Why didn't I realize this before? She's with Guilmon now. All this time I've known her and I have to realize it now. Damn you life. Why do you hate me? Everything I do goes wrong. Why do I even bother anymore?

~*~

"Finally," Jenrya sighed as the lunch bell rang. He didn't dislike math, but it wasn't exactly his idea of fun. As he entered the cafeteria he noticed Takato sitting at a table with Hirokazu, Kenta and a few others. He motioned for Lee to come over, but Jenrya just ignored him and sat at a table by himself.

"What's with him?" Kenta asked.

"Maybe he didn't see you," Hirokazu said.

"Yeah, guess not," Takato knew Lee had noticed him. Lee sat at their table every day. I wonder what's eating him. Maybe I can ask him after school. No wait, I have to get to Ruki's. Oh well, it's probably not that big of deal.

Lee quietly ate his lunch. Suddenly, a pair of hands clasped themselves around his eyes, "Guess who?"

"Juri?"

"How'd you ever guess?" Juri sat down next to Lee, "Why aren't you with the others. Don't tell me you wanted a romantic lunch with me," Juri giggled as Lee blushed.

"No, I just…don't fell like talking to Takato today."

"The battle?"

"Yes. I know he likes to be with his girlfriend, but some things are important. If you hadn't had that blue card, Terriermon could have died. So could we for that matter."

"Yeah. I just hope you can forgive him."

"I will. I don't like grudges. Just…give me a day or two."

"Speaking of which, are you free tonight."

"Yeah, I guess so. When?"

"Anytime after school," Katou leaned closer, "My dad will be busy tonight. I thought you and I could have some 'fun'."

Jenrya went wide-eyed, "Juri, we are in school," he whispered.

"Don't worry, Jen, no one can hear us. We are the only ones at this table."

"I know, but still that isn't exactly a good topic for in-school conversation."

"Why? Am I embarrassing you," Juri smirked. Lee shuddered. He knew that tone of voice. Terriermon had used it one too many times before tormenting him in some way. Juri leaned her head on his shoulder, "How about now."

"Juri, please cut that out," Jenrya quietly begged, blushing and sweating nervously.

"Ok," Juri stopped.

Lee eyed her nervously, fearing she would do something worse. She just started to eat her lunch she had carried to the table. He sighed in relief, but suddenly tensed up as he felt Juri's free hand caressing his leg, "Juri."

"What?" she asked innocently.

"Your hand."

"You worry too much. No one can see my hand under the table," she said matter-of-factly. Her hand worked its way up to the side of his hip and slowly into his pocket.

Lee was now mixed in pleasure and panic. He knew he had to stop her, now. He gently tugged at her probing hand, "Juri don't. Please don't."

"Shhh, just relax," her hand finally found what it was after as she rubbed him gently. It was a soft pleasant feeling. Despite his own anxiety, Jenrya's body had already become slightly aroused. The fabrics between her flesh and his hardly seemed to inhibit the experience.

Lee was rocked with a small wave of pleasure. His grip involuntarily loosened on her arm, allowing her hand to slide further in. He glanced around, and to his surprise, no one was. They were more focused on their own conversation and food, "Juriiii…" Jenrya tried once again to protest, but trailed into a soft moan as Juri continued her treatment. He found himself masturbating against her hand as he slowly forgot the outside world existed.

Unlike Lee, Juri didn't care if anyone was watching her or not. She wasn't trying to make anything last, only trying to give Lee the best experience she could. No longer eating, she smiled and whispered to him, "Would you like me to go faster?"

"N-no, just like that," Lee panted, deep in sexual nirvana. The warmness of friction added to the pleasure as the fabric grinded again and again against the nerve filled underside Lee's most intimate organ. Katou could feel his member pulsing against her hand. He thrusted his hips forward on instinct as he went over the edge. She felt a sudden dampness and knew she had accomplished her goal. Lee gasped as quietly as he could as Juri continued rubbing him through his climax.

Juri removed her hand from his pocket, as spoke gently, "Was that so bad?"

Jenrya gasped for breath as his hormonal bliss faded. He first looked down at his pants. Luckily, they were black and hid his wetness well. He wanted to yell at her, but found it rather difficult. He looked up at a smiling Juri and sighed, "I told you before not to do that."

"But you loved it. Don't worry, I won't do that tomorrow."

Jenrya sighed in relief, "Thank you."

Juri smiled slyly, "Tomorrow it's my turn."

Lee went wide-eyed, "Do you realize what will happen if anyone catches us?"

"You worry too much," Juri said as the school bell rang, "Oops there's the bell. I'll meet you after school."

Lee groaned softly as Juri walked away. Maybe this whole boyfriend idea isn't such a good thing. I don't think Juri understands. I love her, but I don't want a relationship that is nothing but sex. Worst of all, I really enjoyed what we just did. As Lee got up from the table, his stomach growled. I didn't get to eat, did I? Just great. I really have to talk to Juri.

~*~

"Makino, Ruki," the nurse called.

"That's me," Ruki sighed.

"Would you like me to go back with you?" Seiko asked.

"No. Thank you, but I have to do this, alone," Ruki said, focused as ever.

Her grandmother nodded understandingly. She doesn't realize it, but she is so much like her mother. So determined, even in the face of adversity. She will make this work, regardless of what happens.

~*~

Guilmon had just finished packing up his bread supply. They will be happy when I'm gone. Renamon, Takato, I'm sorry I made you both sad. I'm a real screw up.

"Little old for running away from home aren't we, lovermon?" asked a very familiar voice.

Guilmon turned and looked at Pajiramon with narrow eyes, "You lied to me! You said Renamon would be happy. She hates me."

"Hates you? I thought she loved you? I guess I was wrong."

"Huh? I don't understand," Guilmon said, once again baffled by the concept that was love.

"You just need some lessons. I'll be more than happy to teach you. Love lesson number one, if she really loves you, she is happy when you are happy," the sheep Deva said cockily.

"She wasn't very happy," Guilmon understated.

"Love lesson number two, if she isn't happy, she doesn't love you."

"But she does love me, and I love her. I know it. I can feel it in here," Guilmon patted his chest.

"Don't interrupt," Pajiramon scolded, "Ahem, love lesson number three…"

"I don't like your lessons. I think you are lying again."

"Me lying?" Pajiramon had to hold back her laughter as she pretended to look sad, "I came all the way here to help you, and you do nothing but yell at me. I thought you were my friend," she buried her head in her hands, pretending to cry, but truthfully snickering uncontrollably.

"I'm sorry. I don't want to make you sad. I keep making everyone sad," Guilmon began to tear up again.

~She is coming~ A thought suddenly inserted itself into Pajiramon's mind, "It's ok, Guilmon. Umm…would you mind hugging me? Hugs always make me feel better when I'm sad," Pajiramon snickered to herself as she undid a hidden strap on her chest armor.

"Ok," hugging was something Guilmon always liked. He had no idea what she had planned. He wrapped his arms around her as best he could and hugged.

As her did she finished undoing her breastplate strap. Just as the armor opened up she pushed Guilmon's head into her sensitive chest fur, "Ohh, Guilmon!" she purposely moaned out.

Guilmon instantly pulled away. She didn't stop him. He gave her a puzzled look and was about to say something when he heard a noise behind him. The fire lizard turned and gazed into two burning yet pain-filled blue/black eyes, "I…cannot believe you," Renamon said softly, obviously still in shock.

"Renamon I…we only hugged. She was sad. I was making her feel better," Guilmon explained.

"Making her feel better? I will bet you were making her feel better! A LOT better!" Renamon turned to the sheep, who was finishing re armoring herself, "I take it you are Pajiramon."

"Yes, but how do you know me? Who are you?" the sheep asked innocently.

"I am…no…WAS his mate," Renamon pointed to a thoroughly confused Guilmon.

Pajiramon looked at Guilmon with phony hatred, "You had another mate and never told me?!"

Guilmon looked at her, "But you knew…"

"I can't believe this!" Pajiramon scoffed.

Guilmon blinked in confusion and turned back to his heartbroken girlfriend and said the only thing he could think of, "Renamon I…I love you," he pleaded putting his hand on her shoulder.

In one swift gesture, Renamon did a spinning crescent kick that sent her former mate tumbling head over heels, "Do not start that 'I love you' stuff again, and never touch me again…ever," she turned to the sheep Deva, "I hope he makes you as happy as he once made me," she said with teary eyes, then turned and left.

"Renamon," Guilmon groaned, getting to his feet.

"Tsk, tsk, love lesson number three, never take romantic advice from a Deva," Pajiramon smirked, "Now, your 'hug' got me in the mood so let's have a little lesson of a different kind," she added coyly.

Guilmon looked at her with animal-like eyes. Never, not even when he was battling a rogue digimon, had he hated someone, but now, he hated her. More than anything in the world, he hated her, and wanted to see her deleted, "Go to hell," he responded in a way he'd never have before.

"Ohh, dirty talker. I like that. Love lesson number four…"

"Fireball!" Guilmon shot a ball of hot fury at the sheep. She responded quickly, slapping the fireball away. It collided with a wall, sending dirt and stone shrapnel everywhere. Guilmon couldn't see a thing, as he was slammed hard against the wall behind him. When the dust settled, Guilmon found himself pinned to the wall. He felt something hard pressing into him and looked down to see a loaded crossbow against his gut.

"As I was saying," Pajiramon said as she leaned forward from holding her crossbow and licked the helpless Digimon on the forehead, "Love lesson number four, you don't always have a choice. I was gentle with you before, but this time we do it my way."

~*~

Takato hurried to his locker as the final bell of the day rang. He nearly knocked Hirokazu over, "Watch it, Takato. No, better yet, knock me over. Maybe I can fake an injury and get out of this after school bullcrap."

"Sorry, I'm just in a hurry."

"Where are you really going? Don't tell me your parents' bakery, because I didn't buy that for a minute before."

"Oh…ahh…just somewhere."

"Where?"

"Ruki's house, ok? Now can we drop this?" Takato pleaded his friend.

"Fine, but you better slow down. People may find out she's screwing you."

"You really think they suspect?" Takato asked nervously.

"Hey! Caught you, stud!" Hirokazu declared proudly, "How long have you two been going at it?"

Oh shit! Why do I keep doing that? I think I should just get on the PA and tell the whole school. It would save time. Ok, better think of something, "We…umm…aren't. I just was…joking. Ha! I can't believe you fell for that. Ruki and I…what a laugh."

"Uhh, yeah…real funny," Hirokazu said, not believing his friend.

"Should you be getting ready for Nami's after school thing?" Takato asked, hoping to draw the conversation away from himself.

"Oh right. Ahem, damn, dammit, bitch, fu…"

"What are you doing?"

"Getting ready. She wants to teach me to be respectful, so I had better get all of the profanity out of my system," Shiota smirked. He then turned and headed down the hall, "Dammit to hell, bullshit, jerkass, son of a whore," several teens stared, and Takato sweatdropped as his friend went down the hall muttering obscenities in a singsong voice.

I have to get going. I'm late as is. Takato turned and almost ran. Knocking a few unsuspecting teens out of the way.

Phew, no Juri. Lee thought as he opened his locker.

"Sorry, I'm late, Jen, I was talking to my friends," Juri called from behind Lee.

Jenrya resisted the urge to bang his head against the locker. He turned and smiled to her girlfriend, "Hi, Juri. What are you doing here?" he asked, already knowing full well why she was here.

"Remember I'll little get together we talked about at lunch. Don't tell me you forgot already."

"Right, how could I ever forget," Lee sighed.

"What's wrong? You sound sad."

"Well it's just that…" Lee was interrupted as Hirokazu walked by.

He turned to the two and gave a military style salute, "Sweet friggin holy hell," he said and walked on down the hall.

Both sweatdropped as Juri spoke, "Why are all boys strange?"

"Hey!"

"It's ok. You're strange in a good way," she said, hugging Lee, "I want to show you something."

Oh god, tell me it's not something that has to do with sex. Please tell me it's not. Oh great it's, "A puppet?"

"Yeah," Juri held up the light brown dog like sock puppet, "I used to play with this a lot when I was younger. I guess I just kind of grew out of it."

"Ok, but why are you showing me it?" Jenrya asked. Juri smiled in a familiar way, sending chills down his spine. Oh god no, not the puppet. What could she possibly do with it? What have I gotten myself into this time?

"Well," Juri blushed, "I though maybe, when you come over tonight, you could…" Lee's eyes widened as she whispered into his ear.

"No, Juri, no."

"But it will feel really good. Don't you want me to feel good too?" Juri protested.

"It's not that. Just no. No more. No more sex. No more kinky stuff. I just want a normal relationship, not some wild amusement park thrill ride. Love isn't a game. It's serious. Can't we just be a normal couple?" Jenrya didn't mean for his words to come off as harsh as they had. He was just expressing built up emotion. Luckily, the halls were empty by now.

I-I'm sorry. I didn't know you felt that way," Juri's eyes misted slightly.

"I'm sorry, too. I didn't mean to…"

"No, you're right. I'm not a very good girlfriend."

"I never said that."

"You didn't have too. I'm sorry. I'm just not a good enough girlfriend for you. You deserve someone better," Juri said solemnly as she began to leave.

"Juri, don't say that. I…I love you," Jenrya said, not even caring they were still in school.

Katou turned around with tear-filled eyes and spoke, "I'm sorry."

Lee stood silently as she walked away. He felt like a dagger had suddenly been thrust into his heart. He had never loved anyone until her. I lost her. I knew I wasn't ready for a relationship. All I wanted to do was speak my mind. I should never have said anything. He looked down at the ground, catching a glimpse of his D-Ark. You can say anything you want and no one gets mad. Terriermon, I will never understand how you do it.

~*~

Takato came to a halt as he passed Guilmon's home. I had better at least tell Guilmon I won't be bring him any bread today. Maybe I can apologize for the other day, too.

As Takato entered Guilmon's home he found his partner passed out face down on the floor. A certain smell filled the air. A smell Takato knew quite well from his numerous sessions with Ruki. He knelt beside his partner and patted him on the head, "Sorry for getting mad at you. It wasn't your fault," Takato said. Guilmon stirred a little, but remained asleep, "You're a lucky digimon, you know that. You can do it with Renamon whenever you want and don't have to worry about getting her pregnant," Wait a minute, can digimon get pregnant? Hmm, that might be interesting to see what kind of a digimon Guilmon and Renamon would make. Takato giggled a little at a mental image of Guilmon and a baby digimon. Takato's expression turned as the image morphed into one of him holding a human baby. God I'm a screw up. Had better get going.

After Takato left, Guilmon groaned in his sleep. He rolled over onto his side, revealing numerous bruises and a small trickle of blood from his lower regions.

~*~

Juri slammed to door to her room shut. She could hardly hold back her tears as she hit the bed. Why? I thought things were going so well. I'm a real screw up aren't I? A boy finally shows interest in my as more than a friend, and I scare him away. No wonder Takato went for Ruki instead of me. He knew I would be much of a girlfriend, so he found someone that would. As she tossed her backpack on the floor, a small card fell out. Juri wiped her watery eyes and examined it. It was a digimon card. Just great, Lee must have dropped this somehow. Well, I hope he doesn't like it. No wait, I hope he does. Juri grabbed the card, preparing to rip it and ease her frustration.

As the card began to tear, a piecing blue/white light emitted from it. Juri hands felt the same pleasant warmness she had felt once before when another of Lee's cards had transformed in her hands. Juri examined the newly formed blue card. I did it again. Why does that keep happening to me? Not only am I a bad girlfriend, I'm some kind of mutant freak. Juri gasped as the card sent a small jolt of electricity through her hand. She released her grasp and stared in wonder as the card hovered on its own. The entire room was stained in a blue hue as the card floated to the balcony door. Somehow, it slipped through the crack of the closed door and outside, "Hey, wait a minute. Come back. Umm…why am I talking to a card? It can't hear me," Juri wondered aloud. She wanted…no needed to follow the card. Some kind of internal instinct told her so. Just as before when she knew the original blue card was for Jenrya, she somehow knew this one was meant for her.

Juri left the house relatively unnoticed. She turned left and headed down the walkway. It was as if unseen hands were grasping hers, leading her to whatever awaited. Wait, what am I doing? Where am I going? One minute I'm in my room sulking over, now I'm following a flying card with a mind of it's own. My life just gets weirder and weirder.

~*~

"No, Takato said he was going to play with his friends after he got out of school. He hasn't come home yet. Is something wrong?" Mrs. Matsuda asked.

"No, no, everything is fine, Matsuda-san. Thank you again for the rolls," Nami bowed politely as she exited the bakery with a box of pastries. Takato, you are acting strange. What are you up to? Well, he had better have a good excuse for this when he shows up in the morning.

~*~

"I'm…finally…here…sorry," Takato panted as Seiko answered the door.

"Ruki-chan is in her room," Hata said. Her tone of voice gave Takato no hints as to the outcome of Ruki's test.

Matsuda entered a room very familiar to him, a room in which he may have made the biggest mistake of his life. Ruki stood, arms crossed and back to him, "R-uki?" Takato asked cautiously. Makino turned, facing her love. She was dead silent for what seem liked forever. She never spoke, only bowed her head in sorrow, a small tear streaking from her violet eyes. Takato suddenly felt cold and alone, like he was underwater and struggling for air. His face became a pale white as the blood rushed from it. It was as if he had never realized this would happen.

"Taka-chan, I'm so sorry," Ruki said softly, Takato was still dead silent, "Please, say something, anything."

"I…I think I need to sit down," Takato almost collapsed in his attempt to sit.

The love of his life knelt beside him, "It's ok, just relax. You're in shock. The doctor told me about it. I went into it too, after she told me I would be a mother. I guess I'm not so fearless after all," Ruki attempted to mask chaos with humor. Hiding her true hurt and anger as she had always done.

"I…I don't know what to do. I don't even know what to say," Takato said, the natural color of his face returning.

"There's nothing you can do. Not right now, but there is something you can say."

"I love you," Takato stated, for the first time in his life he felt unsure of that statement.

"Taka-chan," Ruki's voice became cold, "I understand how hard this must be for you. If you want to, you can go. I'll manage, somehow."

"Go? Never! I'm with you all the way. Didn't you just hear me? I love you," Takato declared proudly, his great courage giving him renewed confidence.

"I love you too," Ruki kissed him deeply. Tongues intertwined in an attempt to caress the pain away. Ruki spoke as the kiss was broken, "Can you stay?"

"I guess so, I doubt my parents will worry."

"No…I meant for the night."

"What?"

"Please, I don't want to be alone. I'm…I'm scared, Taka-chan. For the first time in my life, I'm scared," Ruki admitted.

Takato hugged her, "I will. I'm not sure how I'll get my parents to agree to this, but I'll find a way."

"You know you are going to have to tell them sooner or later."

"Preferably later," Takato smirked before once again becoming serious, "I will. I just haven't thought of a way to do it that doesn't end in my own funeral," Matsuda smiled before pulling Ruki into another kiss.

~*~

Juri hurried down the street. Glancing once at a clock on a building. Good still plenty of time before dark. Now, which way could it have gone? A kind of internal compass pointed Juri on the right path. She came to a stop at an alleyway. Even in daylight it looked slightly frightening. Great, maybe it went another way. She sighed as she looked around. I was afraid of that. Ok, Juri, you can do this. What's the worst that could be in an alley? Some hobo, some hobo who enjoys molesting little girls. Katou shuddered at her own thoughts. I have no clue why I'm doing this, but here goes nothing.

Juri ran into the alley looking around quickly for any sign of the card. She quickly turned as she came to a corner. In her abruptness, she tipped over something. Juri winced as she caught herself with her hands, breaking her fall but skinning her palms. Damn it. Juri checked her scraped hands, brushing off some dirt. What did I trip over? She turned to see a black trash bag, which had apparently fallen from the dumpster beside it. It had broken open from her shoe and its contents were spilling out. At first it seemed ordinary to her, even disgusting, but then a bright blue glow radiated from underneath the rubbish. It was quickly replaced by a new, but just as captivating, golden aura

Katou took a step forward, and wrenched at the awful smell. I am NOT touching that, unless… Juri pulled out her sock puppet she had been carrying since school, "Sorry old pal, but it's you or me. Besides, you wash easier," Juri pulled the puppet over her arm. Trying as best she could to hold her breath, Juri retch her puppet-covered hand into the pile. She grasped the glowing object and quickly pulled it from the trash.

The redhead examined her new discovery. It's a D-Ark. Just like Jen's except it has yellow trim. Who would throw this away? To her amazement, her newly acquired device launched into action, bring up a familiar compass like screen. Just like Jen's did when… Juri stopped remembering the huge snake that had attacked them. The compass arrow pointed directly at her.

Juri turned and froze. Pouring like thick smoke from a manhole and various other cracks and crevices, was the same type of fog she had saw before, "No! Not now! Jen and Terriermon aren't here. I can't fight a digimon," the fog couldn't hear the girl's pleas as it continued to fill the immediate area. Juri could barely make out a ball of white light in the center. The ball grew brighter and closer, until Katou had to shield her eyes from its glow. It flickered and began to dim. Juri watched in awe as the light twisted and morphed. Changing shape until it resembled…

~*~

Translate-O-Matic:

Ruki=Rika

Juri=Jeri

Hata Seiko=? (If anyone can tell me Ruki's grandmother's name in the US dub, I'd be grateful.)

Rumiko=Makino

Lee=Henry

Hirokazu=Kazu

Sensei=Teacher

San=Mr./Mrs./Miss

Sama=Sir/Ma'am

Chan=a title given to close friend, or family member.

Kun=Title used between boys who are close friends, or used by a girl to a boy who is a close friend (non-boyfriend)

~*~

Preview (Skip if you want to be surprised): Chapter 7, Coping. Takato and Ruki spend their first full night together. Renamon runs from her pain, but only makes things worse. Juri becomes a Tamer and meets her new partner. The Shadow is revealed as a legendary Tamer confronts him.

~*~

Author's Notes: There's the Chapter. I hope you enjoyed it. Sorry for taking forever on it, but the holidays are always busy. Yes indeed, Impmon had Tamers. They were the children he kept pictured in Episode 12 and 19. The girl is named Ai. I don't know what her dub name is. (Literally Ai means love in English but I doubt that is her name) I forget the boy's name completely. It came to my attention that very few people know the story of Juri's background, so I will give some details. That way, you don't think she is OOC. Remember, this is REAL Juri info, not things I made up.

Juri's father is a bartender. Although she is ten (thirteen in my fic) she not only has already tasted alcohol, but also can name a particular drink based on smell. When she sets her mind to something, she does it. She usually does what she wants, even if it doesn't agree with what anyone else is doing.

Well I hope that shows you that Juri is not OOC. (Thanks again to Lord Archive for some of that info) Don't forget to R&R. Don't flame me because I won't bother to read them. However, like any writer, I want to improve my skills so if you have any constructive criticism, feel free to submit it.

Signed as always,

The §upreme Øverlord of Ðarkness

What? What's that you say? I forgot to mention the special thing? Hmm…so I did. Here we go. I decided Juri should have a Child (Rookie) digimon just like the others, so I decided to change her partner. Don't get me wrong, I like Leomon a lot, but for this fic she will have a different partner. Who? You, that's right you, get to choose Juri's partner digimon! Include with you review or in an e-mail message to me who you think it should be. You can vote for any Child (Rookie) digimon in existence. You can tell me the American or Japanese name of the digimon, I know both. The only restrictions are, if you aren't signed in and don't directly e-mail your vote to me, put your e-mail addy so I can make sure you don't vote a bunch of times. Oh, and no clones, meaning no Renamon, Guilmon, Terriermon or Monodramon (He comes in later), Lopmon is ok though. The poll will close when I upload the next chapter. Happy voting. I forgot to mention (although most people figured it out) a Child (Rookie) digimon can be either gender. So, for example, if you wanted Juri's partner to be a female V-mon, you could vote for that. Sorry for not stating this.

Update: The voting has been closed.