L&L:S.2: Misadventures of Lyne and Bass: Episode 26

[Lan1220]

I'll be. This is a great fic.
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Sig credit goes to Hikari Angel

[Pyroman.EXE]

...Insane Chapter Preview: Priceless.

Good Job.

[Lan1220]

Those Chapter Previews are always insane and priceless.
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Sig credit goes to Hikari Angel

[Elementalman.EXE]

[Zodiac]

Darn it. I keep missing those little things. Don't worry about a problem spelling masquerade. I don't think I can spell it right either, and I'm too lazy to find a dictionary. As for using fan navis, do you want to subject Elementalman to our whims? If you do, just contact Megawoman. She should be able to fit him in, although that probably wouldn't be until season three as season two has almost completed its planning phase.
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Church: Are you following any of this?
Caboose: I think so. That guy Tex is a robot, and you're his boyfriend. So that makes you... a gay robot.
Church: ... That's right... I'm a gay robot.

Red Vs. Blue

[Elementalman.EXE]

Should I just give a brief discripsion of what he looks like, and A touch of his personality, and Have Megawoman work from there. Should I add his NetOp?
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Elementalman.EXE
Nothing is True. Everything is Permitted.
1000 Post on Sept. 18 2005 at 6:29pm

[Megawoman.EXE]

Just PM me information about your character and I'll see if I can fit it in. Plus operator info might be nice to have as well.
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"NetAngel Style Change Activate"
Megawoman (Lyne)

Avatar made by Serenade.exe

And feel free to post here too artists if inspired
Lan and Lyne Art Thread

[Megawoman.EXE]

Episode 15: The Night of the Ball(Part 1)

~Brightland Castle ~ 31 October 200X ~

Up in the guys’ room, everyone was in costume and waiting for their assignments for the evening. Raika’s PET finally toned off its e-mail notification, and he opened it right away to read.

“Ahem… Chaud, you have the main enterance. Lan, the west wing by the garden. Megaman, you’re with him. Protoman, you have the east wing. Searchman and I will be patrolling the main part of ballroom and the balconies.” Raika paused to make sure that everyone understood before continuing. “If you guys need relief, E-mail me and I’ll send out Flashman, Sandman or Tony. Got that?”

“Yes Sir,” the NetSaviors, NetAgents, and their navis replied.

“What do I get to do?” Bass asked, wondering why he hadn’t been given an assignment.

Raika looked down at his PET and blinked before replying, “Um… Relax.”

Bass was about to protest that he was relaxed and just wanted to know what he was supposed to be doing when he noted that Raika’s tone of voice suggested that he had been given his assignment. “You’re kidding,” Bass scoffed in disbelief.

“No, it says it right here,” Raika handed him his PET. “Relax,” he repeated as he pointed to where Bass’s human name was on the e-mail.

“Mnnnn. I hate not doing anything,” Bass muttered in disgust as he handed Raika his PET back.

“I know, but I don’t want you to cause any mischief. Understood?”

“Me? Cause mischief?” Bass pointed at himself innocently. “I’m on navi system lockdown. Famous took my power to terrorize people away,” Bass said in a sarcastic tone, getting a groan out of Raika, but that suddenly gave way to a smirk.

“No, I think Lyne did that.” Bass just scowled at the Sharo officer and crossed his arms over his chest. “OK guys. Let’s get into position. They’re about to do the announcements.” Everyone got up from where they were seated and exited the room. As they walked down the hall, they put on their masks.

No need to wear makeup tonight, Bass thought happily as he put his mask on while his group joined up with the girls. The now much larger group went carefully down the stairs, though the swishing of dress clothing made a surprising amount of noise. Eventually, they reached their destination with everyone, having managed to avoid stepping on anyone’s feet or trip on hems of the longer dresses. At the sight of all the people already milling about in the ballroom, Bass stopped at the door and uncomfortably ran his fingers through his spiky, purple hair, allowing Lyne a chance to finally catch up.

“You look nice,” she complemented as she hooked her arm into his free one and led him inside, making the refreshment table her first target.

“Uhh… Thanks. You… uh… look nice too,” he replied nervously as he looked over Lyne’s long and velvety lavender dress.

Lyne blushed brightly under her mask. “Thanks,” she replied as a fanfare went off. The fanfare made the chaotic clamor of people’s conversations quiet down to a dull roar, then to silence.

Once it was completely quiet, the announcer spoke,“Please stand and recognize the distinguished parties.” The crowd’s attention turned to the stairs that led from the main entrance to the palace where a spotlight was focusing a distinguished, grey-haired couple. “From Sharo: General Marcus Bastaff and his wife Annya Bastaff.” The light followed them as they descended the stairs, then moved back to the top once they were halfway down and another short fanfare played. “From Japan’s SciLab: Dr. Yuuichiro Hikari and his wife Haruka Hikari.”

“Mom and Dad? What are they doing here?” Lyne gasped in surprise.

“Maybe they got invited,” Bass commented with a shrug as he watched Lyne’s parents come down the stairs.

Next came many representatives from Kingland, the United States (Ameroupe), Nefrica, and many other countries. Since this was also a navi ball, Navis who were of high importance to the many different countries also came down the stairs. Finally, the moment arrived when the royalty was to be announced.

“Representing all the NetSaviors around the globe, NetSavior Commander Mr. Famous who’s escorting Queen Serenade of the Undernet.” A cheer went up from the audience as they descended, and this time the spotlight remained on them until they reached the bottom of the steps.

“Didn’t expect to see her here. Let alone in a dress,” Bass commented with raised eyebrows. Indeed, the Undernet Queen was wearing a dress that matched the pink of the scarves that trailed lazily in the air behind her rather than her normal navi attire.

“Connor, be nice,” Lyne scolded.

“Who says I’m not being nice? I’m just surprised is all.”

“Princess Poipu Pride of Brightland and her escort Leon Vice Altian. Followed by their navis, Knightman and Zero.”

As first Serenade and then the Princess passed through the parted crowed, the guests bowed respectfully. Lyne made a ladylike curtsey, though she had to covertly hit Bass in the arm to remind him to bow. Slightly bow.

After they were past, Bass and Lyne straightened up. “So he’s an Altian,” Bass commented as Leon guided Princess Pride to her thone.

“Of course he is. The Altians are from Brightland. His father was the navi developer for this country,” Lyne responded.

“Yeah, I know that, but his father went missing a few years ago.” Bass looked over at Leon sympathetically, knowing how hard it is for a parent to be gone.

“Actually Connor…” Lyne trailed off uncertainly and Bass had to nudge her to get her to continue. “Leon’s father is dead.”

“Huh? What about Treno, his older brother?” he asked in a surprised tone at the sudden news.

“Treno’s gone missing,” Lyne said, misting at the corners of her eyes. “He disappeared before his father’s death. There’s been a lot of stuff that happened while you were not whole.”

“I see,” Bass said as looked at where Princess Pride and Serenade sat. “Huh? There are three thrones up there. Do you think there’s one more person going to take that seat?” Lyne shrugged as the announcer cleared his throat to get the crowd’s attention once more.

And please welcome our special guest, King Steven the Third of Atlantis Server, and his escort, Captain Kobito of the Atlantian Guard, the announcer spoke as a final couple descended the stairs. King Steven was wearing a light maroon cape which partially covered his right arm, but was pushed back on his left shoulder to keep that arm unencumbered. His dress slacks were purple and dress shoes were black, and he wore a ruffled, white shirt. His only adornments were the crown on his head, and a medallion, although that was tucked down into his shirt and only the chain could be seen. Kobito, to his left, wore a long dress that was split along the left side. It was the color of sea foam, matching her hair perfectly. Her ears were adorned with what looked like fin shaped ear guards that were dark blue as her eyes. As they entered the ballroom, Atlantian guards started taking posts around the ballroom and his throne.

Bass snarled now that he finally got to see the King of Atlantis. “He’ll pay for making me sick,” Bass growled as he got ready to charge at him.

Lyne held onto his arm tightly, “Connor, you insulting him last time made him angry. Don’t do it again. Please,” Lyne pleaded as she looked up at him, the concern in her eyes apparent behind her mask.

“But he was trying to boss me around. I’m not one of his citizens. I’m not an Atlantian,” he said, directing a glare at the Atlantian King as he passed by. He in turn nodded in response to Bass’s glare, understanding what he meant by it. The King continued on to sit in the middle throne and Kobito took her seat at the base of his throne. The other two escorts had gone off to other parts of the large room, leaving the Princess and Queen to their seats. Finally, with all special guests announced and everyone seated, chatting amongst the guests resumed. Reo joined up with Bass and Lyne along with a young girl wearing a light blue dress and a taller boy in a tux, adorned with a red bow tie, and had long black hair tied into a tail.

“How are you two doing tonight?” Reo asked, startling the pair. “Oh, I’m sorry for startling you two. I have some people for you to meet. I’d like you to meet my daughter Kurisutaru, and her friend Ademu. Kuri, Ademu, this is Lyne Hikari and Connor Cossack.”

“Wow, a Cossack!” Kuri exclaimed excitedly. “Your father’s work on navis is extraordinary and most noted in my history class. Hey! Wait a minute. When did Lan have a sister?”

“Wouldn’t be that surprising. That kid is full of surprises,” Ademu said as he crossed his arms. Bass looked at the younger male with a slight dislike. He knew this kid used to work for Regal and he knew that he was going to keep an eye on him.

“I’m his older sister,” Lyne said, offering her hand to Kuri. “I’ve known you since you and your sister were a babies. Where is Saratu anyway?” Lyne asked as she shook Kuri’s hand while Bass and Ademu exchanged glares.

“Yeah, Dr. Reo didn’t you and Mrs. Deni have twins?” Connor asked as he went to shake Kuri’s hand. She took his hand excitedly and he was a bit taken aback by her enthusiasm at meeting him.

“Are you guys actually navis?” Kuri asked excitedly, curious to find out if what her father had told her was true.

Admeu’s eyes focused in on Bass. I know he’s one. All of the Cossack children died years ago, although the causes were kept secret. That’s what Regal told me. Ademu then reached out and pinched Bass on the arm.

“Owww!” Bass bellowed, “I suggest you leave me alone or you’ll regret it.”

“Admeu, that was uncalled for,” Reo scolded, “Of course they’re human. I’m sorry to disappoint you Kuri.” He then went on to answer Bass and Lyne’s questions. “Yes, Deni and I did have twins. And I’m not sure where she is right now Lyne. She’s been working for Regal, and that means that she can be anywhere.”

“Oh,” Lyne said in surprise, then started to tear up slightly. “I’m beginning to not like this ball. Everything I’ve been hearing lately is so sad.”

“It’s alright Lyne,” Kuri said, giving her a comforting pat. “Mama told Saratu about her being a navi and Saratu believes her. She e-mails once in a while, but it’s no clue as to where she’s at.”

“Yeah,” Connor added, squeezing Lyne’s shoulder to calm her, “As you said, there has been a lot of stuff that happened since I wasn’t whole, and I’m guessing since you’ve been away from Japan.”

‘I wasn’t whole’. He even talks like a navi, Ademu thought as he glared at Bass. I don’t like him at all. He has an attitude. Ademu then left the group when he saw his navi. Maybe I should talk him about this.

Lyne just nodded at Bass’s comment. She noticed some movement from the thrones and saw that King Steven had bent down to whisper into his captain’s ear. Kobito got up and left her seat after he finished and sat straight again. Lyne turned her attention back to her little group and took a sip of some of the punch Bass handed to her. It had a slight sour sting to it, but it was good and Lyne drank it fairly quickly. She stopped though when she saw Kobito approaching them over the rim of the cup.

“Uh oh. Connor, what did you do?” Lyne asked, not taking her eyes off of Kobito.

“Wha? I didn’t do anything.” He twitched in surprise when Kobito came to a stop in front of them.

“Pardon me. I don’t mean to interrupt,” Kobito bowed in apology, “but King Steven requests an audience with you both. Please follow me.” She turned to leave and the half navis glanced over at Reo, who was encouraging them to go. Lyne started off first and Bass reluctantly followed her up to King Steven’s throne. Once they were there, Kobito bowed before him with the half navis following suit. After they paid their respects, Kobito returned to her seat.

“Now you pay a little respect to me Connor. And yes, I understand your frustration with me, but if you have demon blood running through your living veins, you’re a citizen of Atlantis and also under my rule. Best you remember that,” the Atlantian King spoke, leaning forward to try to intimidate them.

Lyne felt nervous, but Bass noticed the kings bluff and laughed. “I serve no fools,” he said in a sarcastic tone.

“Connor,” Lyne scolded, “You’re going to make him angry. Please stop.” The stress she was feeling was obvious in her voice.

“Silence Angel,” King Steven bellowed. He straightened up and gestured to Bass before continuing. “Let the Demon speak his mind.”

“You have no right to hush her,” Bass growled.

So he is willing to defend her. I’m surprised he doesn’t see it. “Yes I do. She has angelic blood flowing though her living veins, and that too makes her one of my subjects.” Lyne moved behind Bass, feeling a sudden need for protection. Don’t worry Lyne. You’re not in trouble with me. Your Demon Partner is, he thought to her, although it didn’t make her relax.

“I challenge your ‘so called’ rule over us,” Bass hissed and the King had to suppress a smirk.

“Oh really?” he asked with a challenging stare which Bass returned. Of course you would. We’re of the same blood, so we’re both stubborn, Nights thought to himself. “Fine. If it’s a challenge you want, you’ll have it. You and your partner will participate in the first dance.”

“Simple enough,” Bass replied with confidence, and Lyne glanced at him in surprise.

Is he crazy? she pondered as she looked over at Bass who was staring straight back at King Steven.

“Hum… In order to please me I would like to see a decent dance,” Nights said, “not something uncivil, and must have not only my approval, but Serenade’s and Princess Pride’s as well. If you fail, you will be humiliated in front of all the guests present,” he added with a slight smirk on his face.

Bass grimaced at the thought. I didn’t stay up all night for nothing, and I don’t want to know what he can do to me next or even how far he will take his planned humiliation. He might even harm Lyne, he thought as he watched the King raise his arm and snap. When he snapped again, Serenade too raised her arm and snapped in unison and Princess Pride joined in on the third. After they finished, the crowd went silent.

“The first dance has been chosen. Enjoy,” King Steven called out over the crowd causing the floor to be cleared and dancing couples to gather on it. “You might want this young demon,” the King said, making a digital single steamed rose appear before the half navi couple.

Lyne looked at the rose in horror for she knew now which dance was chosen. No! Not the Tango, she thought in fright. Bass then grabbed her hand and massaged it to calm her nerves as he grabbed the rose and placed it in his mouth. He then led his half paralyzed friend out to the center of the dance floor. Once the dancers were in position, the band played a few practice measures.
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~Upper Balcony ~

Searchman looked down at the ballroom floor when he heard the familiar measure. He recognized two figures that were in the center of the dance floor. “This ought to be interesting,” he commented, getting Raika’s attention. “The Royalty has chosen the Sharo Tango as the opening dance, and look who’s out on the floor already.”

Raika looked down at the dance floor from the balcony they were patrolling. “Yes, this should be,” he said, devoting his full attention as the dancers on the floor.
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Lyne glared at her partner. Why does your sense of pride have to be a part of your judgment Connor? You got us in trouble, she projected angrily as they prepared for the dance while the practice measures played.

Lyne, that’s how I’ve always been. Besides, I trust him about as far as I can throw Gutsman, Bass thought back before he shook his head, Wait, I could throw Gutsman pretty far. Bad analogy… How about: I trust him as much as Alpha, Bass thought as the music started to play, bringing his partner in close to his chest to lead his charge.

Lyne followed his lead, rather surprised at how good he was. Since when did you learn how to dance? she queried before narrowing her eyes at him. You didn’t download it off the net, did you? He dipped her and passed off the rose before bringing her back up and answering.

“No. I’m just full of surprises,” he said as he spun Lyne after which she did a challenge step before, allowing him to lead again. You’re not bad either. And I thought you hated the tango.

Not right now. I’m actually having fun, she responded as she passed the rose back to Bass. They continued to dance as Searchman and Raika looked down on them.
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“This is surprising. I didn’t expect Bass to be a good dancer,” Raika commented, “I knew Lyne was, but not him.”

“You didn’t see what he went through last night,” Searchman commented as he watched them dance gracefully yet aggressively due to the tempo of the dance. “I have video files,” he added with a twitch on his lip as he fought off an uncharacteristic smile.

“WHOOT! GO SIS!” they heard a shout from where Lan was supposed to be patrolling.

Raika palmed his face, “That’s why I had Megaman with him.”
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The dancers didn’t let the obnoxious cheering distract them, and didn’t have to put up with it for long as the music stopped shortly thereafter. More cheers followed afterwards along with applause.

“Shall we go back?” Bass asked as he gently lifted her hand before he led her back to where the thrones were. Once back, she curtseyed and he bowed slightly as their three judges applauded their performance.

“Very well done. You win your challenge demon,” the Atlantian King said in congratulation, “Enjoy the rest of the ball as my guests you two. As your reward, I will pay you a favor for a favor. You are dismissed.”

“Thank you,” they said in unison as they paid their respects again before leaving.

Kobito looked up at Nights, “Is it our turn to dance Steven?”

“Sure, why not?” he said as he guided her onto the dance floor.
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~Refreshments Table ~

Lyne and Bass were hanging out and talking while snacking on some of the food provided. The evening was actually becoming enjoyable for the both of them. Bass then took notice of the King and his partner as Lyne poured him a glass of punch, but his attention was broken by a sudden exclamation.

“You suck!” shouted a female navi in blue armor with blue hair, eyes, and lips and a pale complexion. She angrily splashed a drink into the face of a navi in scaly-textured red knights armor and stormed off from the table with a young girl following after her.

“Umi! Come back here. He didn’t mean it,” the young girl called out after the angered female navi.

“Wasn’t that Kuri?” Lyne asked as her eyes followed after the two female figures.

“Yep. I suggest you don’t get involved,” Bass cautioned as he noticed Ademu talking with the red armored navi who was steaming at the moment, but that had more to do with the fluid sizzling off of him than actual anger. “Fire and water never mix,” he said as he returned his attention to the Atlatian King.

“Oh.” Lyne said understanding what he had meant. She then handed him his glass as she too watched the King and Kobito glide across the floor gracefully.

“If I remember correctly, Atlantis, or what was believed to be it, was found by our fathers and your grandfather shortly after we were born, right?” Bass asked before he took a sip of his punch.

“I think so. Why?” Lyne asked, perplexed he would even bring that up.

“I’m wondering about something that King Steven said. You know, about angelic and demon blood. Are we more than just half-navis? Is there something our relations aren’t telling us?”

“I don’t know Connor, but I have a feeling that he’s our friend.” She paused as the music stopped. “Let’s go out for the next dance. Please,” she pleaded, batting her eyes at him.

“Okay,” Bass moaned as Lyne took his glass from him before dragging him out to the dance floor.
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~ Along the edge of the Ballroom Somewhere ~

“There’s our target,” Maddy said, pointing out where Lyne was. “Remember the plan guys. Snatch her PET and bring it back to me so I can extract the navi.” The music began to play and more dancers filled the floor. “Shoot, she’s going out with a partner. Mr. Match, we’re on. You stay here with your navi,” Maddy commanded the young male teen as she and the Scotsman went out to the dance floor. Once out on the floor, they split up.

The music now was a slower waltz tune that allowed Mr. Match catch up with the dancing couple. Hum… Need to get rid of the twerp, Mr. Match thought as he sent Maddy an e-mail before he tapped Bass on the shoulder. “May I cut in?” he asked, making Bass stop and glare at him.

The red haired man imposing on them towered over him, but Bass wasn’t going to give Lyne up without a fight. I don’t care if he’s bigger then me. She’s mine for the night. “No, she’s mine. Find someone else old man,” Bass replied with anger fueled confidence which surprised the Scotsman.

Unfortunately, Bass wasn’t prepared for Maddy, who stepped in, separated them, took Bass, and danced him away from Lyne so quickly that he couldn’t react.

“Connor,” Lyne breathed out watching as Bass tried to get away from the pink haired woman that took him while Mr. Match offered her his hand.

“Shall we dance, Ms. Hikari?” he asked, startling her somewhat that this stranger knew who she was behind her mask.

Lyne, seeing no way out of situation and not wanting to cause a scene either, had to accept. “I guess I can, since you had my partner spirited away,” she said as she took his hand.

“You can have you friend back after the dance is over,” he said as he lead her across the floor. As they danced, Lyne felt something odd about the mysterious stranger she was dancing with.

It must be his navi, she thought as she realized her left hand was close to where the man’s PET was holstered. She lowered her hand so she could touch it for a scan. She instantly recognized the navi’s signature. No! Fireman!, Lyne thought in horror. Connor help me! she thought as she and her strange partner continued to glide across the floor.
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Bass, hearing her mental cry, let go of the pink haired stranger who had dragged him away from Lyne.

“Keep dancing with me,” she pleaded as she grabbed his arm. “You don’t need her right now.” She then pulled him back to her, “Besides, you haven’t told me your name,” she said, forcing him to dance again.

“I don’t have to tell a hag like you,” Bass replied in frustration that he hadn’t managed to break away.

“I’ll let you run back to your little girlfriend,” she said in a sly tone, “but only if you tell me your name. Mine’s Maddy,” she introduced herself.

World Three! he thought in shock, realizing who she was, Lyne’s in major danger. I definitely have to get away from this hag. I guess I have no choice but to oblige the hag’s request, but not completely, he thought with a smirk.

“My name is Connor Cosako,” he replied, mentally gritting his teeth for saying his fake last name.

“There, that wasn’t so hard, was it? You shouldn’t be so hostile to your dance partner.” she commented as Bass finally made her stop.

“You said you’d let me go.”

“I did!?” she replied in an exasperated tone, “But we just started to get to know each other. Let’s keep dancing,” she said as she tried to lead once more.

“NO! I told you my name. Now keep up your promise,” Bass demanded, not budging.

“I don’t think so. You called me a hag. That was awfully rude of you Connor,” she said as she dug her nails into his wrists, forcing him back into motion.

I can’t break away. Oww… Use your Backup Program, Bass thought back.
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Without hesitation, Lyne activated her Backup Program and remained calm enough not to falter in her movements.

“My, aren’t you quiet lass?” Match said as they continued to dance. “You were chatting up the lad a few minutes ago.”

“That’s because he’s my friend,” Lyne said in a quiet tone. “I’m not sure what you are.”

“I’m a business man. I work security systems for a major company in Japan,” Mr. Match replied. “I just wanted to meet one of the NetSaviors that protect our fine country.”

“You don’t sound like you’re from Japan,” Lyne observed his accent.

“I was born in Scotland,” he replied, “I came to Japan to help a friend protect his company’s secrets.”

“Oh,” Lyne replied quietly as she glanced around, hoping to see either Protoman or her brother, Hub, coming to her rescue. She saw no sign of either of them, so she decided it was best to continue their conversation.
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Little did Lyne know that Nights heard her sudden cry for help while he was dancing with Princess Pride. He stopped and kissed her hand. “I’m sorry Poipu. Shall we pick this up later?” he excused himself as he let go of her hand.

“Yes of course,” the bewildered princess replied at his sudden excuse.

“Can you also pick up the tempo of this song,” he requested. She nodded and clapped her hands twice over her head so that the conductor could see her. “Thank you Poipu,” he said as he sped off. Nights glided gracefully around the now more quickly dancing couples as he made his way over to Lyne and her partner. He tapped Mr. Match on the shoulder, getting him to stop and see who was there. “May I cut in?” he asked, “I hear she’s quite a fine dancer.”

“Next dance Sir. She’s with me for the rest of this one. Besides, we were in the middle of a conversation,” Match replied and turned away from the interruption.

Nights tapped him on the shoulder again, “I’m sorry I didn’t make myself clear.” He cocked his arm back, “Leave her alone,” he said as he punched Mr. Match in the lower jaw, dropping the Scotsman to the ground. Megaman and Protoman finally caught up to Lyne, who was taken aback by her rescuer’s actions. The punch knocked off the World Three Agent’s mask, allowing them to recognize what had just happened.

“Are you okay?” Mega asked as Protoman helped Mr. Match off the floor so he could cuff him.

At first she was speechless, but Mega gently shook her shoulders to help get her senses back. “Yes I’m fine. But I don’t know where Connor was taken,” Lyne said in a worried tone.

“Don’t worry about him Lyne. I’ve sent my Captain to retrieve him,” Nights replied to her concern, “And you’re welcome. Would you care to finish this dance with me?” he asked and held out his hand.

“Uh… sure. Thank you,” she said as she curtseyed and accepted his hand. He signaled for a slower tempo and led off with Lyne.

“Wow. How did he know Lyne was in trouble?” Mega pondered as he watched his sister dancing with the King of Atlantis.

“C’mon. Let’s get this guy off the floor and question him,” Protoman said, snapping Mega’s attention back to their captive.

“Yeah,” Mega replied as he followed his friend off the dance floor with Mr. Match in tow.
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As Maddy danced with her unwilling partner, she noticed Mr. Match being taken off the floor in hand cuffs. Great. I better get the boy ready, Maddy thought as she let go of Bass and disappeared into the crowd.

“Huh? What’s her hurry?” Bass pondered as he watched her leave him. Kobito came up to him after she had disappeared. He looked down at his wrists where Maddy had managed to leave deep nail marks in them. He rubbed his wrists with a wince of mixed pain and annoyance.

“Are you alright young Sir?” she asked in concern.

“Yes I’m fine. But that World Three witch got away,” he complained as he turned to face Kobito. “I’m guessing your King sent you to check up on me,” he stated as she took his hand to look at.

“Yes he did, and it looks like you’re in no shape to dance for the rest of the song,” she said, looking at his other hand. “Yes, she must’ve been a witch indeed to leave such nasty marks. I’m surprised you’re not bleeding.” She then guided him off the floor to a bench next to the refreshments table. “Stay here and rest,” she commanded, making him sit down before she left him.

“Why are these Atlantians so pushy? Last thing I needed was more people trying to tell me what to do.” He looked around as he waited for the dance to end so he could find out what happened to Lyne. As he looked around, he noticed a familiar figure sitting on a bench on the floor above the ballroom, being guarded by Chaud and Protoman. Thought she wasn’t doing this alone. That’s Mr. Match. I’m guessing they didn’t want to quit World Three quite yet. He squinted his eyes to try and make out something he noticed on the criminal’s lower jaw and saw that it was a fairly sizable bruise. Jeez, who did that? he pondered as he noticed Lyne coming back to the refreshments table.

“Thank you,” Lyne said as her rescuer finished leading her off the floor. “Oop!” she exclaimed suddenly as she tripped over her feet, making Bass get up and catch her before she could meet the floor with her butt.

He held on a moment before he spoke, “Are you alright? Mr. Match didn’t hurt you, did he?”

“No he didn’t get a chance to thanks to King Steven,” Lyne said, drawing Bass’s attention to the navi that stood behind them.

“You did that shiner?” Bass asked the Atlantian King as he pointed at the captive World Three Agent.

“Well, your angel asked for help. I was more then happy to oblige since you were tied up with nails dug into your wrists,” Nights replied, pointing out the nail marks still showing on his wrists and drawing Lyne’s attention to them. She stiffened when she saw it.

“Where is she? I’ll get her for hurting you,” Lyne growled in a flustered tone while scanning the room.

“I don’t know. The hag got away. She must’ve seen Match being taken off the dance floor,” Bass replied.

“Well if you don’t mind, I’ll be returning to the floor. Consider the favor I owe you paid. I will collect mine later,” Nights said, leaving them both standing there dumbfounded.

“What?! Hey!” Bass called out as he finally realized what the King had meant and started to chase after him. “Darn,” he huffed when he lost sight of him.

“It’s alright Connor. Let’s try and enjoy the rest of the evening. Want some more punch?” she asked, getting his attention.

“Sure, I am a little thirsty,” he replied as he followed her back to the refreshment table. Lan, Mayl, Mega, and Roll were there now, chatting. Well, Lan was paying more attention to the food than the conversation. Lyne and Connor joined them and enjoyed some more refreshments and snacks. After a few moments, another young male walked up to the group.

“Lyne, may I have the next dance?” he asked, and Lyne’s attention was caught by the familiar voice.

“Huh?” she responded, looking closely, though of course she couldn’t see past the mask, “Mesu Niwa, is that you?”

Bass wrinkled his nose at a familiar stench. “It smells like him,” he commented as he pinched his nose shut to ward off the smell.

“And that sounds like Connor. Sarcastic as ever I see,” Mesu replied, getting a glare from Bass.

“You’re the only guy I know who OD’s on cologne. Phew… Lyne, go ahead while I try to clear my nose,” Bass said in a stuffed up tone.

“Really?!” Lyne asked, surprised that he was going to allow her to dance with Mesu.

“He’s a friend of yours. So you should be fine,” Bass said before he left. He then paused and added, “Mesu, you drop her or make her stink, I’ll hurt you,” in a menacing tone before he left.

“Uh… Thank you Connor. That was rather kind of you. Does he really mean it?” Mesu asked as he watched Bass leave. Hum… I wonder if he’s picking up on my Dog Repellant, he thought, shaking his head, Nah. People can’t smell it. He must be picking up on something else.

“Well, I suggest not doing any of those things and you should be fine,” Lyne said as Mesu guided her out to the dance floor. Lyne watched Bass make his way over to the garden side of the ballroom before the music started and Mesu led off with an easy waltz.
________________________________

Nights approached Bass where he was facing out towards the garden. “You alright demon?” he asked, offering him a handkerchief.

Bass took it and covered his nose, “ACHOO! That guy smells,” he replied as he finally cleared the offensive stench that plagued his nose. “Why does he smell so bad? My nose is going haywire.”

“Well, what do you expect? You are a demon young one,” the King replied with a smile.

“I have a name you know,” Bass stated as he glared up at him.

“Pardon my rudeness Connor, but you are a demon, not a human. Meaning you happen to have a more acute senses of smell, hearing, and sight.” Nights paused as he stared out over the crowd. “That human is wearing some kind of repellant,” he replied, apparently scanning Mesu over.

“Why can’t Lyne smell it?” Bass asked.

“Angels are different. They have more sensory perception then an actual psychic, but they can’t detect the future. Try to sneak up on an angel, she’ll detect you, but that’s only if she’s not distracted,” he explained, reminding Bass of when he tried to sneak up on Lyne a few days ago.

Bass’s attention was caught by a glint of light above the dancers, and when he looked up at it, he saw that there were actually lines of these light glints overhead. He followed the trail of lights until he saw Maddy standing semi-hidden in the shadows. “The World Three witch! What’s she up to now?” Bass growled as he focused on her location.

“She’s standing by a navi,” the King commented, getting Bass’s attention, “The better question is why is he using Glass Chain on your Angel?” leaving that question up in the air, he disappeared from Bass’s sight. Bass then noticed the clear chain retract with something in its grip.

“Lyne’s PET! Why would they want that?” Bass pondered as he made his way over to where Maddy was.
_____________________________

Lyne’s PET dropped into Maddy’s hand. “Good job Chainman. Now to extract Megawoman from this and our mission is done,” she commented as she hooked up her PET to Lyne’s.

Chainman heard a rustle behind him while Maddy turned on Lyne’s PET. She was confused when she saw that there was no navi there. “Huh? Wackoman, do a full scan of her PET. We need to get that navi,” Maddy commanded her navi as Chainman laid a few more of his Chain traps around. The noise got Maddy’s attention, “What are you doing?” she asked the male navi. “We don’t have any time to fool around.”

“I thought I heard something Ma’am,” Chainman replied. “I’m just making sure I’m right.”

“Fine whatever as long as you don’t have any of your chains near me,” Maddy said, returning her attention to the PET’s in her hands.

“Maddy, I couldn’t find the navi anywhere in her PET,” Wackoman spoke from his PET.

“You sure?” Maddy asked in an angry tone.

“Yes I’m sure. According to her PET, Megawoman hasn’t been inside it since sometime last week,” Wackoman replied as he bounded along inside Lyne’s PET. A red light double blinked when he bounced over a security sensor. “Uh Oh!” he exclaimed as he got bombarded with MiniBoomers. As the clownish navi logged out, a stealthy figure in the shadows quietly chuckled.

Good to see that my booby traps still work, Bass thought quietly as he avoided one of Chainman’s traps.

“Mmm?” Chainman hummed quietly when he felt a disturbance in his chain traps. They didn’t go off, but I’m sure there’s someone there. “And I’ll find you too,” he vowed with determination as he began slowly drawing his outer chains inward like a makeshift net.

“Great!” Maddy huffed in disappointment, then pressed her hand over her ear. “Mesu, we have a problem.”

“What’s wrong?” came the boy’s voice through the short range comm channel.

She paused for a moment when she heard Chainman exclaim, “Ah, got ya’!” when a trap was sprung. He began rapidly retracting the chain and, satisfied that he was handling this fine, Maddy returned her attention to her colleague.

“Megawoman isn’t in her PET. Make Lyne tell you where she is,” she ordered.

“How?” Mesu whispered.

“Mesu, what’s wrong?” came a female voice over the comm link.

“Nothing. I’m on the phone with a friend of mine Lyne,” Mesu replied.

“That’s awfully rude of you to be on the phone while we’re dancing,” Lyne huffed angrily. Maddy rolled her eyes.

“It’s a business call. Those are kinda’ unavoidable if you know what I mean,” Mesu said to quickly cover himself.

“Maddy, I found something,” Chainman said, drawing her away from the conversation Mesu and Lyne were having.

She noticed Chainman had a bound up person in his trap. A smile cracked on her face. “Perfect. Mesu, I found your how.”

“Oh I see,” Lyne said at the same time.

“Huh? What was that?” Mesu said, stopping their dance not too far away from Maddy so he could see her.

“Tell her if she doesn’t tell you where her navi is, me and your navi get to have fun with her little boyfriend,” Maddy replied, drawing Mesu’s attention to their captive, who started to struggle in his heavy bonds.

“Understood… Um… Lyne,” Mesu started, getting Lyne’s attention, “I have a favor to ask you.”

“What is it Mesu? Not your history homework again. I told you I wouldn’t do that for you anymore,” Lyne said as she looked up at Mesu.

“No, not that. Where’s Megawoman?”

“Huh. Why ask that?”

“I want to see her,” Mesu answered simply, “That’s all.”

“Meg… Uh… You can’t. She’s back at home, working on something,” Lyne said. Now that she was thinking about ‘her navi’ she realized that there was a familiar weight missing from her side. Where’s my PET? she pondered as she glanced down at where it should be.

“You know Lyne, you’re a terrible liar,” Mesu said as he whipped her around to face a woman in the corner of the room. “My friend has your PET and she says Megawoman isn’t on it.”

“That’s because she’s still back home in Japan,” Lyne huffed defensively as she eyed her PET in the pink haired woman’s hands. How dare the hands that hurt Connor’s wrists touch my PET, she thought as she glared at Maddy.

“Oh really? We’ve found traces of her here in the palace system,” Mesu said as he leaned in close to intimidate her. “And there’s no net links she traveled into. Tell me where she is. Is she in the ballroom?”

“No… She’s at home. Why do you want Meg?” Lyne asked, now feeling a building panic.

“Well, I don’t really want her, but my boss does. Please cooperate Lyne or we’ll hurt your friend Connor,” Mesu said, drawing Lyne’s attention to a struggling figure at Maddy’s feet.

“No, Connor,” she breathed out in horror as she watched Mesu raise his hand, commanding his unseen navi to tighten Bass’s bonds. Why isn’t he activating his armor? she pondered as she scanned him over while Mesu commanded his navi to stop. Oh, the navi lockdown! He can’t activate his armor. Why did Famous have to ground him? Lyne thought angrily. Wait, that lady was with the guy that was dancing with me earlier, and he was a World Three Agent, so that would mean that she is too along with… She broke free from his grip. “Why Mesu? Why work for Mr. Wily?” Lyne half demanded, half pleaded as she backed away from him.

“The professor pays me good, and puts my talent to good use,” Mesu replied, “Plus, I get to have revenge whenever I want. Now tell me where Megawoman is,” he said as he raised his hands once more, making his navi tighten the chains that held Bass captive once more.

Bass looked over at her, noticing she was on the verge of cracking and telling World Three the secret they both shared. Don’t Lyne. Don’t give into World Three’s petty demands, he projected to her while he gritted his teeth and groaned in pain.

But Connor, you’ll die, Lyne thought back with fright in her eyes.
____________________________

“Lan,” Mega said, drawing his younger sibling’s attention to the middle of the ballroom. “I think Lyne is in trouble.”

“Yeah. Is her backup program active?”

“No. But it looks like that guy that took her out to the floor is making her nervous,” Mega said, scanning over the situation.

“Where’s Bass?” Lan asked, and Megaman gave him an odd look.

“Lan,” Mega said, tapping him on the back of the head. “It’s Connor. He’s incognito, remember? And I don’t see him about. He was by the garden a few minutes ago.”

“Okay. Anyway, let’s go help her out.”

“Aguahh!” Bass suddenly cried out as he felt his ribs starting to crack, getting the whole room’s attention.

“That was Connor!” Mega exclaimed. “Lan, let’s move.”

“Right,” Lan responded as he and Mega sped off to the east side of the ballroom.
_____________________________

“Ghhhh!” Bass laboriously tried to inhale. He was starting to feel dizzy from lack of air and didn’t have the energy left to struggle.

The earlier scream was the last straw for Lyne. I’ve got to protect you Connor. I can’t stand to see you suffer like that, let alone watch you die again. Lyne got into a fighting stance in front of Mesu. “You want Meg, right?”

“Now we’re getting somewhere,” Mesu said as he approached Lyne, who threw a viciously fast punch at him. The blow connected with his mask and broke the lower half of it, sending pieces of it all over the floor. Mesu managed to keep his feet but it took him a moment to get his balance back. He put his hand up to his face in disbelief. It came away with some blood on it and he spit out a tooth before he spoke again. “You know it’s not lady-like to fight in a dress.” He was attempting to sound nonchalant, but there was a certain tremor in his voice that showed his confidence wasn’t all there.

“Then I’ll change my attire. You asked for Meg, you’ll get her with a fight,” Lyne said as she was engulfed in bright light.
__________________________________

Nights took quick notice of Lyne’s action. Damn. She’s mad. “Kobito, evacuate all the guests from the ballroom floor. Now! I don’t want any humans hurt.” She immediately gave a command whistle, sending out all the Atlantian guard, who started to escort people off the dance floor. The evacuation was very quick and the castle security activated a barrier around Lyne, the two World Three Agents, their navis, and their hostage once the floor was clear.
_________________
"NetAngel Style Change Activate"
Megawoman (Lyne)

Avatar made by Serenade.exe

And feel free to post here too artists if inspired
Lan and Lyne Art Thread

[Lan1220]

That was a very nice chapter, i've been waiting for this. Good job.
_________________

Sig credit goes to Hikari Angel

[Megawoman.EXE]

Episode 15: Night of the Ball(Part 2)
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“Lan, hurry up. You have to do it now,” Mega said to Lan, who was hurriedly slotting chips into his PET. “Are you ready yet?”

“Yeah. Let’s do this bro,” Lan said as he slotted in his Syncro chip.

“Cross Fusion,” they called out in unison as Lan dove through a closing gap in the barrier. He landed poorly on the other side and was thankful for the armor forming around him.

“*Whew* We made it,” Lan breathed out as he got up off the floor in his cross fused state. He tried to take his masquerade mask off, but found that the strap was stuck under the digital helmet.

“Not one of our better landings though,” Mega commented.

“Hey, at least we got through. Time to go help Lyne,” Lan said and took off to where his sister was.
_______________________________________

“Cool!” “Awesome!” “Oh My God!” came a few cries from the crowd as they were rushing from the floor. The light around Lyne was gone and she was now standing in her digital armor with her fists clenched tightly.

Maddy’s jaw dropped in shock. “She cross fused with Megawoman, but,” she paused and looked down at the PET in her hand, “How’d she do it without this?”

“That’s simple old lady,” Lyne replied as she ripped the mask from her face, breaking the straps off without thinking, “I am Megawoman, and Wily can’t have me,” she added as she crossed her arms over her chest in defiance.

“I’m not old,” Maddy shrieked.

“Yes you are,” Bass commented weekly and got a kick in the side for speaking.

Mesu backed off, fearful that she would harm him. He knew there was no way he would be a match for a navi, but he knew he had to capture her for Mr. Wily. “I’ll handle her,” a voice replied from behind Mesu. He turned around to see his navi standing behind him.

Chainman’s armor was a dark rust color on his forearms, boots, chest, and helmet. Bluish-silver streaks accented both the forearms and boots while the dome-shaped helmet was lined with a silver-blue chain. His upper arms, legs, and torso looked like they were made of intricately twined, iron-grey chains. His face was black behind a chain mail mask and his eyes were yellow. The icon on his chest was vertically standing links of chain in front of the dark rust background.

Duh, a navi vs. navi match should bring her down. Why didn’t I think of that right away? Still, she might be slightly human, so we’ll have to be careful. Mesu thought as he regained his composure. “Alright if you’re not going to cooperate, my navi will make you,” Mesu called out as he pointed at Lyne. “Show her we mean business. Chainman Go!”

“With Pleasure. Binding Chain,” his navi called out, turning his arms into lots of chains that shot off in Lyne’s direction. Lyne readied her buster in response.

“Cyber Sword,” she heard called out behind her as a navi streaked by her and met Chainman’s attack head on. He managed to cut partway through one of the chains, but the tough substance wouldn’t completely break and quickly wrapped around the sword and the arm attached to it.

“Lan! No!” Lyne cried out as she watched Chainman jerk his arm back and hurl Lan to the ground, stunning him enough that he wasn’t able to escape as the chains tightly bound him down. Good. Hub’s armor will protect him from being hurt, she thought in relief until she saw the chains tightening.

“So this is the mighty Lan and Megaman. Weaklings,” Chainman said dismissively.

“Gaah! Program Advance. Angel Sword. Angel Wings Activate. Nobody treats my brother like that,” Lyne growled as she activated the chips from her internal memory. The short wings of the Angel Wing program activated on her back and the broad sword with its winged hilt appeared in her right hand.

“What do you think you’re doing girl?” Chainman huffed as he turned his attention away from Lan and focused on her. “Sword programs don’t work on me.”

“We’ll see about that,” a voice said as another figure dove down on Chainman. “Sonic Boom!” Chaud, cross fused with Protoman, swung a VarSword at Chainman, sending a shockwave down at him. In response, the targeted navi thrust his left arm out, sending a spiral of chains out that formed into a circular shield. The heavier navi then used it like a battering ram to knock Chaud aside.

“Didn’t you learn anything already?” Chainman bellowed out. Before Chaud could completely get to his feet, Chainman deformed the shield back into chains and whipped them out to wrap around the Net Savior. “Another weakling. No use in me wasting my chain on him,” he said as he retracted his arm noting that the NetSavior was down for the count.

He’s been majorly upgraded since I last fought him, but that was when I was normal, Lyne thought as she watched Chainman return his focus on her.

“Put the sword down chick. You should have learned by watching those two that they don’t work on me,” he said as he glared at her. Lyne gripped even harder onto her sword and shook her head. Chainman rolled his eyes in exasperation as he said, “Fine. Have it your way. Binding Chain!”

Lyne charged forward in a flash to meet the attack and made swift slashes at the many chains grasping at her. Before Chainman’s widened eyes, the attack that had fouled the other two NetSaviors was cut apart and pixilated away. Lyne just smiled at her work and the shock in Chainman’s eyes.

“Impossible! I will not be defeated by the likes of you again. Binding Glass Chain!” he called out, making his chains become practically invisible.

“Great,” Lyne said as she got on the defensive. I can barely see his attack. I’ll have to use that secret technique Connor taught me, she thought as she made three copies of herself, making look like there were four of her. Alright. Now to free Lan and Connor. Chaud’s okay. I can see him getting up. And then I’ll log out Bozo. Nobody calls me chick. Scatter formation, she commanded her copies, which started to jump around the room to create confusion.

“Huh?” Chainman grunted as he tried to focus in on her, but couldn’t. He started to get frustrated when Lyne chuckled, but realized that only one of the images was making noise. “Got you!” he called and struck out with his attack.

“Ow!” Stupid, stupid, stupid! Lyne berated herself as one of the chains struck her, but she managed to escape it before it could latch on. They’re just images. I’ve got to keep quiet. She sent off a couple more copies and was relieved when chainman’s focus turned to one of them instead, although she was shocked by the way he cussed when his attack struck only an empty image. I’ll have to punish you extra for that dirty mouth.

Her opponent continued to flail around, dissipating the copied images, but never managing to catch her, and she finally managed to make her way over to Lan. She placed her sword tip into a link of visible chain and pushed down on it. Once the chain was broken, it pixilated off and released her brother. “Lan, are you alright?” she asked as she helped him up off the ground.

“Yeah *pant* I’m fine. Just need to catch my breath,” Lan replied as Lyne placed her sword in his hand. “Huh?”

“Take this and free Connor while I distract Chainman,” Lyne ordered as she pushed her brother, a little too hard since he fell over again, out of the way as one of Chainman’s attacks.

Once Lan got up again, he looked down at the sword as Lyne went back to using duplicate to confuse her opponent. Lan then ran off towards where he saw Chaud trying to free Bass from his bonds.

“Nice trick chick, but I’ve seen that before,” Chainman said as he attacked all her copies and knocked her to the ground. “Binding Chain!” he called out making his chains visible once more.
______________________________

“Sonic Boom!” Chaud called out as he hit the chain, but it didn’t cut it. “Damn.”

“You Idiot Blaze! That was too close,” Bass shouted at him. Then the chains tightened quickly for a second in reaction to Lyne hitting Chainman in the face. “Guahhh!”

“Hey, I’m trying to do you a favor,” Chaud said before he grabbed the chain and started sawing it with his VarSword. “Have you already developed a since of mortality?”

“Just hurry so I can pound Mesu,” Bass growled as he watched Raika and Searchman arrest Maddy and Mesu. “That’s what you get you old hag. Guahh! That one really hurt,” he said with a grimace of discomfort and pain.

“Chaud, let me get that,” Lan said as he finally reached them.

“What makes you think you can cut the chain with that?” Chaud asked. “I can’t even cut it with VarSword.”

“Cause this is Lyne’s Angel Sword,” Lan said as he placed the tip in one of the links of chain and thrust downward, cutting cleanly through it. Like before, the broken chain pixilated off and left Bass free, though he was coughing and gasping from the prolonged binding.

“*Cough, Cough* Damn,” he said, looking out to the center of the ballroom where Lyne was fighting Chainman.

“Connor, are you alright?” Lan asked as he tried to get him up off the floor, “We need to get him to Dr. Reo- Hey!”

Bass shoved the boy off of him, “I’m fine. Get away from me,” he demanded as he held his side and returned his attention to Lyne.

It’s good to see you’re alright, she thought to him, pausing in her movement. Then Bass realized that she wasn’t pausing, she was standing still.

“No, Lyne are you crazy!” he called out as Chainman’s attack hit home, binding Lyne. Bass charged his way over to Mesu and decked him on the other side of the face Lyne had, although this time, there was no mask to take the impact. “Command your navi to stop,” he demanded.

“Why? He’th got what we come for. All he hath to do is log out if she really ith a navi.” He spit out yet another loosened tooth once he’d finished his difficultly spoken reply. “Ow.”

“No Lyne,” Bass breathed out as he waited to see what was going to happen.
____________________________________

“What you going to do now chick? I’ve got you where I want you,” Chainman queried as he started to reel her in closer to him.

Lyne, who been passively allowing herself to be pulled along, cracked a smile. “No. I’ve got you,” she said as she formed two orbs, one white and one bright yellow, and started forcing them together. “One mixer coming right up,” she cheerfully called as she grabbed onto her bonds, sending a boosted electrical attack along the chains her foe was reeling in. He didn’t even have time to look surprised before the attack plowed into him.

“NOoooo!” Chainman trailed off as he logged out. The chains that held Lyne went with him and she collapsed to the floor

“Nobody calls me chick,” she trailed off as she fell to the ground, low on energy and finally allowing herself to rest. The barrier was dismissed and Bass then ran up to her as Famous and Reo rushed in to join the group of NetSaviors.

“She could be hurt. I’m going to call in a medical crew,” Reo said, bringing out a cell phone.

“No need for that friend,” Famous said, placing his hand on Reo’s. “Crowd control now guys. Last thing we need is cameras and the media in here,” Famous commanded. Lan, Chaud, Raika, Searchman, and the other NetAgents went right to work making sure that the guests were being escorted out of the castle, and their navis were making navi guests log out.

Bass held onto Lyne for a moment while he tried to collect his thoughts. “Why Lyne?” he breathed out, “Why did you expose yourself?” he asked, worried about her becoming a target for Mr. Wily.

She opened her tired eyes to look at him and placed a comforting hand on his right cheek. “To save you from being hurt. I couldn’t stand to see you suffer, and I didn’t want you to die on me again,” she replied before she started streaming tears from her eyes. “An- I thought Mesu was our friend.”

“I know,” Bass hugged her into his chest. “Calm down. It’s over. Wily won’t be able to find out until he bails those three out of jail.”

“He’s right,” Famous said as he kneeled beside them.

Lyne stiffened up as she detected another World Three Navi Signature. “There’s another one here.”

“Huh? Where Lyne?” Bass asked. She pointed at a white and orange armored navi who was, oddly enough, wearing an oriental straw hat. He was looking right over at them and smiled slightly before logging out.

“Wrong. He knows now,” Bass growled at his cousin, “That was Cutsman.”

“Well, look at it this way. At least Wily doesn’t know about what happened to you.” He was trying to sound flippant, but was feeling a little too tense to pull it off.

“What happened to him?” Ademu asked as he joined up with the group with his navi, “Is it what happened to her? Who is he really?”

Famous looked up at the young boy before he looked back at Bass. “Do you want to tell him? He is a NetSavior for Brightland.”

Bass looked away for a moment and clenched his teeth in frustration. He didn’t really want to say anything, but felt somehow that it was the right thing to do. “You sure he won’t go running off to tell Regal?” he asked in a disgruntled tone, still not looking at Famous.

Ademu nodded. “I’m sure,” Famous replied in a positive tone.

Bass then hung his head again. “Ademu, *sigh* I’m the navi known as Bass,” he said, taking off his mask to show off the familiar facial marks.

“Figures,” Ademu and Dragoman said in unison. Bass’s mouth fell open slightly, although he was feeling more annoyance than shock at their response.

“ ‘Figures!?’ What the heck’s that supposed to mean?” he snarled, throwing his mask at them and glaring.

“Your attitude gave you away,” Ademu said with a shrug of his shoulders, then added, “And I guess it’s a good thing that Wily, and Regal as well, don’t know.”

“Yeah, but…” Bass hung his head, “At Lyne’s expense,” he sighed as the Atlantian King approached them.

So, he has feelings too. I guess Reo was right. He is human, Ademu thought as the King of Atlantis passed him.

The King placed his hand on Bass’s shoulder and the half navi felt something click inside him. “What do you think you’re doing? Don’t touch me,” he hissed at him.

“What?! I just unlocked your navi system. Famous, please don’t lock it like that again. Ask me first. Now to take care of Lyne,” he said, placing his hand on her icon.

“Leave her alone. You’re going to make her sick,” Bass growled as he tried to remove the King’s hand from her icon.

“Be calm. I’m just giving her some of my energy Connor. You can scan my activities for yourself,” he said, even though Bass was already scanning him. “I’m afraid punch and snacks didn’t provide enough energy for her to do what she did to save your life.”

Lyne looked up at the King. “Why?” she asked in a quiet tone as she started to feel better.

“You don’t have to ask me that little angel,” he replied as he rubbed her cheek. “That ought to do it. This is an extension of the same favor I paid you. I will collect mine later. Be prepared.”

“For what?” Bass asked, narrowing his eyes at the King.

“For anything. I’ll send for your brother. I wonder why he’s always late for important stuff like this,” he said in a distant tone. “Anyway, I’m going to send for him before the humans decide to deactivate this wonderful… Uh… What is this called again?” he asked, pointing at the ceiling

“A Dimension Core,” a voice said behind him, drawing everyone’s attention. “I invented it. How is Lyne?” Yuu asked.

“She’s better,” Famous said. Lyne was still clinging onto Bass until Haruka joined her husband then knelt beside Lyne. In a swift movement, Lyne switched to cling onto her mother.

“Hush sweetie. I’m here,” Haruka said as Lyne cried into her chest quietly.

Do moms have magnets installed or something? Bass thought to himself, She stuck to her as soon as she got close. Bass couldn’t see it, but Lyne smiled at the thought when she accidentally caught it.

“She hasn’t been this shaken up since she first faced deletion,” Yuu commented, making Bass hang his head.

“It wasn’t your fault Connor. Alpha made you do it,” the King interjected, getting a shocked look from Bass. “Ahem, as I said before, I’ve sent for your brother. See you around the net,” he said in a hurried tone as he and the rest of his Atlantian Guard disappeared from sight, leaving behind a sudden clatter of the masquerade masks they’d been wearing.

He’s hiding something, Bass thought as he narrowed his eyes at the spot that the King had disappeared from.
_______________________________________

“Whew! That was close,” Nights breathed out as he, Kobito, and his guards were traveling down a data stream leading back to Atlantis.

“Yeah. You almost let him know who you were,” Kobito responded.

“*Sigh* I have a promise to keep though. I’ll meet you back at the palace,” he said as he parted from her to return to the ballroom he had just logged out of. As he left her, he activated his armor.
____________________________________

Once Nights appeared, he felt a hot glare on him. “What took you so long?” Bass rumbled, “That King guy said you were supposed to be here.”

“Yes, I was, but I had to run an errand for him first,” Nights replied, covering for himself. “So, it’s pretty dead. I was expecting to party. What happened?” he asked, acting clueless.

“A lot,” Bass huffed as he turned away from Nights.

“I want to go home,” Lyne cried out as she wrapped around Bass’s leg. “I want to go right now,” she demanded with a glance aimed at her father.

“Yeah, me too,” Bass agreed with Lyne as he looked at Famous.

“The fastest way back is through the Net. I could escort them back Famous, Dr. Hikari,” Nights offered, looking at the two scientists.

“What do you think Yuu?” Famous asked his friend.

“I think its fine,” Haruka interjected, “Just as long as Lyne and Connor go to their rooms when they get back and go to school tomorrow.”

“Actually NSHQ is a lot safer at the moment until we make it back to Japan,” Famous suggested.

“That’s fine then. But once you two get back, no logging into the network,” Yuu said, laying down his conditions for their return.

“But that’s not fair,” Bass protested. “How are we supposed to navigate without being able to log into the Net?”

“That is what Combit and Gospel are for,” Yuu said, deflating any further argument from the two half navis. “Now that’s settled, you two can go back through the Net.”

“Are you two ready?” Nights asked. Bass activated his armor and nodded.

Lyne called out to Combit, who was clinging onto Searchman and obviously reluctant to go anywhere. “We’ve got to get going now.”

“Not fair. He had to spend all night working,” The Byte complained.

Lyne frowned a little, but relented. “Well, as long as you can make it back on your own?”

“Yeah, yeah! I can for sure! Just give me a couple hours, okay?”

“*sigh* Alright then. I guess I’m ready to go too.”

“See you guys later,” Bass farewelled in a slightly smug tone.

“See you tomorrow Dad, Mom. Tell Lan I’ll see him tomorrow as well,” Lyne said as Nights linked himself, Lyne, and Bass onto the Net to return to Japan.
_________________________________________

Shortly after they had logged on, Lyne was getting sleepy. I guess I didn’t give her enough energy, Nights thought. Bass was leaning her against his right side as they went along so she wouldn’t get lost while she went into sleep mode. “You must’ve had some wild night,” Nights commented as he made a link to NSHQ.

“You could say that… Wily… Wily knows about Lyne,” Bass said in an angered tone.

“That’s not good. She’s not hurt is she?” Nights asked as he helped his brother carry Lyne over to the NP he had opened.

“No, but it makes me angry that Wily would do something like that to her,” Bass replied as he stopped for a second. “At least that King guy was there to help ward them off in the first place. Why can’t the old guy just up and die already?”

“I don’t think he can. Did I ever tell you the story of how Wily supposedly lost his eye?” Nights asked as they went through the NP.

“No. You haven’t,” he replied, now curious as to how the story went.

“Well it goes like this…” Nights began as they traveled down the Data Stream to NSHQ
____________________________________

“I’ve returned Wily,” Cutsman said as he appeared on Wily’s console in CCC. “She is a really extraordinary navi… or should I say human? Or both. I’m not sure…”

“Eh? Both human and navi? You are speaking of Megawoman, correct? Explain,” the old man commanded.

The navi took off his hat to reveal something like a pair of scissors as a crest on his forehead. “That girl they were after, she doesn’t have a navi it seems. At first I thought that she’d cross fused, but Maddy had her PET at the time. And then she directly said that she is Megawoman."

“The Hikari family becomes more fascinating all the time. What about my agents. Did they get her?” Wily asked as he focused in on his navi.

“Nope… She was way too much for Chainman to handle. And she used a strange technique I’ve only seen a few other navis use. She made duplicate images of herself.”

“Hum… Interesting,” Wily said as he leaned in closer to the screen. “That is interesting. And what happened to my agents?”

“The usual thing Wily. They got arrested, but this time by NetSaviors, so fat chance of bailing them out right away.”

“*Sigh* I think its time for a trip then,” Wily said as he rose from his seat at the desk. “I think I’ll pester an old friend of mine until things cool down a bit.”

“You don’t mean…” Cutsman said in a tone of horror as Wily nodded. “Please Sir. I don’t want to fight that grey terror.”

“You won’t be fighting him. I think I’ll make something new to keep him occupied,” he said as he took a Bass chip out of his chip collection. “I’ve always wanted to use this last copy on one of my robots. I think I’ll have enough time to do it this time. You know where to meet me,” he said as he got into a hidden elevator that led to a hidden jet deep inside the CCC building.
__________________________________________

“Wow a robot did that to Wily,” Bass said as Nights finished his story. “Who would’ve thought his passion would turn on him? I guess that’s why he went onto making navis.”

“Maybe,” Nights said as they exited the link. They ended up in a sleep chamber area for navis. “Anyway… You two will be safe here ‘til they get back from Brightland.”

“Thank you brother,” Bass said as he placed Lyne into one of the sleep chambers.

“And brother, thank you for not disrespecting King Steven this time. He was really appreciative of that, and he considers you worthy as an equal. I think you made a great ally during your vacation. I have to get going.”

“I guess. I did,” he said as he placed his hand on Lyne’s sleeping chamber. “Tell him thank you for me,” Bass said, sensing his brothers need to leave.

“I will. I’ll check up on you later, okay?” Nights said as he placed his hand on Bass’s shoulder.

“Okay. I’ll see you later then,” Bass said as he felt his brother disappear from the NSHQ Server. He breathed out as he noticed the repair functions of the sleep chamber activate. “You did get hurt, didn’t you?” he commented as he noticed burned, chain-like marks on her armor. “Why’d you hurt yourself for my sake?”

“Bass!” a voice called from the doorway. He turned to see it was one of the AdminNavis from information. “We have a problem.”

“What is it?” Bass asked in a listless tone.

“Another navi got attacked by your mysterious navi assailant,” the AdminNavi reported.

“What?! Where is it?” Bass asked, tensing up and feeling fully alert. Heh, now I get to blow off some steam. Then he realized that he hadn’t been answered and realized the navi was reading an e-mail that had popped up in front of it. “Hey, I asked you a question!”

“I’m sorry, but that was another one. The first navi that was attacked while you were absent was already brought in, but I just got in another report. This second navi got attacked about fifteen minutes ago.”

Bass tapped his foot, “Location…”

The navi gulped nervously, “Section three of NetCity. These are the coordinates,” he said. Bass quickly absorbed them and then disappeared. “Uh…”

“Where’s Bass?” Kendoman asked as he entered the room.

“Um… I just came in here to tell him an update in his case and he just left. S-Sir,” the navi replied nervously.

“Famous is so going to ground him unless I find him. Where is he at?” Kendoman asked as the AdminNavi offered him a copy of the coordinates to Kendoman. “Punk, we have a situation down here. I need your help,” Kendoman audio e-mailed Punk. The other navi appeared off to his right side.

“What’s the problem?” Punk asked.

“Bass,” Kendoman replied.

“Oh. Alright then. Where is he?” Punk asked as Kendoman opened a NP and entered it. “Why does he have to answer me like that? He’s not Gateman,” Punk grumbled as he followed after Kendoman.

The AdminNavi looked relieved that all the commotion was over and decided to leave the stasis area. Before he was out, Kendoman and Punk returned with Bass, struggling to get out of Punk’s cord-like arms and his hands were bound by glowing yellow circles.

“Let me go. It’s my case!” Bass howled as he bit one of Punks arms.

“Hey stop that!” Punk complained as Bass continued to chew through his bonds, making good progress. “That’s it,” he said as he squeezed around the lower part of Bass’s torso, making him yelp in pain.

“I thought so. You did get injured like Famous said,” Kendo man said as Bass was forced into one of the sleep chambers. “One of your human ribs got cracked.”

“My case…” Bass moaned in pain as Punk unwrapped his arms from around Bass, who was too exhausted to now fight back due to the pain.

“I know it’s your case, but Famous e-mailed me you aren’t supposed to be on the Net,” Kendoman said as he stared Bass down and released his hands from their bonds. “Either of you. I’ve rigged these two chambers so that when you wake, you will be logged out in the Med Bay. That way you two can freshen up and get ready for school. Someone has already retrieved your backpacks, and your luggage will be brought back with the others.” Bass just crossed his arms over his chest and huffed sorely. “Think of it this way. If I tell Famous what you just did, you’d be on Navi Lockdown for a long time. Now get some sleep. You have school in the morning. I’ll have the repair teams working on the two navis.”

“Fine…,” Bass huffed angrily as he went into sleep mode while Kendoman closed his sleep chamber.

“I wonder how Famous and Gateman deal with him everyday,” Kendoman said as he walked out of the room with Punk and the AdminNavi following in his wake.

“That I guess we’ll never know,” Punk replied in a smart way that got him smacked by a kendo stick.
_______________________________
Next Episode Preview

~Author’s Home~

Lyne: *Walks through front door, followed by Bass* H’lo? Are you guys in here?
Bass: They should be. Let’s go to the work room.
Lyne: ‘Kay. *Goes with him to the room and knocks* Hey, you guys in there?
Bass: Yeah, you didn’t die or nothin’ did you? Do you know how long we’ve been waiting to finish this episode?
Voice from inside: Come on in you two.
Lyne: *Looks at Bass with confusion showing in her expression* Hey, didn’t that sound like…?
Bass: Yeah but, *Opens door* Why would she be here?
Lyne: Alexa? What are you doing here?
Alexa: *From computer* Well, um, we really didn’t have much to do this episode, sooo…
Lyne: We? Oh, hi Tony.
Tony: Yeah, so we figured we should help out. Since things were taking so long and all.
Bass: Oh. Uh, so were are Author and Editor at?
Alexa and Tony: *Point over to far wall* There.
*Lyne and Bass look over to see Author and Editor on a couch, staring at small game devices with light reflecting from their glazed eyes.*
Bass: What are you two doing?
Editor: *In a distant voice* Research.
Bass: *Stares a moment* Research? Is that all you have to say? This episode was over a week late!
Editor: ‘S important research. Stream hasn’t been dubbed yet, so I’ve got to learn about it from this. *Shows them he’s playing Battle Network 5: Team Colonel* If we’re going to use any characters from it, we should know about them, right?
Bass: *Grits his teeth and puts his hand to his face in annoyance* So, Author must have Team Protoman?
Lyne: Wait, isn’t that a DS?
Author: *Hugs device to chest protectively* MY toy!
Lyne: Hey, I wasn’t going to… *Stops when Author curls her whole body around the Nintendo DS protectively* Right, so *Turns to Tony and Alexa* you two had to finish it up then?
Tony: Yeah. I never realized how exhausting it could be.
Alexa: And it’s the last time it’s going to happen too! It was all written before we got here.
Tony: So you know who’s fault it was.
*Everyone turns to glare at Editor*
Editor: Yes! One turn liberation. I love the Django SP chip! *Pauses and looks up to see four pairs of angry eyes* Uh, what’s up?
Lyne: Oh, he’s hopeless.
Bass: Well, you could at least do something and tell us what the next episode’s going to be.
Editor: Uh, can’t remember, ‘scuse me. I still have to get Colonel Soul. *Stares at Game Boy again*
Alexa: Don’t worry. We have it here.
Tony: Yep. Next time on Lan and Lyne S2, it’s Episode 16: All Investigations Lead Somewhere.
Bass: And if it doesn’t lead to me getting that navi, I know who I’m going after. *Puts a “friendly” hand on Editor’s shoulder* Right?
Editor: *Freezes and laughs nervously* Eh, we’ll do what we can. See you all there.
_________________
"NetAngel Style Change Activate"
Megawoman (Lyne)

Avatar made by Serenade.exe

And feel free to post here too artists if inspired
Lan and Lyne Art Thread

[Lan1220]

Read the rest. Nice, again, crazy chapter previews=priceless!
_________________

Sig credit goes to Hikari Angel

[Megawoman.EXE]

Sorry about that. The chapter was kinda long again so I had to split it. I'm glad you enjoyed it though.
_________________
"NetAngel Style Change Activate"
Megawoman (Lyne)

Avatar made by Serenade.exe

And feel free to post here too artists if inspired
Lan and Lyne Art Thread

[Zodiac]

Ahhh. Over a week late and highly over-budgeted, but it finished well. Now to get on to 16. Sorry this took so long to get posted.
_________________
Church: Are you following any of this?
Caboose: I think so. That guy Tex is a robot, and you're his boyfriend. So that makes you... a gay robot.
Church: ... That's right... I'm a gay robot.

Red Vs. Blue

[Lan1220]

Never mind. Besides, you're playing BN5 right? I havent got mine. I'am waiting for DT.
_________________

Sig credit goes to Hikari Angel

[soberflight]

Okay!! It was worth the wait!Too bad the party got cut short, though...there was a lot going on before the fight.

[Zodiac]

[Serenade.exe/HotShot]

WHOOT! Its finally out! YEA!!!!! Sry for not posting for awhile...>->;; Freaky parents...
_________________

Sig by Hikari Angel

[Midnight]

Oh my, this is fantastic. I only have enought time to skim it, since my time is short and the Internet here is charged for, but this is definitely a chapter that needs to be reread. Not because I have had little time, but because so much has happened that it takes time to filter in.

An utterly fantastic job, and perhaps the best one yet.
_________________
Today, these three players are after Big Bucks! But they'll have to avoid the Whammy, as they play the most exciting game of their lives! From Television City in Hollywood! It's time to 'Press Your Luck!'--Rod Roddy

The Kingdom of Loathing: An Adventurer is You! // I ♣ Seals

Avatar by Spork. I very much appreciate it! <3

[Wackoguy]

I still definitely think this was worth the wait. :D

Enjoy your BN5-ness in the meantime! And this was undoubtedly a well-done chapter!
_________________
"When it rains,it pours. When it pours,get out of the rain." -quoth me!

Megaman Melee! HUTTAH and HUZZAH!


"I ate your siggy..."

[Megawoman.EXE]

Episode 16: All Investigations Lead Somewhere (Part 1)

~November 14, 200X~ Bass’s Room ~

“Jeez, this is so frustrating,” Bass growled as he stood in front a digital display map of NetCity and the Undernet beneath it. “Why random attacks on navis here anyway? So far, the Psycho has acquired the Popup Program, many elemental attacks, and a few normal programs. What’s he planning on doing?” he pondered aloud as he placed his hand on his chin.

“Bed time Connor. You have school tomorrow,” Famous called up the stairs.

“I’m working on something,” Bass snapped back. The power in his room suddenly went off. “Hey! Turn my power back on!” he shouted once he reached his balcony.

“Bed time is now Connor,” Famous emphasized in a stern tone.

“But I was working on my case,” Bass complained.

“That can wait until tomorrow. You need rest. It’ll refresh your mind,” Famous said, tapping the side of his head.

“Oh fine,” Bass huffed as he went back into his room, using what little light that was provided to change his clothes, crawl into bed, and drift off to sleep.
_________________________________

~Hikari Home ~ Around the Same Time ~ Lyne’s Room~

“Lyne honey. Bed time!” Haruka called from down stairs to her daughter.

“In a sec. I’m printing out my term paper,” Lyne replied as she was eyeing her printer.

“After it’s finished young lady, get in bed. I’ll be up there to check up on you.”

“Yes Mom,” Lyne moaned as she put her finished chemistry term paper into a display folder. She then changed into her PJ’s and jumped into her bed. After a quiet moment, her mother came in.

“Good night sweetie,” she said as she kissed her on the forehead.

“Good night Mom,” Lyne replied as she pulled her covers over herself and Haruka left the room. Lyne then drifted off into a dream-like state.
_________________________________
~Somewhere on the Net ~ Later~

Bass blinked his eyes. “Where am I?” he pondered as he noticed a figure approach him.

“Something I like to call the Dream Network,” a female voice replied as his eyes came into focus. “I’m surprised you accepted my invite,” she added as Bass finally recognized her.

“Lyne? Huh? What invite?” he pondered as he looked around them. The area around was wide open and had a green, checkered surface and the sky was dark and expansive. “Are we on the Net?”

“Nope, but it kinda’ works like it. It’s actually called a Mind link. You don’t dream often, do you?” Lyne asked as she gently took his hand.

“Well, not really. This is kinda’ new to me,” he said as he looked himself over. He noticed he wasn’t in his armor, but in his PJ’s. “This place is weird.”

“Don’t worry about it. I can fix that,” Lyne said as the area around them started to change into a grassy plain. They were standing on top of a hill with a tree off to their left. “See?”

“I’m guessing you’ve been here before.”

“Yep. C’mon let’s look at the clouds,” Lyne said as she fell to the ground on what felt like soft grass.

“Are we really here?” Bass asked as he touched himself, “Well, I mean, physically.”

“No. You’re still in your bed. Don’t worry about it. Come watch the clouds,” she said as she sat up, grabbed his hand, and pulled him down to the ground.
________________________________________________
~ Atlantian Palace ~

Nights was in sleep mode while sitting on his throne. Ahh, it’s good being a navi sometimes, he thought as he rested there with Kobito in sleep mode at the base of his throne.

Steven, a voice called out to him, C’mon Steven. Wake up. It’s time for her to see.

“Mmnnn,” Nights moaned as he woke and sat up in his throne. “Yawn,” Now!? Couldn’t you pick a better time to do this Ancient?

No, now is the appointed time, young lord. You know what you must do, the Ancient replied as Nights brought up a program directory.

“Sigh,” Yes, I do, he said as he activated a program he had installed into Lyne. I’m sorry Lyne.
_______________________________________________
~Lyne’s Mind Link~

Both she and Bass were looking up at the dream world’s sky. “How about that one?” she asked as she pointed at one of the clouds.

“That one looks like cotton candy,” Bass replied.

“That’s the tenth time you’ve said that,” Lyne complained. “How about that one? This time, use your imagination, not your stomach. That’s what Lan uses. I don’t like his dreams. He dreams about nothing but food.”

“Alright, alright… I’ll try. That one?” Bass pointed at the cloud. Lyne resisted the urge to roll her eyes and nodded. “Hum… a mettuar.”

“Ooo, it does. See?” she said as she nudged him, “You’re getting the hang of this.”

“I guess. Your turn. Umm… That one right there,” he said, pointing up at a fairly large cloud.

“Okay… That… looks like a city.”

“A city?” Bass asked as he sat up and looked over at her. No it doesn’t. She’s talking funny.

“Yeah, a city. I’ve seen it… but I can’t remember where.”

“Lyne, are you alright?” Bass asked in concern. Lyne’s eyes were unfocused and her voice sounded distant. Has she been in this Mind Link too long?

“Not Dentech or NetCity… I can’t tell which city it is.”

Come. It is time, a voice called to her.

Lyne then sat up, her eyes suddenly alert again. “Who’s there?” she asked as she looked around, startled.

“Just me. What’s wrong Lyne?”

“Someone just spoke to me, and it wasn’t you. It was someone outside the mind link.”

“Who?” Bass asked as he looked around in search of someone who shouldn’t be there.

Angel, it is time for you to see. Come! the voice forcefully called out to her.

“No, leave me alone,” she said, covering her ears.

“Lyne?” Bass called to her, his voice quiet in an unfamiliar fear. He approached and reached his hand out to her, speaking more loudly to try and get to her, “Lyne talk to me.”

You have no choice but to come now, and you know it. Come now, the voice commanded.

Almost involuntarily, Lyne’s eyes turned up to the cloud that looked, to her, like a city. It expanded in her vision, and she felt a sensation like floating, as if she were physically being pulled toward the cloud. Her eyes went wide with shock and she cried out, “Connor, help me! I can’t stop it!” as she disappeared before her friend’s eyes.
___________________________________

“Lyne!” Bass cried out as he sat up in his bed. “Huh? How’d I get here?” He looked around his room, disoriented by the sudden switch in surroundings. “I guess this is what happens when a mind link is broken. I’ve got to check up on her,” he said as he threw his covers off of him, ran up to his computer, and turned it on.

“C’mon, c’mon, boot up,” he encouraged his computer to hurry up. Once it was fully booted up, he opened up his internet program.

/Error!/

“What?! Open up!” he shouted as he tried to open it up again. Then a window opened up showing a update batch program running. It was on its initial virus scan. “Damn. Why did my relation have to pick the worst time to install system updates? Sigh… I guess I have to get over there the hard way,” he said as he dressed himself as fast as he could. “Once I’m outside, I’ll just activate my armor and teleport over there,” he said. He froze for a moment as the room lit up from a flash through the window and thunder almost immediately followed. He then ran up to the window.

“Figures. It had to be raining too. That’s really going to mess up my teleporting range,” he said as he teleported downstairs to the closet where Famous stored their coats. He grabbed one of Famous’s rain coats. “I really hate rain,” he grumbled as he exited the apartment into the rain, wrapping his cousin’s coat around him like a cloak.
__________________________________

Lyne felt like she’d finally stopped being pulled. All she could see around her was a dimly lit, obscuring mist. Am I in the cloud? “Hello!” she called out. “Hello strange voice guy. Where did you bring me?”

Here, the voice replied as Lyne’s surroundings brightened to reveal a square with a lot of people walking around, wearing unfamiliar and ancient-looking clothing.

That doesn’t explain anything, she thought angrily as she looked around. “Excuse me,” she asked a passing stranger, but she was ignored. “Hello where am I?” she asked the person once more as she reached out to his shoulder to get his attention, but her hand phased through it. “Huh?”

This isn’t your time. You’re a ghost here, the strange voice said to her. A moment later, the sky started to darken. Some people around her looked up curiously, then Lyne heard a few gasps from those people. They began pointing up at what they saw, and Lyne looked as well to see why they were reacting that way.

They’re just clouds. Well, they are pretty thick I guess, she though as the sky continued to darken. Then, she too gasped in surprise. But they’re purple! And… She paused and looked around to confirm what she thought she saw. The sun’s light was almost completely blotted out now, but there was still a dim light to see by; one not from any natural source. They’re actually glowing purple! “Eeeck!” she exclaimed as the ground gave a sudden lurch. The people, already on edge from the sight of the unnatural sky overhead, started screaming and running about in panic as the ground shook beneath their feet.

“What’s going on?” Lyne asked as she looked around. “This place is falling apaaAAH!!...” Lyne, and many of the people around her, lost their footing and fell to the ground as it suddenly dropped out from underneath them. It felt as if she’d suddenly taken a step and the floor was a foot lower than she was expecting. As she got back to her feet and shook her head, she felt her feet go cold and looked down to see that there was water rising up on her. Falling apart. And sinking. Must get to higher ground! she thought in panic, her breathing now short and shallow in her fear. She looked behind her, but the land there looked like it got lower as it went along. Before she could turn to go the other way, there was a tremendous crashing of noise as many buildings she could she cracked apart and shattered. The trembling of the earth made another lurch, and the falling buildings seemed to be going below the surface of the land. That’s not the way I want to go! she thought as she spun around and fled towards the large building, like a palace or castle, in what must be the center of the city.

As Lyne was running along the streets towards the castle, she noticed more oddities. First, she realized that the clouds, already strange, in the distance were moving sideways, and when she looked up, she saw that this almost malignant cloud cover was swirling about, as if it were some twisting barrier about the city. Several times, there were sideways lurches of the land, like the clouds were some kind of hand trying to twist this city off the face of the earth. Next, she was noticing several people who stopped running, stood next to one wall or other, and disappeared.

“Wait. Could it be?...” she wondered, and went over to investigate where one such person had vanished. To her great surprise, she saw what looked like a modern jack in port! “Hum… What was he saying about this not being my time? I know what these are. Megawoman, Jack In,” she commanded as she touched the jack in port, but she didn’t log in. “Why? I should be able to. And how can they?” she continued to wonder as another person came up the port in front of her (passing through her and freaking her out) and disappeared, just like the person before had. She put her hand back onto the port, trying to force herself to log in, but it just wasn’t working. When she heard a crash behind her, she looked back to see water rushing from an alley. “I guess I have to keep going,” she said to herself nervously, turning back up the street to continue her flight to safety. “Why won’t I wake up? What is this place?”

Finally she arrived at the gate. She saw a group of what looked like guards in very familiar garb fighting strange creatures. She recognized one of the guards right away. A female warrior: Kobito. “I know her…” she said as a sudden cry of pain mixed with sorrow came from the tall structure in front of her.

“The King!” Kobito cried out as she turned to face the palace.

“King?! Could I be in Atlantis?” she pondered as she looked at the Atlantian Captian. “I must be. But when am I?”

“Jack in everyone. The city has fallen,” a voice commanded from behind her.

“But what about the King?” Kobito turned to face the voice’s owner along with Lyne.

“I’m on it. Get everyone onto the Network. It’s the only place that is safe,” he said as he forced his way through the strange creatures, making them disappear before him. He was wearing a long, elegant, light grey robe with a blue and green sash around his waist. A tattered, white cloth, draped from his right shoulder to his left hip, should have looked out of place, but Lyne felt it was somehow right that it was there and was surprised by a hurt and sadness she felt inside when she saw it. His skin was dark and contrasted greatly with his long, light-blue blue hair and light green eyes. Once clear of the creatures, he ran towards Lyne with a smirk on his face.

Can he see me? Lyne pondered as she saw his expression on his face. “Hey! Stop!” she called out. He’s going to run into me, she thought as she braced for impact, but didn’t feel any. She suddenly felt like she was being dragged or carried. She wasn’t sure until she opened her eyes.

Where am I now? she pondered. She saw that she was racing along a long hallway. She then noticed something odd. I’m running? When did I start running again? What am I wearing? She was able to feel unfamiliar clothing fluttering about her legs and noted the same tattered cloth on her right shoulder that she’d seen on the person who’d run at her. I’m inside that man! But how? she pondered as the person raced along down the hall, passing by guards telling them to log into the Network and sweeping away creatures as he rushed along. She couldn’t move at all. She could only watch as he dragged her along on his task. Then they came up to a set of double doors and barged though them.

Inside the room, her/his attention turned immediately to two menacing figures. They were standing well off from a third figure, who was kneeling over a still form which he was cradling in his arms. “No, the Queen,” the person Lyne was inside voiced in horror.

Apparently hearing him speak, one of the menacing figures laughed audibly through its nose, drawing the attention of the eyes Lyne was seeing with. She immediately wanted to turn away, or maybe scream really loudly when her full attention was brought on it. What she saw could possibly have been human once, but its features were twisted and horrible now. It drew a sinuous, raspy tongue along a dangerously taloned, chitinous-looking hand with a gleam of perverted glee in its eyes. “Her soul was rather tasty,” it spoke in an oddly high pitched voice. She felt the jaw she was sharing clench in anger. The monster that had just spoken turned to the figure beside it. “Who’s next brother B?”

“We’re through here G. Atlantis has fallen. This world is ours to control once more,” the figure called B answered as it glared at the King.

“Aww shucks. I was really wanting to try a King’s soul for desert,” G moaned in disappointment as they were about to leave.

“You’re not going anywhere Traitorous Viruses,” the person she was within said as he activated a Barrier, keeping the two menaces from escaping.

Viruses!? Lyne thought in shock, I’ve never seen viruses that looked like that before. What kind of creatures are these?

Stay here, the voice of the body Lyne shared commanded her mentally, and she felt a sudden disorientation. The person then charged forward, separating Lyne from his body.

Hey, I’m free, Lyne thought as she tried to move, but she remained immobile. Darn I still can’t move. Don’t leave me here, she called out to the person, finding that she couldn’t speak aloud either. Her former “tour guide” charged at the two viruses with a sword drawn and a ball of energy formed in his other hand. The other figure, who Lyne suspected to be the King that Kobito was worried about, laid his Queen down and also joined the fight.

“You will not triumph this day, simple humans,” B taunted as it met the King’s charge. “We have power over this world you cannot match!” The virus, B, dodged an attack from the King’s crystalline staff and made a counter-attack with its fist, bare except for a crackling aura. Much to B’s surprise, the King was able to catch the attack and hurl the virus aside.

“You have power that you stole!” the king bellowed in an overpowering voice, his eyes, so dark that they looked black, livid with rage. “You claim the world as a thief, and as thieves shall you be punished! Rrah!” he shouted, striking the end of his staff into the floor and sending a streaking bolt of force along the ground at B. It stuck and sent the virus flying off toward Lyne.

She gasped inwardly when she saw what fell at her feet. He’s… beautiful! she thought in shock. The virus still did not look exactly human, but it was not the horror that G was. Its skin was silvery and looked pale as moonlight in contrast to its lustrous, black hair. Its eyes, when they opened, looked like a pair of sapphire gems, lit up from within. But the expression on B’s face twisted into unholy rage in an instant and renewed Lyne’s desperate desire to escape. She was thankful for the blaze of light to her left which took her attention away from what was at her feet.

“WWWHHHAAAAAaaa!” G was wailing from where it was kneeling on the floor. Its right arm was missing entirely and a greenish smoke or energy was dissipating from the wreckage of its shoulder. “Soul… break you… rraaaaahh!!” it shrieked as it attempted to leap to its feet again to attack its opponent, but G, weakened by pain, stumbled clumsily in its attempt, and was thrown back and crippled by a swing of the robed man’s sword. He turned to aid his King, but the powerful-looking ruler had his opponent well in hand. Blow after blow fell upon B, who was now backing away, trying to escape the onslaught. A swift sweep of the staff knocked B’s feet from underneath him and the jab of the staff that followed sent a charged bolt into B’s face, leaving the virus motionless on the floor. Seeing that the fight was over, the mysterious, robed man kneeled over his own opponent and passed his hands over it.

“Well?” the King asked after a moment. The other man got up and quickly went over to where B was lying on the floor. The building shuddered as he half-ran to the virus and a piece of the wall tore away as he knelt again to pass his hands over B the same way he had with G. Wind howled through the hole in the wall as the storm outside continued to grow. Past his hair, which was now whipping around in the harsh wind, Lyne could see worry on the kneeling man’s face.

“It’s not here my King,” he finally said.

“The other one has it then,” the King growled, looking about the room, “Where is he then? Where are you!?” Another quake rocked the palace and the King used his staff to steady himself. Then, a terrifyingly violent gust of wind blew him and his mysterious companion over, and roaring, crashing noise drowned out all other sound. When it died down, the two men raised their heads and looked up when they felt spatters of water on them. They saw that the entire roof of the room had been torn away, leaving them exposed to the rain falling from the sky. They also saw a new figure above them, floating in the air.

“Speak the Devil’s name if you dare, and so shall I appear!” it spoke in a voice that raged in tune with the storm. This figure also could have once been human, but instead of being twisted or altered, it was falling apart. Shadows coalesced on its ravaged body, and it was surrounded by a dark purple glow. Its eyes shone with a malevolent, red light.

Those eyes. I know those eyes! Lyne thought with a dreadful, sinking feeling inside her.

“You traitorous monster! Come down here and face me!” the King shouted.

“No. I have degraded myself enough by coming down here from my rightful position: high above you all! I am here now so that you can behold my glory and the power that brings your destruction. You have lost King Raynos!”

“We have not!” the grey robed man suddenly shouted. “Your victory is far from assured A. The power you wield is not your own, and it shall be your downfall. Even now, it tears you apart! Look at what you have become!”

“I have become the most powerful being in the world! But I can become even more so. You hold the other half, don’t you? I shall have it!” The dark virus, A, made a sudden approach, but was repelled by a blast of bright energy from the robed man. A floated back up to where he’d been and laughed. “So, you defy me? That is fine. I have my victory. Your people are trapped in the Network for all eternity, and you have no heirs that will rule this kingdom. Let alone raise it from the depths of the ocean I’m sending it to. Muhahahhahaha!”

“Laugh all you like Traitor. You will not escape judgment,” King Raymos replied. “Ancient, if you would.”

The Ancient! Connor told me about him, Lyne thought in shock as she watched him position his hands to face each other and close his eyes.

“For your crimes committed against the King and this kingdom A, you and your brother viruses are also going to be bound to roam the Network.”

“Muahahaha!,” A laughed out loud. “You’re too young to banish us Ancient. You don’t have the power.”

“He does if I grant it to him,” the King replied as he gave the Ancient a glowing sphere. “This is the last of my power as a ruler and it is now his to use.”

A felt the young Ancient’s power level increase as he accepted the glowing sphere of energy. He glared as the Ancient held it between his hands and it flared into blinding light.

“Be Gone!” the Ancient commanded from the center of the light. When it dimmed again, the Ancient fell to the floor, panting for breath. The two viruses that had been lying there were gone, and the Ancient smiled at seeing that and looked up at the King. He followed Raymos’s eyesight to see that the dark virus was still there and he gasped in dismay.

“You do not have such power over me Ancient,” A said with a venomous growl. “My power is beyond yours. Feel it and face oblivion!” The virus raised its arms up and sent a stream of pulsating energy into the sky. The storm increased in intensity and the palace felt as if it would collapse at any moment from the shuddering. “I curse you to never see this world again! AAAhhhhahhahhaaahAAAAAAAIIIIIIEE!!!” A’s laughter suddenly turned into a shriek of pain and shock as the energy pulsing from and through him became jagged and chaotic. The virus shook where it was for a moment, and then its body exploded from the inside. Dark violet energy swirled around the vaporizing form, and left behind a deep red glow in its center.

The two men looked on in stunned silence for a moment, and then the King spoke. “Ancient, quickly! While he’s weakened!”

“Of course,” the Ancient replied and called up his remaining will to banish what was left of their enemy. All that was left behind was the glowing cloud of purple energy, which quickly sped away.

“No!” King Raymos exclaimed, and made as if to chase after it, but the Ancient stopped him.

“Do not worry King. It now seeks its rightful Master.” Raymos stopped and looked at the Ancient, then sighed and removed the kingly helm from his head, revealing snowy white hair. “I’m sorry. If I’d have only gotten here sooner, this wouldn’t have happened.”

“It’s alright lad. I still have my sons, despite what B did to them. I need you to free Lena and wipe her memory of this place,” Raymos said, getting the Ancient to look up at him in shock. “It has to be done in order for Atlantis to rise once more.” Those words brought tears to his eyes. “You have no choice. I know how much she means to you, but you are bound by law.”

“I understand,” he choked out as Lyne watched him disappear. The King ran over to the Queen, picked up two bundles that were on the ground beside her, and then fled.

Um… I can’t move… Hello! And this place is sinking! she thought as she saw water start creeping its way into the room. SOMEONE HELP ME!!! she mentally cried while activating her Backup Program in hopes that someone would hear her.
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~ Hikari Home ~

!!!BAM,BAM,BAM,BAM!!! was the first thing Megaman heard when he woke up, although it wasn’t the noise that woke him.

“Lan,” he moaned as he rose from his sleeping position on the floor of his PET. “Someone’s at the door. Lan!” he called out before he looked at his digital clock display. “12:30 am. Who’s up at that hour? LAN! WAKE UP!”

“ZZZzzzz!” came Lan’s reply as he rolled over to face the wall.

“Fine then I’ll answer the door,” Mega huffed as he activated his Reality Jump Program, materializing into Lan’s room. He snuck quietly over to the door, opened it, and exited Lan’s room. He then started to sneak down the hall until he came to a sudden halt when he bumped into someone near the top of the stairs. Unprepared for the obstacle, Mega lost his balance, knocking himself and the other person over so that they half stumbled and half slid down the stairs.

“Oww,” the other person moaned. “Entryway lights on!” The lights at the bottom of the stairs, as well as those by the door, came on at the command.

Mega got up off the ground and looked to see who he had knocked over. “Papa. What are you doing up?” he asked in surprise.

“Uh...,” Yuu replied as he rubbed the back of his neck, “Hub? Oh that’s right. RJP. I was just coming down here to answer the door. Why are you up?”

“Same thing. Here let me help you.” Mega offered his hand to help his father off the ground.

“C’mon! Let me in. I can see the lights are on!” came an irritated voice from the other side of the door. “It’s raining out here.”

“Connor? I wonder why he’s up!” Yuu pondered as he opened the door a crack, giving Bass the opportunity to teleport inside, which he did, startling Yuuichiro and Megaman. “Connor, what are you doing over here? It’s past midnight.”

“Is Lyne okay?” Bass asked back.

“AYEIII!” came a shriek from upstairs.

“Lyne!” Yuu called out as the trio started to climb the stairs.
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Lyne looked around in panic, desperately trying to will herself to move as the water crept up to her chest.
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“Connor help me!” came the cry from Lyne’s room as the trio reached the door and burst through it.
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Water was now almost to her neck.
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“Connor!” she barely choked out, gasping and hiccupping for air.

“I’m here. Lyne wake up!” he said as he reached her and grabbed her by the shoulders. He started shaking her to try and snap her out of her sleep. “Wake up!”
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Water was now over her head.

Return. You need not see anymore, the mysterious voice projected as everything around her flashed brightly, then faded away.
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Lyne sat up suddenly, almost knocking heads with Bass, and started coughing uncontrollably. “Good you’re okay,” Bass said while patting Lyne on the back in attempt to aid her. “What happened?” he asked when her fit stopped.

“Connor!?” Lyne said weakly as she looked up at him in surprise, gulping slightly and sniffling. Her eyes, already moist with tears from her coughing fit, starting to overflow. “It was awful. Just awful!” she cried as she pushed her face into his chest.

“What was?” Bass received no answer other than further crying from Lyne. He was starting to feel a little uncomfortable with the way Lyne was latched onto him. He then looked up at Yuu, who came and sat down beside Lyne on the bed. Bass suddenly found that the pressure on his chest was gone. He hadn’t even seen it happen, but Lyne had switched from crying into his chest to crying into her father’s chest. Yuu then stroked her hair, getting her to calm down. “What do you think she saw?” Bass asked, surprised by how she was reacting to her dream.

“Not sure,” Yuu replied as he laid Lyne back down on the bed. She had mysteriously fallen back to sleep. “But it must’ve been really traumatic to have a reaction like that. Which brings me back to why you’re here,” he said, paying his full attention to the other half navi. “Were you two, Mind Linked?” he asked in a stern tone.

“Umm… Well…” Yuu eyed him with a father’s specially reserved glare, making Bass even more nervous. “Yes we were. Hey! How’d you know?”

“I was just guessing, but I’ve known she could do it for a while,” Yuu said, “Lan has been her test subject for a while. I see she wanted to expand on that. I’m guessing something went wrong with the link.” Bass nodded slowly in agreement. “Then you decided to check up on her, running all the way from Famous’s apartment. Taking about 15 minutes to get here.”

“Wrong. I teleported most of the way here,” Bass huffed as he crossed his arms over his chest.

“And Lyne’s Backup Program activated 4-5 minutes ago, explaining why Hub is up.”

“Oh,” Mega breathed out quietly, now understanding what had woken him. “Ah… What’s a Mind Link?”

“That is simple,” Yuu started, “It’s a mental link between two people. Usually activated when both are in a dreamlike state. What were you two doing?”

“Huh? Us!” Bass said as he pointed his finger at himself and then at Lyne, getting a nod from Yuu. “We were watching clouds. She said it would be fun, and then she got mentally shanghaied.”

“By who?” Mega asked.

“I don’t know, but it was on her turn. She said she saw a city outline in the cloud and then got shanghaied. After that, the link was broken,*Sniff* Ugh, I’m soaked.”

“That’s okay. I understand now. You should get some rest too. I’ll take you to the guest room.”

“Huh? You’re not sending me home?”

!!!KRACKA BOOM!!! “Not in the rain. C’mon,” Yuu said.

“Good point,” he said as he followed Yuu out of the room.

Mega looked back at his sleeping sister with a look of pity in his eyes. Sleep well sister, he thought to her as he exited the room to go back to Lan’s.
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~The next morning ~ Net City ~ Digital River Bank ~

By the riverbank, there was a navi in light blue armor with green accents and what looked liked puffy sleeves and a ruffled collar, both a pale yellow. He smiled at the scenery before him and raised a brush to his canvas to recreate the sight with deft strokes. The sky was simulating daybreak now, although there was no actual sunrise, and the wash of blazing colors made otherwise drab buildings spectacular while providing enough light to clearly illuminate the busy culture of NetCity.

“That’s a nice picture Easelman,” a young teenage girl commented from a vid window that was over the navi’s shoulder.

“Thank you Mary,” Easelman replied with a smile as he continued painting his picture.

“Are you almost finished with it?” Mary asked excitedly.

“I’m done, but,” he replied as he placed his hand on his chin, “I feel it needs something more.” He started looking around for what he needed to add.

“Oooh, but I’ve gotta’ go,” Mary said. “Are you sure it’s not finished?”

“It’s alright. Just go on ahead while I finish up. I’ll show you the finished picture when you jack in at school.”

“Okay. I’ll take that as a promise then! Hee, hee.”

“Promise? Well, alright. A promise.” Mary wave goodbye from the vid window and jacked out. “Now what’s it going to take to finish… There!” he said as he noticed an odd looking navi leaning against a wall not too far away. Very colorful. Strange that his eyes don’t match, he thought as he went immediately to work on putting the navi in his picture. As he was about to put on the finishing touches, he noticed the navi was gone. “Great. Mary’s going to be at school in just a few minutes. How am I supposed to finish the picture now?”

“Ooooo. Cool!” a voice squealed from behind Easelman. The artist turned about quickly to see the navi he’d been adding in behind him.

Ah, so his right eye’s green. Why’s the iris on the left side so huge?

“I want it pwease,” the odd eyed navi asked in an innocent way and batted his eyes at him.

“Ha, ha. Sure, I can make you a copy of it when it’s finished,” Easelman replied with a smile as he finished up his painting. He’s an oddball. He really stands out here. “There. Now it’s ready to be copied.”

“You don’t understand,” the navi said in a smoother and less friendly tone.

“Huh?” Easelman turned to look at the navi and was surprised to see that the emerald eye on the right now had the oversized iris.

“We want it. No copy. The other one didn’t make that clear.” He suddenly grabbed Easelman by the collar, along with the picture, and disappeared.
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"NetAngel Style Change Activate"
Megawoman (Lyne)

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Lan and Lyne Art Thread