Digimon Fan Fiction ❯ To be a Tamer ❯ Shattered ( Chapter 8 )

Here we are again. Before I start let me thank my new Beta-Reader WithoutMorals. That's right, the extremely talented author is just a mere slave under my power! Bwahaha…err…never mind. Thanks WM. ^_^

Anyway, I haven't been doing the disclaimer. I figured you knew that, but Toei's been suing my ass off. (I swear to god, Akiyoshi, the check is in the mail. I totally remember sending it out) I'd better remind you that Toei owns digimon. I own Altimamon, please don't steal him. Sorry for the delays on this chapter. I was busy with love and war. (Translation: I wrote a Valentines fic for a friend and I competed in an amateur boxing tournament) On we go:

~*~

To be a Tamer

Chapter 8: Shattered

Altimamon sat in a large decorative chair, watching a monitor. On the screen were various clips of humans interacting, none of which were positive. He used a small control to jump to different points in the 'movie'. A small pair of glowing red eyes seemed to hover in the darkness beside him. Altimamon paused the visual, "Excellent work, Kunbiramon. This will certainly be a key piece of evidence."

The eyes moved forward, entered the glow of the monitor. Mouse-like ears and face, with three small horns on the forehead, could be seen. The face was adorned with red symbols under the eyes. These, however, were the only things that looked like a mouse. The rest of his body looked more machine than mon. His body, as well as everything below his knees, was covered in a golden armor of some type. Red, bird-like wings were on his back. Two long, green, pestle like claws jutted from the central back, just above a long rat-tail. The claws were tipped in the same golden hue as his body armor, "Thank you, master. It took me a while to edit it, but I finished it in time," he spoke, in a squeaky-arrogant tone.

"I apologize for the rush. I had no idea the meeting would be moved to tomorrow."

"Today," the rat Deva corrected.

Altimamon glanced at a small timepiece he kept with him. It was impossible to tell time by the light outside because day and night came instantly in the Digital World, "Indeed. Your job is complete, you should rest," he motioned. Kunbiramon bowed deeply and left. Altimamon took the DVD from its player, and placed it in a case. With the information on this disc, even Xuanwumon won't be able to offer a significant defense for humankind. The Digital World's suffering is soon to be over. Still, I regret that it has come to this. If only they had allowed me to remain in power…

~*~

"What did you do?" Renamon asked softly as she knelt beside the sobbing imp.

"I…I'm the reason you aren't bonded. It's my fault," he said in a barely audible voice.

"What do you mean?"

"The shadow. The one who broke your bond. I helped him. I've done some bad things in my life…ok I've done a LOT of bad things in my life, but this is the worst. I never meant for this to happen. I'm so sorry."

Renamon took a few moments to soak it all in, "Why? Why did you do that?"

"In case you hadn't noticed, I'm a total ass."

"No. I know you too well. Why did you truly do that?"

Impmon sighed in defeat, "Renamon, I think it's pretty obvious that I love you. I wanted to be with you. He told me that you wanted to be with me, and I believed him. I should have known he was lying. I guess I was just too pre-occupied with you to care."

The yellow fox of Tao lay a gloved hand on his shoulder, "They were not lies. At least…not all of them."

"What are you saying?"

"What I said the other day was not of anger. I really had feelings for you, in the past, but my heart belongs to Guilmon now. I truly love him. Not because my Tamer loves his, but because I love him."

Impmon grimaced. Each time she said how much she loved Guilmon, he felt his heart break a little more, "I suppose I deserved that."

"I am sorry. This is why I could not tell you the yesterday. I knew it would only hurt you," Renamon explained.

"I should be the one who's apologizing. I ruined your life. All just to serve my own desires and lust. I'm lower than dirt."

"That is not true. You are caring. I know it. When you were speaking before, I could hear the warm spirit in your words, I knew you were not lying."

"That's not the point. If it wasn't for my deal with that thing, Guilmon would never have been with that other digimon."

Renamon's body suddenly grew cold, "What do you mean?"

"The digimon Guilmon was with. The shadow creature sent her to attempt to separate you from him. He wasn't with her by choice. How do you think I knew about it right after it had happened?" he asked. She stood in silence, "Still think I'm a caring person?"

She answered without hesitation, "Yes…I do. An uncaring mon would be snickering at my situation, not shedding tears of regret," she trailed her paw across his cheek, wiping the salty fluid off, "Besides, if I hated you, I would be a hypocrite."

"What do you mean by that?"

Renamon sighed, "I have only told one person about this. About the night I spoke with you about love, and you…"

"I don't know why I said those things. I don't know why I say a lot of the things I do. I guess it was my stupid way of trying to seduce you."

"Please, let me finish. I was already not feeling myself that night. Your comments only magnified what already existed. I felt so helpless, so alone. Guilmon was there. He tried to comfort me, and I…"

"Mated with him, I know that alre…"

"No, not mated," she interjected, sparking Impmon's curiosity, "He only wanted to help. I wanted to be loved. I…forced myself on him."

"What?!"

"You see, we have both done foolish things…just to feel loved. I have no right to hate you for doing this."

"Guilmon still loves you. Nothing changed between you two. What I've done is permanent. How can you compare to that?"

"But…I can be re-bonded to Ruki. He said he could do it."

"Wake up, Renamon! He suckered us both. Even if he can re-bond you, he isn't going to," Impmon barked. The yellow fox stood in cold silence, eyes closed, head hung, as if she had just grasped that fact, "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to say it like that."

"But it is true. I have lost Ruki forever. She was my partner…my best friend. I betrayed her."

"I'm sure she'll be fine…and so will you. Think of it as a gain," Impmon assured. I just can't understand her relationship with that girl. When I left my partners, it was one of the greatest days of my life.

"How in the world can this be a gain?"

"Think about it. Ruki is still there, right?

"Yes."

"You still have a mate that loves you." And someone else that loves you even more. Impmon added silently as he sighed.

"Yes, but…what have I gained?"

"Freedom."

"Freedom? From what?"

"You have the freedom to go anywhere and do anything you want. The freedom of not having to answer to anyone."

"But I enjoy my life like it is."

"You like being Ruki's pet digimon?"

Renamon shook her head, "I am not her pet! I am her best friend! I just…cannot understand you. Deep down, I know you are a loving digimon, but sometimes you seem so cold. It is like you do not care, but I know you do."

"I do care. I care about you. That's why I'm trying to help you."

"I know you are. You would never have told me all this if you did not care. I just need to know one thing. Do you care as a friend or do you still think you have a chance to be with me intimately?"

Impmon entire body seemed to stop dead. Renamon had hit the nail on the head. He hung his head, refusing to look her in the eyes when he spoke, "Did I ever have a chance with you?"

Renamon smiled weakly, although she knew he couldn't see her, "I would be lying if I said no, but we are so different. I doubt it would have ever worked."

"I know it's a stupid question, but is it too late to try?"

"Yes, I am with Guilmon. If what you said was true, he did not willingly betray my affection. I am not about to willing betray his. I still care for you, but we can never be more than friends. I am truly sorry." Impmon looked up. For a moment, his green eyes locked with her blue/blacks. When he said nothing, Renamon continued, "I…should go now. I must tell Guilmon I know what really happened."

"Will you tell Ruki?" he finally spoke.

"Later, I will have to. I only hope she can forgive me as easily as I forgave you."

He gave a mild grin, "She will. I know it."

Renamon kissed him on the forehead, "Thank you, for being my friend."

He blushed slightly as she bounded into the night. You're one in a million, Renamon. If I hadn't been such a fool, you'd be my one in a million. I can't help being like this. It's just who I am. He lay down in the grass, gazing into the nearly full moon. He wanted to cry, to release his pent up tears in a flow of pain. Instead his just stared, drifting slowly to sleep.

~*~

"Taka-chan," Ruki shook her love slowly.

"Mmmhmmphhh…" Takato mumbled, slowly waking up.

"You should get home. Unless you want to go to your school in yesterdays clothes."

"Wouldn't be the first time," he mumbled in an almost drunken half-slumber. He rubbed his eyes and stretched preparing for the new day. He turned and looked at Ruki, who was in her school uniform, "You're dressed already?"

"Already? Taka-chan it's after seven. I've been up and had a shower while you were still dosing."

"After seven?! Oh, damn it!"

"What's wrong?"

"Asanuma-sensei, my grammar teacher, was having me come in early today. I completely forgot. Even if I left now I wouldn't make it. What am I going to do?"

"Just do what you always do," Makino smirked. "Lie."

"I don't ALWAYS lie."

"So then what are you going to do?"

Takato smiled weakly, "Lie."

Ruki sweatdropped, "You had better tell the truth tonight."

"I will. I promise. I just hope they take it as well as yours did."

"They will," she kissed him briefly as he finished dressing, "Taka-chan, I've been wondering about something."

"What is it?"

"When I was talking to mother, she mentioned about Renamon getting pregnant."

"So what?"

"That was what I thought at first, but then I got to thinking about something Renamon had said to me," the red-head explained, "When I first told her about my pregnancy, she was confused. She thought I should be happy, not scared. She asked me why I had been with you if I didn't want a child."

"What's your point?" Matsuda asked, still not getting it.

"My point is Renamon sees sex in a different view. She sees it not only as an expression of love, but as a way to have a child."

"Ruki, it IS a way to have a child," Takato joked, rubbing her stomach. She starred at him coldly. "I know, I know, bad joke, huh?" She nodded, while Takato continued, "Anyway, so what you're saying is Renamon is only using Guilmon to get pregnant."

Ruki slapped her forehead, "No, goggle-head. She WANTS to have his child. She would have never taken their relationship that far unless she did."

"But why?"

"Search me. I'm just wondering what their baby digimon would look like, if they had one. Would it be nimble and fast like Renamon…"

"…or big and strong like Guilmon," Takato finished, "What if it was a mix, strong and fast."

Ruki raised an eyebrow, "Wow, that could be one powerful digimon…" Both were silent for a moment. "Taka-chan, do you ever wonder what our baby will look like?"

"All the time. I hope he has your eyes."

"He?"

"Wishful thinking. Damn, I really have to go."

"I'll meet you after school."

"I can come by here. It's no problem."

"But you would have to walk all the way over here just to have to walk back again."

"I said I don't mind."

Ruki eyed her love cautiously, "Is this because I'm pregnant? Because if it is I want you to stop it right now. I'm not going to have you catering to my every need. I know I'll have to put up with it from Renamon, and I don't want you in on it too. Got it?"

"Alright already. I'm only trying to help."

Ruki smiled, "I know you are, but you know me well enough to know that I hate that kind of help."

"I know, but if I happen to 'accidentally' assist you a couple of times would it be ok?"

"IF it's only a couple."

"No problem. Only a couple," Matsuda coughed and whispered the word 'hundred'.

"I heard that."

"Yeah…well…bye," Takato hurried out the door before she could offer any argument.

~*~

Altimamon's eyes were pressed shut as sweat poured down his brow. His knees buckled, but he remained standing. His metal tail hung limp at his side. He slowly put his right foot down, taking a step forward. He opened his eyes to a slit, seeing a small cylindrical object on a far table. It was actually within a few meters, but seemed so far away. As he lifted his left foot his right knee gave way, sending the dark god crashing to the floor.

He held out his hand, calling the cylinder to his palm telekinetically. He smiled to himself. Two steps…almost three. A few months ago I could barely stand. Soon, Akiyama, soon I will free myself from this accused prison you have left my body in. He opened a hidden panel on the lower back portion of his body armor, just above his tail in the lumbar section of his vertebrae. He then placed the cylinder in a small chamber designed to hold it. Within seconds, his hydraulic tail sprang to life. He could sense the strength returning to his legs, although he could still feel nothing. Free to walk the world I helped create without aid. Free to once again feel with my feet. Feel the cool grass, hard stone, squishy mud and all the other sensations I have nearly forgotten.

"The time of the meeting approaches," a deep-dignified voice came from behind the dragon god.

Altimamon stood, composing himself, "How long have you been standing there, Chatsuramon?"

"Just a few minutes. I'm sorry for intruding," the large, blue, armored bulldog answered.

"Quite alright," Altimamon said softly. Had it been anyone else, even another Deva, he would have been upset. All of his Devas were loyal to him, but Chatsuramon was different. In him, Altimamon saw a young version of himself. He quickly rose to the rank of Deva commander, second only to the dark god.

"Sire, why can't I accompany you? Why Majiramon?"

"He is a useful bodyguard."

"So am I," the dog Deva protested.

"True, but Majiramon's intelligence isn't his strong point."

"So?"

The midnight blue dragon smiled, "I understand your concerns, but by leaving you in charge here, I am assuring myself that the sector will be ran as close to my wishes as possible. You see, my young protégé, you are far more useful to me here than at my side."

Chatsuramon sighed, "I understand. What happened with the Tamer digimon Renamon?"

"I un-bonded her."

"Just as the prophecy said. What was the next part? Something about her heart and the savior."

"The Chosen One will come to the Dark Stranger and ask him to break the chains that bind her. Only then will she realize where her heart truly lies and awaken the savior within her," Altimamon recited the verses he knew by heart.

"Which means that she will be joining us as the savior?"

"Exactly. My guess is it will happen when she evolves. Her lack of a bond will cause an unnatural evolution."

"If you don't mind my asking, why did Santiramon sacrifice himself?" Chatsuramon asked. He always hated seeing allies deleted and would do anything to avoid a costly battle.

Altimamon huffed, "He wasn't supposed to. He was supposed to take the digimon Culumon back to the Digital World. The Tamers interfered and unfortunately Santiramon's viral attribute got the better of him. I should have known better than to send him. Regardless, what's done is done. Now I must prepare for my departure. I will summon Majiramon myself. Prepare my escort."

"Right away."

"And…place our newest Major in charge of the battalion."

"The Fladramon? But…she is so young. Can she handle it?"

"Yes, she has risen very quickly in ranks, and possess incredible skill for an armor form. This will be a good opportunity to test her true potential. Besides, I will still have Majiramon at my side," Altimamon smiled. The dog Deva reluctantly nodded as exited the room. She will become a great warrior some day, perhaps even stronger than a Deva. I can feel it in her mind. I must make good use her talents and gain her trust, lest she betray me. What better way to gain her trust than to place mine in her.

~*~

Renamon entered Guilmon's hideaway softly. He was asleep. She could see numerous wounds still vaguely visible on his body, knowing full well what they were from. She eyed one bruise in particular. The one she had inflicted. My god, what have I done to you. If I had just listened, you would never have gone through this. She knelt and removed her glove, running her bare hand across his gilled cheek. He groaned in his sleep. Renamon had heard him groan often enough to know it was a groan of discomfort, not pleasure. I will make her for pay for doing this to you. I swear it.

Renamon looked out the doorway into the sky. Ruki would be in school by now. I shall just have to tell her afterward. Maybe it is for the better. I am still not exactly sure how to tell her. She yawned. And I never did get much sleep. She replaced her glove and curled up on the floor. Argh, so hard! How did I ever sleep on this? She glanced up at the red fire lizard. Oh yes, I remember now. I suppose he will not mind. She snuggled up to him, laying her head carefully on his chest. It felt so good to hold him again. His warm breath caressed her fur as she fell asleep.

~*~

"Where's Plotmon? Why isn't she with you?" Terriermon asked.

"She wanted to go see the city for herself. She said she'd meet me later. Why are YOU so interested?" she teased.

"Huh…me…umm…no reason."

Jenrya sweatdropped, "Are you sure it's a good idea to let her wander?"

"I told her not to interact with any humans. Besides, most people are working or at school now. By the way, thanks for walking me to school," Juri smiled.

"Just trying to make up for being a jerk yesterday."

"Don't start the blame game again. Let's just put it behind us," the female Tamer said cheerily as she strolled off to her locker

"Well, I'm going to go try and find Plotmon," Terriermon said.

"You are not roaming the city."

"But Jen, I'll be fine."

"I don't want you getting into trouble."

"Juri lets her digimon roam," Terriermon whined.

Lee sighed, "Alright, but don't go too far or get in any battles."

"Gotcha."

~*~

Juri decided to see how Takato and Hirokazu were enjoyed their 'extra lessons'. As she entered Nami's classroom, something caught her eye, "Good morning Asanuma-sensei. Where's Takato-kun?"

"Good morning, Juri. As for Takato, I would like to know as well. He never showed up," Asanuma said, clearly annoyed.

"I think he probably skipped school. You can't blame him," Hirokazu joked, knowing full well where Takato was. He turned and looked at a scowling Nami, "I was just joking, Asanuma-sensei. I love it here…really."

Juri giggled, "I hope he isn't sick. I'd better get to my locker. See you in grammar class Asanuma-sensei."

"Suck up," Hirokazu muttered under his breath. I can't believe this. Takato probably spent the entire night screwing Ruki. I'm twice the man he is. Why can't I get a girlfriend? Wait a minute. Maybe… "Asanuma-sensei, can I go now? I'll be good."

"Go on, but when I see you in class today I expect a better attitude."

"Yes, Asanuma-sensei," Hirokazu bowed politely before leaving the room. He quickly caught up with Juri, who had made a stop at her locker, "Hey Juri, do you still remember that time I asked you to be my girlfriend?"

"Yes?" she replied, having a slight fear of where he may be going with this.

"Did you…like that?"

"It was fun I guess," she replied, not wanting to hurt his feelings.

Hirokazu took deep breath, "Would you…like to be girlfriend again?"

Juri sighed, she knew she should have stopped him sooner, "I can't."

"But…you said it was fun."

"It was three years ago. We were ten years old. We never even kissed."

"That can be fixed," as usual, Hirokazu jumped into things before thinking it through. Juri soon found herself lip locked with Shiota. She knew it was wrong, yet she couldn't bring herself to push him away. Her back was pressed against the lockers, making slipping away impossible as well. She closed her eyes, imagining Jenrya kissing her. After a few moments, he broke the kiss, "Wow. That was even better than I thought it would be."

Juri looked at the ground, "We…shouldn't have done that."

"You liked it."

"How do you know?"

"Well…your tongue in my mouth was a big clue," he smirked.

I didn't do that, did I? Oh god, I did. I have to fix this, now, "Hirokazu-kun, we can't do this. I'm…with someone."

"What?!"

"I'm sorry. I should have said something."

"You've got to be kidding me. I finally get to kiss a girl, and she leaving me already."

"I'm not leaving you. We were never together to begin with."

"Oh yeah, that makes me feel a LOT better," Hirokazu said sarcastically.

"Don't be like that. You know I don't like hurting people."

"Then why did you kiss me before saying this?"

"You kissed me," she corrected softly.

"Why didn't you push away? I wasn't forcing you to kiss."

"I don't know. I just…don't know," Juri whimpered, starting to tear up.

"Please don't cry. I'm sorry."

"It's not you. It's me. I'm a terrible excuse for a girlfriend."

"No you're not. Besides, at least you have someone. I have squat."

"There are plenty of nice girls out there."

"Like who, Miki?"

"Hey! She's pretty nice when you're not acting all macho with her," Katou said, defending her friend.

"Maybe, but the nicest girl is already here," he smiled at her.

Juri sighed in relief as the bell rang, "I'd…better get to class. Bye."

"Hey wait!" Hirokazu swore under his breath as she ran off. She said she's with someone, but why did she kiss back? Maybe she's not happy with the boyfriend she has and is just too afraid to leave him. What she needs is a nice guy to rescue her. Shiota smiled at his own fantasies.

The two hadn't even seen Takato run by. He entered Nami's classroom as quietly as he could, and walked to her desk. Luckily she didn't have a homeroom class. He had already made up his mind. He was going to tell her, "Asanuma-sensei, I suppose you want to know where I was."

"Unless you'd like me to guess," she replied, clearly angry.

He sighed, "I haven't told anyone this yet."

"I think I know what you're going to say."

"You do?"

"You're doing drugs, aren't you? After school."

"Yes," what the hell! Why did I say yes? Oh well, at least I didn't have to tell.

"I thought so. You're not the first one I've known. You know I'm going to have to tell your family."

"I know," oh man, I am SO making this worse. Why can't I stop?

"I'll tell you what, I am going to let you go home and tell them yourself, tonight. But…if I find out you didn't tell them, I'll tell them AND the principal. You know what he'll do if he finds out," she warned. Takato shuddered at the thought, "I don't want to do that. Can I trust you?"

"Ok," thank God it's her. Any other teacher in this building would have already called the cops and my parents.

"I'm proud of you for coming to me about this. I want to help you, and I know your parents do too."

"Thanks," my parents, thanks for reminding me. Why do I have the feeling I just made it a lot worse?

~*~

Plotmon examined the small white creature in front of her. Culumon, eh? Earth has a few kinds of digimon we don't, "I don't suppose you came from a drawing too?"

"Culu?"

"Never mind," Plotmon sweatdropped. He definitely doesn't have the maturity level of the lizard. I wonder… "So Culumon, what kind of digimon have you fought?"

"None."

"None? None at all?"

"Nope. I prefer playing to fighting, Culu."

"Hmm, that's different, but what are your attacks?"

"Culu?"

Plotmon sighed, "Never mind," a lizard with a split personality, a Terriermon that is rather odd and this thing. Earth must have some odd effects on digimon. I hope I don't turn out like this.

"Just who are you?" Plotmon turned to see Impmon behind her.

"I'm Plotmon. You must be the Impmon Juri-chan talked about."

"That would be me. What are you, some type of rogue digimon?"

"I'm Juri-chan's Digimon," the Digi-puppy said proudly.

"Good for you," Impmon said snidely. After last night, he was in a rather unpleasant mood.

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"Nothing. I just don't care for the whole Tamer thing."

"Tamers help make a digimon become more than it ever could alone. Being bonded with a Tamer not only assists a digimon with evolution, but also provides them with a caring friend," Plotmon said, repeating what Ryo had once told her.

"And sometimes they screw over you whole love life," Impmon muttered.

"What?"

Oh shit! I can't believe I just said that out loud. Who cares, soon the whole world will know Renamon dumped me for a stupid dino, "Tamers ruin your life. I'm stronger and better without one."

Plotmon was getting a little fed up, "I doubt you'd last a day where I came from, kid. No food. No home. Having to defeat and download digimon just to keep from deleting."

"That doesn't sound too bad, and don't call me 'kid'."

Plotmon lowered her head and slid up her collar, showing four round scars, "A little 'gift' from a Bakemon. I'm just lucky I had a friend to help me."

Impmon produced a small fireball on his hand, "I could have taken him."

"He'd have just gotten behind you while you were bragging," Plotmon teased. Impmon whiled to see she was now behind him, "See how easily I did it."

"I…let you do that. I knew you weren't going to attack," the purple imp lied.

"Please. I'd like to see the look on your face if a Deva showed up here, or even Altimamon himself."

Impmon laughed, "Altimamon is dead."

"Since when?"

"Since Justimon killed him in 'The Great Battle of Liberation'."

"Wow, you have been out of the Digital world for a while. Altimamon is very much alive. Ryo can't kill him, he's a holy beast."

"Ryo?"

"Who do you think Justimon was? It was Ryo and his digimon. See, if it weren't for a Tamer liberating the Digital World, you and all the others here on Earth would have never been allowed to cross over."

"Yet another thing to blame on Tamers. This world is terrible."

"Look kid…"

"I told you to stop calling me kid! I'm probably only a year or two younger than you."

"I'm not calling you a kid because of your age. I'm calling you a kid because you act like one. Even Guilmon has more maturity than you."

Impmon froze, clenching both fists. Plotmon had struck a nerve without even realizing it. I already lost the womon I loved more than anything in the world to Guilmon, but I'll be damned if anyone says I'm more immature than him! "I've had it with you!" he charged her. Plotmon remain silent, and bent her front legs slightly.

"Blazing Fire!" a voice cried.

Impmon was knocked back by a volley of small energy pellets, "Why are you always interfering with my fights?"

"Because you're always picking fights with my friends," Terriermon answered.

"So, she's your girlfriend?" the purple imp teased, "I guess you probably can't do any better, can you?"

Mustn't fight him. I promised Jen. No battles, "Just…go away."

"Fine. I have better things to do anyway," Impmon sneered. I can't seem to win anything anymore. Sometimes I wonder why I even bother to try anymore. Impmon thought as he leapt away.

Plotmon walked up behind Terriermon, who was still trying to calm himself, "Darn, I wanted to teach him a lesson."

"But he was about to pound you."

"No, he was going to run at me then I was going to do this…" Plotmon flipped herself forward into a handstand using her front feet, "and this…" she grappled Terriermon across the neck with her back feet and flipped him forward, sending him tumbling into a bush. From the dog-bunny's new upside-down vantage point, Plotmon appeared to be standing on a ceiling as she smiled at him, "See, I was fine."

"That was an odd 'thank you'," Terriermon joked, trying not to lose himself in her sparkling eyes again.

If it was possible, Plotmon would have blushed, "Thanks. Sorry, I'm usually the 'saver' not the 'saved'," she grabbed one of his large ears with a paw, helping him to and upright position. He looks so much like him. I've worked so hard to move on. I can't let myself fall back into that depression.

Terriermon was fighting his desires as best he could, but couldn't help but be a little impressed at her strength, "So…uhh…what are you doing here?"

"Well, before that imp showed up, I was talking to Culu…hey where'd he go?"

"Culumon? Oh he has a habit of doing that."

"Earth has some strange digimon."

"Hey!"

"Sorry, but you were acting pretty weird yesterday."

"Oh," Terriermon felt too embarrassed to say more.

Both stood for a moment in silence before she spoke, "I'm going to go see what other…interesting things this world has," she said. She glanced at him for a minute, as if waiting for something, "Terriermon?"

"Hmm?" he hummed. She gestured toward her paw. Terriermon looked to see his ear still clasped around it, "Oh…sorry," he unclasped her paw. First impression, screwed up royal. Second impression, screwed up royal. Why can't I do anything right around her? Wait a minute, "Say Plotmon, would you like a tour guide?" he asked her as she was leaving.

"A what?"

"Someone to show you around."

She shrugged, "I guess that sounds ok."

Terriermon nearly bounded over to her, "Great! There are lots of interesting things I can show you," he said with newfound confidence.

~*~

Jenrya sat alone at a lunch table, finishing his lunch. Juri had finished hers early and went to her locker to get her books for the afternoon. Funny, she can be so talkative it drives me up a wall, but yet when she's not around I still miss her.

He sighed as Takato sat down at his lunch table, "Why do you keep avoiding me?" Matsuda asked.

"Well, you seemed so happy with Ruki that I thought I'd just leave you two alone."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"Takato-kun, we were almost killed in that battle. That digimon's power was tremendous, unlike anything I've seen before," Lee explained.

"But you won, didn't you?"

"Yes, barely. Juri had some kind of blue card I've never seen before. I slashed it and Galgomon evolved to his perfect level of Rapidmon."

"Since when does Juri-san have digimon cards?"

"It wasn't hers. It was the 'Training Grips' card you gave me in the battle with Gorimon. Somehow she changed it into a blue card."

"Wow, I wish I had powers like that."

"Not just that, but she's also a Tamer now."

"What?"

"Seriously, she has a yellow D-Ark and a Plotmon as her partner."

"So that's why I've noticed her hanging around you."

Lee fidgeted, "Well, that and the fact that we're together."

"You can't be."

"We are. I don't know how. It just kind of happened."

"That wasn't what I meant," Takato's voice got quieter. Jenrya knew Takato well enough to know something was very wrong, "I don't know how to say this right so I'm just going to blurt it out. She is with Hirokazu. I saw them earlier."

"That's not funny."

"It wasn't meant to be," Takato said softly, "I came in late today. As I was hurrying through the hall I saw them lip locked in front of Juri-san's locker."

Jenrya felt himself become angry and hurt at the same time, "But…she never said anything. Are you absolutely certain? Maybe it wasn't her. Maybe it was just a friendly kiss."

"I don't think so. I'd know Juri-san anywhere. I've learned a few things about kissing in the last month, and that was NOT a friendly kiss. Besides, Hirokazu has spent about the entire morning bragging about how he 'scored' with her. Please don't tell Juri-san I told you this. You two are about the last friends I have left. Even Hirokazu acts bitter with me. That's why I'm sitting here and not with him."

"I won't tell her you said it," Jenrya assured. I can't believe this. Just because I want to wait to have sex, she goes out and finds someone that will. She doesn't want to hurt my feelings, so she pretends to still like me. It makes perfect sense.

"Sorry you had to find out like that. I guess life has been hell on both of us."

"Ruki's pregnant isn't she?" Jenrya asked. Takato only nodded, "I'm sorry. If there's anything I can do to help…"

"Not unless you want to give my parents the news."

"Well, ALMOST anything."

"Heh, Ruki and I are telling them tonight."

"Good luck."

"Good luck with Juri-san too. I hope I was wrong about what I saw and heard."

"Speaking of her, she said Asanuma-sensei was treating you weird today. What's with that?" Jenrya asked.

"Well…she kind of…umm…thinks I'm on drugs," Takato said, hanging his head.

"You can't be serious."

"Very serious."

"And WHY does she think that?"

"Do I even have to answer that?"

Lee shook his head in disappointment, "Takato-kun, lying is just making it worse."

"You sound like Ruki and her grandmother."

"That's probably because they know it's true."

"You're right. I know you're right. I just…I don't know…I just can't do it."

"If Ruki's with you tonight she won't give you a choice," Jenrya smirked as he picked up his now empty lunch tray and headed for the trash.

Lee's right. I just don't know how he does it. How can he be so honest all the time? I'll probably never know.

~*~

"Are you alright, my love?" a large bull like creature said in a deep, projecting voice. Its ancient armor was much like that of the other Devas and shone powerfully in a deep crimson. Underneath the armor, its leathery hide was jet black. Two horns jutted from the side of his head, just above the ears. A third was in the center of his forehead. Twin swords were sheath at his sides.

"I'm fine and stop calling me that," Pajiramon scoffed weakly from her bed. I am getting so tired of this. It was a one-night stand, and he thinks I'm his mate. How pathetic.

"What happened?"

"I was forced to relive something. Guilmon…raped."

"Raped!" the ox Deva roared, "Who dares defile the womon I care so deeply for?"

"No, not me. Guilmon."

"Guilmon? The Tamer digimon? How dare he! I cannot let this go unpunished!"

"Vajiramon, you bullheaded bull," Pajiramon scolded. Wait a minute. Why am I stopping him? I'd be getting him out of my hair. Who knows, he might even win. The sheep Deva snickered to herself, "Ahem, what I meant was…you don't have to do that for me, sweetie."

"I will hunt this digimon down and make him pay. I would do anything for you, dear. You shared yourself with me. I will not ever forget that," Vajiramon declared. Pajiramon smiled at him as he exited her room, doing her best not to burst out laughing.

~*~

Xuanwumon's region was actually quite beautiful, if it was summer time. Altimamon exited his transport, stepping into the frigid air. Although it was full of his own thoughts, his mind felt so empty. As his 'punishment' for past deeds, he was stripped of his psychic abilities, attacks and telekinesis when outside the borders of his realm. Blast! Why would any digimon in their right mind desire to live here?

Majiramon, the old looking dragon Deva, was just touching down as Ryo walked up to the group in a full parka. He gazed as Altimamon's escort was landing, "Are you sure you brought enough guards?" he joked as several gruff looking digimon of various levels exited the transport, but Ryo's vision was focused on the female Fladramon leading the group.

The young Major eyed her master. I've never been this close to him before. I can't believe this. The Holy One wants ME in charge of his protection. I mustn't become nervous. Nervousness is a weakness. I'm a warrior. I'm the ultimate warrior. I can't be held down by such emotional squabble.

"It is no bigger than my traditional escort. I see I am not the only one bothered by these rugged conditions. Must be terrible with that thin, human skin of yours," the dark god smirked.

"Can we get through a single conversation without mentioning how inferior humans are, Al?"

"No," Altimamon said flatly as he entered Xuanwumon's shrine. The shrine appeared to be made of ice but was actually constructed of a glass-like crystal, shaped into a dome. The turtle-like Holy Beast had a certain like for domes.

After he was sure Altimamon was out of audio range, Ryo turned to his partner. Cyberdramon's black armor stuck out like a sore thumb in the white snow covered tundra, "Something's odd here. The Fladramon, why would such a low level digimon be given command over such an important battalion?" Ryo wondered.

"I didn't notice," Cyberdramon said in his usual blunt way. Truth be known, he had hardly taken his eyes off of her when she entered the shrine.

"Oh well. I suppose we should get inside. It's starting to snow…again," Akiyama said. Cyberdramon grunted an acknowledgement and followed his partner inside.

~*~

"They should be getting out any time now," Terriermon assured.

"Ok," was all she said.

He didn't want to, but he asked anyway, "Did you…have a good time?"

"A good time? You just showed me some things. You make it sound like a date."

"NO, no not a date. Why in the world would you think that? I just wanted to know if you had fun seeing the city…that's all."

Plotmon looked puzzled. He's an odd one, so unlike the other yet so physically similar. Oh well, I might as well humor him, "Yeah, I had fun. Thank you," she smiled politely and turned back to wait for Juri.

She...thanked me. Wait, she thanked me before. No, that was different. This time, she smiled. If it were possible, little hearts would be floating around Terriermon's body. Now, make a move. She's right there. Terriermon scooted next to her, and made a yawning motion. He 'accidentally' let his ear droop across her shoulders.

As Plotmon felt the warm appendage blanket her, her vision suddenly blurred into memory.

~~~"M'lady you dance divinely," a creature much like Terriermon said in a very proper, yet gentle voice. He dipped her with his brown ear as they danced in front of a small fire.

The memory suddenly shifted into a variety of images. Them dancing, some scenes of that last night of passion they had shared, "Thy are so beautiful. There is but one task to be done, and we can be together henceforth," she heard his voice say.

"What are you saying?" she heard herself reply.

He pulled from her embrace and came to one knee in front of her, "Thou hast changed my life, but I never want this end. Will thou be my mate?" he asked tenderly. The teary eyed memory of herself nodded. The vision abruptly shifted again to herself crying at Ryo's feet, then to a profile of Chatsuramon's smirking face, her love bursting into data…~~~

"NO!" Plotmon cried, decking the dog-bunny with a powerful hook. She gasped as she looked down at him, "Oh Gods, I'm so sorry Terriermon. I didn't mean to."

"No no, it was my fault," he said rubbing his cheek as he lay on the ground. He made a quick mental note not to ever get on her bad side, "I should have asked before I did that."

"Why…did you do that?"

"I don't know. I just thought you might…like it," he gulped and blushed heavily.

Oh no. Not him. Of all the digimon that could develop a crush on me, why did it have to be him? I can never be with him. He is too much like…

"Who is Lopmon?"

"What?" Plotmon suddenly snapped out of thought.

"You were mumbling something about Lopmon, just before you socked me."

"He's…no one. Just an old friend, and one I don't like to talk about. Can we change the subject?" she said in a panicked state.

Terriermon look at her curiously "Is there something you want to talk about?"

"Not with you," she snapped.

"Oh…"

"Wait, that came out wrong. I'm sorry. I just…really don't want to talk about that to you, Juri-chan or anyone."

Terriermon hurt. Not just his cheek, but inside. I know she holding something huge inside her, something that would probably hurt me deeply just to hear. But…I want to hear it. I want to take some of her hurting away, "Plotmon, I like you…a lot. You surely know that by now. Please, let me I help you," he blurted out, his jitters long gone.

"Terriermon…I…I can't."

"Please, I made the mistake of not saying this to someone I cared about when I had the chance. I lost her."

Although his voice was nothing like 'him', she couldn't help but be captivated by his words, "You're serious, aren't you?"

"I've never been more serious in my life. This has to be the longest time in history I've gone without making a wiseass remark."

She giggled briefly, but soon became very solemn, "Even so, you can't do this. You mustn't."

"I want to," he said, drawing closer to her.

She closed her eyes and kissed him. He feels just like him. She thought as her paw stroked one of his ears. I wonder how many ways he's the same as…no, what am I doing? I can't do this. He'll end up just like everyone else. She pushed away, ended the first kiss of Terriermon's life. She turned her head, refusing to make eye contact, "Don't. Don't get close to me, Terriermon. Every digimon that does just ends up getting hurt," she turned and began walking away.

"But…"

She stopped and spoke, "Tell Juri-chan…I needed to be alone and think. I'll return to her later."

The dog-bunny closed his eyed in thought. Nothing. All that emotion and caring, the courage to finally speak my mind…and nothing. If anything, I made it worse. When he opened his eyes, she was gone. I'd hate to know how Renamon would have reacted.

~*~

Inside the rapidly emptying school, Lee was speaking with Juri, "Are you sure? I mean, if you want to see someone else, just say," he said.

"Why? Why would I want anyone else after what we shared?"

"I'm just saying that if you did, I wouldn't be upset. Just tell me."

"Jen, you have done just about everything short of accusing me of being with someone else. It hurts me to think that you don't trust me," she said with a sad face.

Jenrya sighed, "I know about the kiss."

Juri felt her pulse quicken, "What are you talking about?"

"This morning, you were kissing Hirokazu-kun in front of your locker."

"B-but how did you kno…"

"I know. Why didn't you just tell me? I wouldn't have gotten mad. I would have left you two alone, but now I find out you've been lying to me."

"No. Please Jen, I haven't been lying. That whole thing was an accident. You have to believe me," she pleaded.

"Then there was a kiss. If it was an accident, why did you keep changing the subject when I hinted at it? Why not just admit you made a mistake? Unless, you didn't want me to find out," he hypothesized.

"No, it's not like that at all."

"Then why didn't you just tell me?"

"I…don't know. I guess I didn't want you to think I was cheating on you."

"What about all the things Hirokazu-kun said?"

"What things?"

"About being with you?"

"He did what?! That is totally untrue. I swear, when I get a hold of him."

Lee sweatdropped, "Calm down, I believe you. He's Hirokazu-kun. Did you expect him not to brag? Besides, I figured that part wasn't true."

"Maybe, but you still though I was with him."

"I'm sorry, but you can't blame me after…"

"Yes, I can blame you," she interrupted, "You are the one always preaching about trust and honesty. I trust you, and if you want this to work you are going to have to trust me. I've never given you a reason not to, have I?"

Now Jenrya really felt bad, "No, you haven't. I said I was sorry, and I really am."

"It's ok. Let's just…try to avoid this in the future," she said jokingly.

"Agreed," he smiled.

"Now, I believe someone was going to take me for a romantic walk in the park."

"I was?" Jenrya sighed as was greeted with Juri's sad-puppy-dog eyes, "I mean…yes I was."

~*~

"You really want to be dressed like that?" Takato commented on Ruki's school uniform as they walked to his parent's bakery.

"Would you rather I wore my favorite jeans and T-shirt? I'm sure that would make a real good impression," his love retorted.

"Point taken."

"Are you nervous?"

"Who wouldn't be?"

"Are you going to be alright?"

"I'd be better if your mother were here. I think the idea of me being with the beautiful daughter of a supermodel would ease my parents' shock a little."

Ruki blushed a little, "You really think I'm beautiful."

"I tell you all the time."

"Only when it pertains to sex," Makino smirked.

"Oh…sorry," Takato felt his face flush, "Anyway, how should I tell them? Should I prepare them or something like that?"

"I'd just tell them. You can't really prepare them for something like this."

"I suppose so."

"It's going to be ok, Taka-chan. What's the worst that could happen?"

"Don't ever say 'What's the worst that could happen'."

~*~

Altimamon reclined in his seat and closed his eyes as Qinglongmon continued his speech. Qinglongmon was the keeper of the Eastern Digital World and the abider of Akiyama Ryo. Although he appeared to be, he was not the eldest Holy Beast. His body was that of a long dragon and appeared almost spirit-like, coiled with mystical chains. The multi-eyed dragon had long white facial hair, much like Altimamon's own Deva Majiramon. You all have the brilliance and power of Gods, but you can't even figure it out. It's so simple. They call themselves my brothers, but they don't act it. The dark god thought to himself.

"Perhaps you should wait until Altimamon finishes his nap," Zhuqiaomon, keeper of the South, joked. He was an extremely large, four-eyed firebird, not unlike the mythical phoenix. His body was a deep red, highlighted in places by orange and yellow. He appeared as if he were on fire, although he was not. A metal ring with eight pink orbs encircled his neck. As a virus type, he was sometimes unpredictable, but usually maintained calmness.

The other Holy Beasts snickered, "Allow me to wake him," Baihumon, keeper of the West, snarled. Youthful and fierce, Baihumon was actually more erratic than Zhuqiaomon. However, his high sense of honor and duty made him one of the most well respected Holy Beasts. One of two quadruped Holy Beasts, he had the body of a fierce white tiger. Iron cuffs clamped his ankles and tail. His claws appeared to be made of the same metal. A series of golden orbs seemed to mysteriously float around his body. He began walking towards his brother.

"Don't bother," Altimamon said, not even bothering to open his eyes, "If you had said anything that interests me, I would have responded."

"Whether you care to admit it or not, the Digital World is your responsibility too. You would well-advised to listen to the suggestions we have," Qinglongmon advised.

"Why? I solved the hunger problem in my sector some time ago."

"I hardly call stealing from humans a solution. You are a heartless coward," Baihumon barked.

"Humans are pathetic. They should be providing for us."

"A human defeated you, if I recall correctly," the white tiger smirked.

Altimamon growled, "A digimon, aided by a human Tamer, defeated me. Which leads me to my next topic, why should we allow humans to be Tamers? It's nothing more than a fancy name for digimon slavery."

"That's enough," came the split voice of Xuanwumon, keeper of the North and current host of the Assembly. Xuanwumon, the second of the quadrupeds, appeared to be a large two headed turtle with an even larger tree growing from his back. He had another set of mysterious orbs encircling his body. Although part of the same being, each head was different. A brown-eyed head spoke with a kind gentle voice, whereas its 'partner' was a red-eyed head with a slightly more gruff voice. He didn't look it, but this pacifist Vaccine type was the eldest Holy Beast, "This meeting is about helping the Digital World. If all you have to say is about your hatred of humans, then do not speak at all," he said, starting with his gentle voiced head and ending in his other. Although the heads never spoke at the same time, it was not uncommon for one to finish the other's sentence.

"What I am saying pertain to the helping of the Digital World. I am proposing that will get the resources we need from humans."

"You purpose that every time we assemble. What makes you think we are any closer to attempting it?"

"Because you must. You unrestricted societies and free market economics have failed. Your people are dying. Surely you, as a lover of all life, can see that," Altimamon pleaded his older brother.

"Of course I see that, but if we do as you've done, the human world would suffer the same fate."

"True, but if we could save our people, would it be worth it?"

"It's true," Zhuqiaomon said sadly. "Our world needs help…now."

"You're taking HIS side!" Baihumon roared.

"I'm not taking sides!" the firebird retorted, "I'm simply saying that something drastic must be done, soon. I've witnessed far too many digimon battling each other."

"Digimon always fight one another. It is our way," Baihumon said proudly.

"Warriors fought other warriors, not the innocent and young. Take a look around. They aren't fighting for experience or skill. They're fighting to survive," Zhuqiaomon looked very sad, which was a rather uncommon emotion for him.

"Mine don't. Mine fight together, in an organized group. Their food is provided from outside sources. They are free to leave at any time, but yet they stay. Why? Because they know that my sector is a safe place for them to reside and proper," Altimamon bragged.

"Enough arguments," Xuanwumon said, "Regardless of how good your claim your sector is, it is still causing many humans to suffer."

"You insist humans are 'inferior beings', but yet you use their products. The metal machines that transported you here, I believe they are called helicopters, came from humans," Qinglongmon added.

The dark god sighed, "Humans are inferior, but they have their uses. Regardless, my purpose here today is to convince you of just how terrible humans are."

"Humans are life. All life has a right to exist," the guardian of the North said.

"Or so you think," Altimamon pulled out a small case, "The information on the disk inside this case will convince you otherwise," he smiled as he opened the case.

~*~

"Taka-chan, we've been out here for ten minutes. Are you going in or do I have to drag you inside kicking and screaming?" Ruki asked as they stood outside Takato's parents' bakery.

"I'll take kicking and screaming."

"Not funny."

"Just give me a couple minutes. I want to…umm…get ready."

"No more minutes," Ruki grabbed the black band of Takato's goggled and preceded to pull him toward her.

"Oww. Ruki, they're smashing my forehead. You're going to break them…ack…and me."

"You should have thought of that before being Mr. Smartass. Now come on."

Matsuda Takehiro, Takato's father, watched in confusion as a young redheaded teen wearing a Catholic school uniform pulled his son into the bakery, "Takato, what did you do to her?"

"Well…" Takato stammered.

"Tell him."

"I'm going to. Dad, can you and mom spare a minute? I need to tell you two something really important."

~*~

Outside the meeting room, Ryo sat playing solitaire. Cyberdramon and Majiramon stood off to opposite sides, exchanging occasional glares. Most of Altimamon's escort was loitering about casually, save for the Fladramon. She shook her head in disgust at her fellow soldiers' laziness and continued what Ryo guessed to be some type of martial arts practice. The muscle definition in her body indicated that she probably did this quite often. She was a little short for a Fladramon, roughly only a quarter of a meter taller than the teen. Otherwise, her appearance was the same as any Fladramon, blue/white body incased in the red armor of a Digimental of Courage. There were, however, two other differences. She wore a black band with white slashes, indicating her rank, on her right arm. Also, she had on some type of leather belt with what appeared to be a gun holster on it. Akiyama knew that a gun would be useless to a digimon like her, so he guessed the black object in the holster must be some type of communication device. Ryo wasn't startled by the fact that he found her attractive. He had noticed beauty in many kinds of digimon. Partially because he had come to view digimon as equals, but mainly because the anti-aging effects the Digital World had on humans had caused him to remain in the strongest stage of male puberty for the last few years.

Ryo sighed and looked back down at his game, which was not going in his favor. I wish they'd allow me into the meetings. I fell like a useless foot soldier out here. Plus, I'd really like to know what Al is up to. He's seemed unusually cocky lately. I wish I could just defeat him once and for all. Then maybe I could finally go home.

"A curious exercise, but I fail to see how it makes you a better warrior," Ryo was startled as the Fladramon spoke from over his shoulder.

"Just a little R&R," he glanced at the black band on her shoulder, "Captain, right?"

"Major," she corrected in a somewhat annoyed demeanor. She stabbed the ace of hearts with her armored hand, "You are on duty. You shouldn't be playing games," she said as the card burned to nothing on her claw

"Hey!"

"You have more," she gestured to the remaining cards.

"Yes, but you need all fifty-two to play the game," Ryo groaned. A deck of playing cards was almost impossible to find in the Digital World.

"Perhaps now you will attend to your duties."

"What duties? I'm just here to make sure nothing happens. You should really relax."

"Relax?! How can I relax? The Holy One's safety is in my hands," Fladramon looked like she was going to salute.

Ryo sweatdropped, "I'm sure Al's confident with you on the job."

"Typical human," Fladramon huffed.

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"You don't care about your duties to the other Holy Beasts, and why should you? You're a human. The fates of some petty digimon don't concern you," she looked at Cyberdramon, "Even that big lug shows more dedication than you."

Ryo stood up, noticeably upset, "Look Major, I DO care. Just a moment ago, I was wishing I were in there listening to them so I could help. I care just as much about digimon as I do about humans. I left my family to be here and help you. You may get to see your family every day but I haven't seen mine in years."

"I do. I do see my family, every time I look at my arm," she proudly displayed her black ranking band, "My real family is dead."

"Oh…" now Ryo felt a little bad, but he was still upset, "I'm sorry."

"Don't be. Altimamon's militia is my family now and I intend to be its most respected member."

Now she is starting to make sense. Losing her family would explain her attachment to this new 'family'. She just wants to feel needed. I can relate to that. I have no doubt they do give her a great deal of respect. Even old Majiramon over there didn't seem to want to question her commands, "You're some piece of work, you know that."

"What?"

"You're just a young digimon. You've been forced to grow up fast, and you still made something great of yourself."

"So what?"

Akiyama sighed, "It was a compliment. Don't be so uptight."

"I'll be as 'uptight' as I want to be. Don't think I've forgot that you're my enemy," she reminded, poking him lightly in the chest with a claw. This caused Cyberdramon to growl and step forward protectively. She glanced up at him, "What do you want?"

"Don't touch him," the armored dragon snarled.

"So you do talk. Here I thought you were some type of mindless grunt."

"Don't provoke him. He has a short temper," Ryo warned.

Fladramon glanced to her side as Majiramon began to step forward, "Majiramon, stand down. I can handle this. Besides, I could use the exercise."

"I don't want any unnecessary battles," Ryo said, but Cyberdramon was already stalking toward the young Fladramon. "Cyberdramon, stop."

Fladramon looked at Ryo arrogantly with her reddish brown eyes, "Afraid he might lose?"

"Lady, you don't know what you asking for."

Fladramon gave a short laugh, "I never lose," she turned back around just as Cyberdramon attacked.

~*~

"What's wrong? Who is this?" Matsuda Mie asked her son.

"This is Makino Ruki. She's the daughter of Makino Rumiko, the famous model," Takato said proudly.

Ruki rolled her eyes at the 'casual' mentioning of her mother. She bowed a little. Although she hated doing it, she knew it would help Takato, "Pleased to meet you Matsuda-san."

"Likewise," Mie smiled, having no idea what her son was about to tell her.

"Umm…I don't know how to say this, but…well…" Takato fidgeted as his words stumbled all over the place. He gave Ruki a pleading glance.

"We're together," Ruki said.

"What?!" Takato's mother exclaimed. His father said nothing.

"That's right. I've been seeing Ruki just about every day after school."

"It's not that bad. He IS getting to that age you know. Besides, they're just kids," Takehiro said in a low voice to his wife.

"Well," she sighed, "I suppose there's no harm in that. You just…took me by surprise. Why did you keep this from us?"

"Well…I'm not done confessing yet," Takato stammered as he saw the stress marks on his mother's face return. "You see…we've kind of become…close."

"What do you mean?"

"Umm…I mean…uhh…"

Ruki sighed in frustration, "He means sex," she said, her voice returning to it's normal demeanor.

Mie looked as if she were going to strike Ruki. Instead she turned back to her son and spoke in a low voice, "Is this true?"

"Yes, mother."

Mie's entire body seemed to shake. She turned toward the kitchen, "Honey, would you give me a hand in the kitchen."

Takato's father raised an eyebrow, "But we aren't baking anyth…"

"Now!"

"Yes dear."

As the two exited the room, Takato looked at Ruki and whispered, "I think that went well."

"What makes you say that?"

"I'm still breathing," Matsuda smirked.

In the kitchen Mie paced, mumbling to herself in a gradually increasing tone, "I raise him perfectly. I give him all the attention and love I can, and what does he do? He runs off and is taken in be some little whore…"

"Shhh, she'll hear you," Takehiro warned his wife.

"I don't care if she hears me or not. What would you call a girl who sleeps with little boys?"

"Takato isn't a little boy anymore," Takehiro didn't want to, but he smiled slightly at the humor of that comment.

"You think this is funny, don't you. He's your son too. Do you want your son hanging out with tramps? What if he picks up one of those awful diseases? She's probably slept with half the town's children."

"I'm sure it was nothing. They probably only did it once. Now they feel sorry, and are coming to us to apologize," Takato's father hypothesized.

"Oh my god! Last night. That must have been where he was. He probably spent the entire night and her whorehouse!"

Takehiro looked scared. He had never heard his wife talk this way about anyone, "Please dear. I'm sure it's nothing like that. You heard Takato. She's a Makino. The Makinos certainly aren't tramps."

"This one is. Look what she's done to our son," Mie ranted.

Outside the kitchen, Ruki was clutching to counter tightly in an attempt to control her rage, "I'm sure she meant that in the nicest way possible," Takato said, smiling weakly.

"I'm about to say a few 'nice' things about her. Like for starters how she is a controlling bit…" Takato clamped his hand over his love's mouth, preventing any verbal harm.

"I'm going out there and throw that girl out of my bakery. She'll never corrupt my son again," Mie declared from in the kitchen.

"Please listen to me. That isn't going to solve anything. Takato will just sneak out and see her again."

"Oh no he won't. I will see to that, even if I have to put iron bars on his balcony window."

"You're overreacting."

"You're underreacting. I can't believe you can take this so lightly. This is our SON!" Mie yelled as she headed back out into the shop portion of the bakery.

"Please don't do this," Takehiro pleaded, knowing he cries fell on deaf ears.

"Takato, get away from her! You are never to see her again."

"But I have to…"

"You see," Mie said to her husband, "that girl already has him under her spell."

"What spell?"

"The spell girls like that put on poor little boys like Takato."

Takato was nearly thrown to the ground as Ruki struggled to speak, "No…mom…it isn't…like that."

"Be quiet, Takato. I'm your mother. I know what's best for you."

Ruki stomped the brown-haired boy's foot, forcing him to release her in a yelp of pain, "You're lucky I love your son so much or I'd say what I really thought of you."

"You just barge into our life and steal the innocence of the youngest Matsuda, and then you want to tell me what you think of ME."

"I have news for you. He isn't the youngest Matsuda anymore!" Ruki yelled, not even realizing what she had said at first.

Mie said nothing. All the redness of her enraged face seemed to drain away into a pale white. She collapsed, nearly hitting the floor if her husband hadn't been close by to catch her. He checked her breathing. "She…fainted," he said, confirming what everyone suspected. He carefully carried her into the living room, where he sat her in a chair.

"I guess that's one way to end the argument," Takato whispered to Ruki as they followed his father.

"You're…really pregnant?" Takehiro asked. Ruki nodded, "For how long?"

"A couple months," she said softly. So far, Takato's father had given her no reason to hold anger towards him.

"How long…have you two been…intimate?" he asked, this question directed at his son.

"I don't know, a few months," he answered to the best of his knowledge. "I'm really sorry, dad. I didn't mean for this to happen."

"I know that. Just as I know we won't even have to punish you."

Takato suddenly felt relieved, "Really?"

"Don't sound so confident. The entire rest of your life will be your punishment. You're going to go through far more hell than any punishment could provide."

"Oh…" Matsuda's relief was long gone.

"I assume you two are keeping the baby, or you'd never have come here."

"Yes, we are," this time Ruki answered.

"Then I suppose it's time. I was planning on doing this when you're older, but I guess things have changed."

"Doing what?" Takato wondered.

"Having you work here."

"But…I do that all the time."

"No, you help. You've never worked a day in your life. You're going to WORK. Work just as hard as you would a normal job. Otherwise, no pay."

"You're going to pay me?" Takato sounded happy again.

"Of course. How else are you supposed to support a child?"

"Oh right," Takato sighed as the emotional roller coaster continued, "But…what about school?"

"You'll still go to school, but you won't have time for anything but school and work."

"I understand," Takato said, still not quite grasping this concept. "When does all this start?"

"Later. For now, you had better just go upstairs and pack some clothes."

"Where am I going?"

"To the Makino home. That is where you really were last night, isn't it?" Takehiro inquired. Takato blushed and nodded slowly, "I thought so. It's probably best for now that you stay there tonight. As long as her family is ok with it," he finished, turning to Ruki.

"They know. They aren't happy, but they've accepted it," Ruki answered the unasked question.

"You don't mind?" Takato asked.

"What more harm can you do?" he asked, gesturing toward Ruki's stomach.

Takato sighed, "Sorry. What about Mom?"

"I'll try to deal with her when she wakes up, but I can't make any promises."

"Thanks, Dad."

"Don't thank me. I'm not doing this to be nice. I'm only doing this because I don't want to see you suffer any more than you have to. I'm extremely disappointed in you, Takato. I thought you had better judgment than this."

"It's my fault too, Matsuda-san. I should have just as much blame placed on me," Ruki put in.

Takato shook his head, "No, he's right. I should have known better. I should have waited. I'm really sorry, Dad. I'm so stupid."

"You can beat yourself up later. Right now, I think you had better go," Takehiro said.

"Ok."

"I'll help you pack," Ruki said, following her love upstairs.

You had so much going for you Takato. Why would you throw it all away? I can't understand how two people that young could possibly think they could love one another. I can only hope her life isn't as bad as yours is going to be. Takehiro thought as he watched them go upstairs. He returned to watching over his wife.

~*~

Renamon woke slowly. As she leaned up to yawn she bumped Guilmon's chin. He was wide-awake and staring at her with the same golden eyes she had grown to love, "G-Guilmon," she said groggily.

"Renamon I'm sorry. I just woke up and you were here. I couldn't move or I would wake you up. Don't be mad."

Renamon giggled, "I am not mad. Why would I be mad?"

"Don't you still hate me?"

"No. I know what really happened, with Pajiramon. I am so sorry. She nearly deleted you, and I was too blind to see it. I have been a fool. Can you ever forgive me?"

Guilmon nodded enthusiastically. He then paused, thinking about something, "Renamon?"

"Hmm?"

"If I said that I love you, would you hit me again?"

Renamon felt like laughing and crying at the same time, "No, never again."

"That's good, because I love you a lot. I don't think I could keep it a secret very long."

Oh Guilmon, only you could even make me laugh like this. Renamon thought as she giggled, "I love you too. More than ever."

"Does that mean that you didn't love me very much before?"

Renamon sighed, "No, it means that I loved you very much before and I love you even more now."

"Oh…I think I love you even more," he said childishly.

"Lets find out," she said, pulling him into a kiss. His long tongue coiled hers like a snake of passion, constricting pleasure into her mouth. His body weight caused them to fall in a heap. Renamon moaned into his mouth as she began playing with his tail.

"Turn around Digimon! Even a piece of scum like you doesn't deserve to die with his back turned!" a deep voice yelled from the doorway. Two couple broke the kiss and looked to see an armor clad bull at the door. Vajiramon turned, pointing one of his blades at Guilmon, "Stand up rapist! Your life ends here!"

~*~

Translate-O-Matic: (Note: I put the Japanese levels in as well. I had forgot this before, sorry)

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

Plotmon = Salamon

Fladramon=Flamedramon

Santiramon=Sandiramon

Vajiramon=Vajramon

Chatsuramon=Caturamon

Qinglongmon=Azulongmon

Xuanwumon=Ebonwumon (Some sites and toys show Xuanwumon's dub name as "Zhuqiaomon". This is a typo in which Xuanwumon and Zhuqiaomon's names were mixed up. As far as I have heard, Saban corrected this error in the dub TV show)

Child=Rookie

Adult=Champion

Perfection=Ultimate

Ultimate=Mega

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 (You know the drill): Chapter 9, Mistaken: Guilmon is forced to fight for his life for a crime he didn't commit. Renamon discovers the secret of un-bonded evolution, but wishes she hadn't. Juri meets Lee's father, but not in the way she had planned. Meanwhile, Cyberdramon and Fladramon engage in a not-so-friendly bit of "training" while Altimamon fights a battle of a different type.

~*~

Author's Notes: Sorry, no lemons. There will probably be a couple in the next chapter anyway.

About Lopmon, he is male in the Japanese version. I'm not sure why he was changed to female in the dub. As to his odd way of speaking, Lopmon speaks very old-fashioned Japanese in the original series. The closest Anglo comparison I could find was Shakespearean English. (Thee, thy, hast, hark, m'lady, etc.)

About Takato's mother, her reaction was rather harsh because she still seems to view Takato as "her little baby", although he is a teen.

About the Devas' personality, a few of the Devas were given little screen time and/or lines. Therefore I had to improvise on their personality. I tried to mainly use their attribute. Such as, Pajiramon is a Virus type. She would probably be a dark and cruel warrioress, whereas Vajiramon is a vaccine. Being a Deva, he would still be evil, but he would accomplish his goals in a slightly more humane manner.

I forgot to say before, if you have any questions on a particular part of the story, feel free to E-mail me a question or include it in your review. I try to answer any question I think people may have in my note, but I miss things. (Such as I had forgotten to put in the dub version of the Digimon levels)

I ended up cutting this chapter in half. Sorry I don't update more frequently. I've just been extremely busy. Thanks to all of you for bearing with me. Don't forget to R&R. Thank you to all those of you that review by E-mail too. All of you are what inspires me to keep writing. 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