Affinity -EXE5 SPOILERS-

YaminoMiko · Posted: Thu Dec 29, 2005 8:10 pm Post subject:

Like Mugen.exe, I like the way you forshadow the upcoming chapters. Great job!

I had a boring Christmas......
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I wanna sleep, but I don't wanna sleep at the same time. @_@.
Repetition(RnREXE)

jamar0303 · Joined: 20 Dec 2005 Posts: 9

Great story! I like the way you put Forte in as being a bit Like Netto with his restlessness, and how you base this story on the game as opposed to the anime (seen enough of the other, wanted to see a little bit of a difference). I hope that this story will continue.

Kitty-Chan · Posted: Tue Jan 10, 2006 10:36 pm Post subject:

Sorry I haven't popped in sooner, but crap happened. Reading your fic really lifted my spirits; thanks. I like how Netto wants to show both his navi's symbols.
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Need more Zero/X, Netto/Rock, Rock/Netto, Forte/Netto, & Blues/Netto. PLEASE!
Ano sa...could someone please make me a Zero/X, Blues/Netto, or Forte/Netto avatar/banner? I would greatly appreciate it...
Thanks for the avatar, Mandi!
People! We need more Blues/Netto & Forte/Netto on the net. Come on; help me out here! *gives everyone her Super-Adorable Irrisistable Sad Kitty Eyes(TM)*

**Sol** · Posted: Thu Jan 12, 2006 3:01 am Post subject:

Chapter 5: Familiar Memory

“I'm home!” Netto shouted as he entered his house, kicking off his shoes as he did so. Haruka looked up from the kitchen to see her son walking in, somewhat panting. It was a few weeks after Netto's return, and enough time had passed that Haruka had deemed Netto fit to return to school, much to the brunette's ire.

However, Netto really didn't complain much about it. In fact, he was rather excited that he would see some of his classmates again. The first day back, however, wasn't what he was expecting...

If Meiru's hugs were crushing, then Mariko-sensei's were on a whole different level. Netto paled at the feeling of how he could hardly breathe afterwards.

As for school itself, it was fine to Netto. Each lesson was as he remembered them; long and boring. However, the more irritating parts of the day actually involved lunch. He couldn't believe how many of his classmates wanted to hear about where he had been. Thankfully, his friends managed to get him to a safe place each day it happened.

Netto was rightfully annoyed by how everyone wanted to hear his side of the story, but thankfully it was starting to calm down. The only other thing that irked him was his workload. It seemed the whole class was bogged down by a huge workload despite having a week off to look for him. He felt slightly guilty over it, but soon forgot about that as he remembered the short paper he had to write that afternoon.

The brunette had just come from Yaito's mansion, where he met with his three friends. Netto had decided that he needed to tell both Yaito and Dekao the truth of where he had really been for the past week. Their reactions were not what he expected, however.

“...and that's basically what happened.” Netto finished as he leaned back on the couch he was on. He, Meiru, and Dekao were at Yaito's mansion for a small get together. The brunette had decided earlier that he really needed to tell his two other friends the truth, since he owed them that much. Meiru was there to support him in case he couldn't continue on.

Dekao and Yaito sat there, stunned. Finally, the larger boy took a deep breath and stared at Netto. “Is that all true?” he asked, still looking rather shocked.

Netto nodded. “Every word of it. And if you don't believe me, ask Forte himself.” he said, holding up the black PET to them. The two shuddered when they saw the navi glare at them, but said nothing.

Suddenly, Yaito looked at the brunette, looking oddly cheerful. “What you just told us...it sounds like something out of one of those romance movies!” she said, clasping her hands together. Everyone only stared at her in confusion. “I mean, gods, goddesses! That sounds like something out of that kind of genre!”

Dekao only stared at her and snorted. “I fail to see what is so romantic about a goddess kidnapping someone for some kind of experiment. I think you got your genre mixed up with 'horror', don't you think?” he teased, smirking as Yaito frowned and huffed at him.

“What would you know, anyways?” she huffed before turning back to Netto. “It might sound unbelievable, but knowing you and all that you've gone through, it isn't so far-fetched.”

Netto blinked in surprise while Dekao grinned. “She's right, you know. We believe you on this because we trust you.” he said.

Netto opened his mouth to say something, but he couldn't say anything. Meiru giggled. “We're your friends, Netto;” she said while looking at him, “You should have a bit more faith in us.”

Netto chuckled and smiled. “You're right...thanks, everybody.” he said. Dekao then laughed.

“At least you got us out of school for a week!” he laughed. Yaito growled and smacked him upside the head.

“Is that all you ever think about besides food?!” Yaito raged. Dekao whimpered while Netto and Meiru laughed.

Netto had to chuckle at that. He had good friends who believed in him, and he felt slightly better about the whole situation. Haruka noticed his expression and smiled warmly at him.

“So, how was your day with your friends?” she asked as she offered her son a few snacks she prepared. Netto gratefully took one and devoured it.

“It went great Mama,” he said in between bites. “Although we only talked about what's been happening, I had a great time with them.”

“Oh?” Haruka asked as she set the plate down, “Did you tell them about-”

“Yeah, I did...” Netto answered while nodding. “I told them everything.”

Haruka smiled again. “Well, I take it that they believed you then;” she said simply as she moved back into the kitchen. “You have really good friends, Netto.”

“Thanks Mama,” he said as he grabbed another few snacks off the plate and eating them. “I have to go up and write this stupid paper out for class.” Netto said before rushing upstairs. Haruka only giggled.

Netto sighed as he closed the door to his room, looking down at both PETs on his waist. “You two haven't really been talking much today,” he commented as he hooked them both up to his computer, “I wonder why?”

Rockman smiled at his operator. “I'm sorry Netto-kun, but I was busy talking with Roll and the others for most of the time.” he said. Sighing and nodding, Netto looked over at the cloaked navi, who only shrugged.

“I had nothing to talk about.” was all he said. Netto chuckled. The brunette noticed Forte shift a bit and sighed.

“I'm not going to force you to meet new people if you don't want to, Forte. I'll leave that up to you.” he said reassuringly. Forte closed his eyes and nodded.

“Thanks.” he said. Netto smiled at him again before turning to his computer, sighing at the assignment he was about to do.
Netto sat there for around half an hour, looking up information through his notes and typing up his report. Several times he saw Forte shift restlessly in his PET. He couldn't blame the navi; just sitting around with nothing to do would get to the brunette as well. Finally, he sighed and looked at both of his navis. “Since you guys have nothing else to do, why don't you go into the internet and just walk around?” he asked.

Rockman blinked. “Netto-kun, are you sure?” he asked skeptically, “What if something comes up while we're gone?” Rockman then glanced at Forte. He didn't fully trust him yet, and he wasn't quite sure if the cloaked navi could be trusted to go into the internet.

“Anything to just get out of here, Netto-kun.” Forte groaned. Netto chuckled as he linked the two navis into his computer. Rockman, on the other hand, felt uneasy for some reason whenever Forte called Netto that. Shaking his head, he looked at his operator again.

“Then go out and just have a good time, you hear?” Netto said as he turned back to his assignment, “I'll still be here, so I'll contact you if I need you. Oh, and Rockman,” the brunette suddenly said as he inserted a chip into Rockman's PET. “Could you go buy me a few chips at the Square? You know which ones I'm talking about, right?”

Rockman nodded. “Yeah, I do. I'll get it done.” he said simply. Netto nodded at both of them as they exited his computer, off to explore the area. The brunette sighed.

“Hope Forte can get used to this area.” he murmured as he went back to his report.

---

Forte didn't know what to say as he walked along the paths of the Akihara network. He would be lying if he said he wasn't somewhat uncomfortable in the area; he was used to the darkness of the Ura Net, not the brightness and rather colorful atmosphere of the surface. Next to him walked Rockman, who still was wary around him. The cloaked navi couldn't really blame him; after all, walking next to a former enemy was still very awkward.

Sighing, he looked around again. Numerous other navis were walking and talking with each other, taking no notice of him at all. It was rather odd just to see other navis just pass him by without feeling fear. Forte shook his head; it seemed he wasn't as imposing as he originally thought.

Rockman chuckled as Forte stared around in confusion. It seemed that the cloaked navi wasn't used to these kind of surroundings, and somehow he found it amusing to see that one of the most powerful navis in existence was just uncomfortable walking around in the internet. “There's no need to feel so jumpy, Forte;” Rockman said to him, “It's only the Akihara network. I don't see why you're so uncomfortable.”

Forte narrowed his eyes at the blue navi. “You should know that I've always kept to the Ura Net for most of my life.” he said as he kept walking, still looking around. “To suddenly wander the surface after such a long time is rather startling.”

Rockman shrugged. “Maybe, but I still don't think it's such a big deal.” he said as they turned a corner.

“Whatever.” Forte muttered. Rockman sighed at Forte's attitude and kept walking. While he did agree that it would be pretty startling to just start visiting new places after lurking in only one area for several years, he didn't see why Forte was all unnerved by just walking in Akihara net.

Really, Rockman thought, It's not like anything happens here anyways.

After a few more minutes of walking, Rockman suddenly stopped at a fork in the path. Glancing back at the cloaked navi, who was staring at something in the distance, he coughed to get his attention. “Forte, I'm going to go do what Netto-kun asked me to do,” he said as he turned back to the path leading to the square. “You should just walk around to get acquainted with this area for later, so I'll go by myself.”

That in itself was a half-truth. Rockman did want Forte to memorize the area for later, but Rockman didn't want to be seen with Forte just in case someone did recognize him by chance. He doubted if anyone would, given that only the high ranked Netbattlers and the people at the Science Labs knew about him in the first place. Still, it would be better to be careful.

Forte snorted. “Fine. I know you don't want to be around me, so you don't have to make any excuses for it.” he said. Rockman winced before resuming a neutral face and sighing.

“Well, I'll see you in a bit then.” he said before walking off. Forte only stared at Rockman's back before sighing.

“Really, if he doesn't really want to be around me, then he should at least tell it to my face.” he grumbled before walking off in another direction. Despite himself, Forte was trying to make an effort to get along with Rockman for Netto's sake. However, he found that difficult for two reasons. First off, it was pretty hard to try to get along with someone when the person doesn't even want to have anything to do with you. The cloaked navi was sure it wasn't like that, but Rockman had remained stoic towards him.

The second reason was that he still felt a little resentment towards the blue navi as well. He didn't know exactly why however; was it because he was jealous of the bond that Rockman and Netto shared? Or was it because he knew that Rockman would be closer to Netto than he ever could be? Forte didn't know, but he tried to quell whatever resentment towards Rockman.

Shaking his head, Forte wandered around the Akihara network for a while, memorizing all of the paths and where they led. Finally, he grew bored and just found a platform where he could just stand and stare off into the distance, looking at the depths of the network.

Am I happy? Forte suddenly thought. Am I content with being someone's navi again? I know Netto-kun would never hurt anyone he fully trusted, but what about everyone else...?

However, he didn't get anymore time to think as he heard some very loud noises not far from him. Turning around, he saw a green navi running from something, obviously outrunning whoever was chasing him. He was smirking and was holding something in his left hand, but Forte couldn't tell what. The navi wasn't watching where he was going as he ran, eventually bumping into the cloaked navi hard enough to fall down.

The green navi groaned and quickly got onto his feet, growling at Forte. “Hey, what's the big idea bumping into me?” he asked, glaring at the cloaked navi. Forte only gave him a fixed stare as the green navi looked over his shoulder and frowned, sweating a little bit. “Get out of my way!”
“Why should I?” Forte questioned softly, narrowing his eyes. The green navi growled and pointed a buster to Forte's face.

“Fine then. I'll just use you as a hostage,” the navi smirked as he edged the buster closer to the middle of the cloaked navi's face. “The net police wouldn't dare touch me if I held someone in their line of fire, would they?”

Forte let off a low chuckle, and before the navi knew it, he found himself being gripped by the throat, lifted into the air. Forte glared at him. “How pathetic...” he drawled as he tightened his grip; “You don't have the power to fight off two other navis by yourself, so you have to resort to cowardly tactics? Disgraceful!”

The green navi gasped as he felt his breath start to slowly leave him. “S-stop!” he gasped out, “Let me go...! I'll return what I stole to them!” he pleaded.

Forte shook his head, smirking. “I don't think so...” he said before tightening his grip once more, “I shall delete you right now, weakling.”

The green navi was slowly choking. “N-no...!”

Forte kept on smirking before his eyes widened, a sudden image coming into his mind.

“Rockman,” a younger Netto asked his navi one day as he was sitting in his room, holding the blue PET in his hands. “What happens to navis when they are deleted?”

Rockman stiffened, looking at his operator. “Why are you asking about that, Netto-kun?” he asked in a choked voice. Netto shrugged.

“I just want to know. Papa said something about deletions of navis the last time he was here, and I wanted to know what exactly happens to them.” he said. Rockman looked down in thought for a few seconds before sighing softly.

“Well, I don't know how to explain this...” he let out, “But navis are somewhat like humans. When they are deleted, they technically die.” he said.

Netto's eyes widened. “Die?” he gasped out, “But...but...how?”

Rockman held up a hand. “Please let me finish, Netto-kun.” he said before continuing, “However, unlike humans, navis can be backed up and be restored.”

“Restored?” Netto asked, tilting his head in confusion. Rockman chuckled.

“Yeah, restored. If the operator makes a back-up of their navi, they can restore their personality data and memories into a new frame.” Rockman explained before frowning. “However, if the operator doesn't back a navi up, then...”

Netto didn't need any further elaboration on that.”So...deleting navis is wrong then?” he asked slowly, looking pale. “That means we should never do it, right?”

“Netto-kun,please try to understand me;” Rockman said while holding his hands up to placate the young boy, “In the future, there are probably going to be times where we may have to delete other navis without hesitation.” he said, still staring at the brunette.

Netto slumped. “But I don't want to delete any navis if I know they're going to permanently die...” he whimpered.

Rockman slowly smiled. “Don't worry, Netto-kun. As long as we only delete navis when we really need to, then there shouldn't be anything to worry about.”

Netto blinked. “Do you really mean it?” he asked quietly.

“I do.” Rockman said as he nodded. Netto smiled happily.

“Okay then!” he exclaimed as he jumped up off his bed, “Let's go on the net, Rockman! Maybe we'll find something to do there!” he said happily.

Rockman laughed. “Alright, Netto-kun.”

Netto smiled down at the blue navi. “Rockman, I'm never going to let you be deleted! I promise!”

Rockman smiled back, albeit sadly. “...thank you, Netto-kun.”

Forte's eyes were wide as the flash of the memory faded. “Netto-kun...” he whispered in shock. Absently, he felt the navi struggle in his grip before letting him go, still in shock about the whole memory.

The green navi fell to the ground, coughing and gasping for air as two police navis arrived, putting him in restraints. “You're under arrest for grand theft!” one of them announced as he brought the navi onto his feet, restraining his arms. The other officer took the item the green navi was holding and inspected it before nodding. He nodded again to the other officer, who took it as a signal to teleport himself and the thief out.

The officer sighed and turned back to Forte, who was now staring at him. “Thank you. Because you were able to stop that navi, we were able to avert a coming crisis. Had he been able to escape, then he would have used that code to conduct massive frauds throughout the shops in Akihara.” he explained as he stepped closer to the cloaked navi. “I don't believe I've seen you around here before...may I have your name?” he inquired.

Shaking his head, Forte turned around and ran off without a word. The officer navi only stared after him and scratched his head. “Strange kid...” he muttered before sighing. “All of these recent net crimes are starting to worry me. Almost all the recent ones involve navis from the Ura Net...” Shaking his head, he prepared to log out. “Perhaps I'm reading too much into it..”

---

Forte ran for quite a bit until he was sure that he was far enough away from other navis. Kneeling down, he panted as he held his head, the memory still flashing through his head. The cloaked navi realized that it was that conversation with Rockman that was the driving force behind Netto's ideals. It was that very conversation that helped the boy shape his views on navis, and helped him become the person he was today. He gasped as he he struggled to his feet, the memory finally starting to fade. Forte's breathing started to ease as he opened his eyes finally, calming himself down.

“Forte?” came a voice. The cloaked navi turned around to see Rockman behind him, looking somewhat concerned. Blinking, he stepped forward to face him. “What is going on? I heard someone was arrested by the Net Police earlier, but all they said was that they had the assistance of a navi with some sort of cloak...that was you, wasn't it?” he questioned.

Forte closed his eyes and nodded before walking past Rockman. The blue navi turned around in surprise as he walked past him. “Wait, where are you going?”

“Back to Netto-kun.” was all that Forte said before slowly walking off. Rockman blinked and ran to catch up with him, looking confused.

“You going to tell me what happened?” Rockman asked as he caught up and walked to the side of the cloaked navi. Forte only glanced at Rockman before sighing.

“What is there to say? The criminal ran into me and made the mistake of threatening me.” Forte said simply. Rockman paled. “However, I didn't delete him. There was no need to.”

Rockman couldn't hold back his shock. “You didn't delete him?” he asked incredulously. Forte only shook his head.

“Correct. Deleting him would have been a waste of my time anyways.” Forte muttered. However, Rockman felt there was more to it, but didn't feel the need to pry further.

When both navis were almost back at Netto's computer, Forte spoke up again. “Rockman...you're the one who told Netto-kun to not delete navis unless there was a really specific need to?” he asked. Rockman blinked.

“I...think so.” Rockman let out. Forte closed his eyes and smirked.

“I see...” he murmured before walking ahead towards the webpage, “Thank you, Rockman.” he said before disappearing into the link.

Rockman's eyes widened in shock at the sight of Forte actually thanking him for something he didn't entirely remember. Shaking himself out of his stupor, he ran into the link to be transported back into the computer, looking up into the face of his operator.

Netto blinked and looked at his computer as the two navis linked in. “Oh, are you two finally back?” he asked as he sat up in his chair. “You were gone for quite a while.”

“Sorry Netto-kun,” Rockman apologized, “We got held up.”

Netto sighed. “It's okay. I only finished about a few minutes ago, so no worries.” The brunette then turned to Forte, who was looking downward. “So Forte, what'd you do when you were out?”

Forte looked thoughtful for a few moments before he decided to answer truthfully. “I wandered around the whole area for a while before something happened...it was a net crime in progress.”

“Really?” Netto said while looking interested. “What happened?”

“Some navi had stolen some kind of code or something, but...” Forte paused there to wonder if he should continue or not. Looking up at Netto's face, he sighed and pressed on anyways. “The thief bumped into me. He threatened me after some words, and I didn't take it too well.”

“I see...” Netto replied while Rockman looked on curiously.

“I was ready to delete him. I was about to when a memory suddenly came up in my head...and it wasn't one of mine.” Forte said, waiting for Netto's reaction.

The brunette stiffened for a moment before sighing and looking down at the cloaked navi. “It was one of my memories, wasn't it?”

Forte nodded solemnly. “Yes. The shock of the memory just made me drop the criminal and I lost my senses for a few minutes. The Net Police came and took him away, then Rockman found me, and then we just came back here.”

Netto sat back in his chair, deep in thought. Rockman looked between him and Forte in surprise, trying to understand what was going on. Finally, Netto sighed as he looked at Forte. “It seems that my memories are affecting you too...” he said, “But...don't let that worry you, Forte.”

At Forte's curious stare, Netto chuckled. “I know you're very strong, Forte. You're not the type that would let something like this rule over you. And as long as you know that I'm behind you, then you don't have to worry about it, all right?” he reassured the cloaked navi.

Forte only stared at his operator for a few seconds before slowly smiling. “I won't. Thanks, Netto-kun.” he said softly. Netto chuckled.

“Don't worry about it!” Netto said. Forte suddenly smirked.

“Well, this is new. Getting your homework done on time?” Forte teased. Netto pouted.

“It's not like I had anything better to do. And besides, have you seen the workload that Mariko-sensei gave me?” he asked while gesturing to the pile of papers beside the computer.

“So you're actually going to get it done as soon as possible. Nice.” Forte commented.

Rockman finally decided to pipe up. “Well, I think it's a nice change;” Rockman said, “It's good to see for once that Netto-kun isn't behind in his homework, don't you think?”

“Only when you overload him with work will he get anything done.” Forte laughed. Rockman stepped back in surprise. Netto pouted again, but he laughed too.

“So little faith in me...I'm wounded.” Netto said sarcastically. Both Forte and Rockman chuckled at that as Netto smiled at the both of them.

I've never seen Netto-kun so happy and relaxed before. Rockman thought as he looked at his operator. I know he's been happy around me when we've been alone, but he's always been so tense for some reason...what is it about Forte that allows Netto to relax around him but not me?

Rockman then turned away for a moment, his gaze lowered to the ground. Is it because they both saw each other's memories? Is it because of that they can relate to each other? he questioned before sighing. I don't know...I want to be as close to Netto as you seem to be right now, Forte. I want to see his memories too...

Closing his eyes, Rockman turned back to the two while smiling. But most of all...I want the link back...

---

Next Chapter: Reminiscience: By chance, Enzan and Meiru meet up in the park one day. The two then discuss their views on everything that has happened, and what changes in Netto they have seen. Meanwhile, Netto awakes from a nightmare...

---

Author's Note: Yep, managed to get this one out even as I felt too drained to write it.
Anyways, school starts for me next week and that means updates will be slowed down once again. Hopefully, I can probably get a new chapter out once every two weeks or so, depending on my workload.
About the story: Things are starting to pick up. The plot is starting to move slowly, but it will pick up in the next few chapters, I promise.
Alright, that's all I have to say for now. Until next time~
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Art in icon done by Raburabbit.

Kitty-Chan · Posted: Fri Jan 13, 2006 12:35 am Post subject:

Oh, this just increases in quality as you go. Can you imagine a three-way link between Rockman, Netto, & Forte? What a great thing to read in the face of looming pain.
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Need more Zero/X, Netto/Rock, Rock/Netto, Forte/Netto, & Blues/Netto. PLEASE!
Ano sa...could someone please make me a Zero/X, Blues/Netto, or Forte/Netto avatar/banner? I would greatly appreciate it...
Thanks for the avatar, Mandi!
People! We need more Blues/Netto & Forte/Netto on the net. Come on; help me out here! *gives everyone her Super-Adorable Irrisistable Sad Kitty Eyes(TM)*

Vanilla_Go_Rilla · Posted: Fri Jan 13, 2006 2:20 am Post subject:

A very nicely written, interesting chapter. You've managed to cast an almost human light on the once maniacal and power-hungry Forte. It was rather awkward to see him walking around in public feeling awkward; I almost expected him to start destroying something randomly during his conversation with Rockman. O_o The scene where he refused to delete the green Navi thief was a rather emotional one, and the memory of Rockman and Netto talking about the deletion of Navis was exceptionally well-written into the story. Very nice work.
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Better to keep your mouth shut and make people wonder if you are stupid, than to open your mouth and remove all doubt.

Megawoman.EXE · Posted: Fri Jan 13, 2006 11:59 am Post subject:

O-O Wow! This is amazing Sol. I can't wait to see what happens in the next episode. Keep up the awesome work.
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jamar0303 · Joined: 20 Dec 2005 Posts: 9

Haven't been here in a while, so I am reading through everything that I have missed. This one sticks out as a story that has a good flow of action, and I hope that you'll continue it.

**Sol** · Posted: Tue Feb 21, 2006 12:52 pm Post subject:

Chapter 6: Reminiscence

Enzan frowned as he leaned back in his chair. He was staring at the computer screen, seemingly lost in thought. How was he going to write this? Growling slightly, he gulped down some more water. The past few days had been uneventful, but he had been on edge. Something didn't feel right to him.

“Enzan-sama,” Blues' voice came from his PET, “You've already been here for an hour. Perhaps it's time to take a break?” he suggested.

Enzan chuckled. “Well, perhaps, but I am almost finished. Just a few more minutes, and then I'll get off.” he said as he started typing again, this time sure of what he was writing. A few minutes later, he nodded in satisfaction as he read over what he had just written.

Ijuuin Enzan reporting. Observation report four...

So far, Hikari Netto has not shown any wild changes in his behavioral patterns. He still goes to school, still interacts with his friends, and still talks to his parents, or parent in this case. There haven't been any incidents that have occurred over the past few weeks, and everything seems normal. However, he seems slightly more reserved now, and seems troubled at random parts of the day. Whether this is due to his link with Forte remains to be seen.

As with Forte, there has been one interesting development. Apparently, the large theft that had happened last Thursday in the internet was stopped by Forte. I wasn't able to get all the details, since the police on duty at the time weren't entirely sure themselves, but nevertheless gave enough of a description that I figured out who stopped it. This type of behavior is odd, concerning Forte's past behavior. There were no injuries or deletions reported, which while good, strikes me as odd. I am somewhat concerned about this; this very action goes against everything we knew about him. Is it because of the new link with Netto? If it is, how is it affecting Netto then? So many questions remained to be answered.

For now, I will keep a closer eye on the two of them. While I haven't seen any detrimental effect of their newly formed link yet, something may come up in the future. Expect my next report in two weeks.

The netbattler sighed as he attached his report to an e-mail and sent it to the head official. “There, finished.” he said as he stood up and stretched. He had been sitting at the computer for over an hour, just thinking. Blues sighed in relief.

“It is advisable that you take a break now, Enzan-sama. There is nothing scheduled for today, so you're pretty much free.” he said. Enzan nodded and picked his PET up.

“Thanks Blues, I will;” he said as he attached the PET to his clip and picked up his keys. “I think I'll take a walk...I need some fresh air.” he murmured.

“As you wish, Enzan-sama.” Blues replied as he quickly linked into the apartment's system and made the appropriate security changes. Returning to his PET, he smiled. “So, shall we go then?”

Enzan nodded and made his way out of the apartment, intent on just clearing his mind of everything.

---

A half hour later found the netbattler walking through the park in Akihara, apparently in thought. “Enzan-sama, I thought you went on a walk to clear your head, not be troubled.” Blues sighed from his PET. Enzan shook his head, sighing as well.

“I know Blues, but I can't help it;” he replied as he looked at the red navi, “There's still a lot more things I need answered, and it's going to keep plaguing me until I find out the answers." Blues only shook his head. It seemed that his operator couldn't even relax when he wanted to.

Enzan sat down on a bench and stared at the ground. Why am I so worked up over this? he thought as he stifled a yawn, I trust Netto enough for him to handle someone like Forte, but why is it bothering me so much? Is it because Forte just showed a radical change in his behavior? If that's the case, what's happening with Netto?

“Enzan?” came a voice to his side. Blinking, the netbattler looked up to see a familiar face looking at him in concern.

“Meiru? What are you doing here?” he asked, rubbing his forehead to try to ward off the oncoming headache. Meiru only smiled at him.

“Oh, I was just walking...mind if I sit here?” she asked. Enzan only nodded and scooted over to make room, which the girl sat down and smiled gratefully. “What brings you here? I never see you around here unless it's really important, you know?”

“Well...I just needed to clear my head, but it seems that I couldn't even do that.” he muttered. Meiru sighed.

“You're worried about Netto, aren't you?” she asked. Enzan opened his mouth to retort, but Meiru giggled. “Don't be ashamed; he has made everyone worry about him ever since he got back.”

Enzan closed his eyes and sighed again; Netto never made anything easy. “I can only imagine,” he replied dryly, “But I'm more worried about Forte being with him. Netto is a good operator, yes, but...”

“Enzan, do you still doubt his story?” Meiru asked without looking at him. Instead, she turned her attention to the sky. “I know it sounds unbelievable, and let's face it, it does seem really out there. But still, I trust Netto's word, and I know he wouldn't lie about where he was.” she said softly.

“Hmm...you may be right,” he grunted, “But I'm more worried about the effects that little trip had on Netto.”

Meiru nodded. “I know. I've seen the changes in him already.” she said.

Enzan looked at her in surprise. “Really?” he asked, “Like what?” The netbattler, while a comrade, was unable to discern the major changes that Netto had gone through. It seemed that Meiru, the brunette's longtime friend, had been able to see more of the changes herself.

“Well...” she said as he took in a deep breath, “He's certainly less sociable than before. And his eyes...” she murmured, “He seems to have gotten older far too quickly. At times, they're not even the eyes I remember. Instead, they look rather distant...”

“How so?” Enzan questioned, looking curious.

“He looks far older than he should be, for one thing;” she replied, looking at the netbattler. “I know he spent several months on that other world, but even then, his eyes shouldn't look like that...so sharp and oddly cold...” she murmured, a hint of sadness in her voice.

If anything, that made Enzan even more concerned than before. “Sharp and cold, huh?” he muttered, “That's unlike him...” he said as he tried to imagine it in his head. Somehow, it made him unconsciously shiver.

“Tell me about it,” Meiru replied, “But still...even if he isn't as lively or friendly as before, he's still Netto. He's still the same person that I've known for years, and nothing is going to change that.” she stated firmly.

“Yeah, but what about his link with Forte? He already said that he saw all of those memories, and I'm certain that wasn't good for his psyche.” Enzan replied. Meiru looked thoughtful.

Blues, who had been silent up until that point, spoke up. “Given what we know, Forte's memories are beyond anything we have witnessed ourselves. I would say that the change in Netto is expected...” he murmured, “But I do not think that we have seen the true extent of that change.”

Roll decided to speak up too. “Why do you say that, Blues?” she asked curiously. The operators also looked at the red navi as well.

Blues coughed a bit. “I'm saying that we'll see how he's truly changed in the days to come. After all, I'm sure he's still coping.”

Enzan blinked. “How can you tell?”

“I have my ways.” Blues answered cryptically. Enzan could only sigh. It was silent for a few minutes before Roll decided to speak.

“Well, I think it speaks volumes about Netto's character if he came out of this all right without going insane, am I right?” Roll piped up.

Meiru smiled at her navi. “It does. But what Blues just said also has some merit in it...” she muttered worriedly. Enzan closed his eyes and sighed.

“I guess there is nothing we can do but wait,” he said as he opened his eyes again and looked at the girl. “We'll see how much he's changed, and what effects that link with Forte has done.”

Meiru looked a bit resigned, but nodded. “I suppose...I'm still worried. I've been feeling on edge lately, like something is going to happen...something big.” she muttered.

Enzan only looked at her. “Things are never easy, are they?” he asked as he looked at the sky, “As I said, all we can do is wait. Hopefully we can get some answers then.”

“I hope you're right...” Meiru murmured as she looked at the sky as well,

The two stayed there like that for around a half hour, just staring into the sky and lost in there own thoughts. Finally, Enzan grunted and stood up.
“I should get going. There is some stuff I need to check out...” he muttered as he stood up. Meiru stood up as well, stepping away from the netbattler.

“I should too...” she said as she took a few steps away. “Good bye, Enzan. Maybe we'll see each other later?” she giggled. Enzan smirked.

“Maybe, maybe not. Later.” he said before turning and walking away. Meiru softly sighed before turning around and starting to head back to her house.

“Meiru-chan,” Roll called from her PET, “Do you think was Enzan and Blues said was true?”

“They have a point...we can only wait and see what happens;” she replied as she crossed the street, “But I have faith in Netto. Even if he's changed, I'll still be by his side because I'm his friend. Nothing will ever change that.” she stated firmly. Roll smiled.

“Right! We'll never abandon him!” she cheered. Meiru smiled and nodded.

“That's the spirit!” the girl said happily, “But like Enzan said, we have to wait. And if Netto has any problems, then I'll help him through them.” she said. Roll nodded and Meiru made her way back to her house, seemingly happier than before.

---

Night had fallen onto Akihara, with the moon shining brightly onto the streets and the stars twinkling in the clear sky. The inhabitants of the town slept peacefully for once, no wind blowing against the windows of the houses or any noise disturbing the silence of the streets.

However, one person was tossing and turning in his bed, murmuring to himself and sweating wildly.

“No...don't...!” he muttered, turning over again.

Two figures were standing in total darkness, with very odd programs adorning the walls; one was floating and the other was rooted to the ground, his gaze transfixed on the other.

“H-how?” the figure on the ground stuttered, “How did you get so much power?”

“Easy;” the other figure snorted. “Thanks to the very ability you have given me, I've become stronger then you can ever dream of! Day after day, I was attacked by viruses, navis, you name it...only through trials you cannot imagine that I have become like this...” it said menacingly.

“...so, all of this just for revenge?” the first figure asked sadly, “It seems you and I have become different, then. You're a threat to society...to mankind, even. I won't let that happen...I'll take you down with me!” the figure shouted out as it raised its arms and started to gather his power.

The floating figure eyed the one on the ground in amusement. “Just what do you think you can do to me?” it asked sardonically.

“I might not be able to do much...” the other figure said, “But I can do this!” it yelled as the power started to increase again.

The floating figure chuckled. “All of this power you're building up...You intend to blow your self up just to try to take me down? How foolish!” it said.

The first figure only looked upon him angrily. “Yes, I was foolish. I was foolish enough to create you! I should have known better...but now, I make up for that mistake!”

All of the amusement drained out of the floating figure's face as rage overtook it. “You...you cannot destroy me with such pitiful power! Die!” it roared as it rushed forward, its hand pulsing with energy as it drove it into the figure on the ground.

There was a huge explosion. When it died down, only the floating figure was left. Chuckling to itself, it ran a hand through its hair, its eyes a mixture of sadness, rage, and madness. “All of those that come before me...they are destined to be destroyed!” it laughed as it suddenly disappeared.

Netto shot up off his bed, gasping for breath as sweat dripped down his face. Gripping his face with one of his hands, he closed his eyes again as he fought off the images in his head. His other hand was tightly gripping the bedsheets, the skin turning red from pressure. He groaned as his head throbbed in pain, his breathing labored. “Leave me alone...!” he hissed out as the images became clearer in his head. Eventually, they faded as he dropped his hands, staring at the ceiling.

“That dream...was it a memory?” he asked himself in shock. Closing his eyes tightly, he shook his head. “But...if it was, then why...then why did I see myself?” he choked out, obviously shaken.

Netto had realized that the floating figure in the dream, the one who killed without mercy, was him. That very image frightened him as he remembered the look of madness in his eyes as they glowed red. Shaking his head, he quickly made his way downstairs and got himself some cold water, which he promptly gulped down. The chill that was sent throughout his body somewhat helped him calm down as he made his way back up to his room. There was no way he would be able to sleep for a while after that dream.

Sitting down at his desk, he eyed the two PETs that were laid in their chargers. Both of them were off, and he could only smile grimly at them. “What's happening to me?” he asked himself as he looked at his hands, “These dreams...I know that they're Forte's memories...” he muttered lowly, “But why am I in them?” he asked himself, looking at the ground.

Feeling himself shake again, he gripped the edge of the desk. “I'm not going to give into these dreams...they are not my memories...” he gasped out. Feeling himself calm down, he returned his gaze to the PETs. Looking at Rockman's sadly, he quietly picked it up and stared into the blank screen.

“Rockman...” he whispered, “I can't imagine what you're feeling right now. The past few months have been hard, and I know you think I've been ignoring you...but that's not true.” he said. Closing his eyes and sighing, he continued; “I'm always here for you, Rockman. I'll never abandon you, and you should very well know that. I cannot bear the thought of being away from you again...”

He paused there, wondering what to say next. “I don't regret what I have done. Forte also means a lot to me, and if I had to go and make that choice again, I would still choose the same. However...” he took in a deep breath, “I am going to find a way to reconnect the link between us. It is unfair to you for me to put you through all of this, and I didn't want this to happen...” he muttered. Closing his eyes again and sighing, he decided he should try and get some more sleep. “Just don't forget, Rockman, that I will be searching for a way to reconnect us...whether it is tomorrow, a month from now, or years down the road, I'll find a way. I promise.” Netto said with finality as he crawled back into bed and drifted back into an uneasy sleep.

Just then, the blue PET flickered on as Rockman looked at his operator sadly. He had noticed Netto tossing and turning earlier and had watched him for a while when he shot up out of bed. While the boy had not noticed him as he walked out of the room, he turned his screen off when Netto had come back in, unable to find any words to offer comfort to his operator. The navi couldn't really hear what Netto was saying before his PET was picked up, but what Netto said next reassured him.

It was foolish of me to think that Netto-kun would abandon me for Forte, Rockman thought, Not only that, it is insulting to him too! What have I been thinking lately?

Sure, the blue navi had been jealous of Forte, but that's because the cloaked navi seemed to be closer to Netto than he ever was. However, the boy just made him realize something. Netto-kun has faith in both me and Forte equally...just as he is close to the both of us. He would never put one's feelings over the other...I've just been too caught up in my own feelings to notice that!

Grimacing, he looked at the black PET. Now I have to try and make amends with Forte. I have to do my part too for Netto-kun. he thought with new resolve. Looking at Netto's prone form again, he sadly smiled.

Now I know he wants the link back for sure...I'll try my hardest too, Netto-kun. Count on it.

---

Next Chapter: Rising Tension: Things start to heat up when outbreaks of crime happen more and more frequently around Densan. In the middle of it all, Netto catches wind that his own mother is being held hostage by a madman. With Enzan and Meiru by his side, he manages to corner him, but he feels oddly uneasy. What is going on in Densan?

---

Author's Notes: Ah...sorry about the long wait for this chapter, but I had taken a short hiatus from the story to get some personal stuff back in order and more inspiration. Managed to get this chapter out, so no worries.

Anyway, I'm still going back and replacing the chapters with the beta versions. I haven't done it yet because I've been horrendously lazy and I've been idling too. I'll try and change them by this week.

Again, sorry about the wait, but I'll try and write faster. It's just been an exhausting few weeks. But for now, later~
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Megawoman.EXE · Posted: Tue Feb 21, 2006 3:04 pm Post subject:

Bravo (*Lots of thunderous applause*). Good work as usual Sol. Keep it up. This is getting rather interesting, but the question is who is the first figure in the dream.
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Kitty-Chan · Posted: Tue Feb 21, 2006 4:03 pm Post subject:

Excellent character introspection; I love how you give them depth.
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Need more Zero/X, Netto/Rock, Rock/Netto, Forte/Netto, & Blues/Netto. PLEASE!
Ano sa...could someone please make me a Zero/X, Blues/Netto, or Forte/Netto avatar/banner? I would greatly appreciate it...
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Featherdust · [survivalism] Joined: 19 Mar 2005 Posts: 635

Great job with this so far. It's interesting to see how both Netto and Forte cope with each other's memories, and how Rockman feels about it all. You include the opinions of all the characters, ranging from Netto and his two navis to his friends and the adults. All of these combined give a good feel to the atmosphere of the story. You've continued to do a splendid job with all of these chapters, and I await the next one with much anticipation.
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**Plantman** · Posted: Tue Feb 21, 2006 7:21 pm Post subject:

Ahh! Another excellent chapter, Sol. It's interesting how the relationships of different characters show different perceptions about Netto's behaviour, and also gave a little more depth to their feelings and how they stand around in this whole ordeal. Always welcomed when other characters get a little more developement, after all, Netto's actions and behavior also affect those close to him.

Can't wait for the next chapter!
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DarkMega · Posted: Sat Feb 25, 2006 11:26 am Post subject:

Aw. The last section of that chapter was very touching to me. Also, I can't wait for this big event that Meiru thinks is going to happen! Foreshadowing! Heh heh. The fic keeps getting better and better. I eagerly anticipate your next chapter, Sol.
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**Sol** · Posted: Mon Apr 10, 2006 9:20 pm Post subject:

Chapter 7: Rising Tension

Deep in the depths of the Ura Net, a crack shining with eerie light could be seen off the edge of one of the many platforms making up the walkway. Two navis that frequented the Ura Square were on that very same platform, staring at it.

“What do you think it is?” the first navi asked, staring at the light it was giving off.

The second navi shrugged. “I dunno. There has to be something good beyond there, don't you think?”

“I wouldn't go near it, though. Something about it is really creepy...” the first navi said. The second one scoffed.

“What are you, a wimp? You are one of the navis of the Ura Net! Don't chicken out now!” the navi said before moving closer. However, before he could get any closer, the first navi spoke up again.

“Did you just hear that laugh?” the first navi asked, looking around worriedly. The second navi shrugged.

“Nope. Just ignore it.” the second navi said remarked. Just then, the light seeping through the crack get brighter, and a booming laugh could be heard.

“What the...” the second navi murmured before screaming out in pain as electricity made up of dark power entered its body, racking its entire frame in pain.

The first navi was horrified, but could do no more as it screamed out in pain too, its eyes turning a dull red.

“Chaos...” a voice murmured, which seemed to be coming from the crack. “Cause chaos...feed me strength...”

When the energy died down, the two navis only walked away mindlessly, intent on listening to what the voice said.

The voice laughed again as the crack in the wall grew larger. “Soon...”

---

“Two navis?” Dr. Regal asked in an interested fashion as he stirred some sugar into his tea, “Your son must be quite talented to be able to control two navis at the same time.”

“He is, but...” Yuuichirou said, holding his chin in his hands, “I worry that he might get caught up when trying to send chips to both of them at the same time, when the Progress PET was made to be held in two hands when battling. The Progress PET is cumbersome if someone is trying to send chips one-handed.” he remarked. The scientist now found it odd that he was speaking to Regal with no hesitation whatsoever, when only a few weeks ago, he was incredibly wary. He could only chalk it up to how strange life could be.

Regal looked thoughtful. “Perhaps if there was a way to send one chip to both navis at the same time...”

Yuuichirou shook his head. “I don't know if it's possible, but I just worry that he may need to send chips to both of his navis when they really need it, and he might not be able to.” he murmured.

“This gives me an idea...” Regal said as he took out a document from his briefcase, “I have been thinking for a while on a device that would send chip data from one battle chip to two navis at the same time. Obviously, the power of the chip would be cut, but the effect would still remain the same;” he said as he pointed it out to Yuuichirou, “The problem I have been facing is that people rarely use more than one navi at a time anymore. Your son may be the one I am looking for to test this out.”

The brunette looked really interested as he looked over the schematics. “This is really something;” he complimented, “This doesn't look too complicated to build, either.”

“Yes, well...I was hoping to ask if you wanted to help. I have no doubts that with your help, I can get a prototype version of this up within a week.” Regal remarked.

Yuuichirou closed his eyes and nodded. “I'll help. We'll have to do it when my duties aren't calling for me constantly, though.” he said while chuckling.

Regal chuckled too before getting serious. “I trust you've heard about the upswing of incidents with the Ura Net?”

The brunette nodded. “I have. For some inexplicable reason, more navis that have been inhabiting the Ura Net are coming out in full force, either attacking random civilians or committing crimes around the internet city.” he commented.

“Yes, but that is not what is worrying me;” Regal said as he got out another document. “According to various reports, there is a tremendous energy signature within the depths of the Ura Net. Although some people are dismissing it as part of the 'Secret Area' where the Giga Freeze program was located, many are speculating that there is something hidden besides the 'Secret Area'.”

Yuuichirou looked down in thought. “I severely doubt it has anything to do with the area where the Giga Freeze program was located;” he said dryly, “From what I have been hearing, reports have said that the energy down there has been chaotic, and the official navis have felt a sense of malice coming from it. They haven't been able to locate the source, but it is definitely coming from somewhere in the Ura Net.”

Regal then sighed. “I can only hope that the situation doesn't get any worse from here.”

The brunette grimaced. “Don't say that...since things always do get worse if it is said.”

---

“Netto-kun, are you alright?” came Rockman's voice, watching his operator move back and forth in his room. Forte was only watching silently from his PET, wondering what Netto was doing.

The brunette looked over at the two navis and sighed. “I'm fine. I just feel really uneasy for some reason.” he said as he gave them a grin.

Of course I feel uneasy. That dreams from a few nights ago still has me thinking about it. Netto thought. Both navis were looking at him skeptically before Rockman sighed.

“If you say so, Netto-kun.” Rockman sighed. Netto then took both PETs downstairs to the empty living room. Haruka had errands to run that day, and Netto had the house to himself. Normally, that would be a good thing in his eyes, but currently, he needed someone to talk to about the dream.

He knew he should tell both Rockman and Forte about the dream he had. However, he didn't want them to worry constantly over him. There wasn't any need to worry themselves any more over him for the time being; he would tell them eventually.

Maybe I should go tell Meiru-chan about this...she would understand. Netto thought as he grabbed a bottle of water from the refrigerator and gulped some down. The chill that raced up his body helped calm his nerves down as he took a deep breath. “Okay, let's get out of here. I need some fresh air.” Netto said as he went upstairs to retrieve his things.

Meanwhile, in his PET, Forte's eyes narrowed. Something was dreadfully wrong with the way Netto was acting. Something is obviously bothering him, but he is not telling either of us. Why, though?

Rockman was having similar thoughts. Netto-kun...is whatever that is bothering you so bad that you can't even tell us?

Soon enough, Netto was skating down the streets, just thinking. Meiru, as it turned out, was out walking somewhere. This gave the brunette ample time to think as he skated around the park trying to find her.

“Are Forte's memories bothering me so much that they haunt me in my sleep?” Netto quietly muttered to himself. “And more importantly...why am I showing up in his memories during times I wasn't there?”

Sighing, he sat down on a bench and looked at both of the navis. “I guess Meiru isn't anywhere around here.” he muttered.

“Are you finally going to tell us what is bothering you?” Forte asked bluntly. At Netto's surprised expression, he sighed in exasperation. “Don't look so surprised, Netto-kun. Anyone can tell you are obviously worried about something.”

Rockman nodded. “It is easy to spot. So please, just tell us what is wrong, Netto-kun!” he cried.

Netto looked down in though, frowning. “I will tell you what is wrong...but not now. I need some more time to think about it.”

Forte crossed his arms and huffed. “You're not getting away that easily. You better tell us tonight.” he stated.

Netto gave both of them a small smile and nodded. “I will. I promise.” he said.

Rockman sighed. “Good. Now, weren't you going to go find Meiru?” he asked. Netto chuckled.

“Yeah, I am. I just don't know where she keeps walking, though, since she chooses somewhere different everyday.” Netto commented as he started to skate out of the park.

---

Haruka sighed as she exited the grocery store, hefting a bag full of items for that night's dinner. She noticed that the normally bustling Densan was oddly subdued today, but she just dismissed it as her imagination. As she started the long walk back home, she looked at the sky.

“These past few weeks really have been chaotic, if I say so myself;” she said to herself as she crossed the street, “First Netto is kidnapped by a renegade goddess, then he reappears with another navi, and now all of this.” she sighed.

She hated it when her husband had to pull long hours at his office in the Science Labs. Haruka knew it couldn't be helped, but it still didn't mean she had to like it. However, that seemed preferable to the weeks he was staying at his office. Whenever something large happened, he buried himself into his work.

Shaking her head, she stood at the intersection, waiting for the light to turn. Yuuichirou was still mystified about the severing of the link between their sons, and was doing his utmost to find a way to reconnect them. While Haruka supported her husband on everything he did, she feared he was missing one essential part in what he was doing.

I hope he hasn't forgotten about Forte, and his bond with Netto, she thought as she finally crossed the street, I'm sure Netto wants the link back as much as both Saito and Yuuichirou do, but I know Netto is not going to sever ties with Forte if it means to do that. I hope Yuuichirou can see that in time.

Haruka wasn't clueless; she could see the writing on the wall. From the calls she got from her husband from time to time, she knew what Yuuichirou was trying to do. Not to say that she didn't disagree with him, but she knew that there had to be another way to go about it. “I'll just have to wait and see what happens.” she sighed again as she continued her walk home.

At that moment, the intersection lights all exploded in unison.

Looking back in shock, Haruka could see many people screaming and running away, with a few lying around injured. Cars were honking everywhere, and the noise was deafening. Even with all of the noise, however, she could still hear several explosions further away.

“What is going on...?” she gasped out, looking around. People were already panicking; several people running and screaming, and people almost being trampled in the rush to get out. The police were already on the scene, trying to calm the civilians down and plugging in their navis into the network, but they could only do so much.

“Is this what Yuuichirou was talking about?” she muttered to herself. Over their last few calls, Yuuichirou had warned her about several navis from the Ura Net causing mass mayhem throughout Densan. He also felt it would only be a matter of time before they did something drastic.

Deciding the best course of action was to get home as soon as possible, she turned around and started to walk as quickly as she could down the street. It would still take her a while, but as long as she was away from the chaos of the main streets, she would be fine.

She kept her pace up for a few minutes before she stopped to take a breather. There were still people running around in a panic, and she needed to distance herself. However, she failed to notice the person stalking up behind her and grabbing her in a choke hold. Haruka gasped and dropped the bag of groceries, struggling to get the arm off her neck.

“Hello hello...” the man purred into her ear, “What do we have here?”

“Let me go!” Haruka cried as she struggled to no avail. The person behind her chuckled.

“No, I don't think so dearie;” he said softly, “You are my ticket to some quick zenny, and I am not going to let that go so easily.” he said coolly as he held up a dagger to her neck.

Haruka stiffened; she was in trouble, and no one was around to help her as she started to get dragged off by the man.

---

“I don't believe this...” Netto said, stunned. He had returned home to get some more water and make sure everything was alright when he turned on the television. Across all stations, the same message was being played.

“Only an hour earlier,Densan experienced what was either a terrorist or net-terror attack when several stoplights exploded in unison. Mass panic has gripped the citizens of the city, and police are doing all they can to calm them down.” came Kero's voice from the television. Her normal, cheerful demeanor was replaced by a serious one.

“This doesn't look too good...” Rockman murmured.

Netto could only nod at that, but what was said next made him freeze up in fear. “However, only a mere half hour ago, we received word that Kera Takeshi, a known thief and criminal on the police's list in Densan, has taken himself and a hostage into an evacuated office building. From what police are saying, he is demanding three million zenny for the release of the hostage, who we just learned was Hikari Haruka-”

A sudden shift in his seat, and Netto was already flying out of the door, running for all he was worth.

“Netto-kun, stop! We have to think about this!” Rockman cried as he tried to calm his operator down.

“I've already thought about it. I'm going to save mama!” Netto growled.

“Think about it a bit more! What will happen to mama if we just go in charging recklessly?” Rockman countered.

“That lowlife will not even kill her;” Forte spoke up, also looking angry, “If all he is looking for is money, he wouldn't dare to kill her because he would be forfeiting his life in the process.”

Rockman blinked at the logic, but then sighed. “I hope you aren't going to go charging in blindly, Netto-kun. I want to rescue mama as much as you do, but we need a plan before doing anything!”

“I know, and I have one,” Netto said as he skated down the streets as fast as he could. “I just have to find him first!”

As luck would have it, Netto ran right into Enzan as they were running in the same direction. The netbattler stared at Netto.

“I hope you're really going to do what I think you're going to do.” Enzan groaned as they ran down the streets together.

“Yep.” was the curt answer.

“You know I can't allow you to go charging in alone, right?” Enzan asked as they stepped up the pace.

“I know.”

“You wouldn't be able to get past the police barricades!” Enzan exclaimed. Netto smirked at him.

“Yeah. That's why I came to find you first.” he replied.

Enzan blinked in shock. Netto was thinking ahead. Without any further words, the two continued to run down to the city, avoiding all the civilians in their way.

“Netto!” came a voice from behind the two boys. Meiru was running up, out of breath. After she took a few deep breaths, she spoke up. “I heard what happened, and started to rush over here because I knew what you were going to do. I'm coming with you!”

Netto nodded. “Fine. Let's go!” he said impatiently as the three started to run again.

It took them around twenty minutes of running and stopping for breath before they reached the office building. It was surrounded by swarms of police, just waiting for the chance to rush in. The chief himself was at the front with a megaphone, apparently just having finished yelling something.

Without any delay, Enzan ran up and shoved his PET in front of the chief's face. “Official NetBattler. Let me and these two through!” he said breathlessly, gesturing to the two behind him.

“But...” the chief tried to speak up, but Enzan only growled at him in annoyance. Frowning, the chief ordered everyone to let the three kids through.

The three ran into the building and stopped to catch their breath. “Well, getting past them certainly was easy.” Meiru remarked as she gripped her PET. Enzan nodded.

“The officials have certain powers over police officers, one being the power to override the chief's authority in a situation like this,” Enzan explained as he started walking towards the staircase. “I heard that he's holding your mom on the third floor. We should hurry.”

“Right.” Netto said as he and the other two walked up the staircase. He felt dreadfully cold from fear, but he brushed it aside as he kept climbing, finally opening up the door into the hallway.

“So, how are we going to go about this?” Netto asked warily as he looked around the hallway.

“Perhaps we should split up? That way, we can find them faster.” Rockman suggested from his PET. Meiru nodded in agreement, but Enzan shook his head.

“No, at least not in this case. I don't think he's expecting us, and since we already know he's on this floor somewhere...and there aren't that many rooms on this floor in any case.” Enzan muttered.

“So we stick together. Easy enough.” Forte grunted from his position.

Netto shook his head. “Yeah, but we need to both hurry and be careful. We don't know what he's going to do to mama.” he said quietly before gesturing down a hallway to tell everyone to follow him. Enzan and Meiru nodded as they followed the brunette, walking as quietly as they could.

For a few minutes, the three couldn't find any sign of the criminal until they heard a noise coming from behind double doors. Enzan gestured for them to be silent as they leaned towards the door to hear through it.

“They aren't going to pay you that much, I'll have you know.” came a voice that Netto immediately recognized as his mother's.

They heard a man chuckling, which Netto assumed to be Takeshi. “They will. I have no doubts.”

“You obviously aren't very bright, then.” Netto heard Haruka murmur, and had to suppress a chuckle.

“Be quiet, you;” Takeshi then said, “Or do you forget who is in control here?”

That was enough for Netto as he quickly barged in through the doors. “Let go of mama right now!” he yelled.

Takeshi turned around quickly, still holding Haruka. “You...how did you find me?!” he asked, bringing the knife closer to Haruka's throat. Haruka looked both shocked and worried at the same time.

“Kera Takeshi,” Enzan said coolly as he stepped up beside Netto, “Wanted for numerous counts of petty theft, racketeering, and other various illegal activities. I guess we can add kidnapping to that, huh?”

Takeshi sneered as he stepped back. “Be quiet, you little runt. You don't know anything.”

“Oh?” Enzan replied, holding up his PET. “I am Ijuuin Enzan, Official NetBattler. I hereby place you under arrest.” he said while smirking.

The black haired man blanched before regaining his composure. “Bah, I still have this little woman here. So I still hold control.” he said while grinning sinisterly.

“You don't even have the courage to do it;” came Forte's voice from his PET, “Because you know that you will be caught and eventually killed if you did murder her, and cowards like you don't want to lose their life.” the navi snorted.

Takeshi grimaced again, and the hand holding the knife shook. “Your navi has quite a mouth on him.” he growled.

Meiru then used her chance to speak up. “Just let her go, you coward! You've already lost!”

Takeshi growled once again before dragging Haruka over to a console in the wall. “Stupid kids such as yourself need to respect their elders,” he sneered as he pressed something on the console, “I wonder; with all the chaos that is going on, will anyone notice viruses infecting this entire building? I'm sure that this and the neighboring bank will be happy to accommodate them!” he exclaimed as he plugged in some sort of device into it. Immediately, the console began to sound a loud warning, letting everyone in the room know that viruses started to infect the system.

“That's a security console...” Netto muttered. Wasting no time, he took out both PETs. “Rockman, Forte, Transmission!” he cried as both beams entered the console. Enzan and Meiru followed suit, and their navis soon appeared inside the console.

Roll took a look around and gasped. “So many viruses! It'll be a disaster if they break through here and into the bank's system!”

Blues grimaced. “Looks like we're going to stop them here.”

Forte nodded and stared at the opposing viruses, while Rockman got his buster ready. “Should be no problem for you, right?” Rockman teased.

Forte smirked. “Bah. They are nothing. I'll just consider this an exercise.”

Rockman chuckled. “Fine. Let's just do away with them in that case!” he exclaimed as he fired his buster into a large group of viruses.

Forte followed suit, and soon enough, the four navis were fighting off the large group of viruses.

Meanwhile, Netto and his friends continued to stare down Takeshi, who was smirking at the three of them.

“You're only making this more difficult for yourself, you know;” Enzan said, “You're cornered. You can't escape anywhere, and we've already decided you're too gutless to even attempt what you are thinking.”

The black haired man growled, but said nothing. Netto decided to speak up this time. “Why? Why are you doing all of this?”

“Just a simple chance of using the situation to my advantage.” he answered coolly. Netto frowned.

“It's obvious that things backfired horribly.” he replied dryly. Meiru then spoke up.

“I don't get why you kidnapped someone randomly. What is your reasoning?” she asked.

Takeshi chuckled, holding the knife closer to Haruka's neck. “I thought with all of the chaos those Ura Net navis were causing all over the city, the police would be too busy and I would be able to negotiate a tidy sum for myself for the release of this woman here.” he said.

Enzan grunted. “Your mom was right Netto, he's not very bright.” Netto chuckled again before glaring at Takeshi.

“In any case, you're finished. Just turn yourself in before you add any more jail time to your eventual sentence.” Netto said.

Inside the console, projectiles were flying everywhere as the navis were decimating the viruses. The number of viruses had decreased considerably, but there were still quite a few left as the four regrouped.

“It's like there is no end to them!” Rockman said as he fired off another volley of shots. Blues nodded.

“Just keep going! They're going to fall sooner or later!” he said as he rushed in and took out another group.

Roll then noticed a large group of viruses were gathered around something and were attacking it. She gasped in horror as she realized what it was. “Everyone! They're attacking the core!”

The other three navis stopped their attack to see where Roll was pointing. Indeed, the viruses were attacking the power source of the machine. Immediately, the four ran over to viruses and started attacking full force; if the core was destroyed, then everything in the machine would be deleted.

Unfortunately, they were too late. Despite taking out numerous viruses, the combined attacks of the viruses were able to damage the core and make it unstable. Blues cursed himself for not noticing before and turned back to his companions.

“Everyone, we have to plug out! There is nothing more we can do here!” he exclaimed as plugged out. The other three followed suit as the core started to explode.

Cackling electricity caught everyone's attention as the security console started sparking. “Huh?” Takeshi wondered as he looked over his shoulder.

The console then exploded, sending both Takeshi and Haruka sprawling across the floor, screaming.

“Mama!” Netto cried in fear as he ran over to her. The woman was on the floor, holding her arm in pain. Enzan and Meiru also ran over to check her injuries out. “It looks like she got away with nothing but some mild burns...” Enzan remarked.

However, Netto was not listening. Instead, he was staring at the writhing form of Takeshi, who took the brunt of the explosion. He felt rage fill his chest as he clenched his fists tightly, growling angrily.

He hurt Mama...that scum hurt mama! Netto repeated in his head. At that moment, something unexplainable happened as he felt some sort of hatred overcome him. He didn't fight back, however, as his eyes narrowed and became cold.

Slowly walking towards the downed man, he spied the knife that was knocked out of his hands. Reaching down, he picked it up before resuming his advance. “Netto-kun, what are you doing?!” Rockman cred from his PET.

Everyone looked up to see Netto slowly approached Takeshi. “Filthy human...” he said, stunning everyone, “How dare you...”

“Netto!” Meiru cried, getting up to try and stop him. “Stop it!” she said, grabbing his arm. However, Netto only pushed her down, not even looking at her.

“You disgust me,” Netto spat hatefully, glaring at the man looking up at him in fear, “I'll make sure no one will have to look upon your pathetic visage again!” he said as he started to raise the knife.

“Netto, what are you doing?!” Enzan asked as he got up to try and intercept his friend.

“Netto-kun! Stop!” Forte cried out fearfully.

“Stop it Netto-kun! Don't do it!” Rockman added.

The combined voices made Netto gasp as his eyes became unclouded. Shaking, he looked at the knife raised above his head before throwing it down away from him and collapsing to his knees. “What...what was I doing?”he whispered.

Enzan came over and held his friends shoulder while getting out his PET and contacting the chief. “This is Ijuuin Enzan. Kera Takeshi has been incapacitated, but Hikari Haruka is injured. Get some officers up here along with some paramedics, on the double!” he said before closing the link and turning back to Netto.

“Netto...what just happened?” Meiru asked as she approached. Netto shook his head.

“I don't know...” the brunette said, staring up at his friends in horror. “One moment, I was angry that mama was hurt because of him...then the next moment, I felt utter hatred and wanted to see nothing more than him gone...” he muttered.

“Netto...” Enzan muttered in worry.

Inside Rockman's PET, the blue navi was worrying while Forte had linked himself in. “What just happened? What came over Netto-kun?” Rockman asked in shock.

Forte shook his head, just as shocked. “I...do not know. The things he said though...that is what worries me. He never calls anyone a filthy human, even when...” he didn't finish as he gasped in shock. “Do you think my memories are the cause of all of this?”

Rockman's eyes widened. “Do you think this is why he was so bothered earlier this morning?” he asked. Forte looked down at the ground in thought.

“Perhaps, but we need to ask him to be sure. I don't think right now is a good time.” the cloaked navi said as he looked back at his operator.

Rockman nodded. “I know. I just can't believe something like this would happen, though...” he murmured.

Forte closed his eyes and sighed sadly. “I can't believe it either...” he remarked. Netto-kun...my memories, my hatred...are they becoming yours instead of mine? This can't be happening...

It just can't be!

---

Next Chapter: Conflicting Interests: Netto finally tells both of his navis about his dream, and needless to say, Forte isn't pleased at all. Both navis promise to work together to try and help Netto overcome it. Meanwhile, Science Labs makes an important announcement, while Yuuichirou has something to say. However, when he does say it, it has the potential to tear father and son apart. And the conflict is only beginning...

---

Author's Notes:

Yes, another late chapter. By a month, even. Oh well, couldn't be helped.

Events happened both in real life and online that I couldn't ignore, and I found myself pushing this chapter back. I decided to just write the whole thing today to appease everyone. I'll try and get these chapters out faster, but I can't guarantee anything.

Sorry about the wait again.
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<3 Planty~
Art in icon done by Raburabbit.

**Plantman** · Posted: Tue Apr 11, 2006 12:07 am Post subject:

Another excellent chapter I must say. The evolution of Netto's emotional and mental condition due to his link with Forte, a long with what we can forsee of Yuuichirou's point of view of the situation are shapping up for a dramatical outburst in the next chapter. I can't help but feel bad for Rockman, Forte and Haruka for being in the middle of a possible Yuu/Netto conflict.

Nonetheless, this episode was quite interesting, and it was a nice read to have Haruka's point of view of the current issue. Excellent chapter, Sol, very worth the wait.
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Hecha en MÉXICO - Avatar by Me.
"Logic is the Ultimate Weapon."

Kitty-Chan · Posted: Tue Apr 11, 2006 5:00 pm Post subject:

Planty has said most of what I wanted to say... -_-; Anywho, if you don't have time to write, don't; nobody's going to pressure you. Am I the only one looking forward to watching Yuu get chewed out? Confused

Truly, this chapter was worth the wait.
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Need more Zero/X, Netto/Rock, Rock/Netto, Forte/Netto, & Blues/Netto. PLEASE!
Ano sa...could someone please make me a Zero/X, Blues/Netto, or Forte/Netto avatar/banner? I would greatly appreciate it...
Thanks for the avatar, Mandi!
People! We need more Blues/Netto & Forte/Netto on the net. Come on; help me out here! *gives everyone her Super-Adorable Irrisistable Sad Kitty Eyes(TM)*

FabiChan · Posted: Tue Apr 11, 2006 9:22 pm Post subject:

I have only managed to read the first chapter... your redaction and structure is clean and concrete... also you have a very fluid way of telling the actions and how the character behaves... T_T Idol.
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"Girl, My PET isn't a hotel, Understood?"
"Sorry Enzan-sama, I couldn't help it."
Enzan and Blues, Megaman Battle CC.

http://fabi-chan.deviantart.com

Featherdust · [survivalism] Joined: 19 Mar 2005 Posts: 635

Interesting. Looks like Forte's memories are starting to take a toll on Netto's mental stability. After that little rage-episode, it looks as if things are only going to get worse. Wonderfully written, as usual. It was well worth the wait; believe me, it's better to write out the chapter when you have ample time instead of rush through it. This was still well-executed, however, and I can't wait for the next chapter. Awesome job~
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**Sol** · Posted: Sun Apr 30, 2006 10:53 pm Post subject:

Chapter 8: Conflicting Interests

Netto sighed as he laid his head down on his desk. Everything was too much. Haruka was alright despite her burns, and she was able to come home without staying at the hospital, although she needed some ointment and some medication to keep the pain at bay. Enzan, after checking if he was alright, went off to report to his superior, while Meiru went home to check if everything was alright.

The boy didn't know what to think. Were his friends scared of him now since he nearly killed that criminal? Although he knew that they wouldn't abandon him so easily, his mind kept telling him that they were afraid of him, disgusted even. It was all he could do not to break down into tears.

He didn't know what came over him. One minute, he was beyond angry at the man that caused his mother to get hurt. The next thing he knew was overwhelming hatred; not just for him, but people like him...humans. It was if his body was moving automatically, because he couldn't remember even doing what Enzan had told him.

Netto was then brought out of his thoughts as he heard someone calling. “Netto-kun?” Rockman's voice came as the brunette looked up to see both of his navis looking at him worriedly. “Are you alright?” The blue navi then winced to himself. Of course Netto wasn't alright.

“I'm fine...just thinking about everything that just happened.” he mumbled tiredly. Forte grunted.

“Don't give us that. You're obviously not fine, and you're still shaken up about the whole thing.” the cloaked navi retorted. His eyes softened when he saw Netto visibly flinch. “Just tell us what has been bothering you. Keeping it to yourself will only make it worse.” he said softly.

Netto closed his eyes and looked away from the two. “I...” he let out quietly before shaking his head, “I can't.”

“Please tell us what's wrong;” Rockman implored, looking very worried. “I'm scared, Netto-kun. I'm scared of what is happening to you, but I'm even more scared of why you're not telling us what's wrong. So please...just tell us what's wrong!”

Forte nodded at the exclamation. Netto took in a few deep breaths before nodding. “Alright, I'll tell you;” he sighed in resignation as he looked at both navis seriously, “But I can tell you that you will not like what you're about to hear.”

Forte crossed his arms and stared at his operator. “Maybe, but if you at least tell us what's wrong, then maybe we could help.” Netto grimaced.

“I suppose...” he muttered before taking in a deep breath. “Well, this all started a few nights ago. It was a normal day, but when I was sleeping, I was dreaming about something horrifying;” Netto then paused for a bit before speaking up again. “But then again, it wasn't really a dream. It was more like I was experiencing it.”

At those words, Forte felt his whole body turn cold from dread. “A memory?” he asked sharply, trying vainly to hide his reaction. Rockman noticed Forte looking anxious and grimaced.

Netto rubbed his head. “At this point, I don't know what it was;” he admitted, “A dream, a memory...or is it a vision of what is to come?”

Rockman closed his eyes and sighed. “Please, tell us about it.”

Netto nodded. “Well, from what I remember, it took place inside a network somewhere...” he started, looking outside his bedroom window, “It was really dark, and I remember two figures talking to each other. At first, I didn't know who one of the figures was...but I knew who that second one was,” he said, looking upon Forte sadly. “It was Dr. Cossack.”

The cloaked navi drew in a sharp breath to keep himself from growling audibly. He hated that name more than anything, but he kept silent for Netto's sake. The boy then continued, “They were talking about something...the first figure was mocking Dr. Cossack, saying he had attained more power than he had ever thought possible.” At that, Forte couldn't help but step back in shock, his eyes going wide.

That was when...that was during the time I worked with that fool, Wily... Forte thought, stunned. Rockman looked over at the other navi, unsure of what to say to him. However, Netto continued uninterrupted.

“There were more words exchanged between them, and Cossack said he regretted ever creating the other person,” Netto went on, looking sad. “The other figure got angry, and after he yelled something I couldn't make out, he gathered some energy and drove it into Cossack...I don't know if he was killed or not.”

Forte closed his eyes and took a deep breath. “Netto-kun. That memory you saw...it was one of mine. It happened during the Proto incident when you had to use the Pulse Transmission Machines, remember?” he let out slowly, trying to get the feeling back into his body. No matter what he did, though, it still felt cold.

Netto shook his head again. “I'm not finished. When the smoke cleared, the figure laughed and said something about all those that stood in his way were destined to fall. I finally saw who it was,” he said as he took yet another deep breath, trying to calm his nerves. Meanwhile, Rockman was trying to calm down Forte, who was shaking at this point. “It was me. I can't forget those eyes...red, and filled with hatred.”

Both navis gaped at Netto in shock. Forte slumped to his knees, staring up at his operator, while Rockman stood up shakily. “Is...is all of that true?!” he stammered, eyes wide in disbelief.

Netto closed his eyes and sighed sadly. “I told you both of you wouldn't like it;” he muttered. “Now, it's starting to become hard to know which memories are mine and which ones are Forte's. It's like they're melding together, almost.”

“But Netto-kun, why? Why did you keep this from us?” Rockman asked, worried for his brother.

“Because I didn't want you worrying about me any more than you had to.” the brunette responded, leaning back in his chair.

“Worrying more than we had to?” Forte said slowly as he stood up, visibly trembling, “Netto-kun, do you think we're fools? As long as you're acting like this, it is cause to worry about you!”

Netto blinked. “Forte?”

The cloaked navi grit his teeth, still shaking involuntarily. For the first time outside of battle, he felt fear. What was happening to his operator? “How could you keep this from me? From us?” he asked angrily, gesturing towards Rockman. “Why? Why did you not come to us if your dreams were leaving you like this? Do you think I like seeing you like this?!” he raged.

Netto stared down at Forte, his expression unreadable. “Forte...please understand. I know both you and Rockman have been worrying enough about me lately. Do you think I enjoy placing more stress and worry upon both of you?”

The cloaked navi was somewhat placated by the retort, but was still angry nonetheless. “You should have at least said something. We are going to get worried if we know you're bothered by something, and you don't say what.” he muttered.

The brunette sighed. “I didn't want to bring it up. I knew you didn't like remembering the past, so I just kept it to myself.”

Forte had no retort for that as his anger seemed to deflate, but Rockman, who was silent up to that point, stepped forward. “Still, I think it would have been better if you at least told us earlier, not after all of this happened.” he said simply, hiding his own anger. Netto sighed.

“Maybe...” he said before standing up. “I'm sorry about it, but I didn't want you two to worry over me even more than what was needed;” Netto then offered them a small smile, “Let's just move on and try to keep moving ahead. No need to keep mulling on things that have already past, right?”

Rockman gave him a shaky smile in return. “Right.”

Netto then yawned and started to grab some clothes. “I'm going to take a shower and head to bed right afterwards. This day has just been too long to handle.”

Both navis nodded, and Netto gave them another smile as he exited the room. Immediately, Rockman turned around to face Forte, frowning. “He's suffering.” Rockman said plainly.

Forte nodded slowly. “You noticed it too?” he asked. The blue navi nodded, and he sighed. “This feels like it's all my fault.” he said solemnly.

Rockman shook his head. “No, it isn't. This is just an unintentional part of your link with him, right?” he asked. For some reason, he didn't feel uncomfortable now when talking about the link between the two, but he brushed that aside as he continued, “And even still, Netto-kun isn't blaming you for this. I'd bet if he knew back then when he chose to form the link that this would happen, then he would still do it.” he reassured the cloaked navi.

Forte chuckled. “He is like that, isn't he?” he asked amused. “Nevertheless...somehow, my memories are merging with his. Why though? All I get are random flashes of Netto-kun's memories and feelings from time to time, so why is he suffering more?” Forte questioned, looking at the blue navi.

Rockman looked down in thought, trying to remember what Netto had said about the link months before. “Well...maybe it's because he transferred some of his life-force to your body and is taking the brunt of the link?” he offered before sighing and sitting down. “I don't know. It could be a number of reasons.”

Forte groaned and rubbed his forehead. “I do know one thing, however;” he said as the blue navi looked at him, “We have to help him through this.”

“I know,” Rockman said while nodding, “But the question is how? While we can be there for him, the only one that can get over this is Netto-kun himself.” he said in resignation.

The cloaked navi growled softly while looking down at his hands. “I find it funny...even with all of my power, I am useless to even help the one person that I even care about;” he chuckled bitterly. “Is this what helplessness feels like?”

Rockman stared at the cloaked navi sadly. “Forte...” he muttered before getting a resolved look in his eyes, “We'll find some way to help Netto-kun get over this. We might not be able to do much, but we still have to try, right?”

Forte hesitated for a minute before nodding. “Yeah,” he agreed softly, looking at the ground. “I won't let my memories overtake Netto-kun. I promise him that...” Forte then sighed. “It's all I can do right now, apparently.”

Rockman nodded. “Maybe, but it's still something.” he said.

“This sucks.” Forte grumbled.

Surprisingly, Rockman agreed. “It does indeed.”

---

“Is that all you have to report, Ijuin-san?” came the head netbattler's voice.

Enzan nodded. “Yes, it is.”

The head sighed and leaned back in his seat while not taking his eyes off the screen. “So Hikari Netto has displayed an emotion that is entirely out of character for him. This is quite troubling indeed...” Enzan stared at his commander through the transmission, wondering what he was thinking. “How do we know he's not a danger to the others in this state?”

“Sir, you have to believe me when I say he isn't;” Enzan protested, almost immediately after the head had said that, “I have reason to believe that this was only a temporary reaction caused by seeing his mother hurt.”

“I'm not disputing that fact, since it's an understandable reason;” the head replied, “But I'm wondering if this was only a one-time reaction? Will this happen again? And what happens if it does?”

The boy could not think up a reply to that as the head sighed. “Look, it's been a long day for everyone. Right now, I'm going to just say this was an overreaction on his part...however, if this comes up again, I'll have no choice but to look into it extensively, you hear me?”

“Yes sir.” Enzan said in a resigned tone.

“Furthermore, I'm extending your mission of watching over him, only this time, I'm giving you full jurisdiction over what to do. You only have to report when I need you to, but otherwise, everything is your call.” the head finished.

Enzan blinked in surprise. “Why are you giving this mission to me, sir?” he asked, leaving the real question unspoken.

The head smirked. “Because I know that you're also worried, and you're going to do your best because of it.”

Enzan gave him a small smile. “Thank you, sir.”

The man chuckled before getting serious again. “I also have some news about Forte that you might want to hear...”

---

“Yuuichirou, don't worry, I'm fine. All I have are some burns, that's all.” came Haruka's voice over the phone.

“I know, but you're still hurt. I should have been there...” Yuuichirou responded, still feeling depressed. While everything was happening in the city, he was stuck in the Science Labs working. It pained him to think that while his wife was hurt, he was stuck where he was. While Haruka only had minor injuries, it didn't take away from the fact that he couldn't be there.

“Please don't beat yourself up over this. Events like this happen too suddenly to know what to do.” Haruka said.

Yuuichirou sighed, but conceded. “Well, one good thing is that I'll be able to come home today.” he said, changing the subject of the conversation.

“Really? That's great!” Haruka said on the other end, “I know Netto will be happy, especially given what happened during the whole ordeal...”

The scientist then looked alarmed. “What? What happened to Netto?” he asked quickly.

“Well...” Haruka hesitated before going on, “I didn't see it myself since I was in pain, but from what Meiru has told me...he became different. That's the only thing she said.” she murmured.

“I see;” he said stiffly. If anything, it only strengthened his resolve. “Well, I also have something else to tell you. I know how I can fix the link between Rockman and Netto.”

“Yuuichirou...” she said reluctantly, “I know that the two of them want the link back, but think about it for a second. What do you think Netto's reaction will be if you approach him with this?”

The scientist looked thoughtful for a few seconds before replying; “I know it might be a risk, but I still have to ask him;” he said before looking at his clock. “In any case, my break is almost up. I'll see you in the morning, honey!” he said quickly.

“Yuuichirou, wait-” Haruka said before he hung up. He hated having to leave her hanging like that, but he was resolved in what he was going to do. He knew full well by what Haruka said Netto was acting like; it meant that the link between him and Forte was having a bad effect on the boy.

As he turned back to his computer, he noticed that he had some new e-mail. “Hm, wonder what this could be...” he murmured absently as he opened it. His eyes widened when he read the subject line, as he then started reading in earnest.

“Dr. Hikari,” he read, “For the past few months, we have been receiving reports about your son and the navi Forte. Originally, we wanted you to get your son to consent to bringing Forte in so his programming may be studied. However, after reading all reports from Ijuin Enzan numerous times, and after several days of intense discussion, we have decided not to pursue our original plan;” Yuuichirou blinked in surprise as he read over the passage again before continuing; “Your son has proven himself as someone we can trust. We shall leave both him and Forte alone. However, do note that if anything comes up regarding the two in the future, we may have to revert to our original plan.” the letter finished. Yuuichirou found all of the head scientist's names signed on it and laid back in his chair, thinking.

“Do the scientists really trust my son so much, or did they just get tired of waiting?” he asked himself as he looked at a stack of papers to the side of his desk. He then sighed.

“Well, I already told myself that I'm going to try. Hopefully, he'll listen to reason...” he told himself as he started to gather his papers. “His link with Forte...he has to break it for his own good, or else I fear what will happen to him.”

---

Netto groaned as he rose from his bed, still feeling tired. He was grateful that he was able to sleep through the night without any more nightmares tormenting him, but his body still felt tired. “All I want to do is sleep right now...” he moaned, laying back down on the bed.

Rockman chuckled a bit before speaking up. “Sorry Netto-kun, it's already past noon. You have to get up.”

“Make me.” came the answer. Forte sighed in exasperation.

“Look, you got an e-mail from one of your friends. Especially since it was sent a few hours ago.” the cloaked navi grumbled. Netto, looking curious, slipped out of bed and sat down at his computer, opening the e-mail he had just received.

“Huh...Meiru wants me to go to Endo with her,” Netto said as he read the message, “With my other friends too. She says I could use the break...”

The blue navi looked thoughtful. “Why not? We don't have anything else to do today, plus it would be an interesting excursion.”

“Should I?” Netto asked the two navis, “I mean, given what happened yesterday...”

“If you ask me, she's doing this so you'll get your mind off it.” Forte replied dryly. Netto blushed a bit before nodding.

“Alright, sounds fun. Tell her that she and the others can meet me in front of our house around three.” he said. Rockman nodded and linked into the computer, off to Meiru's computer.

Netto then looked over at the cloaked navi. “You okay with this, Forte?”

The navi shrugged. “Fine by me. Just as long as you're brooding over what happened.”

The brunette smiled at Forte. “Thanks...”

A few hours passed as Netto was getting ready. Haruka was out doing errands, so he wrote a note explaining where he would be. After doing some chores around the house, he started getting his things together for the trip to Endo.

Looking in his closet, the brunette stared at the clothing hanging up on a hanger and grinned. Why not? he thought, It's been a while since I've worn it. Grabbing the cloth, he pulled it off the rack and put it on as he remembered it. Looking in the mirror, he smiled. Just like before...

Inside his PET, Rockman gaped at his operator, who was now wearing a light brown cloak similar to Forte's. “Wow. You look remarkably like Forte...” he said, awed. Netto grinned.

“Forte called me a cheap copy of himself when I first dressed like this.” he chuckled. Forte huffed in his PET.

“That's because you did look like one,” he grumbled. Both Netto and Rockman laughed as he said that, and eventually, he gave Netto a small smile. “So, we ready to go now?” he asked as Netto grabbed both PETs and connected them to his waist.

“Almost, just have to wait for Meiru and the others to get here-” Netto started before there was a knock at the door. Smiling, the brunette rushed downstairs and to the front door, flinging it open to reveal his friend's faces. “Guys!”

Meiru smiled back at him. “You ready to go?” she asked. Netto nodded as Dekao cheered.

“I can't wait to try out the food there! I hear it's delicious!” he said. Yaito nodded her head in agreement, looking just as excited as Dekao.

“I want to bring back lots of souvenirs for my collection. Maybe I'll even find some new fans!” she squealed excitedly. Netto chuckled, and as he was about to head out, he heard a voice behind him.

“Netto?” The brunette turned around to see Yuuichirou staring at him curiously. Netto's eyes widened.

“Papa, when did you get home?” he asked in surprise. Yuuichirou chuckled.

“A few minutes ago;” he answered. Netto supposed that he must have arrived while he was busy getting his things ready, but then the scientist cleared his throat. “Can I talk to you, Netto?”

The boy had the feeling whatever they were going to talk about wasn't good, he turned around to look at his friends. “Go ahead onto the metroline, and to Endo if you catch the train. I'll be there in a bit.” he said.

“Are you sure?” Meiru asked. When Netto nodded, she sighed. “Alright then. We'll go on without you, but we'll be waiting by the metroline at Endo, alright?” she said before walking off with the other two. Netto sighed and turned back to his father.

“What do you want to talk about, Papa?” he asked curiously. Yuuichirou motioned to go into the living room, where they both sat down.

“Well...” the scientist began, looking somewhat reluctant, “I heard about what happened yesterday. I'm sorry I couldn't be there to help Haruka.” he started, looking forlorn.

Netto sighed. “It's alright Papa. Everything just happened so suddenly, so it's not your fault.” he said, trying to put yesterday out of his mind.

“Regardless...I'm glad the both of you are alright;” he said before gathering his nerves and get to the real subject. “Now, Netto...I have to talk to you about the link.”

Netto blinked. “The link? Between me and Forte?” he asked. Yuuichirou shook his head.

“No, the one between you and Rockman;” he replied before sighing. “I might have found a way to repair it. It would involve a lot of testing and experiments at the Science Labs, but it would work.”

The boy gasped before he slightly narrowed his eyes. Something about it didn't seem right. “Really Papa?”

Yuuichirou nodded. “Indeed. It might take a bit, but I am certain that I can restore the link.”

Netto stayed silent for a few minutes, just staring at his father before speaking up. “And what about my link with Forte?” he asked quietly, looking at the black PET. Both navis were now paying attention to Yuuichirou's every word.

The scientist grimaced. “Well...” he started, “I've noticed that your link to Forte is pretty much the same as the one you used to have with Rockman. I can tweak the code to restore your link with Rockman, but since have two of the same code is potentially dangerous...”

Netto abruptly cut him off. “You want me to cut my link with Forte.” he finished, already seeing where his father was going. He heard Forte shift angrily from where he was, but otherwise did nothing.

Yuuichirou flinched before nodding. “To put it bluntly, yes. To restore the link to Rockman, I'll have to sever the link to Forte. It's the only way.”

Netto bristled in anger before standing up. “No.” he said boldly.

“Netto!” Yuuichirou said, “Think about it! Your link to Forte is harming you! I've heard about what you have been going through, and all of it can be traced back to that link!”

“And what? You want me to put one of them over the other? No way!” Netto retorted.

“I'm not saying that, I'm saying that the link with Forte is detrimental to your health.” Yuuichirou explained to his son.

Netto shook his head. “That's not what you're saying, and you know it. You want me to put Rockman above Forte by reconnecting the link.” he said hotly. He felt himself getting angry at his father for even suggesting the severing of the link. Both navis could only watch in stunned silence as both father and son argued with each other.

The scientist sighed in exasperation. “Netto, please. The link needs to be restored with Rockman.”

“Yes it does,” Netto agreed, “But not this way. I am not going to sacrifice my link to Forte for that purpose. Both of them are important to me!” The anger that he was feeling before seemed to double. How dare his father suggest that Forte wasn't as important? He was!

“Netto...” Yuuichirou growled. Why wasn't his son listening to reason? “Haven't you realized that you're harming yourself by the link with Forte and his memories? It's because they're so dangerous that it's having a negative effect on your mind!”

“They are not!” Netto growled back, “And just for your information, I'd gladly suffer through any pain or hardship for my partners. I will never abandon them.”

“Listen to me!” Yuuichirou exclaimed, slamming his hands down onto the table. His patience had run out. “Netto, I'm your father, and I don't want to see you suffer for no reason. It's because of that fact that I'm telling you that you must sever your link with Forte!”

At that comment, Netto's anger reached his peak as his eyes narrowed and turned cold again, letting out a mocking laugh. Yuuichirou just stared at his son as he laughed, confused. “Netto?”

Netto stopped laughing and glared at his father, who unconsciously shivered from how icy it was. “Don't make me laugh...you? A father?” he chuckled. The scientist's eyes widened in shock.

“Netto?!” he gasped.

“A father is there for his child when they need help the most,” the boy went on, not letting his gaze drift from Yuuichirou, “A father does their best to understand their child. You have done neither.” he explained icily.

“What are you talking about?” Yuuichirou asked, trying to shake off the foreboding feeling in his legs.

Netto laughed. “What am I talking about? I'm merely saying that it was foolish of you to even try to pull the father card on me,” he growled out, “Since when have you ever been there for me when I've really needed you, other than nothing short of a global crisis?”

Yuuichirou was stunned. Why was his son saying these things? “Netto...I...” The scientist tried to say something, anything, but nothing came out at all. Netto only smirked at him.

“Exactly.” he hissed.

“Netto-kun! Please, stop it!” Rockman cried from his place. However, Netto ignored him as he continued to verbally attack Yuuichirou.

“I would take a good look at what you have been doing before you even try to pull that argument against me;” Netto said, “You may be my father, yet you don't know me at all. But hey, you haven't been there for most of my life, so I guess that's understandable.” he said as he shrugged.

Those words seemed to strike Yuuichirou as if he had been hit physically. “Netto, I have been there! Don't you remember?” he asked quietly, his legs feeling weak.

Netto snorted as he turned around. “No, and I don't care enough to remember either;” he said as he turned around. “I'm going to Endo now. I don't want to see your face right now.” he muttered as he swept out of the room, slamming the front door behind him.

“Netto!” Yuuichirou cried as the boy exited, although it went unheard. For several minutes, the only sound present in the empty house was the scientist's heavy breathing, still staring at the spot where Netto was standing only minutes earlier. Finally, he collapsed back onto the couch, still in shock.

“I'm...a bad father?” he asked himself as he stared up at the ceiling. He would definitely need to talk with Haruka when she got home.

---

“Netto-kun!” Rockman yelled as the brunette was making his way down to the metroline. He was still mumbling angrily as he made his way down the streets. “Please, calm down!”

“How dare he...” Netto murmured to himself, his anger still present.

“Calm down!” Forte's voice boomed.

“Really, what does he know?” the brunette continued as he reached the outside of the metroline.

“Netto-kun!” both navis yelled at the same time.

“What?!” he snarled as he looked at the two navis, but his eyes softened as he looked at their concerned faces.

“Are you calmed down yet?” Forte asked softly.

Netto sighed. “Sorry about that. I just got beyond angry...”

Rockman gave him a small smile. “It's understandable, but still...” he murmured, “Those comments towards Papa were harsh.”

“I know that, and I regret saying them;” Netto said sadly, “But it's like every little thing that I've held against him for several years just came bursting out. I couldn't hold myself back...” The brunette then sighed. “He still had no right in saying that I should cut my link with Forte.”

“Papa is worried about you, Netto-kun;” Rockman said, “But I agree that he didn't have to suggest that. There's always another way, isn't there?”
Forte sighed. “You're going to have to talk with him again soon. This isn't just going to blow over.”

Netto nodded. “You're right. But I just need some time to think, you know? I know he needs to think over what I said...” he muttered softly, “Because although a lot of what I said was fueled by anger, doesn't mean I didn't mean most of it.”

“Netto-kun...” Forte murmured.

The brunette shook his head. “Come on. Our friends are waiting for us at Endo, so let's get going. I need to get my mind off things.” Both navis reluctantly nodded, each lost within their own thoughts.

“Try to take it easy from now on, okay?” Rockman asked his operator. Netto smiled and nodded at him.

“I'll try, can't promise anything though.” he chuckled as he entered the station. Rockman gave him a shaky smile back before returning to his own thoughts.

To think that my memories have influenced him in this manner... Forte thought, trying to find some way to help his operator. I want to help him. I have to. I'm not going to break my promise. His thoughts left off as Netto boarded the train headed to Endo City, ready to see his friends.

---

Next Chapter: To the Limit: While Netto and company enjoy themselves in Endo City, Haruka and Yuuichirou talk things over. When both meet again, can the two figure out where to go from there? And as Forte finally starts learning to enjoy himself, the crisis in the Ura Net makes itself known.

---

Author's Note: Well, seems like we're about to hit the final part of Affinity soon enough. Everything is going as planned!

Well, I don't have much to say here except that finals are around the corner and I wanted to get this out before concentrating on them. As soon as they're done, however, I'm going to be concentrating on this, so don't you worry.
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<3 Planty~
Art in icon done by Raburabbit.