Bonds-Chapter 8: The End of a Long Road *COMPLETE*

[Neko]

Nice job, since this is beta'd then I'll leave any formal comments out for the time being. Just know that this was a really nice peice of work.
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Roses are #FF0000, violets are #0000FF. All my base are belong to you.

Avatar, credit Yakitate@devart

[DarkMega]

Well, you've got me hooked too. I'm very curious about what's happening and what's soon to happen. I eagerly await the next chapeter! I like how you've preserved Forte's disposition, and still managed to have him start getting along with Netto.
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Justice has many faces, but this one just happens to be hilarious.
Thanks for the siggy, Hikari Angel!

"I'm having amnesia and deja vu at the same time. I think I've forgotten this before."

"He who thinks by the inch and talks by the yard deserves to be kicked by the foot."

My livejournal- http://www.livejournal.com/userinfo.bml?user=dragon_denae (Knock yourself out.)

[SPDBlue]

This is a grest fic. I can't wait for the next chapter
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A wise man said "Before you criticize someone, you should walk a mile in their shoes.That way, when you criticize them, you're a mile away and you have their shoes."

This is the Greatist thing in the world!!!!! >>>[spoil:fc05fdbb8b]You Just Been Punk'd[/spoil:fc05fdbb8b]
[
Thanks Yami Doma GX for the Sig and Avi

YGO Epsiodes

[ForteZero.EXE]

That sounds like a good chapter. Forte being... nice, that was unexpected.
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ForteZero ~ The White Shadow

[JoshuaBlack]

A very good story Forte and Netto working together is good and who brought them together in the first place is the real question
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I seen what that mad man can do. Trust me we got to stop him. Joshua Black talking about Dr.Regal

[Megawoman.EXE]

WOW *-* I really like this fict. I really wonder what happened to the place Netto is in, and really curious as to who brought them there in the first place. And I can't wait to see what hijinx happen next.
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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

[CrossFusionStarman]

OMG...Awesome work, just like the first chapter, Sol! Even ubetaed, it's a great chapter. I can't wait for the next installment. Also, I saw Forte and Netto's friendship improving slightly in this chapter. Great job.
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EXEHQ. Click now, I demand it.

NT Champions. Click!

SERAS VICTORIA OWNS MY SOUL

[LgacyDX]

This story is awesome!!! I really loved it a lot. You really did put a lot of work in this after all. I loved it a lot... please read my fic. I'm about to put my third chapter up. I hope you do more of this because I never thought that Netto and Forte would have a friendship. Very cool story.
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Mega Man: New Generation *Updated to Chapter 1-14*
Wanna join Hi5? Click here.

[Tatsunohouou]

Im amazed. Not only did you take the two people I never could see working together. ever. Yet you were able to make them A) feel in character, B) make a scenerio where they both have to work with eachother and not one do all the work while the other does nothing. Thats a feet when it comes to the Dark Navi of Destruction: Forte. Either way...

Is this a colony of earth? If so are all the Battle Chips the same? Dream Aura is a rare chip. Does this area have any original chips as well?
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Dreams echo in the void of time striving for completion. Innocent thing, these fragile dreams to each his or her own.~ ME

[Sol]

Interlude: Intentions

A figure giggled as it watched the boy known as Hikari Netto and his reluctant partner, Forte, journey to find a way home. It was deeply amusing to the figure; forcing two things that disliked the other together to survive. However, the figure had another purpose; experimenting with humans to see how they adapt.

The figure let off another giggle again, this time a bit malevolently towards the image she was watching. Oh yes, she was going to have fun with these two or else her name isn’t Sera!

“Well now…” she yawned as she stood up, “It seems that those two can work together after all.” She waved her hand and the image dispersed. “It’s not like it’s going to make any difference. Not on that ruined world, anyway.” Sera chuckled. “It shall be interesting to see how long they’ll fare before I’m done with them.”

Summoning up another image, she brought forth a close up of Netto’s face. Her visage turned into an ugly sneer. “Pitiful little one. Soon enough, you’ll realize how insignificant you are…just be honored that you’re at last serving a purpose with being my guinea pig.” Sera snorted before dispersing the image again. She needed time to plan her next experiment.

She hated humankind with a passion. Sera didn’t know when it started, but she knew that she had detested them several thousand years ago. It grew into hatred when humankind seemingly outgrew their worship of the gods and turned to technology instead. Although many people still worshipped them in the present day, it was lackluster in comparison to the mass worship the gods received so long ago. That little fact continued to irk her.

Over time, her hatred of humankind also included the technology they developed, their ‘net-navis’. In her own eyes, they were trying to play God; trying to create life even if it wasn’t sentient. It always disgusted her whenever she saw the humans trying to talk to the computer programs as if they were real, living beings. She huffed; humans were far too dependent on technology.

A sinister smile suddenly spread on her face. Oh, how she remembered with glee as she finally unleashed some long-awaited vengeance on some world that relieved too heavily on technology. It was a simple task to quickly enter the system that controlled the world and destroy it. Soon enough, nature had unleashed its long suppressed wrath on the human race; killing millions of people and absolutely ravaging the world. By the time the last earthquake had finished, the world was in ruins. Sera took sadistic glee in watching it.

However, she soon got bored after watching the planet for around three decades, when humankind got back up to its feet and started anew.

For the next few years, she was bored. Time was nothing for a goddess such as herself, but all gods were forbidden to go to the past or future no matter what the circumstances. She cursed at that rule; she could’ve set things up in her favor back then…well, no matter.

There was another world she was targeting, the very same one where she got her ‘subjects’ from. However, if she did something about that world too, it would draw too much attention onto her and get her in trouble with The Master. However, she figured as long as she only pulled a few people from that world and place them on the other one, no one would notice.

It was relatively simple. She used her powers to transport the human to the other planet. The human had woken up midway, but she merely taunted him and forced him back to sleep. Although she was surprised with the revelation of brother ship between a human and a program, she quickly shrugged it off and continued with her ‘experiment’.

The navi, Forte, was a bit harder to subdue, but not by much. The goddess merely had to go into the human’s internet and search for the rogue navi. After hours of searching, she found him in the deep parts of the Undernet. Forte didn’t even see what was coming as he was knocked unconscious and put into a PET. Sera had then transported it to where the boy, Hikari Netto, was.

Smiling, she got up from her position to hover around. Although she had some fears of The Master or her goody-goody sister finding out, she quickly squashed them. “After all…” she began with a shrill laugh, “what they don’t know can’t hurt me in the long run.”

Her shrill laughter continued until she was completely out of the area. Had Sera been more careful and more observant, however, she would have seen the figure in the shadows behind her.

--

Ijuuin Enzan was not a happy person at the moment. He was forced to wake up extra-early because of a Netbattler meeting, and he was just now getting back to his quarters after the two hour long meeting. He sighed. Now I know why Hikari hates getting up in the mornings. he thought, amused at just thinking of the boy’s antics. A loud beep suddenly emitted from his PET, but he paid no mind to it. “Blues, open up the new e-mail and tell me what’s happening.” Enzan said as he poured himself a cup of coffee. He needed the caffeine boost at the moment.

Blues opened up the first e-mail and quickly scanned the contents. His face paled and he quickly read it again. This wasn’t good…”Enzan-sama, there is a slight problem…” he trailed off, unsure of what to say next. “It seems that the Netbattler’s Association has ordered you to investigate a kidnapping.”

Enzan scoffed. “Why should I have to do that? There’s the normal police to do that.” He replied as he brought the coffee up to his lips to sip.

Blues grimaced. “Not when the one who was kidnapped is Hikari Netto.”

Enzan spit out all the coffee in his mouth over the counter. Quickly putting down his coffee and grabbing his PET, he checked the message that was just sent. His face quickly paled as well. “What the hell has happened?” he asked no one in particular as he quickly rushed out of his apartment.

He arrived at the scene no less than an hour later, after catching a ride from one of his chauffeurs. It seemed everyone in town decided to congregate around the Hikari household, making it difficult for him to push through the crowd. Eventually, he made his way up to the police barrier. When he tried getting past, the policemen stopped him, but he impatiently held out his Netbattler license and received the okay to go ahead.

Running into the house, he found both Yuuichirou and Haruka sitting on the couch, talking to a few officers. Tentatively stepping into the room, he coughed to get everyone’s attention. “Excuse me officers, but can I get a few minutes alone with them?” Both officers looked reluctant, but they nodded and left the room. Yuuichirou sighed.

“Hello, Enzan-kun. What brings you here?” he asked. The natbattler shook his head.

“I’m here on behalf of the Netbattler’s Association. They want me to find out what happened.” The doctor sighed; he was expecting something like that.

“Then…let me make some tea while you two talk.” Haruka piped up. When her husband looked at her, she sadly smiled. “I have to be strong…for Netto. I’ll be back in a few minutes.” With that, she left the room to go prepare the tea.

Yuuichirou sighed again. “So, what do you want to know? Keep in mind we don’t even know that much.”

“Tell me everything from what happened this morning.” Enzan stated as he sat down on the couch.

The doctor did just that. He debriefed Enzan on everything including when Rockman found the empty bed until he arrived. When Yuuichirou finished, the young netbattler sat back in his chair. “So…there are no clues to follow right now, then.” Enzan stated as he rubbed at his head. He was developing a headache from all that was going on right now.

The doctor nodded. “Right. I would recommend that you go talk to Rockman about all of this…but he seems to have gone to the net right now and won’t be back for quite a while. You can wait here, if you wish.” he offered, sympathizing with the boy’s frustration.

Calming down, he nodded. “Alright, I can wait.” At that exact moment, Haruka returned with the tea and passed it out to both males. Aside from the occasional grunt or idle chatter coming from someone, everything was quiet.

How come everything has to be so difficult with you, Netto? Enzan mentally sighed before sipping his tea. He never did get his coffee.

--

Yuna frowned as Sera left the area, still processing over what her sister was doing. It isn’t right…who gave her the right to mess with people’s lives as if they were her toys? she thought despairingly, seeing as how her sister has been corrupted by her power.

She waved her hand and brought up the image of Hikari Netto and Forte once again. Yuna smiled sadly. “I’m sorry for the mess my sister has gotten you two into…but I’m going to stop her sick experiment and help you two get out of there by anything I can do.” Yuna frowned again; the laws of the gods were so confusing. She couldn’t directly interfere with any mortals, but Sera was great at interpreting the rules at her own leisure and finding loopholes for her own benefit. Now she was basically using the two she kidnapped for her own ‘experiment’. Although Yuna didn’t know what the true experiment was, she wasn’t going to let it happen.

Sera was foolish to think that this would escape my notice. Yuna thought. Indeed, Sera was too arrogant for her own good. The very human she had kidnapped was the very same one that she herself was monitoring. She was shocked when she couldn’t feel his life force on Earth, but that shock quickly turned into anger as she realized what happened.

Yuna knew she could bust Sera on this, but she needed more proof of what she was doing. She couldn’t prove that Sera was the one who ravaged the planer decades ago, but now was her chance. She couldn’t let this go on any longer.

“Sera, I will stop you. I’ll silently guide these two through whatever hell you may put them through, and they will conquer your experiment…I vow this on my duty as a goddess.” Yuna stated to herself. Dispersing the image, she left the threshold to prepare. No telling what Sera may do next…

--

Next Chapter: Wandering Aimlessly: Time jump! It's been two months since Netto and Forte arrived. Now they continue their way towards the Environmental System in hopes of finding a way back to their world. Along the way, the two seem to be getting closer...but is it what either of them want?

--

Author's Note: A treat for everyone who waited patiently for this chapter. It's my way of apologizing for the last chapter's lateness...

Anyway, if this chapter is a bit crappy, I apologize. I kinda rushed it because I wouldn't have time to work on it tomorrow. The next chapter should be soon, so look out for it.

Thanks go to Quatre Winner for betaing this chapter.

--

There, that one came out real quickly.

Three guesses on where I got the goddess names, and the first two don't count. >_>
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<3 Planty~
Art in icon done by Raburabbit.

[Sol]

Interlude: Intentions

A figure giggled as it watched the boy known as Hikari Netto and his reluctant partner, Forte, journey to find a way home. It was deeply amusing to the figure; forcing two things that disliked the other together to survive. However, the figure had another purpose; experimenting with humans to see how they adapt.

The figure let off another giggle again, this time a bit malevolently towards the image she was watching. Oh yes, she was going to have fun with these two or else her name isn’t Sera!

“Well now…” she yawned as she stood up, “It seems that those two can work together after all.” She waved her hand and the image dispersed. “It’s not like it’s going to make any difference. Not on that ruined world, anyway.” Sera chuckled. “It shall be interesting to see how long they’ll fare before I’m done with them.”

Summoning up another image, she brought forth a close up of Netto’s face. Her visage turned into an ugly sneer. “Pitiful little one. Soon enough, you’ll realize how insignificant you are…just be honored that you’re at last serving a purpose with being my guinea pig.” Sera snorted before dispersing the image again. She needed time to plan her next experiment.

She hated humankind with a passion. Sera didn’t know when it started, but she knew that she had detested them several thousand years ago. It grew into hatred when humankind seemingly outgrew their worship of the gods and turned to technology instead. Although many people still worshipped them in the present day, it was lackluster in comparison to the mass worship the gods received so long ago. That little fact continued to irk her.

Over time, her hatred of humankind also included the technology they developed, their ‘net-navis’. In her own eyes, they were trying to play God; trying to create life even if it wasn’t sentient. It always disgusted her whenever she saw the humans trying to talk to the computer programs as if they were real, living beings. She huffed; humans were far too dependent on technology.

A sinister smile suddenly spread on her face. Oh, how she remembered with glee as she finally unleashed some long-awaited vengeance on some world that relieved too heavily on technology. It was a simple task to quickly enter the system that controlled the world and destroy it. Soon enough, nature had unleashed its long suppressed wrath on the human race; killing millions of people and absolutely ravaging the world. By the time the last earthquake had finished, the world was in ruins. Sera took sadistic glee in watching it.

However, she soon got bored after watching the planet for around three decades, when humankind got back up to its feet and started anew.

For the next few years, she was bored. Time was nothing for a goddess such as herself, but all gods were forbidden to go to the past or future no matter what the circumstances. She cursed at that rule; she could’ve set things up in her favor back then…well, no matter.

There was another world she was targeting, the very same one where she got her ‘subjects’ from. However, if she did something about that world too, it would draw too much attention onto her and get her in trouble with The Master. However, she figured as long as she only pulled a few people from that world and place them on the other one, no one would notice.

It was relatively simple. She used her powers to transport the human to the other planet. The human had woken up midway, but she merely taunted him and forced him back to sleep. Although she was surprised with the revelation of brother ship between a human and a program, she quickly shrugged it off and continued with her ‘experiment’.

The navi, Forte, was a bit harder to subdue, but not by much. The goddess merely had to go into the human’s internet and search for the rogue navi. After hours of searching, she found him in the deep parts of the Undernet. Forte didn’t even see what was coming as he was knocked unconscious and put into a PET. Sera had then transported it to where the boy, Hikari Netto, was.

Smiling, she got up from her position to hover around. Although she had some fears of The Master or her goody-goody sister finding out, she quickly squashed them. “After all…” she began with a shrill laugh, “what they don’t know can’t hurt me in the long run.”

Her shrill laughter continued until she was completely out of the area. Had Sera been more careful and more observant, however, she would have seen the figure in the shadows behind her.

--

Ijuuin Enzan was not a happy person at the moment. He was forced to wake up extra-early because of a Netbattler meeting, and he was just now getting back to his quarters after the two hour long meeting. He sighed. Now I know why Hikari hates getting up in the mornings. he thought, amused at just thinking of the boy’s antics. A loud beep suddenly emitted from his PET, but he paid no mind to it. “Blues, open up the new e-mail and tell me what’s happening.” Enzan said as he poured himself a cup of coffee. He needed the caffeine boost at the moment.

Blues opened up the first e-mail and quickly scanned the contents. His face paled and he quickly read it again. This wasn’t good…”Enzan-sama, there is a slight problem…” he trailed off, unsure of what to say next. “It seems that the Netbattler’s Association has ordered you to investigate a kidnapping.”

Enzan scoffed. “Why should I have to do that? There’s the normal police to do that.” He replied as he brought the coffee up to his lips to sip.

Blues grimaced. “Not when the one who was kidnapped is Hikari Netto.”

Enzan spit out all the coffee in his mouth over the counter. Quickly putting down his coffee and grabbing his PET, he checked the message that was just sent. His face quickly paled as well. “What the hell has happened?” he asked no one in particular as he quickly rushed out of his apartment.

He arrived at the scene no less than an hour later, after catching a ride from one of his chauffeurs. It seemed everyone in town decided to congregate around the Hikari household, making it difficult for him to push through the crowd. Eventually, he made his way up to the police barrier. When he tried getting past, the policemen stopped him, but he impatiently held out his Netbattler license and received the okay to go ahead.

Running into the house, he found both Yuuichirou and Haruka sitting on the couch, talking to a few officers. Tentatively stepping into the room, he coughed to get everyone’s attention. “Excuse me officers, but can I get a few minutes alone with them?” Both officers looked reluctant, but they nodded and left the room. Yuuichirou sighed.

“Hello, Enzan-kun. What brings you here?” he asked. The natbattler shook his head.

“I’m here on behalf of the Netbattler’s Association. They want me to find out what happened.” The doctor sighed; he was expecting something like that.

“Then…let me make some tea while you two talk.” Haruka piped up. When her husband looked at her, she sadly smiled. “I have to be strong…for Netto. I’ll be back in a few minutes.” With that, she left the room to go prepare the tea.

Yuuichirou sighed again. “So, what do you want to know? Keep in mind we don’t even know that much.”

“Tell me everything from what happened this morning.” Enzan stated as he sat down on the couch.

The doctor did just that. He debriefed Enzan on everything including when Rockman found the empty bed until he arrived. When Yuuichirou finished, the young netbattler sat back in his chair. “So…there are no clues to follow right now, then.” Enzan stated as he rubbed at his head. He was developing a headache from all that was going on right now.

The doctor nodded. “Right. I would recommend that you go talk to Rockman about all of this…but he seems to have gone to the net right now and won’t be back for quite a while. You can wait here, if you wish.” he offered, sympathizing with the boy’s frustration.

Calming down, he nodded. “Alright, I can wait.” At that exact moment, Haruka returned with the tea and passed it out to both males. Aside from the occasional grunt or idle chatter coming from someone, everything was quiet.

How come everything has to be so difficult with you, Netto? Enzan mentally sighed before sipping his tea. He never did get his coffee.

--

Yuna frowned as Sera left the area, still processing over what her sister was doing. It isn’t right…who gave her the right to mess with people’s lives as if they were her toys? she thought despairingly, seeing as how her sister has been corrupted by her power.

She waved her hand and brought up the image of Hikari Netto and Forte once again. Yuna smiled sadly. “I’m sorry for the mess my sister has gotten you two into…but I’m going to stop her sick experiment and help you two get out of there by anything I can do.” Yuna frowned again; the laws of the gods were so confusing. She couldn’t directly interfere with any mortals, but Sera was great at interpreting the rules at her own leisure and finding loopholes for her own benefit. Now she was basically using the two she kidnapped for her own ‘experiment’. Although Yuna didn’t know what the true experiment was, she wasn’t going to let it happen.

Sera was foolish to think that this would escape my notice. Yuna thought. Indeed, Sera was too arrogant for her own good. The very human she had kidnapped was the very same one that she herself was monitoring. She was shocked when she couldn’t feel his life force on Earth, but that shock quickly turned into anger as she realized what happened.

Yuna knew she could bust Sera on this, but she needed more proof of what she was doing. She couldn’t prove that Sera was the one who ravaged the planer decades ago, but now was her chance. She couldn’t let this go on any longer.

“Sera, I will stop you. I’ll silently guide these two through whatever hell you may put them through, and they will conquer your experiment…I vow this on my duty as a goddess.” Yuna stated to herself. Dispersing the image, she left the threshold to prepare. No telling what Sera may do next…

--

Next Chapter: Wandering Aimlessly: Time jump! It's been two months since Netto and Forte arrived. Now they continue their way towards the Environmental System in hopes of finding a way back to their world. Along the way, the two seem to be getting closer...but is it what either of them want?

--

Author's Note: A treat for everyone who waited patiently for this chapter. It's my way of apologizing for the last chapter's lateness...

Anyway, if this chapter is a bit crappy, I apologize. I kinda rushed it because I wouldn't have time to work on it tomorrow. The next chapter should be soon, so look out for it.

Thanks go to Quatre Winner for betaing this chapter.

--

There, that one came out real quickly.

Three guesses on where I got the goddess names, and the first two don't count. >_>
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<3 Planty~
Art in icon done by Raburabbit.

[kuro-kitsune]

law... of the gods you say??

OMG UEKI-KUN~ ROBERT~~~! IWANTMYUEKIEPISODES9-17*shot* X_x

anyway.... it doesn't matter if you can't update frequently, so long as you do good updates, i don't think people should mind. ^_^ i don't, but then i have too much stuff going on right now so... nya~

great chapter, keep it up (at your pace ).

~kuro-kitsune~

[HubHikari]

Im in awe, this chapter was great very detailed and good character filler Keep up the great work!
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[JoshuaBlack]

Oh boy what's next for our hero and dark navi and will they ever get home...
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I seen what that mad man can do. Trust me we got to stop him. Joshua Black talking about Dr.Regal

[Kitty-Chan]

This fine piece of work has me becoming more intrigued with each installment. I shall eagerly await its continuation.
_________________
Need more Zero/X, Netto/Rock, Rock/Netto, Forte/Netto, & Blues/Netto. PLEASE!
Ano sa...could someone please make me a Zero/X, Blues/Netto, or Forte/Netto avatar/banner? I would greatly appreciate it...
Thanks for the avatar, Mandi!
People! We need more Blues/Netto & Forte/Netto on the net. Come on; help me out here! *gives everyone her Super-Adorable Irrisistable Sad Kitty Eyes(TM)*

[Neko]

Niiiice, great job on the description. This is getting increacingly better. Keep it up, or ELSE :E Just kidding
_________________
Roses are #FF0000, violets are #0000FF. All my base are belong to you.

Avatar, credit Yakitate@devart

[Sol]

Chapter 4: Wandering Aimlessly

Netto sighed as he sat down near the fire he made. It had been two months since he had arrived in this screwed-up world with Forte by his side, and he was feeling homesick. However, he knew that he had to quickly adjust; he didn't know how long it would take him to get to the Environmental System.

The day after he left Shinta's family, he rechecked the coordinates. To his dismay, the Environmental System was pretty far away, possibly more than a hundred miles. However, he reckoned he had plenty of time to get there, so he traveled slowly and carefully. Forte, however, wanted him to pick up the pace. Netto then argued that rushing ahead into somewhere they didn't know anything about was foolish. Forte was seemingly placated by the retort.

Before Netto knew it, two weeks had already passed while they were traveling. During that time, Netto had tried to ration everything he had, but he was running short on water. Remembering everything about how to survive outdoors, he went looking for some water to refill his canteens.

Sure enough, he came across a river while deviating from the road. At first, he was hesitant about taking some of the river water. What if it was polluted? Forte, however, told him to stop being a coward and just take some of it. Shrugging, he did so and continued.

He was surprised with the amount of towns he had seen along the way. The people in them seemed to be doing better than most of the people in the city. It seemed that many people got back up onto their feet despite the disaster that shook the world. The people were currently happy, and they were beginning to reuse the technology that was nearly destroyed thirty years prior.

One day, Netto found himself wandering through a town. One month had already passed since he left the ruined city he had woken up in, and he found himself wandering aimlessly. Although he had a coordinate lock on where the Environmental System was, it wasn't much help if he didn't have a map with him. Luckily, he found a junk shop inside the small town; maybe he could find something worthwhile...

Walking up to the counter, he found a middle-aged man asleep on the counter. Annoyed, he slammed his fist down onto the counter. The man groggily opened one eye and regarded him blearily. “Can I help you?”

Netto narrowed his eyes a bit. “Yes, I was wondering if you had a map. I'm trying to find...a place. I need a map to find where it is.” Sighing, the man got up and headed towards the back room.

“Let me see where I can find one...” he murmured as he walked into the back room, seemingly ignoring Netto's glare.

Huffing, the brunette turned to look at the objects nestled in piles along the wall. “Now I know why they call them junk shops...none of them have anything anyone wants.” Netto muttered to himself as he inspected all the piles. However, as he passed by one pile, something caught his eye.

“What's this?” he said as he looked closely at one pile. He thought he saw something in there that looked strangely familiar. Digging through several pieces of junk, he found something that shocked him. “A PET charger?” he asked in disbelief. “How is this here?”

“What is that for, human?” Forte asked dryly from his PET. He was annoyed that they were taking too long in the shop. Netto took the PET from his waist and stared at Forte.
“I just found something that I've been worried about not having!” he exclaimed as he held up the charger for Forte to see. The navi narrowed his eyes.

“Why do we need that? It's just useless junk.” Forte snorted, seemingly unimpressed. Netto sighed.

“It's to keep your PET alive, fin-head. I don't know why your PET doesn't drain as fast as any other, but I don't want to take any chances.” he explained crossly.

It was true; Forte's pet didn't seem to drain as fast as anyone else's, including Rockman's PET. The PET had been on for most of the month already, and the bar was still above the half-way level. However, Netto knew that the PET wouldn't remain like that forever and knew he needed to get a charger. It was just his luck that he found one.

Forte just snorted as Netto turned back to the pile to see if there was anything else of interest inside it. After digging around for a few minutes, he finally picked up something with a shocked look on his face.

“No way...” he breathed, “Battle Chips?” He looked at them one by one with trembling hands, eyes widening by the second. This couldn't be a coincidence...

Then his eyes immediately narrowed. This was all too convenient...if it was in any other circumstance, he would count himself lucky to find such necessities within a junk shop, but this wasn't a normal circumstance. Shrugging, he found himself taking the two items anyway. “It may be odd, but I don't think I have a choice right now...” he muttered to himself while he walked back to the counter, both items in hand.

At that moment, the shopkeeper returned with a rolled up map in hand. Yawning once again, he eyed the two items on the counter. “Oh, so you want something else then.” he said dully as he placed the map alongside them. Mumbling to himself, he kept glancing at the items and at Netto. Finally, he typed something into a machine and it beeped. “That will be 500 credits.”

Netto's face immediately paled. That was one thing he overlooked; he didn't have any type of money on him. “Alright, let me get it out of my bag...” he said nervously. He wanted to see if there was anything in there that could help him.

“Very smart.” Forte grumbled. “Not looking to see if you have any money before trying to buy something.” Netto didn't even bother to answer that.

While Netto was searching through his bag, he came across a small blue card that was laying near the bottom of it. “What's this?”

The shopkeeper took one look at the card and took it. Before Netto could protest, the machine beeped once again and gave the card back to the brunette. “There you go.” he yawned, obviously wanting to get back to sleep, “All paid for. You have 49,500 credits left on that card. Have a nice day.” With that, the man put his head back down on the counter and closed his eyes.

Netto walked out of the shop, still stunned. Even without knowing what kind of money system this place used, he knew that he now had a large amount of money on him. His first thought was why he had so much; surely Shinta wouldn't have given him such a large amount. It was confusing, to say the least. Everything seemed to be one big coincidence.

“Hey!” Forte finally yelled from the PET. “Let's get going already. We've spent enough time in this run-down area as it is!” Snapping out of his thoughts, Netto shook his head.

“Not yet, Forte...there's some stuff I need to get before we go off again. Now that I have some money, I can get some new clothes!” he exclaimed happily.

Netto's clothes had become overly worn over the past couple of weeks, and he found himself needing some new clothes. Walking around the town, he quickly found a clothing shop. Shrugging, he entered the shop and was immediately greeted by a plump woman who was smiling.

“Why hello dear!” she squealed, which made both Netto and Forte slightly shiver. “What may I help you with today?”

Netto nervously rubbed the back of his head. This woman was slightly creepy. “Well, I need some new clothes to travel in, since my old ones are getting worn out...” he didn't get to say anymore as the woman took his arm and practically dragged him into the back.

“So you're a traveler then! I don't see too many of those these days! I know the perfect outfit for you!” she cried as she nearly threw him into the dressing room. “I'll be right back with some clothes for you dear, just take your clothes off and put them to the side.” she said as she walked out, missing Netto's blushing face and Forte's snickering.

A while later, Netto was looking into a mirror with an awed expression.

“Just turn this thing around and let me see you, human!” Forte said annoyed. He wasn't really interested, but he wanted to make sure the human wouldn't be an eyesore for the rest of the journey. Netto complied with the request, and Forte looked over the brunette.

Well, he certainly looked different. Instead of his orange vest and black shorts, he was now wearing black pants and a plain, long-sleeved black shirt. Netto was also wearing a pair of dark gray shoes to complete the look. However, the most shocking thing Forte found was that Netto was wearing a long brown traveling cloak which looked remarkably like Forte's.

The navi blinked in surprise before snorting. “You look like a cheap copy of me.” he stated flatly.

Netto just grinned down at Forte. “Don't you know that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery?” He chuckled when he saw the navi grumble and turn away. It was at that moment that the shopkeeper came back in with a package in her arms.

“I knew that outfit would be right for you!” she said happily as she gathered up all of the discarded clothes. “Since these clothes are all worn, I'm going to throw them out, is that alright?” Netto was about to say “no”, but something stopped him as he nodded. She smiled again and went to the front again.

Netto turned to look at himself in the mirror again. Forte was right, he did look like an impersonator of the navi.. What he found more shocking though was the fact that he liked these clothes. Looking in the mirror again, he saw one thing that would clash with his outfit. Hesitantly, he reached up and slowly untied his headband and took it off. Staring at the worn cloth and Rockman's symbol, he stuffed it into his pocket; he didn't want to throw it away.

The lady came back in humming. “Come with me dear, it's time to go pay for this stuff.” Netto nodded, picked up Forte's PET, and followed her out to the front.

At the counter, she smiled down at him. “First off, since you are traveling, I've amassed a few things you might need...such as undergarments in this package.” she said as she handed it over to a slightly blushing Netto. “And don't worry about ruining the clothing you're wearing; the material is made of good quality, so it should last for a very long time even if you are constantly traveling.” Typing a few key on the register, it beeped. “Everything comes to 5000 credits.”

Netto handed the card over as she swiped it in the machine. It beeped again and she smiled. “Thank you! Your balance is now 44,500. Have a safe journey!” He thanked her and left.

Sighing, he looked at Forte. “Now I think we're ready to go.”

Forte snorted. “Finally.”

That had been more than a month ago.

Since then, there had been nothing too eventful that happened. About a week ago, he saw the PET battery start getting low, so he stopped in at a town he was passing by to rest at an inn. Forte was complaining that they were losing time, but Netto reminded him that if he didn't recharge the battery, then he really would be trapped inside the PET. Forte reluctantly conceded.

Netto was now constantly checking the map so he was sure that he was going in the right direction. He marked the coordinates of the Environmental System down on the map, and regularly marked his location so he wouldn't get lost. He still had quite a ways to go, but he was confident that he would make it there within another two months time.

He hadn't seen any type of animals ever since he started journeying. When he asked someone about it in a town, they laughed at him. Thankfully, one kinder soul explained to him that while most animal species were still alive, most of them didn't prowl around. It seemed that they were elsewhere; while he heard of other townspeople seeing animals all the time, he didn't see any at all. The thought of it saddened Netto.

However, he also noted that many people didn't travel much. Most of the time, he was virtually alone while traveling. He did run into other travelers every once in a while, however, and usually spent the night talking with them. Most of the time, they were just telling each other their lives on the road. When dawn came, Netto usually left without learning the other traveler's name.

Netto's relationship with Forte was getting better, thankfully. Although Forte still called him “human”, he was saying it with considerably less malice in his voice. Likewise, he called him “fin-head” much less now. Although their relationship was getting better, they still called themselves partners.

Sighing once again, he scooted closer to the fire and hugged himself closer under his cloak. The air was chilly, and he couldn't bring himself to fall asleep. His mind was racing with too many questions.

I still can't tell if this is the future of my world or not...it's possible, but...something seems off. He thought. If it really is the future, how far have I been flung into it? It would have to be pretty far, since I can't recognize anything here.
Bringing the PET up, he looked at it from all angles. And how exactly did I get stuck with Forte? Granted, it's not so bad...he at least keeps me company. he thought, amused. It's still weird being with him, though.

That voice was the one that brought me here... he thought. There's no doubt about that. But...what is it planning?

“Oy, human.” Forte grumbled, annoyed. “What are you doing?” Netto blinked and brought the PET level with his face so he could speak to the navi. Netto shrugged.

“Nothing...just thinking.”

“Oh.” He fell silent after that, leaving Netto to his thoughts.

Some more time passed, and Netto still couldn't fall asleep. Glancing back at the PET, Forte still seemed to be awake as well. “Forte?” he mumbled, trying to get the navi's attention.

“Yes?” Forte responded, somewhat groggily.

“I was wondering something...” he began, unsure if he should ask. “Why do you hate humans so much?” he ventured finally.

Netto knew he was treading on dangerous ground. He knew some of Forte's back story from Dr. Cossack himself, but that was it. Netto wanted to know why Forte despised humans so much; he wanted to know the truth.

The navi's eyes narrowed as he frowned. “I don't have to tell you, human.”

Netto sat up from his position on the ground to look at Forte. “I don't know the full story about you...all I've heard was negative things, the most prominent one being that you hate humans with a passion. I'm just asking why.”

Forte snorted. “You wouldn't understand at all.” Before Netto could speak, the navi cut him off. “Don't say you would either, because you don't! Can you understand the feeling of being alone for most of your life? Can you understand the hate of everyone else for being too powerful? Can you understand the pain of being left to fend for yourself by your creator?” he questioned angrily, stunning Netto.

However, he didn't stop there. “No, you can't! You're far too ignorant! You'd be the same as me if it happened to you. You'd be shunned by society and have people you trusted trying to kill you...So don't you dare try to say that you would understand my pain.” he raged before silencing, turning away so he wouldn't have to look at the brunette.

Netto looked down at him with an odd mix of sadness, pity, and anger in his eyes. “Forte...I'm sorry. I didn't mean to bring up old memories.” Forte turned his head to look at him. “However...should you really judge humankind by the actions of a few people? To hate all humans because you were betrayed by some is ignorant and just insane if you ask me.

The navi turned to him, his eyes blazing. “What would you know?!”

Netto glared at him. “I'm saying I don't know what pain you've gone through, but what I am saying is that just hating humans in general is stupid! You're can hate Dr. Cossack and whatever scientists he worked with, I don't care. But taking it any farther than that is just plain stupid to me.” Forte said nothing. Netto yawned and laid himself down on the ground again.

“I'm going to sleep now, and I suggest you do too. We have a large amount of ground to cover tomorrow.” he said while curling himself up in his cloak. “Good night, Forte.” he murmured before closing his eyes.

Forte kept staring at him until after Netto was long asleep. He seemed to be mulling over what the brunette had said. Sighing, he prepared to switch the PET to sleep mode.

He doesn't understand your pain, but he's willing to. Perhaps you can trust him? One part of him said as he paused.

No! he mentally snarled, I promised myself that I would never trust humans!

You're beginning to with Netto. The voice said. Forte audibly growled.

Shut up!

You're just denying it because you don't want to be betrayed again. The voice stated matter-of-factly. He's right though; you can't go on hating all humans like this.

Forte's eyes widened for a few moments before he shook his head. You don't know anything. He mentally snarled at the voice. He could almost feel the voice smirk.

Whatever. I would trust him...you don't want to, but I can feel that you're starting to yearn to. Just give it time... Before Forte could retort, the voice fell silent.

He sat there for a time, thinking. Could I really trust this human? Forte thought to himself. He then shook his head. No! Trusting him would only bring weakness. I will destroy the humans one day...I will make sure of it. He then set the PET into sleep mode.

He had one last thought before shutting down for the night, however.

...I'll just save Netto for last.

---

Next Chapter: Uncertain Future: Netto and Forte are almost there; it's just a bit farther...however, they are sidetracked when they come across some sort of mechanical graveyard. With some exploring, both human and navi come to a revelation. With the revelation, Netto resolves to not only get home, but make a promise to Forte...

---

Author's Note: This chapter actually came out when I wanted it to. Go me.

Anyways, I want to clear up some things first. First off, this is strictly EXE canon; specifically the game canon. I do have some manga elements involved, but they are mostly concerned with Forte.

Next off, about the two goddesses in the interlude. No, they aren't the same Sera and Yuna from Rockman DASH. In fact, DASH isn't even connected to the storyline in any way. I just needed two figures for the interlude, so I just decided to name the two goddesses Sera and Yuna. It's a much better alternative than having original characters, I think.

Anyways, look for the next chapter soon...

Thanks to Quatre and JK for betaing.

---

A note. For those that had read this chapter already, please reread it. I changed some details in it that might have a cerain impact later in the story. Thanks.
_________________


<3 Planty~
Art in icon done by Raburabbit.

[Sol]

Chapter 4: Wandering Aimlessly

Netto sighed as he sat down near the fire he made. It had been two months since he had arrived in this screwed-up world with Forte by his side, and he was feeling homesick. However, he knew that he had to quickly adjust; he didn't know how long it would take him to get to the Environmental System.

The day after he left Shinta's family, he rechecked the coordinates. To his dismay, the Environmental System was pretty far away, possibly more than a hundred miles. However, he reckoned he had plenty of time to get there, so he traveled slowly and carefully. Forte, however, wanted him to pick up the pace. Netto then argued that rushing ahead into somewhere they didn't know anything about was foolish. Forte was seemingly placated by the retort.

Before Netto knew it, two weeks had already passed while they were traveling. During that time, Netto had tried to ration everything he had, but he was running short on water. Remembering everything about how to survive outdoors, he went looking for some water to refill his canteens.

Sure enough, he came across a river while deviating from the road. At first, he was hesitant about taking some of the river water. What if it was polluted? Forte, however, told him to stop being a coward and just take some of it. Shrugging, he did so and continued.

He was surprised with the amount of towns he had seen along the way. The people in them seemed to be doing better than most of the people in the city. It seemed that many people got back up onto their feet despite the disaster that shook the world. The people were currently happy, and they were beginning to reuse the technology that was nearly destroyed thirty years prior.

One day, Netto found himself wandering through a town. One month had already passed since he left the ruined city he had woken up in, and he found himself wandering aimlessly. Although he had a coordinate lock on where the Environmental System was, it wasn't much help if he didn't have a map with him. Luckily, he found a junk shop inside the small town; maybe he could find something worthwhile...

Walking up to the counter, he found a middle-aged man asleep on the counter. Annoyed, he slammed his fist down onto the counter. The man groggily opened one eye and regarded him blearily. “Can I help you?”

Netto narrowed his eyes a bit. “Yes, I was wondering if you had a map. I'm trying to find...a place. I need a map to find where it is.” Sighing, the man got up and headed towards the back room.

“Let me see where I can find one...” he murmured as he walked into the back room, seemingly ignoring Netto's glare.

Huffing, the brunette turned to look at the objects nestled in piles along the wall. “Now I know why they call them junk shops...none of them have anything anyone wants.” Netto muttered to himself as he inspected all the piles. However, as he passed by one pile, something caught his eye.

“What's this?” he said as he looked closely at one pile. He thought he saw something in there that looked strangely familiar. Digging through several pieces of junk, he found something that shocked him. “A PET charger?” he asked in disbelief. “How is this here?”

“What is that for, human?” Forte asked dryly from his PET. He was annoyed that they were taking too long in the shop. Netto took the PET from his waist and stared at Forte.
“I just found something that I've been worried about not having!” he exclaimed as he held up the charger for Forte to see. The navi narrowed his eyes.

“Why do we need that? It's just useless junk.” Forte snorted, seemingly unimpressed. Netto sighed.

“It's to keep your PET alive, fin-head. I don't know why your PET doesn't drain as fast as any other, but I don't want to take any chances.” he explained crossly.

It was true; Forte's pet didn't seem to drain as fast as anyone else's, including Rockman's PET. The PET had been on for most of the month already, and the bar was still above the half-way level. However, Netto knew that the PET wouldn't remain like that forever and knew he needed to get a charger. It was just his luck that he found one.

Forte just snorted as Netto turned back to the pile to see if there was anything else of interest inside it. After digging around for a few minutes, he finally picked up something with a shocked look on his face.

“No way...” he breathed, “Battle Chips?” He looked at them one by one with trembling hands, eyes widening by the second. This couldn't be a coincidence...

Then his eyes immediately narrowed. This was all too convenient...if it was in any other circumstance, he would count himself lucky to find such necessities within a junk shop, but this wasn't a normal circumstance. Shrugging, he found himself taking the two items anyway. “It may be odd, but I don't think I have a choice right now...” he muttered to himself while he walked back to the counter, both items in hand.

At that moment, the shopkeeper returned with a rolled up map in hand. Yawning once again, he eyed the two items on the counter. “Oh, so you want something else then.” he said dully as he placed the map alongside them. Mumbling to himself, he kept glancing at the items and at Netto. Finally, he typed something into a machine and it beeped. “That will be 500 credits.”

Netto's face immediately paled. That was one thing he overlooked; he didn't have any type of money on him. “Alright, let me get it out of my bag...” he said nervously. He wanted to see if there was anything in there that could help him.

“Very smart.” Forte grumbled. “Not looking to see if you have any money before trying to buy something.” Netto didn't even bother to answer that.

While Netto was searching through his bag, he came across a small blue card that was laying near the bottom of it. “What's this?”

The shopkeeper took one look at the card and took it. Before Netto could protest, the machine beeped once again and gave the card back to the brunette. “There you go.” he yawned, obviously wanting to get back to sleep, “All paid for. You have 49,500 credits left on that card. Have a nice day.” With that, the man put his head back down on the counter and closed his eyes.

Netto walked out of the shop, still stunned. Even without knowing what kind of money system this place used, he knew that he now had a large amount of money on him. His first thought was why he had so much; surely Shinta wouldn't have given him such a large amount. It was confusing, to say the least. Everything seemed to be one big coincidence.

“Hey!” Forte finally yelled from the PET. “Let's get going already. We've spent enough time in this run-down area as it is!” Snapping out of his thoughts, Netto shook his head.

“Not yet, Forte...there's some stuff I need to get before we go off again. Now that I have some money, I can get some new clothes!” he exclaimed happily.

Netto's clothes had become overly worn over the past couple of weeks, and he found himself needing some new clothes. Walking around the town, he quickly found a clothing shop. Shrugging, he entered the shop and was immediately greeted by a plump woman who was smiling.

“Why hello dear!” she squealed, which made both Netto and Forte slightly shiver. “What may I help you with today?”

Netto nervously rubbed the back of his head. This woman was slightly creepy. “Well, I need some new clothes to travel in, since my old ones are getting worn out...” he didn't get to say anymore as the woman took his arm and practically dragged him into the back.

“So you're a traveler then! I don't see too many of those these days! I know the perfect outfit for you!” she cried as she nearly threw him into the dressing room. “I'll be right back with some clothes for you dear, just take your clothes off and put them to the side.” she said as she walked out, missing Netto's blushing face and Forte's snickering.

A while later, Netto was looking into a mirror with an awed expression.

“Just turn this thing around and let me see you, human!” Forte said annoyed. He wasn't really interested, but he wanted to make sure the human wouldn't be an eyesore for the rest of the journey. Netto complied with the request, and Forte looked over the brunette.

Well, he certainly looked different. Instead of his orange vest and black shorts, he was now wearing black pants and a plain, long-sleeved black shirt. Netto was also wearing a pair of dark gray shoes to complete the look. However, the most shocking thing Forte found was that Netto was wearing a long brown traveling cloak which looked remarkably like Forte's.

The navi blinked in surprise before snorting. “You look like a cheap copy of me.” he stated flatly.

Netto just grinned down at Forte. “Don't you know that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery?” He chuckled when he saw the navi grumble and turn away. It was at that moment that the shopkeeper came back in with a package in her arms.

“I knew that outfit would be right for you!” she said happily as she gathered up all of the discarded clothes. “Since these clothes are all worn, I'm going to throw them out, is that alright?” Netto was about to say “no”, but something stopped him as he nodded. She smiled again and went to the front again.

Netto turned to look at himself in the mirror again. Forte was right, he did look like an impersonator of the navi.. What he found more shocking though was the fact that he liked these clothes. Looking in the mirror again, he saw one thing that would clash with his outfit. Hesitantly, he reached up and slowly untied his headband and took it off. Staring at the worn cloth and Rockman's symbol, he stuffed it into his pocket; he didn't want to throw it away.

The lady came back in humming. “Come with me dear, it's time to go pay for this stuff.” Netto nodded, picked up Forte's PET, and followed her out to the front.

At the counter, she smiled down at him. “First off, since you are traveling, I've amassed a few things you might need...such as undergarments in this package.” she said as she handed it over to a slightly blushing Netto. “And don't worry about ruining the clothing you're wearing; the material is made of good quality, so it should last for a very long time even if you are constantly traveling.” Typing a few key on the register, it beeped. “Everything comes to 5000 credits.”

Netto handed the card over as she swiped it in the machine. It beeped again and she smiled. “Thank you! Your balance is now 44,500. Have a safe journey!” He thanked her and left.

Sighing, he looked at Forte. “Now I think we're ready to go.”

Forte snorted. “Finally.”

That had been more than a month ago.

Since then, there had been nothing too eventful that happened. About a week ago, he saw the PET battery start getting low, so he stopped in at a town he was passing by to rest at an inn. Forte was complaining that they were losing time, but Netto reminded him that if he didn't recharge the battery, then he really would be trapped inside the PET. Forte reluctantly conceded.

Netto was now constantly checking the map so he was sure that he was going in the right direction. He marked the coordinates of the Environmental System down on the map, and regularly marked his location so he wouldn't get lost. He still had quite a ways to go, but he was confident that he would make it there within another two months time.

He hadn't seen any type of animals ever since he started journeying. When he asked someone about it in a town, they laughed at him. Thankfully, one kinder soul explained to him that while most animal species were still alive, most of them didn't prowl around. It seemed that they were elsewhere; while he heard of other townspeople seeing animals all the time, he didn't see any at all. The thought of it saddened Netto.

However, he also noted that many people didn't travel much. Most of the time, he was virtually alone while traveling. He did run into other travelers every once in a while, however, and usually spent the night talking with them. Most of the time, they were just telling each other their lives on the road. When dawn came, Netto usually left without learning the other traveler's name.

Netto's relationship with Forte was getting better, thankfully. Although Forte still called him “human”, he was saying it with considerably less malice in his voice. Likewise, he called him “fin-head” much less now. Although their relationship was getting better, they still called themselves partners.

Sighing once again, he scooted closer to the fire and hugged himself closer under his cloak. The air was chilly, and he couldn't bring himself to fall asleep. His mind was racing with too many questions.

I still can't tell if this is the future of my world or not...it's possible, but...something seems off. He thought. If it really is the future, how far have I been flung into it? It would have to be pretty far, since I can't recognize anything here.
Bringing the PET up, he looked at it from all angles. And how exactly did I get stuck with Forte? Granted, it's not so bad...he at least keeps me company. he thought, amused. It's still weird being with him, though.

That voice was the one that brought me here... he thought. There's no doubt about that. But...what is it planning?

“Oy, human.” Forte grumbled, annoyed. “What are you doing?” Netto blinked and brought the PET level with his face so he could speak to the navi. Netto shrugged.

“Nothing...just thinking.”

“Oh.” He fell silent after that, leaving Netto to his thoughts.

Some more time passed, and Netto still couldn't fall asleep. Glancing back at the PET, Forte still seemed to be awake as well. “Forte?” he mumbled, trying to get the navi's attention.

“Yes?” Forte responded, somewhat groggily.

“I was wondering something...” he began, unsure if he should ask. “Why do you hate humans so much?” he ventured finally.

Netto knew he was treading on dangerous ground. He knew some of Forte's back story from Dr. Cossack himself, but that was it. Netto wanted to know why Forte despised humans so much; he wanted to know the truth.

The navi's eyes narrowed as he frowned. “I don't have to tell you, human.”

Netto sat up from his position on the ground to look at Forte. “I don't know the full story about you...all I've heard was negative things, the most prominent one being that you hate humans with a passion. I'm just asking why.”

Forte snorted. “You wouldn't understand at all.” Before Netto could speak, the navi cut him off. “Don't say you would either, because you don't! Can you understand the feeling of being alone for most of your life? Can you understand the hate of everyone else for being too powerful? Can you understand the pain of being left to fend for yourself by your creator?” he questioned angrily, stunning Netto.

However, he didn't stop there. “No, you can't! You're far too ignorant! You'd be the same as me if it happened to you. You'd be shunned by society and have people you trusted trying to kill you...So don't you dare try to say that you would understand my pain.” he raged before silencing, turning away so he wouldn't have to look at the brunette.

Netto looked down at him with an odd mix of sadness, pity, and anger in his eyes. “Forte...I'm sorry. I didn't mean to bring up old memories.” Forte turned his head to look at him. “However...should you really judge humankind by the actions of a few people? To hate all humans because you were betrayed by some is ignorant and just insane if you ask me.

The navi turned to him, his eyes blazing. “What would you know?!”

Netto glared at him. “I'm saying I don't know what pain you've gone through, but what I am saying is that just hating humans in general is stupid! You're can hate Dr. Cossack and whatever scientists he worked with, I don't care. But taking it any farther than that is just plain stupid to me.” Forte said nothing. Netto yawned and laid himself down on the ground again.

“I'm going to sleep now, and I suggest you do too. We have a large amount of ground to cover tomorrow.” he said while curling himself up in his cloak. “Good night, Forte.” he murmured before closing his eyes.

Forte kept staring at him until after Netto was long asleep. He seemed to be mulling over what the brunette had said. Sighing, he prepared to switch the PET to sleep mode.

He doesn't understand your pain, but he's willing to. Perhaps you can trust him? One part of him said as he paused.

No! he mentally snarled, I promised myself that I would never trust humans!

You're beginning to with Netto. The voice said. Forte audibly growled.

Shut up!

You're just denying it because you don't want to be betrayed again. The voice stated matter-of-factly. He's right though; you can't go on hating all humans like this.

Forte's eyes widened for a few moments before he shook his head. You don't know anything. He mentally snarled at the voice. He could almost feel the voice smirk.

Whatever. I would trust him...you don't want to, but I can feel that you're starting to yearn to. Just give it time... Before Forte could retort, the voice fell silent.

He sat there for a time, thinking. Could I really trust this human? Forte thought to himself. He then shook his head. No! Trusting him would only bring weakness. I will destroy the humans one day...I will make sure of it. He then set the PET into sleep mode.

He had one last thought before shutting down for the night, however.

...I'll just save Netto for last.

---

Next Chapter: Uncertain Future: Netto and Forte are almost there; it's just a bit farther...however, they are sidetracked when they come across some sort of mechanical graveyard. With some exploring, both human and navi come to a revelation. With the revelation, Netto resolves to not only get home, but make a promise to Forte...

---

Author's Note: This chapter actually came out when I wanted it to. Go me.

Anyways, I want to clear up some things first. First off, this is strictly EXE canon; specifically the game canon. I do have some manga elements involved, but they are mostly concerned with Forte.

Next off, about the two goddesses in the interlude. No, they aren't the same Sera and Yuna from Rockman DASH. In fact, DASH isn't even connected to the storyline in any way. I just needed two figures for the interlude, so I just decided to name the two goddesses Sera and Yuna. It's a much better alternative than having original characters, I think.

Anyways, look for the next chapter soon...

Thanks to Quatre and JK for betaing.

---

A note. For those that had read this chapter already, please reread it. I changed some details in it that might have a cerain impact later in the story. Thanks.
_________________


<3 Planty~
Art in icon done by Raburabbit.

[Neko]

Awwww, Forte is changing XD Yay. This is getting pretty intracite here, I can't wait to see what happens next. :D
_________________
Roses are #FF0000, violets are #0000FF. All my base are belong to you.

Avatar, credit Yakitate@devart

[JoshuaBlack]

my my Forte having second thoughts about humans. Netto looking like him oh my :O that must of been fun to type :]
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I seen what that mad man can do. Trust me we got to stop him. Joshua Black talking about Dr.Regal

[Elizabeth]

I love this fic! Hee hee ... Netto dressed like Forte ... Actually, that'd be kind of cool.

[CrossFusionStarman]

FREAKING...AWESOME...Great job, Sol. It's good to see Forte warming up to Netto. I can't wait to see where this fic goes. And Sera...wasn't expecting that...will Yuna be in this as well?
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EXEHQ. Click now, I demand it.

NT Champions. Click!

SERAS VICTORIA OWNS MY SOUL